PECM - Issue 61 2023

MANUFACTURING Engineering

Success Through Innovation

Issue 61 2023 £4.95 www.pecm.co.uk

MICRO-EPSILON - 112

Advantages of optical sensors in coordinate measuring machines

MIDTHERM LASER - 18

Midtherm lasers in on growth after £1.2m machine investment

ABB - 6

Opportunities for Data Convergence and Analysis in Industrial Plants

MANUFACTURING Engineering Process Control &

Inside Issue 61

Brillopak’s five-year phased automation roadmap accelerates packing efficiency at Morrisons fresh-produce operations in Thrapston

SUMITOMO

Guidance to support regulatory compliance, efficiency and best practice success

PTC

Codebeamer becomes part of PTC’s Digital Thread

IFE MANUFACTURING

Uncover food processing and packaging innovation at IFE Manufacturing 2023

FANUC

Fanuc hosts robotics competition to inspire Gen Z engineers

CKF SYSTEMS LTD

CKF supply their latest robotic case packing system to a leading 3PL

ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION

SHOW

The latest technologies transforming logistics and manufacturing

EMS

End to end automation will be essential to meet changing demands

NOVOTEK

Combating flooding with automation

FOODEX

Foodex Manufacturing Solutions returns to the UK Food & Drink Shows in 2023

OMNIFLEX

How distributed alarm annunciator systems can help nuclear, petrochemical and oil and gas facilities comply with strict safety standards

Cover photo: Brillopak

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MANUFACTURING Engineering Process

The Team

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Antony Holter editor@mhmagazine.co.uk

BUSINESS MANAGER

Josh Holmes josh@mhmagazine.co.uk

SALES DIRECTOR

Harrison James harrison@pecm.co.uk

Tel: 0203 907 9166

SALES MANAGER

Martin Richardson martin@pecm.co.uk

Tel: 01304 086039

DIGITAL MANAGER

Jamie Bullock jamie@mhmagazine.co.uk

Tel: 01227 936971

EDITOR

Elizabeth Hutton elizabeth@pecm.co.uk

STUDIO DESIGNER

Richard Bland richard@mhmagazine.co.uk

ACCOUNTS DEPT

Alison Holmes accounts@pecm.co.uk

Tel: 01227 936976

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR

Martin Holmes martin@mhmagazine.co.uk

Tel: 01304 806039

DIGITAL ASSISTANT Stacey Goodwood

Tel: 01227 936971

Please mention Process Engineering Control & Manufacturing when responding to items in this issue.

A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY

Opportunities for Data Convergence and Analysis in Industrial Plants

By Vinod Ninan

Today, the average industrial plant uses less than 27% of the data it generates, according to industry experts at the ARC Advisory Group, Boston (arcweb.com). Typically, the remaining 73% of data—much of it produced by plant process-control system as highfrequency operational control (OT) data—is put in a historian and seldom used.

In addition, there are large volumes of other valuable functional data residing in the company’s general business or IT systems, and still more in the engineering systems (ET), covering specific design information for various assets. In addition to being rarely used, all of this data is normally scattered about in separate silos and networks that support little or no cross-referencing.

That’s where the golden opportunity lies, which we can now unlock with new software platforms that simplify better convergence and analysis of OT/IT/ET data. The benefits can be impressive, such as higher production rates from existing assets, less downtime as a result of predictivemaintenance practices, safer operation,

reduced energy and other raw material inputs, and lower environmental impact.

By better convergence of OT/IT/ET data, we mean bringing together previously separate elements, which have now been streamlined and integrated so that they proceed seamlessly. To achieve this, we accumulate all OT, IT, and ET data in a data lake. Next, we contextualize and store related data in an industry-specific data model, such as paper making or plastic extruding, for example. Then we apply advanced analytics and industrial AI algorithms to identify correlations that were not previously visible.

Industrial artificial intelligence (AI) can play a major role in identifying these patterns and making process predictions. The terms AI (artificial intelligence) and ML (machine learning) are often used interchangeably, which can be confusing at times. AI is the overarching science of making machines and physical systems smarter by embedding “artificial intelligence” in them. ML is a subset of AI that involves systems gaining knowledge over time through “self-learning” to become smarter and more predictable, without human intervention.

As an example, consider a motor, which is an essential and omnipresent manufacturing asset in your plant. The motor generates a lot of operational data, such as temperature, pressure, and flow rate measurements from various stages of the production process.

In terms of the different types of data we have:

OT data: Motor speed, vibration level, and bearing temperature are typical parameters monitored in real time by OT systems to tell us how the motor is performing. This normally comes from automation system or a process controller components such as PLCs or a DCS.

IT data: If we want to see things such as the motor’s maintenance history, when it was last serviced, how much has been spent on repairs, or if the right bearings are in stock, we must find it in various IT systems, usually somewhere in the ERP solution.

ET data: Information about factors such as whether the motor is within its design speed limits, how much vibration it can take, the safe operating temperature for its bearings

or what the useful bearing life should be, is all residing within the ET (or engineering design) systems.

Traditionally, each of these systems operates independently and generates a lot of data that is seldom used or cross-referenced. To acquire a holistic overview of the motor, we integrate information from all of these systems and store the relevant pieces in a contextualized data model. This allows us to visualize and activate optimum equipment operation for the best overall process results.

A motor is just one example. In a large manufacturing plant, there can be hundreds of such assets performing several functions and running under different operating conditions with varied design parameters; all with data stored in various systems.

Widespread OT/IT/ET integration and contextualization is, therefore, critical to obtain a complete view of the plant and carry out valuable analytical tasks that improve operations, asset integrity and performance management, safety, sustainability, and supply chain functions. What emerges are patterns that accurately predict future behavior, allowing improved process performance.

We have been using AI/ML to deliver a higher degree of prediction accuracy and optimization to operations, processes, and assets. Combining AI with deep industrial domain expertise empowers operators to run their industrial processes safer, more effectively, and more sustainably.

There are several barriers—perceived and otherwise—that hinder the implementation

of advanced analytics. The most common reason for hesitation is the perceived complexity. People mistakenly think it is much more difficult to achieve than it is. Another explanation we get is the incorrect belief that, to use big data, you must make massive capital expenditures, because it is an “all or nothing” undertaking. It is not as you can start with small steps. Other reasons might be lack of cooperation between OT, IT, and ET people, and just generally slow adoption of new digital tools in many industrial sectors.

The fact is that it is easy to join this digitalmaturity journey, no matter where you are, using data and signals that are already available in your process control, business, and engineering systems.

For further information, please visit www. new.abb.com

Combining AI with deep industrial domain expertise empowers operators to run their industrial processes safer, more effectively, and more sustainably.

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GEMÜ Introduces the New Innovative Solution to Water Hammer or Vapour

Pressure Surge

Pressure surges are recurrent problems that occur as a result of turning on pumps, changes in temperatures of enclosed liquids or switching the valves too rapidly. This could damage the plant components and cause the shut-off valves to accidentally open for a brief moment. The medium may then get contaminated which leads to product loss or downtime due to necessary repairs. GEMÜ has developed the 652 Pulsation Damper to compensate pressure and volume fluctuations. Based on tried and tested diaphragm valve technology and reliable actuator design, this new innovative solution is CIP/SIP capable and totally drainable. To absorb and compensate the pressure surge, the GEMÜ 652 Pulsation Damper’s main function is to dampen as much volume as possible within a specific operating range. The body is designed without a sealing weir and therefore the actual expansion volume is compensated by the moving diaphragm. This ingenious solution by GEMÜ will solve multiple problems in many varied applications. Please contact us to speak to one of our local product specialists for further information about this product.

For more details click here

GEMÜ 652 Pulsation Damper product flyer

Protecting Your Plant

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!

Web: rotechsystems.co.uk

Email: sales@rotechsystems.co.uk

Tel: +44 (0)151 356 2322

AUTOMATION AMBITION

Brillopak’s five-year phased automation roadmap accelerates packing efficiency at Morrisons fresh-produce operations in Thrapston

Packing automation success is all in the planning. Embarking on a mission to reconfigure its fresh-produce packing hall at Thrapston, the Morrisons Centre of Excellence - which prepares and delivers 130 million packs of fruit every year to 82 stores - has succeeded in its automation vision and ambition.

British automation specialist Brillopak supported Thrapston at every phase of the five-year programme. In total, Brillopak installed 11 fully integrated fresh-produce packing lines comprising around 40 machines, with equipment and capital investments split across three defined phases.

Rather than piecemeal different technologies together, Thrapston’s site manager at the time, Matthew Peczek, sought a cohesive automation investment approach to increase efficiency, achieve packing consistency and optimise produce quality.

Taking the decision to completely redevelop the factory layout in 2017, Matthew was resolute that all machinery would be designed and placed linearly, with everything coming from the chillers and out to the back end for distribution, in one continuous flow. His linear vision has since been realised. Now, every part of the line faces in the same

direction throughout the packing hall.

Having seen the possibilities accomplished when managing the Morrisons Rushden depot, Matthew, now Head of Operations for produce at the company, was confident that Brillopak director David Jahn and his engineering team would see the bigger picture and deliver these transformational benefits. Most importantly, Brillopak was completely aligned to the investment roadmap that assisted Thrapston in reaching its end point.

Phasing in the flow

In 2016, Brillopak delivered stage one -

optimising the manual packing of apples into crates. Thrapston commissioned five of Brillopak’s award-winning and ergonomic PAKStations to replace less efficient manual packing and turntable operations. This was the first step to automation and enabled the site to get familiar with the automation.

To support these apple-packing lines and eliminate any potential bottlenecks, two Crate DESTAKers, five bale arm closers and five double stackers for palletising were also introduced. The result was five integrated packing lines that maintained a consistent packing pace, each feeding out onto the main track to an existing palletising system.

This first phase was intentionally designed as a holding pattern in Thrapston’s automation plan, allowing for the subsequent robotic machines that were to follow. “As a result of the fast payback due to labour efficiency, enhanced produce quality and reduced complaints, the plan was always to replace the PAKStations within two years. Swapping out with three fully automated UniPAKer robotic crate packing systems in phase two,” reflects Matt. It was, he affirms, always central to their produce strategy of improving quality and process efficiency and reducing costs and waste.

Having got the measure of the design requirements and long-term goals at the outset, Brillopak’s Automation Architecture meant that the innovative firm had already factored in the available real estate. The team built the framework of the PAKStations to match the dimensions of the UniPAKer machines, as well as the conveyor infeed and outfeed heights; enabling a seamless and simple swap over, to mitigate any packaging disruption.

“We literally pulled out the UniPAKer machines and inserted the robotic machines into the apple lines,” affirms David. Local power requirements and access points, as well as feeds to the main conveyor track for each line had already been considered at the initial due diligence planning phase. Craig Savage who project managed the entire programme, affirms that the devil really was in the detail. “It involved multiple simulations to define the best

With 40 individual Brillopak machines now on site and running continuously, Matt upholds the value of working with a single and reliable integrator.

With Brillopak’s vision, Thrapston’s machinery has been designed and placed linearly and in one continuous flow from the packing hall to the chillers.

approach.”

New access doors and platforms were inserted and refrigeration doors were moved. Approximately one fifth of the main track was removed along with the overhead crate feed track. To optimise efficiency a two-tiered conveyor track was proposed. Now, the lower level feeds all the clean empty crates to the 11 packing lines, while the top tier transports filled fresh produce crates to the palletiser.

Another key advantage of this modular line design and phased introduction of machinery was that Brillopak was able to retain and redeploy the existing conveyors, which previously transferred crates to the PAKStations. “From a sustainability perspective, where components can be repurposed, we do, as it boosts the ROI even further,” adds David.

Upscaling on 11 lines

Applying the best practice gained from phases one and two, in 2021 Thrapston completed its full-scale automation transformation with the roll out of six new linear packing lines. Handling a range of flow-wrapped and tray-sealed fresh produce, including pears, tomatoes, apricots, blueberries and grapes, Brillopak delivered a further five UniPAKers, one PAKstation, six bale arm closers, two Crate DESTAKers and six double stackers.

With 40 individual Brillopak machines now on site and running continuously, Matt upholds the value of working with a single and reliable integrator. One that can factor in all the unknowns and deliver innovative yet easy to operate ‘plug and play’ machines that talk seamlessly to each other. In particular, Matt appraises

Brillopak’s foresight and deep integration knowledge. “We had a clear vision of how the linear Thrapston packing lines would ultimately look and partnered with the Brillopak engineering team throughout every phase of the process.”

This collaborative teamwork approach is a result of the personal relationship the Morrisons’ fresh produce team, site managers and engineering experts share with Brillopak. Matt expands: “The robotic packing solutions that Brillopak builds are extremely intuitive to operate and very reliable. As testament, our robot potato lines in Gadbrook continue to run as efficiently as the day they went in seven years ago. We know they are always going to work and maintain their efficiency and presentation consistency.”

The smoother and gentler handling of fresh produce has been proven to reduce complaints by over 30 percent and almost instantly, reports the Head of Operations.

However, for Matt, the real Brillopak value comes from dealing with one machinery supplier. “There’s definitely something to be said for Brillopak’s amenable and accommodating approach. Integrating with other suppliers’ equipment is probably the hardest aspect. Yet, this is something I entrust to David and the engineers.

“Brillopak will often go above and beyond during the handover to ensure all their machinery is seamlessly integrated with conveyors, downstream camera graders and other equipment. Even when it’s not technically their responsibility. I don’t know of many other integrators that would undertake this level of meticulous service and support before, during or post install,” notes Matt.

Since embarking on the first automation project with Morrisons fresh produce almost 6 years ago, Matt is adamant that this trusting collaboration with Brillopak has helped to accelerate and optimise its packing efficiency.

With all five fresh produce sites now kitted out with end-to-end Brillopak machinery, a side-line benefit is how much the manufacturer has been able to streamline its stockholding of spares and components. “Dealing with one automation provider formed part of our produce directive. From a maintenance and ongoing service perspective, dealing with one or two machinery suppliers, versus liaising with multiple contacts is evidentially more straightforward. Being able to pre-plan projects and roll automation platforms out in phases as part of a wider, aligned plan certainly helps to mitigate investment risks,” ends

Brillopak’s phased approach to automation at Morrisons fresh produce operations in Thrapston

GROUP DYNAMIC

EUROPEAN SPRINGS & PRESSINGS

Reaping the rewards of increased collaboration

After a few years of rethinking the way they work together, European Springs & Pressings have been reaping the rewards of increased collaboration with its sister companies. Making their mutual platform of products and services more accessible has enabled the spring and stamping firm to deliver a wider range of manufacturing capability and products to their customers than ever before.

Working more closely with UK manufacturing partners Metrol Springs and Lesjöfors Heavy Springs UK has brought significant benefits for the respective companies, as well as allowing the group to offer an unrivalled portfolio of springs, pressings, wireforms, gas struts and industrial hardware.

Shared attendance at exhibitions, pooling experience at cross-company strategy meetings and developing a mutual knowledge of each other’s products and specialisms has broadened the shared capability the companies can offer and increased their sales reach considerably.

This support brings tangible benefits to their clients as well. European Springs’ commitment to providing the coiling and pressing expertise that customer’s need - in order to find custom-made solutions for their manufacturing processes - remains unchanged, with the added assurance that when they claim to have the required capability in the UK to design and produce the optimal component at the most competitive price, they make good on that promise.

This culture of collaboration has been fostered by their parent company, Lesjöfors Springs & Pressings. Although not a household name in the UK, since its conception 150 years ago Lesjöfors has patiently and practically built from its manufacturing base by acquiring a broad network of companies with specialist capabilities and strengths.

Lesjöfors is now the biggest spring manufacturer in the Nordic region, the third largest in Europe, and has a strong

and growing presence in the US and Asia. Their culture of supporting innovation, and developing capability is why European Springs & Pressings Ltd. joined the group in 2007.

Lesjöfors’ dedication to investment, both in people and technology, mirrors ESP’s, and has allowed them to develop as a business, as well as recruit and retain the talent, and acquire the machinery required, to continually provide the high quality manufacturing that client’s demand.

The culture of collaboration developed within European Springs’ UK manufacturing family, alongside the market-leading portfolio of products and services across the Lesjöfors group, means that customers can continue to rely on the ESP promise - to provide innovative design solutions, reliable service and custom-made, quality components.

For further information, please visit www.europeansprings.com

Working more closely with UK manufacturing partners Metrol Springs and Lesjöfors Heavy Springs UK has brought significant benefits for the respective companies.

BEHIND CLOSED DOORS

THORITE

Exposing the truth about wasted energy in compressed air systems

Looking back to 2021, it was easy to consider compressed air as something of a ‘free’ resource. Energy prices were low and manufacturers generating compressed air for one area of their factory could utilise it in another area for next to zero marginal cost. However, since energy prices began their upwards journey, compressed air is no longer the cheap commodity it once used to be.

In 2022, the British Compressed Air Society (BCAS) conducted research into the extent of compressed air use in UK industry. They found that 70% of UK industry uses compressed air in some form or another and that on average, 30% of a business’s entire energy costs could be attributed to compressed air generation.

Using figures from the (then recent) UK Energy-related products policy study, conducted by ICF in May 2021, they calculated the combined energy usage for the mid-point of all industrial compressor technologies over their lifetime at 11.71 TWh. Based on the current UK average nondomestic electrical unit cost of 12.49p/kWh at the time, the figures were substantialequating to £1.475 billion being spent by UK companies to generate the compressed air their businesses rely on.

Add to this the fact that on average 32.9 per cent of this energy was being wasted through leaks and inefficient practices - equivalent to £485.43 million in wasted electricity spend - and we began to understand the extent of which this presents a problem for UK manufacturing.

Skip forwards to today and the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has recently published its figures for UK average non-domestic electricity costs for the final quarter of 2022. This figure now stands at 24.56p/kWh according to statistics, but it is estimated that many industrial tariffs are now reaching as high as 50.73p/kWh as of January 2023.

If we use the Government’s current published figures as a starting point and adjust the BCAS research for today’s prices,

commodity it once used to be.

we find that £2.943 billion is being used to generate compressed air in the UK. At a loss rate of 32.9%, that’s almost £1 billon of wasted energy every year in the UK, equivalent to £2.62 million every single day.

This staggering figure may come as a surprise to many of the UK’s manufacturers who have until recently worked on an ‘out

and the results are astonishing.

While energy savings in the past might have been outweighed by the cost of fixing leaks, thanks to the latest energy prices, the return on investment to combat inefficiencies is now months, not years. Not to mention the opportunity to reduce carbon emissions by up to 3.2 tons per year - a consideration that companies can’t help but be aware of.

With all things considered, isn’t it time your company found out what is happening behind closed doors?

For further information, please visit www.thorite.co.uk/energy

COMBINED SAVINGS

As energy prices continue to rise, can  your business afford not to know how  much compressed air your system is  wasting? Isn't it time you found out  what happens behind closed doors?

Automating Energy Saving

MSE6 - E2M Energy Efficiency Module

MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS We’re Exhibiting! visit us at Stand G70 EFFICIENCY &

Festo’s combination of a field bus node, flow and pressure sensor, proportional pressure regulator and stop valve in one intelligent service unit component.

start-up of idle machines

Integrated Leak detection, measurement and reporting

Integrated Leak detection, measurement and reporting

Up to the minute comparative data reporting

THE REX-SYSTEM

Your all-in-one solution

Pentagon, pro-actively supporting you from the early stages of design assistance right through to mould tool manufacture and repeat production of your injection moulding project. Your new or existing plastic injection moulding project will benefit from years of technical moulding experience!

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT MOULDING TOOLING

BEYOND THE MOULD

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Benefit from the comprehensive DC 24 V circuit protection solution for mechanical and plant engineering. The REX system combines power supply, communication, circuit protection and power distribution in one system.

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Dirty Parts Cleaning at the Lowest Cost

Rozone’s bioremediating ROwasher range outperforms every parts washer on the market and beats our previous machine’s running costs by 54.5% and uses 30%-37% less consumables. * The ROwasher is the first innovation in parts washing for decades. It is UKdesigned and manufactured, together with the bioremediating filter mat and the ROwash degreaser. Find out how the ROwasher works at www.rozone.co.uk/rowasher/ how-it-works

Contaminants such as oils and grease are always present in engineering and workshop environments. Current legislation makes us improve our sustainability, environmentally friendly and health and safety credentials.

The ROwasher reduces toxic solvent use, cuts any toxic waste and improves the technicians’ working environment, whilst reducing operating costs. All ROwasher features and benefits can be found at

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REAPING THE BENEFITS

MIDTHERM LASER

Midtherm lasers in on growth after £1.2m machine investment

A specialist sub-contract laser cutting and forming specialist is reaping the operational and environmental benefits of a £1.2m machine investment.

Midtherm Laser, which employs 45 people at its factory on Peartree Lane in Dudley, has increased its capacity and speed of processing thanks to the installation of a new Bystronic Bystar Fiber 12kW laser with part automation.

One of the largest purchases in its 23year history introduces the next level of power in fiber laser cutting and will help the company deliver high cutting dynamics and thin to thick cutting capabilities to a customer base that spans aerospace, automotive and decorative work to food processing, agricultural and conveyors.

It has also made a massive difference to the firm’s environmental performance, with

the Bystronic model replacing two older CO2 machines and is already delivering a 50% energy saving – the equivalent of powering 2100 average homes every month.

“Our expertise in laser cutting and metal forming is respected throughout our sector and has led to us increasing sales by a further 6% last year, a great achievement considering the volatility of the market,” explained Mark Hannon, Director of Midtherm Laser.

“The knowledge of our experienced people is one of our greatest strengths and we like to complement this with a sustained investment programme that incorporates the latest technology into our production processes.”

He went on to add: “The 12kW Bystar Fiber is a class leading machine that can cut from 0.5mm to 30mm in mild steel,

aluminium, and a host of other materials. It gives us more capacity to target new opportunities and, importantly, means three quarters of our machines are now fiber technology instead of gas.

“With this in mind, and when you consider we have also invested in LED lighting, sensor switches and electric vehicles and charging for our staff on the road, it’s not difficult to see how we have managed to cut our energy usage in half since 2018.”

Midtherm was originally established in 1968 by Ray Andrews and operated through sister companies offering powder coating, enamelling and UV flues.

There was a laser cutting machine that was occasionally being used at one of the factories and the decision was taken in 2000 to put it to better use by creating a ‘laser’ business that initially employed just three people.

With orders starting to take off, Ray’s son Richard Andrews moved the business to its current 20,000 sq ft factory on Peartree Lane in Dudley in 2004, with the next big milestone taking place in 2018 when Mark Hannon replaced Dean Cockayne as Director and took over the operation alongside Richard and Kate Birt.

Today, Midtherm Laser works with more than 500 companies across 20 different sectors, cutting or forming various sheet metal from 0.5mm to 30mm to a +/- 0.25mm tolerance.

It is also the only sub-contract laser provider that can offer the cutting of nonferrous materials without the risk of cross contamination for industries, including food processing and chemical manufacture.

Richard Andrews, Director at Midtherm Laser, concluded: “There has been a lot of investment recently, with the new laser following the installation of automated warehousing and the rebrand to form the Midtherm Group.

“Embracing new technology is a must for our business, but the company still thrives on the same values my father started it on in 1968, which are quality, service and technical knowledge.”

Today, Midtherm Laser works with more than 500 companies across 20 different sectors, cutting or forming various sheet metal from 0.5mm to 30mm to a +/- 0.25mm tolerance.

For further information, please visit www.midthermlaser.co.uk

From left, Gavin Brettell, Linda Whitehouse and Mark Hannon (all Midtherm Laser)

Protection of Submerged Gas Pipeline Calls for the SeaShield 70/80™ System

Winn & Coales (Denso) Ltd.’s SeaShield 70/80™ System was recently utilised during maintenance works on a National Grid pipeline in Cumbria.

Crossing the Duddon Estuary near Barrow-in-Furness, the existing anti-corrosion coating on the National Transmission System (NTA) pipeline had suffered mechanical damage due to shifting sand banks in the area. The remote location prohibited excavation machinery from accessing the site, requiring sections of the 10-inch diameter pipeline to be excavated by hand, thereby restricting the amount of pipe that could be accessed.

Once excavated, surface preparation was conducted to remove light marine growth and loose rust before the SeaShield 70/80 System was applied. Designed for the protection of submerged and shoreline pipelines, the system features water-displacing petrolatum tape and primer, a tough PVC-backed bitumen tape, and a glass-fibre reinforced outerwrap; all of which combine to form a robust protective coating with exceptional impact and mechanical strength.

Work was undertaken by the Pipeline Maintenance Centre on behalf of Cadent Gas, with products supplied by Lynvale Ltd.

Winn & Coales (Denso) Ltd are leading manufacturers and suppliers of corrosion prevention and sealing systems. Their SeaShield systems have offered comprehensive corrosion control on jetty piles and marine structures for the last 50 years.

A completed SeaShield 70/80™ System application at Duddon Estuary, with the inner petrolatum tape application shown inset.

ViSWIR … Bringing Visible & SWIR into Focus

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Floating design adjusts focus for different wavelengths

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ViSWIR Lite Features:

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Compact design

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HUCK® FASTENERS

STAR FASTENERS

Mastering Time

We lose time, we kill time, we save time, and we have all the time in the world, but one thing is certain we cannot slow it down or stop the march of time, but we can control how we use it.

“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us” J.R.R. Tolkien.

The effective use of time is a critical factor in a number of manufacturing and construction applications, and more often than not a key factor in profitability. From a manufacturing perspective, the amount of time required to complete a product or assembly directly impacts the number of these items that can be produced during a given time period. Similarly, the time required to assemble, install, or fabricate a product or system on-site can be critical to revenue generation and income.

In many cases, it is actually the joining of elements, either through welding, adhesives, or the installation of fasteners, that can significantly contribute to the time required to assemble a product

or system. Correspondingly, the choice of joining methods can have a critical impact on efficiency and productivity. In addition, a quality manufactured or installed product or system can cut expensive downtime, and reduce timeconsuming maintenance requirements.

Good time management, or being the master of your time, enables you to be more productive with the time you have. Increased productivity ensures you stay on top of your to-do list, whatever that may be… being more productive, meeting deadlines, gaining time for product / business development, ultimately leading

to doing more things that you enjoy or even leaving work on time! Whilst we cannot reclaim wasted time, we can control how we use it.

Here we look at Huck® Structural Blind and Huck® LockBolt® fasteners from a time, efficiency and productivity perspective. This will help to highlight how correct fastener selection, joining decisions and succeeding actions can define whether time is your enemy or ally

HUCK LOCKBOLTS AND HUCK STRUCTURAL BLIND FASTENERS

Over the past 30 years, HuckBolt® engineered two-piece LockBolts and Huck structural blind fasteners have become the fastening option of choice for a number of demanding applications where welding, nuts and bolts, and other joining methods were once regularly employed.

When Huck structural blind and HuckBolt fasteners are used there is no need for lengthy training meetings or to

Good time management, or being the master of your time, enables you to be more productive with the time you have.

Time saving ideas - Star Fasteners can powder coat any stock item or encapsulate Hucktainers®

employ a team of specialist technicians, all that is required for someone to become proficient at installing them is an understanding of what the installed fastener should look like - a quick visual inspection.

Two-Piece HuckBolts - Available in a wide range of materials and in sizes up to 1-1/8” (28.5mm), they have the ability of delivering up to five times the overall fatigue strength of conventional nuts and bolts. In addition to providing a high level of reliable clamp performance, HuckBolts also provide a highly vibration-resistant joining option.

While the strength of HuckBolts is a key characteristic, HuckBolts also offer several important time-saving features. Installation of these fasteners usually requires less than two seconds. As they are swaged fasteners (cold forged onto the pin during the installation process by the tooling), they never need retightening or re-torquing, even in the most vibrationintensive application.

Huck® Structural Blind Fasteners - are available in a variety of materials and sizes (up to 3/4”). Similar to HuckBolts, these advanced fasteners are also installed using a direct tension swaging technique. And like the installation of HuckBolts, this process provides for both a fast and secure installation. Similarly, a quick visual inspection is all that is required to confirm their proper installation, adding to the speed of assembly associated with these advanced fasteners.

TIME-EFFICIENT, COST-EFFECTIVE JOINING

Both two-piece HuckBolts and structural blind fasteners combine unmatched speed of assembly with the ability to use lower-priced / less specialist labour. “Remember that time is money”(Benjamin Franklin); this combination ensures that these LockBolts and blind fasteners are highly cost effective, adding a strong measure of cost control to a wide range of manufacturing or assembly applications.

THE TIME BENEFIT FOR END USERS

Installation and assembly time can be reduced when using Huck fasteners. These precision manufactured fasteners have several key features, for example, locking mandrels and swaged collars, eliminating the need for additional processes such as re-tighten nuts and bolts, waiting for adhesive to set or for welds to cool. This quicker realization of income can be significant, adding to the overall value of any product, installation, or system assembled with Huck fasteners.

STAR FASTENERS – HUCK® FASTENER DISTRIBUTOR, HOW CAN WE HELP

Efficient inventory management is necessary to maintain time critical production schedules and meet consumer demand. There is nothing more frustrating than when stockouts prevent product assembly or the fulfilment of customers’ orders on time.

Star Fasteners have several solutions to limit stock shortages and get stock to customers on time; these include great supplier connections and excellent inventory control. It is important to us that we hold good stocks and match our product supply to customers’ demands to limit stock shortages and lead times. We

know how frustrating it can be to be left without a reliable supply, not only does this impact the financial and operational aspects of a company, but it influences the emotional and hard-earned relationship with customers. It is essential to us that our customers have trust in our supply and feel confident in the fastening and installation tooling solutions provided. Together with a full hire fleet of air, battery and hydraulic tools, and an in-house tool repair workshop, customers are never left without a backup installation tooling solution and we can always keep production line rolling. Star Fasteners understand the importance of a quick and efficient service, but by using Huck fasteners you can get more done, and have less to do!

For further information, please visit www.starfasteners.co.uk

Huck® Blind structural Fasteners Huck® LockBolts®

Huck® 254 installation tool

Huck® Range Force Battery Tool

FineCal are a supplier of Industrial Consumables and work extensively within the Engineering and Composite industries.

includes:

Adhesives Abrasives Technical Tapes PPE Labels

FREE product samples available and FREE on site surveys to discuss your application requirements.

Please call on 0117 971 1111 or email us at sales@finecal.co.uk Our

Custom Inline Disc Filters

You design, we create

Helapet knows that no single filter can be suitable for the varied filtration applications that are used across industries.

Our new online design tool provides customers with a simple-to-use design wizard, combined with enhanced information to guide customers through the 100’s of available filter combinations.

THE CLEANROOM CONUNDRUM

Guidance to support regulatory compliance, efficiency and best practice success

Creating a cleanroom environment that meets GMP regulations can often be a cumbersome task for organisations within the medical moulding space. As well as being costly and timely to implement, regulatory compliance often results in the process becoming more convoluted than strictly necessary. The guidance from the global medical team at Sumitomo (SHI)

Demag is to keep the process simple, and to utilise technical expertise and knowledge.

With production space at a premium, medical injection moulding experts at the firm - Andrew Sargisson, Regional Sales Director, and Sam Carr, UK Medical Business Development - share their cleanroom production industry insights, tips and the top trends shaping the MedTech cleanroom space.

In the latest 2022 report curated by Data Bridge Market Research, the global cleanroom technology market is anticipated to grow to USD4.25bn by 2029. Driven by a surge in demand for high quality medical applications compliant with regulatory standards, control variables, including air flow, humidity and equipment temperatures, are all essential considerations.

MORE THAN A WHITE SPACE

There are three critical features that medical manufacturing cleanrooms must effectively observe and implement.

The first of these requirements is that internal surfaces and equipment needs to be designed in a way that mitigates contamination and can be sanitised with ease. Furthermore, a source of filtered air flow is needed to effectively regulate

temperature, humidity and air quality, while simultaneously extracting particulate contaminations. Introducing robust operational and maintenance procedures and ensuring staff are fully trained is equally critical.

Rising energy costs combined with the upfront costs of building a cleanroom means that investment decisions are rarely taken on a whim. Most medical moulders will only embark on cleanroom projects to fulfil regulatory FDA, GMP Annex 1 and CFR Part 211 requirements.

In order to comply with these requirements, the equipment used in the manufacture, processing, packing or holding of a drug product needs to be of an appropriate design, adequate size and suitably located.

The Sumitomo (SHI) Demag global medical team (L to R - Shota Takemura, Medical Team Japan - Anatol Sattel, Head of Business Unit Medical, Germany - Sam Carr, Medical Team UK - Andrew Sargisson, Regional Sales Director Business Unit Medical, based in Germany)

The choice of moulding machinery selected for cleanrooms is generally customerspecific. Where medical components need to be manufactured and packed in a selfcontained cleanroom environment to meet ISO Class 7 or 8 standards and comply with any GMP Annex 1 and FDA regulations, a fully configured all-electric injection moulding machine can be a straightforward way to eliminate the biggest contamination risks … people.

That’s because the exposed points where a plastic component may come into contact with the environment are all enclosed. For that very reason, virtually every global cleanroom project undertaken by the medical team at Sumitomo (SHI) Demag now features an IntElect machine.

KEEPING IT SIMPLE

Andrew Sargisson stresses the need for organisations to keep things simple when it comes to commissioning moulding machinery for a cleanroom environment and cautions against over specifying superfluous equipment. This, he claims, is likely to create needless issues down the line.

For example, focussing solely upon the cleanroom classification itself could leave medical manufacturers exposed to unwarranted compliance requirements that, once approved, they must continue to adhere to. Sometimes effective ventilation is all that’s required. Yet, for sterile medicinal products, the requirementsdefined by Annex 1 of the EU and PIC/S GMPs – are now even more stringent.

This is where global expertise is a true benefit. Out of regulatory fear, people may submit a user requirement specification (URS) request for a cleanroom solution that is excessive for the medical component being made.

As a global medical team that works collaboratively across borders and are all GMP-trained, the group is able to pull in technical experts and provide high quality consultancy at the start of any medical

cleanroom project. This makes it much easier to manage defined steps for design, installation, operational and production Qualifications and Validations of cleanroom machinery.

Turning Cleanrooms into ‘Greenrooms’ As filtered air controlled production environments, moulding cleanrooms are extremely energy intensive. Experts estimate that in some cleanroom facilities, the air units that circulate fresh air and extract particulates can consume around 60 percent of all production power.

Given today’s energy crisis, there’s a real push to conserve natural resources and reduce the ecological impact. Yet, stringent workflows to prevent pollutants spreading and contaminating products make this inherently challenging in cleanrooms.

To counter any adverse impacts of the ensuing energy crisis, medical moulders may want to consider fully utilising any ‘white space’ inside their cleanrooms, occupying any extra space with additional machinery or equipment. The benefits of this are multiple, in that organisations can increase their operational capacity without the need to power or fuel additional space.

Lower ceiling heights is another tactic to reduce the overall atmosphere that requires HEPA filter control. Even if the physical space remains unchanged, the reduced footprint of today’s compact allelectric machines now enables MedTech manufacturers to optimise their cleanroom envelope, boosting cost and productivity metrics considerably.

Clamping

down on heat generation

Over-cluttering is not in-line with the GMP standards. Removing free-standing periphery equipment from the floor and integrating into the moulding machine cell, including hot runner controllers, cables, and even automation, eliminates another surface area and consequently additional sources of heat generation.

Integrated electric direct drives is another consideration. Providing the force

transmission, one of the key processing advantages of electric drives is the ability to control the linear axis with velocities in excess of 500mm/s. With no belts spinning, the drives don’t have to work as hard.

This increased efficiency gained from direct drives means that they use considerably less energy – in the case of the IntElect between 40% and 85% less than conventional solutions.

Having this level of drive control also makes a subtle difference to clamp force. Use too much force and the machine’s energy consumption rises. Rather than diverting straight to the maximum clamp force, a medical IntElect machine, with its smaller than average injection unit, can override and select the appropriate clamp force for a particular combination of component geometry and polymer material. For high cavitation medical components, where precision is fundamental, this is a gamechanger, as the machine isn’t overworking itself. When this happens not only is excess heat being generated, it can also cause premature tooling wear and tear.

Heat transference is another consideration. A portion of electrical power is used to directly heat the barrel to melt resin. Another to run the machine drive, inverters and motors, which in turn also generates heat. All of the heat generated must be dispersed either via thermal convection or – in most cases – an active cooling system.

Thermal imaging of the direct drive provides a good indicator of any inefficiencies and heat emissions. On the IntElect machines, the active air cooling (fan) is not activated until the motor reaches 55°C. If no heat emission on the drive, no additional energy is consumed.

Big moulds … small contained space

In order to achieve the highest production output in the smallest space, the medical IntElect’s larger than average platen area offers greater production flexibility and accommodates various high cavity tool configurations.

In the latest 2022 report curated by Data Bridge Market Research, the global cleanroom technology market is anticipated to grow to USD4.25bn by 2029.

A fully configured all-electric injection moulding machine can be a straightforward way to eliminate the biggest contamination risks … people

Comprising tie bar distances between 360mm and 1100mm, this enables cleanroom medical manufacturers to get the most output in the minimum footprint.

Among the latest developments by Sumitomo (SHI) Demag is the feasibility to combine LSR and thermoplastic moulding in one cleanroom moulding cell, allowing moulders to switch between the two. Other innovations from the company include integrating laminar air flow systems to flood the mould surface and part handling areas with HEPA filtered air.

GMP compliant technical features, such as raising the machine 100mm off the floor, helps to maintain cleaning standards. Additionally, total stainless steel fixed platen coverage on the top, sides and underside without any cut outs ensures air flow is not disturbed. Inside the cell, yet outside the mould space, cooling, temperature and pneumatics can be attached. Eliminating cables and hoses in the mould space.

Once parts are moulded, integrated robotics can quickly and accurately transfer components to the conveyor system, chute or packaging system as required.

CLEANER COMMUNICATIONS

A huge leap forward in cleanroom production is the introduction of smarter communication platforms. Specifically OPC-UA architecture. Designed to enhance traceability and optimise processing stability, medical manufacturers can now extract all performance data from the machine and all the contained periphery equipment, without stepping foot into the cleanroom environment.

Supporting interoperability and securely recording time series data and analysing process parameters, the OPC-UA interface records, channels and collates every processing aspect from all the peripheral devices attached to the cell. This contextualised data is then submitted from the core of the production cell, straight to production and QC managers.

Information such as CO2 consumption and recycling rates can be captured during the production of medical components. Circling back to help manufacturers collate more robust documentation of its ecological production footprint.

Rather than trying to second guess cleanroom compliance implications, the Sumitomo (SHI) Demag medical team works collaboratively with customers to examine the cleanroom processing pains

Inside the cell, yet outside the mould space, cooling, temperature and pneumatics can be attached. Eliminating cables and hoses in the mould space.

and provide suggestions and solutions.

By considering all these factors, achieving regulatory compliance in MedTech cleanrooms may not be as complex as perhaps first presumed. To summarise:

• Utilise excess cleanroom space in the most effective and advantageous manner possible.

• Don’t over-think or over-specify equipment: Draw upon the expertise of a global team to assist with scoping out the design, installation, operational and production requirements.

• Support and enhance interoperability by deploying smarter communication tools

GMP compliant technical features on the medical IntElect includes total stainless steel fixed platen coverage on the top, sides and underside, without any cut outs to ensure air flow is not disturbed

For further information, please visit http://uk.sumitomo-shi-demag.eu/

Specialist Training for the Storage Tank Industry

Live online, classroom, in-house or e-learning

•Gain or renew your 5-year Certificates of Competence*

•Courses based on EEMUA 159

• English, Dutch, German and French language options

•Select from courses throughout 2023, including:

TankAssessor courses*

27-30 March 2023 – in French –classroom – Près de Paris, FR

24-27 April 2023 – in German –classroom – Hanover, DE

5-8 June 2023 – in Dutch – classroom – Rotterdam, NL

4-7 September 2023 – in English – live online

TankInspector courses*

20-22 March 2023 – in English – live online

22-24 May 2023 – in Dutch – classroom – Rotterdam, NL

Storage Tanks e-learning

On-demand – in English or in Dutch

In-house courses

By arrangement for your choice of: time, language, location, or live online

More choices, information and registration at www.eemua.org and events@eemua.org

Available in the UK from Labtex, Vacuubrand manufactures a comprehensive range of laboratory and instrumentation vacuum pumps, gauges and controllers for both coarse and fine vacuums. Vacuubrand’s first priority is to offer sophisticated equipment which meets the highest quality, professional standards expected of a modern laboratory. For example, ‘intelligent pumps’ make lab work more efficient, allowing chemists and technicians to focus their attention on other tasks.

The versatile Vaccubrand chemistry pumping unit, PC 3001 VARIO select

• Unsurpassed performance

• Uncompromising chemical resistance

• Fully automatic evaporations

• Minimal operating and maintenance costs

• Whisper quiet

• Environmentally friendly, without oil and water consumption

• The Vacuubrand Chemical Resistance Chart

• Chemical resistance is essential when working with aggressive gases and vapors.

www.labtex.co.uk

Labinox

Manufactured in 316-grade stainless steel as standard, and built according to customers’ designs and dimensions, our expertise ranges from simple fabrications and machining to high specification projects for the pharmaceutical, food processing, water, paper and chemical industries.

Pressure Vessels

Labinox stainless steel pressure vessels are durable, high-quality and can be built to your exact specifications.

Stainless Steel Filters

Fabricated to customer requirements and specifications, Labinox stainless steel filters are designed to ensure easy access, maintenance and cleaning.

Tanks

Our steel tanks offer the perfect solution for storing a variety of liquids in a range of capacities. Steel has a resistance to many damaging factors, making it naturally durable and longlasting, while the practical tank designs make them easy to clean and maintain.

Stand Up Writing Desks

Made from 316-grade stainless steel as standard, our stand-up writing desks are sturdy and high-quality. The sleek design ensures quick and easy cleaning, while minimising places for dirt and bacteria to get trapped. Labinox’s bespoke service means that all stand up writing desks are made according to your requirements and are suitable for a variety of uses.

Trollies

Labinox 316-grade stainless steel trolleys provide a secure and effective way of storing and transporting items. The practical and hard-wearing designs can be built to exact customer specifications and ensure quick and easy cleaning for optimum hygiene levels. Available with a customisable number of tiers, our trolleys are practical, reliable and lightweight.

www.labtex.co.uk

The UK’s Laboratory Equipment Experts

Vacuubrand’s high-quality and reliable range of chemistry diaphragm pumps, are designed for working with aggressive gases and vapors!

PEI-Genesis celebrates opening of its new sales office in Singapore

PEI-Genesis, a global leader in the design and assembly of custom engineered interconnect solutions, has announced it expansion into Southern Asia-Pacific region, allowing it to support local customers across the region. This follows the opening of the company’s new sales office in Singapore in December 2022. The company placed its first APAC footprint in Zhuhai, China in 2015. Since then, it has opened sales offices in 10 major APAC markets.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by a lion dance was held to mark this auspicious milestone. Members of PEI-Genesis leadership, including Steven Fisher, CEO, Alex Tsui, Vice President & Managing Director APAC, and Bernard Koh, Regional Sales Director of South Asia, attended the opening ceremony. At the same time, Trusted Advisors from PEI’s sales departments in Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand, representatives of the core account customers, and suppliers joined them to celebrate in Singapore.

“We are continuously investing in more talent to engage closely with our local customers while also searching for new assembly sites to support Mil-Aero customers in the region. The establishment of the APAC South office has once again fulfilled PEI’s promise to improve delivery speed, achieve good inventory management, and strengthen the professional service capabilities of the local team,” says Alex Tsui, Vice President & Managing Director APAC.

In 2015, PEI-Genesis placed its first footprint in APAC, opening its

Zhuhai, China production facility. Today, there are sales Trusted Advisors in 10 major APAC markets, including Japan, South Korea, mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, India, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and now Singapore. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, PEIGenesis was unable to officiate a proper opening in October 2021, delaying it almost a year and a half later, now taking place in December 2022.

In addition to PEI’s Trusted Advisors, the new office has a call center with technical engineering support to serve local customers more effectively.

we make ideas come to life

RMIG is the world’s largest manufacturer and supplier of perforated metal and its related products.

We know our customers’ requirements for price and quality and meet their demands with uncompromising service.

Not only do we offer standard and bespoke perforated metal sheets, we are able to offer you a range of secondary operations as detailed below.

Complete solutions

With a continued investment in the latest equipment and a network of professional partners we are able to produce prime quality products and solutions – from a simple perforated sheet to the fully formed and coated custom made part.

Cutting

We can cut and shape perforated sheet to meet the needs of your nal application.

Levelling

For some applications a high degree of atness is required, we have processes in place to ensure our perforated coils and sheets meet with your most demanding requirements.

Rolling and forming

We can roll, bend and form perforated sheets to match your design.

Aesthetic nishes and protective coating

We can offer powder coating and hot dip galvanizing solutions to meet your speci cations.

For more information please contact us tel: 01925 839610 | email: info.uk@rmig.com | www.rmig.com

Vibration monitoring 24/7

Monitoring and Condition Based Maintenance of rotating machinery. This complete solution makes your machines fit for Industry 4.0

• Continuous diagnostic: Full coverage of your critical assets at all times.

• Early diagnostics: Monitoring of imbalance, wear and overall vibration.

• Maximum efficiency: Permanent diagnostics helps keep your assets running efficiently.

• Easy integration: ifm provides individual solutions suited to different types of machines. Reducing costs, avoiding unplanned downtime and optimising processes: The ifm application solutions.

ifm – close to you!

LATEST NEWS FROM PTC

Codebeamer becomes part of PTC’s Digital Thread

PTC, one of the world’s leading digital transformation specialists, has announced a major milestone for engineers, with the seamless integration of its Codebeamer® (Application Lifecycle Management) product version with Windchill® (Product Lifecycle Management).

Completed via the OSLC standard, this latest innovation improves visibility across the entire digital development process and should help manufacturers of complex products innovate quicker and better.

PLM solutions like Windchill manage parts, models and documents, while ALM solutions like Codebeamer automate software development and delivery processes to increase productivity and ensure compliance. Software development teams typically work according to agile methodologies.

By integrating the ALM and PLM solutions, all software and hardware product development teams can now benefit from the advantages of lifecycle management systems and the ability to quickly respond to changing requirements, as well as capture, link, track and manage all

For further information, please visit www.ptc.com

requirements. At the same time, it provides full traceability from start to finish.

You get an end-to-end user experience with a single sign-on, links visible in both directions and automatic detection of links after changes.

“With this integration, we have reached another milestone for engineers in the industry,” said Elliot Clarke, UKI regional director at PTC.

“Now that these two leading solutions work seamlessly together, we are providing end-to-end support for the entire digital development process for both hardware and software. This takes collaboration between different development teams to a new level and especially helps manufacturers of complex products innovate faster and better.”

With this integration, we have reached another milestone for engineers in the industry.

High-performance seals for rotary, reciprocating & static applications

All specification, design and manufacture carried out in-house in our 24/7 manufacturing facility

OEM engineered seal design –typically 3-5 days versus 8-10 weeks industry standard

Over £2.5m of semi-finished material and finished sealing products kept in stock

Flawless design of your hydraulic system schematics

HydroSym is intended for the design of your hydraulic systems. It is a dedicated, standalone software solution with all the tools to help you to draw flawless hydraulic schematics.

Create schematics for your hydraulic system in no time. You do not need training nor extensive knowledge of CAD-type software to use HydroSym. Smart Tools in our

For primary containment of hazardous substances

…

MIPC® helps practitioner-level engineers stay on-site and on top of the latest industry developments and good practice in primary containment of hazardous substances, including in pressure systems.

Ussing a blend of live, online classes, one-to-one sessions with expert tutors, and e-learning, enhaanced by a mentor’s support and guidance

EEMUA’s Mechanical Integrity Practitioner Certificate course d delivers in-depth training to engineers where they work – giving the flexibility to learn on-site or on-call

Registration open now for the next MIPC course. Learning starts 20 March 2023.

Induction of 2 hours from February 2023 adapts coursework to each learner and their site/s' needs.

For more information please contact EEMUA online-learning@eemua.org +44 (0)20 7488 0801 www.eemua.org

MIPC® shortlisted for the Best E-learning/ Online Education Initiative memcom membership excellence awards 2020 and 2022

software will help guide you to a flawless design, such as smart connecting lines with information flows, automatic jumpers, easy positioning of items between connecting lines, and straightforward changing of solenoid properties. You’ll draw your first hydraulic diagram within minutes!

https://paro.nl/hydrosymhydraulic-schematic-design

HV MAINTENANCE

POWER CONTINUITY

Offering High Voltage Maintenance remedial works during planned inspection works out of hours as well as running repairs and replacements

New HV installation works, can save your site thousands each year due to the higher efficiency of the latest transformer technologies. Upgrade to protect the environment. Our directly employed staff and both experienced and technically trained with decades of experience in the field. Whether 11kV to 66kV our authorised engineers have the professionally certified capabilities to ensure that every site is successfully serviced and maintained to current legislative standards.

Power Continuity contractors have all the credentials, expertise and certification to provide the most comprehensive ‘ in house’ services, covering design, installation and maintenance of all HV and LV supply equipment and networks, regardless of size and make at any location in the UK.

High Voltage Tailored solutions , bespoke to ensure your sites total safety, efficiency, compliance and reliability 24/7.

FACT- we understand your expectations and can tailor our services to suit your site.

Rest assured, with Power Continuity, you’re working with the most professional and highly competent Electrical HV Engineers, at your service.

HV SERVICES

All our comprehensive maintenance service contracts covers both older installed HV & Transformers as well as newly installed equipment, regardless of manufacturer.

Whether bulk oil switchgear , modern insulated devices, Induction Disc Relays, or even microprocessor based protection units. All our servicing of switchgear, transformers, electrical protection systems, complies with BS 6626 and BS 6423

EMERGENCY CALL OUT 24-7

If a breakdown occurs on an HV or LV system it’s an inconvenience, but if the primary HV system fails then you rapidly need an

engineer on site , immediately.

We provide same day response for all our contract clients.

Remember - Maintenance is designed to keep equipment in good condition.

Current Regulations state that you must maintain your system regularly.

But delays in maintenance are costly both economically as well as legally.

This applies to all HV systems across your estate. Service-Repair-Certify

SERVICES

Power Continuity offers a full range of options which are bespoke, tailored to your specific HV system as well as offering ‘one off’ remedial maintenance and internal inspections during OOH shutdowns, all carried out to BS6626:1985 and BS6867:1987 standards.

Earthing solutions, including field-based soil resistivity surveys, design options, installation and commissioning.

Our onsite services include:-

• HV & LV SF6, vacuum and oil filled switchgear maintenance

• Switchgear modifications

• Lifting of operational restrictions

• Discharge testing

• Visual inspections

• Earth testing

• Oil sampling

• HV Generators

• Emergency Standby generators

FAULT FINDING SOLUTIONS

Wondering if there may be a fault somewhere in your High Voltage electrical system?

• Concerned about joints?

• Joint replacement?

• Phase shift?

We can provide a thorough fault-finding service with a written diagnostic report and remedial works.

Our engineers perform electrical testing and inspection for all your High Voltage systems to ensure that they are safe, legal and operating within the very best performance parameters.

HIGH VOLTAGE ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS

Power Continuity provides a full design and build capability for all your HV electrical system requirements, including HV Switchgear, transformers, HV cabling installations, jointing, terminating, and testing. Your project will be expertly managed and co-ordinated by our specialist team, ensuring project completion is carried out to highest, industry leading standards.

For all your HV needs

Contact Power Continuity

0845 055 8455

We’re here to help 24/7

For further information, please visit www.powercontinuity.co.uk

PRECISION INJECTION PLASTICS

LINTON PLASTIC MOULDERS

Reliability, quality and value for money

For over 43 years Linton Plastic Moulders have been delivering precision injection plastics to our customers all around the world. Founded in Linton Cambridgeshire 1980, Linton soon became a well-known trade moulder in the area supporting many companies in different sectors such as, printing, fasteners, lighting systems, medical, communications, pet industry and many more.

For many years the Linton ethos has been about knowledge. The experience and knowledge gained over the earlier years has been the driving force of growth and then the acquisition by The MEL Group.

The MEL Group has made significant investments in capital equipment including factory relocation into a new facility within walking distance from the group headquarters in Sudbury, Suffolk.

Linton Plastic Moulders have won contracts in the communications, aerospace, electrical sectors and are proud to involved in the design and manufacture of headsets for both military and civil aviation authorities.

Injection Moulding

Reliability, quality and value for money are the hallmarks of the in house and subcontracting plastic injection moulding service. Customer satisfaction is integral to the company’s growth.

In addition to a comprehensive tool manufacturing service, Linton Plastic Moulders specialises in supplying moulded components in a wide variety of polymers.

Our professional and technical approach, from a team of experienced and skilled staff, allows us to operate a flexible and versatile total manufacturing service to meet our customer’s needs and requirements.

We are well equipped with modern plant and machinery operating with the size range of 22 tonne to 380 tonne machines with a shot weight range of 1400 grams.

Ultrasonic Welding

High-frequency ultrasonic acoustic vibrations are used to create a solidstate weld and often for joining dissimilar materials.

Accreditation

Quality assurance and monitoring is built into our work and hold ISO 9001-2015 certificate and our quality management system incorporates full material batch traceability and CofC.

www.lintonplasticmoulders.co.uk

We are well equipped with modern plant and machinery operating with the size range of 22 tonne to 380 tonne machines with a shot weight range of 1400 grams.

A flexible and versatile total manufacturing service to meet our customer’s needs and requirements

Reliability, quality and value for money are the hallmarks of our in house and subcontracting plastic injection moulding service.

High-frequency ultrasonic acoustic vibrations are used to create a solid-state weld and often for joining dissimilar materials.

We operate a two shift system allowing us 17 hours a day, 85 hours a week but with the flexibility of increasing to 24 hours if required.

COATING SOLUTIONS

Paratronix® Coatings protect your products against harsh environments

Why Parylene?

Following development in 1947, Parylene coating was commercialized for its ability to form a complete, pinhole-free, polymer protective layer on most substrates and materials.

Delivered by Vacuum Deposition at room temperature, Parylene conformal coatings exhibit a number of useful properties. These include chemical inertness, electrical insulation, mechanical protection, enhanced lubricity, biocompatibility as well as the ability to extend product life through environmental protection. These properties have made Parylene coatings a mainstay in such fields as Defense, Aerospace and Medical Devices.

Pioneers in the Industry

One of the pioneers in bringing this coating to market was a small but agile, family-owned company named Paratronix. Established in 1981, Paratronix has been highly regarded in the industry for its prowess in delivering industry- best parylene conformal coating solutions, and as a leader in the development and design of robust coating systems.

When Paratronix was acquired in 2016 by Kayaku Advanced Materials, Inc., a fully owned subsidiary of Nippon Kayaku Co. LTD, it brought with it that same drive for quality and excellence that was their legacy for 35 years.

With the leadership, support, and resources of their new parent company, Paratronix has further expanded its certifications and refined its capabilities allowing for a broader worldclass, comprehensive and tailored approach to each customer’s process development and needs. Paratronix now offers application and engineering support capabilities to the solutions process.

Grow with Paratronix

Kayaku Advanced Materials and Paratronix are always willing to try the untried to fulfill our customers’ needs, and establish true working partnerships. We will extend ourselves technically to overcome the challenges of today and tomorrow.

We welcome opportunities at any phase of a customer’s product development cycle, be it R&D or full production at our Westborough, Massachusetts facility, or through transferring coating operations with in-house systems and processes.

The Viking Series

Paratronix has applied all the lessons of the past to design an industry leading array of coating systems and support, to enable our customers to operate on several continents across the globe.

The Viking Series of semi-automated coaters can process in either vertical or static mode for larger circuit boards or components, or in tumble mode, suitable for small O-rings or magnetic cores requiring 360 degrees of coverage.

The touch screen controls provide access to and recording of all pertinent process parameters. All systems are supported by a

staff of qualified engineers. Paratronix offers a host of readily available spare parts for the end-user’s customization.

Embracing New Technologies

As technology drives smaller, faster, and more capable devices, Paratronix meets these challenges by developing and integrating new coating technologies. Recently, Paratronix introduced the SignalSeal Coating Technology. This conformal coating enables high speed digital, RF and Microwave communications devices to remain protected in many of the ways Parylene does, without the adverse effects of signal degradation for circuits operating up to 100 GHz. This is accomplished by providing a low dissipation factor coating, suitable for these frequencies of operation.

The Valkyrie Series

The coating systems for SignalSeal operate in a similar way to our Parylene systems. The CVD coating is applied at near room temperatures with touch screen controls and automated functions.

Paratronix meets and exceeds strict compliances, quality standards and certifications. For coating services, we have ISO:9001, ITAR, REACH, RoHS, IPC-CC 830/ MIL-I-46058, ANSI/ESD S20.20 and USP Class VI. ISO 13845 certification is soon to be added. For coating systems, we have TUV, CE and UL 508A Listed for US (UL) and Canada (CUL).

Let us provide your conformal coating services or in-house system solutions. Find us on the web at https://paratronix.com or by reaching us directly at +1 (617) 965-5511. Inquiries by e-mail may be sent to sales@ paratronix.com .

For further information, please visit https://paratronix.com

Paratronix has applied all the lessons of the past to design an industry leading array of coating systems and support, to enable our customers to operate on several continents across the globe.

WE’VE GOT YOU COATED

40+ Years of Process Knowledge & Cost-Effective Solutions

CONFORMAL COATING SERVICES

Pary lene Systems

• Suitable for Most Electronic Applications

• Biocompatible & Chemical Resistant

• High Dielectric Strength

• Low Moisture & Gas

Permeability

• Approved on Military, Aerospace & Medical Device Applications

• IPC-CC-830 Qualified

Signal Seal

• Enhanced Coating Technology for High Speed/High Frequency Electronics

• Maintains Signal Performance up to 100 GHz

• Withstands Harsh Environments at 1 µm Thickness

• Service Temperatures of up to 250oC

• Easily Reworkable

• IPC-CC-830 Qualified

• Vertical or Horizontal Coating Chambers

• Advanced Touch Screen Control

• Designed for Ease of Maintenance

• Customizable Feature Options Available

CHEMUK 2023

CHEMUK 2023

CHEMUK 2023 expo returns this may with over 400 exhibitors!

The CHEMUK 2023 EXPO will return this 10th & 11th May to the NEC, Birmingham. CHEMUK 2023 continues to grow with over four hundred exhibitors confirmed for this year’s event.

CHEMUK brings together the entire chemical industry, with the exhibition floor split into three focused zones: The Laboratory & Innovation Zone; The Chemical, Process & Plant Engineering Zone; and The Chemical Industries Supply Chain Zone.

THE LABORATORY & INNOVATION ZONE

The Laboratory & Innovation Zone will showcase specialist laboratory chemical and chemical equipment suppliers supporting research & development, analysis, process design & development, flow chemistry, scale-up, and quality testing within the chemical and chemical product industries.

Exhibitors confirmed to exhibit in this area include: Radleys, Huber UK, Temperature Control Ltd, IKA England Ltd, Ziath Ltd, Kays Medical, Asynt, ThalesNano, IS-Instruments, LABTEX, Autichem, AM Technology, Fluorochem, Doug Discovery, ESSLAB, Metrohm UK, Chromatography Direct, GPE Scientific, plus many others!

THE CHEMICAL, PROCESS & PLANT ENGINEERING SHOW

The Chemical, Process & Plant Engineering Show will showcase the latest technology and specialist services to attending UK Plant, Process, Control & Engineering professionals from across the chemical and wider process industries.

Exhibitors confirmed to exhibit in this area include: Siemens Automation, BRAY Controls UK Ltd, Fileder Filter Systems Ltd, sera Technology, HYTORC UK, DEC UK, Suurmond UK, Grundfos Pumps, Amazon Filters, Siga Filtration, Aalco Metals, Crest Pumps, ABB, Gee Graphite, plus many others.

THE CHEMICAL INDUSTRIES SUPPLY CHAIN SHOW

The Chemical Industries Supply Chain Show will showcase manufacturers and distributors of chemicals, ingredients and raw materials, as well as organisations providing specialist solutions supporting chemical logistics; HSE management and regulation; contract fulfilment; storage, labelling & packaging; and, business management.

Exhibitors confirmed to exhibit in this area include: Brenntag UK&I, BTC UK, Univar

Solutions, Azelis, Surfachem, BOC Limited, Lake Chemicals, AST Plastic Containers, ITAL Logistics, DURA-ID, SAFAPAC, PORTAKABIN, Ramboll, IMCD UK Ltd, Norkem Ltd, Cod Beck Blenders, and many others!

CHEMUK 2023 SPEAKER PROGRAMME

In addition to the exhibition floor, visitors can attend any of the 40+ hours of keynotes, feature sessions, and panel discussions, running across the show’s five auditoriums, embracing some 150+ contributing speakers.

The speaker programme will address the key challenges and opportunities facing today’s chemical industry covering R&D, Innovation, Industrial Process Efficiency, Flow Chemistry, Plant & Asset Management, HSE, REACH Regulation and Sustainability.

Speakers already provisionally confirmed to keynote this May include Richard Haldimann, Chief Technology & Sustainability Officer, Clariant; Professor Gill Reid, President, Royal Society of Chemistry; Thomas Birk, Managing Director, BASF UK & Ireland; Tim Doggett, Chief Executive Officer, Chemical Business Association, plus many more. The full speaker schedule will be hosted on the CHEMUK website.

Organisations provisionally confirmed to be contributing to the 2-day programme include: Unilever SEAC; CIA; Innovate UK / KTN; Chemical Industries Association; BCMPA; BioVale; HM GOV inc Defra, BEIS, DIT & HSE; GAMBICA; IBioIC; NEPIC; UKLA, plus many more.

DATES FOR THE DIARY

CHEMUK 2023 takes place on Wed 10th & Thu 11th May 2023

Venue: NEC - National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, B40 1NT

Opening Times:

Day 1: 9.30am – 5.00pm

Day 2: 9.30am – 4.00pm

PRE-REGISTER FOR FREE ENTRY!

PRE-REGISTER FOR FREE ENTRY!

The UK Expo for Chemical, Process & Plant Engineering

The UK Expo for Chemical, Process & Plant Engineering

2 Packed Days 450+ Leading Exhibitors

Panel Sessions

Plant & Process Intensification

Control & Instrumentation

CHEMICAL 4.0 –

CHEMICAL 4.0 –

Automation / Digitisation

Automation / Digitisation

Asset Management & Maintenance

Asset Management & Maintenance

Plant Management

Plant Management

Flow & Thermal Solutions... plus more!

Flow & Thermal Solutions... plus more!

TOTAL SOLUTIONS PROVIDER

A leading supplier of industrial & scientific lasers, accessories, 3D printers and additive manufacturing systems

Laser Lines began in 1975 supplying lasers for science and research, and for the past 30 years has been the UK’s leading retailer of 3D printing and additive manufacturing (AM) technologies. Find out more about the exciting technologies and solutions they can offer.

3D PRINTING SOLUTIONS

A Platinum Partner of Stratasys, and representing Makerbot and Xact Metal in the UK, Laser Lines offers a vast range of 3D printing technologies including FDM, Polyjet, SLA, P3, SAF and Metal. Of these, Stratasys’ FDM F370 and Polyjet J55 Prime 3D printers are proving to be the ideal solution for many design and small-scale production applications.

The Stratasys F370 is the perfect additive manufacturing machine for more demanding projects. With support for two model materials and two support materials, it can be left to run for extended periods. This feature can be used to guarantee overnight, unattended printing by installing matching spools in advance. The perfect combination of class-leading performance and offering a generous build envelope of 355 x 254 x 355mm, the F370 is incredibly quiet and can be used with industry-leading FDM materials, including PLA, PC-ABS, ABS-CF10 Diran 410MF072 and FDM TPU 92A.

The Stratasys J55 Prime is a full-colour Polyjet 3D printer that you can add to your organisation, without the need for a specialised operator or a dedicated room for it. For anyone that wants to cut down the time it takes to prototype a product, the Stratasys J55 Prime can print models efficiently, in over 500,000 colours. The compact 3D printer fits into any standard office, classroom or studio space with ease. With no unpleasant smell, toxic fumes or noisy machinery to deal with, you can work as normal – even if sat right next to it.

If you are looking to print metal parts, the XM200C metal powder-bed fusion 3D

printer from Xact Metal, is ideal. A compact and affordable system, it can produce quality metal parts from a variety of metal powders at a low cost, bringing a new level of price and performance to metal 3D printing for entry-level operators for the first time. The XM200C is perfect for universities, prototyping laboratories and small to medium enterprises that require multiple machines. Supporting metal powders such as Stainless Steel, Super Alloys, Tooling Steels, Aluminium, Titanium and Bronze, the XM200C is ready to make your part in a fraction of the time it takes using traditional casting. Plus, its open platform means that qualified users can develop their own printing parameters or use their own powder. It is simple to use

with an easy touchscreen user face, which makes it easy to load files, set up build and monitor jobs

INDUSTRIAL LASER SOLUTIONS

Laser Lines also supplies a complete range of lasers, laser systems and accessories, providing solutions for industrial processes such as marking, engraving, drilling, welding, soldering, brazing and cladding. Key systems include Synrad CO2 lasers in the power range of 10W to 400W, Datalogic laser markers, DPSS, fiber and CO2 laser technologies, all for integration. Complete systems include Laserline high power diode sources to 45kW and Sisma pulsed YAG welding and cutting systems. Also available are beam delivery solutions including conventional process heads and galvanometer scanning systems.

The company offers their own range of standard and bespoke laser marking solutions of which there are four options. Lasermark PRIMARY, is Laser Lines’ entry level laser marking system. This unit perfectly matches safety, functionality and a small footprint with value for money and potential for an excellent return on investment. Suitable for install with a variety of lasers from our DPSS and Fibre ranges, this system presents the very best in value for small laser marking applications. The Lasermark PROJECT system is a unique system devised for your specific application. Understanding that the best option for your business may not be an ‘off the shelf’ solution, Laser Lines has a wealth of experience in designing bespoke marking solutions. The Lasermark PRESTIGE system is specifically designed with the industrial laser user in mind. With free standing and benchtop versions available this system offers a full range of customisable features and options.

The Lasermark PREMIUM combines all of the benefits of the Lasermark PRESTIGE system but with a larger footprint and working area. Designed for applications that require extra space for larger or longer parts.

For further information, please visit www.laserlines.co.uk

The Stratasys F370 is the perfect additive manufacturing machine for more demanding projects.

Supplying Total Solutions for nearly 50 Years - and counting!

We are keen to help our customers with their purchasing or up-grade decisions, and offer competitive leasing options as well as generous Trade-in packages where available.

PRUDENTLY PROACTIVE

Supplier issues can lead to manufacturing downtime and severely impact profitability and brand reputation, meaning proactively preventing issues from arising is prudent and more cost effective than reactive solutions.

Companies across the manufacturing industry are still seeing macro issues in the supply chain. For example, microchip shortages are still causing delays in production across a variety of industries such as automotive, aerospace, off-highway and even home goods, to name a few.

NOMINATING SUPPLIERS

When it comes to nominating a supplier, manufacturers must have a solid process for validating a suppliers manufacturing system before start of production. This will help them to establish how adept the supplier is at maintaining quality and delivery levels with fluctuations in demand

and supply chain constraints. For due diligence, this analysis should be repeated every time existing processes are changed or new ones are introduced.

To ensure existing supply chain risk is minimised, manufacturers should also have a robust, risk-based analytical process in place to identify weaknesses in the supply chain that could create disruption in the end manufacturing process and ultimately lead to financial and reputational damage. Evidence of strain such as late parts deliveries, frequency of failure and issues with shipments are all warning signs to a business that there may be more serious challenges beneath the surface.

DIGGING DEEPER

If an issue with quality does arise, it is standard practice within manufacturing to implement additional controls to contain the issue while actions are taken

to resolve the root cause. What is less common is a thorough investigation into the supplier’s business to understand if there are any underlying stress points that are contributing to their process failures.

It isn’t uncommon for businesses to want to grow quickly, but supply chains are not always equipped to cope with an increase in demand or complexity making the potential for regular disruption a reality.

SUPPLY CHAIN RISK MANAGEMENT

For many businesses, dealing with supplier issues is more of a reactive process, meaning some form of disruption to the production line has already occurred.

Leading provider of quality management services to the manufacturing industry, G&P has created a process to actively prevent quality spills rather than controlling spills that have already happened.

Prevention of supplier issues is better and more cost effective than the cure, says G&P

G&P QUALITY MANAGEMENT GROUP

By proactively intervening with suppliers that pose a high risk of disruption, G&P aims to protect the customer from costly disruption and support the drive for zero defects reaching the production line.

Traditionally, G&P has looked to a supplier’s parts quality performance history as an indicator of the risk that a supplier poses to the manufacturer. Suppliers that have not been problematic in the past are therefore not flagged up.

By measuring manufacturing performance, business performance and social attributes we can get a fuller indication of a supplier’s stability and make a prediction on future performance levels.

G&P has used its Business Integrity and Capability assessments to measure these attributes and to predict disruption. Then, when combined with Quality Performance data G&P gathers from its reactive operations, it can calculate an overall supplier Risk Level index. Applied across a full supply base G&P understands which suppliers pose the greatest threat of disruption and can proactively direct resources to those suppliers and work to reduce that risk before an incident occurs.

REVIEWING EXISTING PROCESSES

Simon Francis, Group Quality Director, G&P, said: “G&P works with suppliers to understand the presence of risk within their organisation and their own supply chains. We then develop and deploy appropriate solutions to mitigate those risks”.

G&P was established in 1994 to offer total quality management solutions to the manufacturing industry. The Birmingham based business offers its services worldwide and supports a range of industries including automotive, aerospace, off-highway, rail and more. In an increasingly volatile world, G&P’s services are allowing businesses to not just remain operational but take proactive steps to ensure that supplier issues do not arise in the first place.

To date, G&P has performed over 129,000 quality management projects, preventing more than 288 million non-conforming parts from reaching point of fit and reducing scrap by reworking 231 million parts.

To discover more about how G&P can help your business visit www.gpqm.com or call us on +44 (0)1922 458 003.

For further information, please visit www.gpqm.com

By measuring manufacturing performance, business performance and social attributes we can get a fuller indication of a supplier’s stability and make a prediction on future performance levels.

FD-GA

Gas Process Burners

Lanemark gas burner systems offer users reliable, high effi ciency, process heating solutions.

FD Series Packaged Oven/Dryer Burners

•Speci cally designed for process air heating applications in convection ovens and dryers

•High turndown/short ame lengths providing accurate process temperature control

•High ef ciency gas + air modulation, gas only modulation and simple high/low control options

•Heat Input Range: 9 kW – 1550 kW

TX Series Gas Fired Process Tank Heating Systems

•High ef ciency (80%+) heating of all types of spray and dip process tanks

FD-E

•Compact high ef ciency small diameter immersion tube heat exchangers occupying minimum tank space

•Accurate performance modelling using Lanemark TxCalc design software

•Heat Input Range: 15 kW (1½") – 1150 kW (8")

Midco HMA Series Air Replacement or “Make-Up” Air Heating Burners

•Direct red, high ef ciency burner systems, for high volume air heating applications such as paint spray booths, ovens and dryers.

•Supplied either as Midco burner heads for OEM system integration or as Lanemark DB or FDB complete packaged systems including modulating gas valve trains and controls

•Wide range of ring rates to suit alternative temperature rise and air velocity system requirements

TX

Lanemark Combustion Engineering

Lanemark House, Whitacre Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 6BW United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0) 24 7635 2000 Fax: +44 (0) 24 7634 1166 E-mail: info@lanemark.com www.lanemark.com

Pioneers of heat pump technology for over 25 years

Achieve efficiencies up to 800% with process heating and cooling recovery and ability to simultaneously redistribute heating (up to 84°c) and cooling (down to 0°c) for other uses

Master/slave configurations up to 2MW

Internet connected for remote monitoring, control and diagnostics

MasterLAN software for control of multiple set points of each unit

Equipped with Modbus communication protocol

7 year warranty as standard

modulating gas + air process air heating burners.

high efficiency small diameter immersion tube tank heating systems.

low cost high turndown oven/dryer air heating burners.

FD-C high turndown oven/ dryer air heating burners.

Midco HMA high efficiency, high turndown, air replacement or “make-up” air heating burners.

X4620 Lanemark Ad SDAW.indd 1

Discover the future of food at IFE Manufacturing

Discover the future of food at IFE Manufacturing

IFE Manufacturing provides a one-stop-shop for the food and drink manufacturing industry by bringing you the latest innovations from top suppliers from across the food and drink supply chain.

IFE Manufacturing provides a one-stop-shop for the food and drink manufacturing industry by bringing you the latest innovations from top suppliers from across the food and drink supply chain.

Get ready to discover the solutions that will help you upscale, launch or optimise your offering and deliver high quality and effective business connections in 2023 and beyond.

Get ready to discover the solutions that will help you upscale, launch or optimise your offering and deliver high quality and effective business connections in 2023 and beyond.

If you’re responsible for sourcing products and solutions across the food and drink supply chain such as ingredients, packaging solutions, processing and packing technology and manufacturing services, then you need to be at IFE Manufacturing, the UK’s only dedicated showcase for end-to-end food and drink manufacturers.

If you’re responsible for sourcing products and solutions across the food and drink supply chain such as ingredients, packaging solutions, processing and packing technology and manufacturing services, then you need to be at IFE Manufacturing, the UK’s only dedicated showcase for end-to-end food and drink manufacturers.

Scan the QR code to secure your free pass to attend.

Scan the QR code to secure your free pass to attend.

ifemanufacturing.co.uk

ifemanufacturing.co.uk

IFE Manufacturing 2023 is co-located with:

IFE Manufacturing 2023 is co-located with:

THE HEART OF INNOVATON

IFE MANUFACTURING

Uncover food processing and packaging innovation at IFE Manufacturing 2023

IFE Manufacturing, the trade event for the end-to-end food production sector, returns to ExCeL London on 20-22 March with a packed programme of content getting right to the heart of innovation in NPD, food science, packaging, sustainability and much more.

Taking place alongside IFE, International Food & Drink Event, and Hotel, Restaurant & Catering (HRC), IFE Manufacturing is set to showcase over 150 quality suppliers to the food & drink manufacturing sector, encompassing ingredients, processing, packaging, manufacturing and technology.

VALUABLE INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

At the heart of this year’s event is the Sustainability Stage, sponsored by Elopak, where a wide variety of sessions across all three days will be taking deep dives into key issues within the umbrella subject of ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance).

Discussions on the stage will include sustainability’s role in the frozen food sector, compliance and product innovation, decarbonising our food systems, transitioning to a circular economy for plastics and packaging and what skills will be needed to achieve net zero, featuring panellist Sharon Blyfield OBE, Head of Early Careers & Apprenticeships at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners.

Meanwhile, the Trends & Innovation Platform will be packed with valuable insights into the trends and topics set to define the future of the food & drink sector. Visitors to the show will have the opportunity to hear from agencies including Kantar, thefoodpeople, FMCG Gurus, IGD, The Food Marketing Experts and Stylus.

A must attend session is ‘Packaging trends of the future’ where Paul Jenkins of ThePackHub, Brett Goldhawk of Ziggurat Brands James Pryor of Touch and James

Harmer of Cambridge Design Partnership will be discussing packaging innovations in the world of food & drink.

ELEVATE YOUR BUSINESS OFFERING

For brand owners, NPD professionals and manufacturing specialists, IFE Manufacturing has plenty of opportunities to engage with industry leaders and accreditation providers to talk through the tools and tricks needed to grow businesses and elevate food & drink products.

In Ask the Expert, sponsored by Langdon, buyers can meet with industry experts such as Leatherhead Food Research, FDReviews, Climate Partner, Brown Rudnick and more, all of whom will be on hand to provide bespoke advice and guidance on topics such as sustainability, product development, marketing, legal and compliance & food safety.

Meanwhile, the Certification Clinic presents an unmissable opportunity to learn what it takes to gain a wide variety of industry certifications, with organisations including The Vegan Society, BRCGS, Fairtrade, RSPCA Assured, Salsa and more on hand to answer queries and talk visitors through the assessment and accreditation process.

SUPPLIER HIGHLIGHTS Elopak

Elopak is a leading global supplier of food and beverage carton packaging and liquid filling equipment. The company’s iconic Pure-Pak® cartons are made using renewable, recyclable and sustainably sourced materials, providing a natural and convenient alternative to plastic bottles that fits within a low carbon circular economy.

Berlin Packaging UK

Berlin Packaging UK Berlin Packaging is the world’s largest hybrid packaging supplier of glass, plastic, and metal containers and closures. The company supplies billions of items annually along with package design & innovation, global sourcing, warehousing & logistics, quality advocacy, financing & consulting services for customers across all industries.

Kelcol Pumps

With over 30 years of experience Kecol Pumping Systems Ltd. is the leading UK manufacturer of air driven, pumps and systems for transferring high viscosity non-flowable products from drums and containers for cosmetic, food, pharmaceutical, chemical and general Industrial applications.

To find out more about everything happening at IFE Manufacturing 2023, and to register for your complimentary trade ticket, visit www.ifemanufacturing.co.uk.

For further information, please visit www.ifemanufacturing.co.uk

IFE Manufacturing is set to showcase over 150 quality suppliers to the food & drink manufacturing sector.

CurtissWright Surface Technologies

Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies (CWST) provides high quality surface treatments which will improve the life and performance of critical components through its global network of over 65 operating divisions and specialist onsite teams.  Our surface treatments have been successfully used by OEM’s in major industries such as aerospace, automotive, oil & gas and power generation for many years.

We are only too aware of the logistical challenges and costs faced by our customers and so we can offer a “One Stop Shop” solution providing a wide range of surface treatments including Controlled Shot and Laser Shock Peening, bespoke and trade Coating Applications, Thermal Spray Coatings and Parylene Coatings for metal, alloy, plastic and electronic components as well as Analytical Services.

To find out more please visit www.cwst.co.uk

FUTURE TALENT PIPELINE

Fanuc hosts robotics competition to inspire Gen Z engineers

FANUC UK is once again inviting the next generation of robotics engineers to enter the WorldSkills UK Industrial Robotics competition. Underlining its commitment to supporting the development of a future talent pipeline for the industry, this year’s contest is set to make robotics even more accessible thanks to FANUC’s ‘Education Roadshow’, which will see the company travel the UK offering hands-on robotics interaction and education to students. A trailblazing industry-education joint initiative, the WorldSkills competition is a win-win for both the students who take part and the automation industry, inspiring young people to consider a career in robotics and equipping them with technical and workplace skills that are much needed by employers.

Entry is open to students aged 16+ in groups of two at www.worldskillsuk.org/ competitions/industrial-robotics from 27 February-24 March 2023.

FANUC will provide training and one-onone support to the teams that make it through the qualifying round, ahead of the National Final in November.

A partnership between employers, education and governments around the world, WorldSkills uses competition-based training, assessment and benchmarking to raise standards in apprenticeships and technical education. Industrial Robotics is one of the newest of the 72 WorldSkills competition categories offered in the UK and FANUC UK is both the Industry Partner and Competition Organising Partner (COP) for this category.

Training and development are an integral part of the competition and participants will be taught how to programme and operate real-life robots. Working in pairs, entrants will battle it out across two competition stages (Passive Stage and Qualifying Stage), completing tasks designed to test the technical and team skills honed during their WorldSkills journey. The top scorers will progress to November’s National Finals and the winning team will then have the opportunity to go on to represent the UK in the International Finals.

Now in its third cycle, the WorldSkills UK Industrial Robotics competition has gone from strength to strength. Last year’s cycle attracted 16 teams from across the UK, including the first all-female team, and thanks to new features such as the Education Roadshow, FANUC UK is confident that this year’s contest will be the most successful yet.

FANUC UK Managing Director Tom Bouchier says: “Nurturing the next generation of robotics talent is vital to the future of the UK’s manufacturing

industry, and key to this is forging closer connections between industry and education at the crucial and historically neglected post-GCSE stage. As a company, we are super keen to engage with young people and enthuse them about robotics engineering as a career choice. The WorldSkills UK Industrial Robotics competition is all about making robotics accessible, relevant and appealing to young people, bringing classroom learning to life.”

HOW TO APPLY

Register in teams of two via the WorldSkills website www.worldskillsuk.org/ competitions/industrial-robotics from 27 February 2023. Entries close on 24 March 2023.

ENTRY CRITERIA

Eligible entrants are 16+ year old students in groups of two. Schools and colleges are encouraged to invite students to register, safe in the knowledge that FANUC will provide training and one on one support to the teams that make it through. There is no limit to the number of teams permitted to enter this competition per organisation.

Training and development

are an integral part of the competition and participants will be taught how to programme and operate real-life robots.

Entrants must be present for the final stage of the competition at the National Finals in November 2023. They must also be within a year of completion of a relevant Level 3 Apprenticeship and/or hold qualifications in an engineering-based subject to a

minimum of a Level 3 or equivalent. Additionally, applicants must not have been employed within the industry of the chosen skill for more than three years prior to registration, not including the period of an apprenticeship.

The Passive Stage will require teams to complete a task on FANUC’s ROBOGUIDE system, which they can access using the 30-day free licence. FANUC will then provide everyone who makes it to the final with a free ROBOGUIDE educational license, to support their studies further.

COMPETITION TIMELINE

• Entries open (27 February 2023)

• Entries close (24 March 2023)

• Passive stage (May 2023) – assessment of the team using simulation software

• National Qualifiers (June 2023)

• Announcement of finalists (summer 2023)

• Training and development (autumn 2023)

• National Finals (November)

• Squad UK – the winning team will represent their country at the International Finals and compete against the winning teams from other countries. NOTE: International competitors must be 25 or under.

Applications for WorldSkills UK Industrial Robotics 2023 open on 27th February

For further information, please visit www.worldskillsuk.org/competitions/industrial-robotics

CONTROL & AUTOMATION

AUTOMATED SOLUTIONS

CKF supply their latest robotic case packing system to a leading 3PL

CKF have recently designed, installed and commissioned a new robotic case packing system for an international third party logistics company. Situated within one of their many UK facilities, the new system is the latest robotic automated installation to be successfully completed on this site.

CKF are leaders in automated robotic solutions with more than 30 years’ experience supporting different industries including Food & Beverage, Logistics, Pharmaceutical and Automotive. This is the latest robotic system to have been delivered and commissioned by the experienced engineering team at CKF, aiding the clients drive for the improvement and automation of operations within its packing and distribution facility.

The branded pet food products within shelf-ready cardboard cartons are delivered to the automated cell on CKF modular belt conveyors, the system being designed to handle a number of product formats to meet the customer specification. An automatically formatted collation of cartons

The system is driven via the ABB IRC5 Controller, with the controller housed adjacent to the robot system.

is presented to the robot at the pick area, ready for placing into an outer case. Outer cases are delivered from a case erector, pre-conditioned and tracked in the robot place zone via variable speed twin side drive belts, providing positional accuracy for the robot placement.

An ABB IRB2600 robot with custom vacuum tooling has been used to pick and place the cartons into the cardboard outer cases. The CKF team opted to use positional tracking to enable the case throughput to meet the clients’ specification. The robot cell has

For further information, please visit www.ckf.co.uk

been designed to handle 25 cartons per minute.

The system is driven via the ABB IRC5 Controller, with the controller housed adjacent to the robot system. The robot cell is configured to fit within a designated area within the clients’ facility and is protected with a safety enclosure using a TROAX safety guard system. Operator access into the robot cell is gained through a Fortress interlocked, access door.

Installed and commissioned by the CKF engineering team, with minimal disruption to the customers operation, the automated case packing system has been delivered to meet the clients’ specification and performance. It has provided the client with the opportunity to re-allocate staff from what has been a repetitive task and enabled improved operational efficiency.

EXPLORE. DISCOVER. TRANSFORM.

ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION 2023

The latest technologies transforming logistics and manufacturing

Visitors to Robotics & Automation 2023 will discover how the latest technology can be applied to their operations to provide massive improvements in productivity and accuracy. Products include Robots & Robotic Systems, Automated Assembly Machines & Systems, Parts Handling Equipment, Conveyors and materials, Industrial Automation Control and more. There are also live demonstrations of the latest solutions taking place throughout the exhibition, so visitors can get first-hand insight into how they work in practice.

Once again, a comprehensive conference programme which will allow attendees to hear directly from people implementing projects using the latest technology. Experts from manufacturing businesses

and more will share their insights and give real world examples of how they have automated their own, and their customers’, operations.

Invest a day or two in your future and visit the show at the NEC Birmingham on the 28th and 29th March 2023.

The exhibition is free to attend for qualifying professionals.

To register, visit www.roboticsandautomation.co.uk

There are also live demonstrations of the latest solutions taking place throughout the exhibition, so visitors can get first-hand insight into how they work in practice.

CONTROL & AUTOMATION BRAKE SOLUTIONS

Brakes from KEB ensure safety in robots and cobots

Industrial robots are taking on more and more production tasks. They assemble, transport and ensure greater production efficiencies. With this level of automation, brakes that guarantee precision, speed and safety are critical. But how can brakes precisely meet these requirements and which brake is best for use in industrial robots and cobots?

As a result of growth in automation, industrial robots are increasingly being used for repetitive work steps. They reduce costs and cut the workload of employees. Robotics can also help with more individual work processes: cobots, for example, are used to improve working conditions and facilitate processes, while maintaining the quality of the products. Regardless of whether robots are used in industry, medicine, warehouse logistics or in the agricultural sector, the following applies: wherever masses need to be braked and held securely in one position, brakes are required that can reliably perform these tasks.

“Fast movements with large masses such as a car body are commonplace in robotics. This generates a high mass

inertia and thus a high torque. The brake now has the task of holding the robot arm in position and braking the movement safely in an emergency. For this case, there is a safety brake that is actuated in a de-energised state,” explains Kevin Zysk, Sales Engineer, Brakes and Clutches at KEB Automation.

Spring-applied and permanentmagnet brakes for robots

The specific requirements for the brake differ depending on the application. Whilst compact brakes with a high power density are required in medical technology to meet the high safety standards, a long service life of the brake is particularly relevant in industrial applications. Other brake applications require very high positional accuracy which means a backlash-free brake is necessary.

“With the COMBISTOP spring-applied brake and the COMBIPERM permanent magnet brake, KEB offers customers the right brake solution for different robotic applications. In consultation with the customer, we determine which brake

best meets the specific requirements,” adds Zysk.

The individual advantages of the springapplied or permanent magnet brakes become apparent during the selection process:

The COMBISTOP brake, for example, has a torque of up to 1,500 Nm and is constantly open after reaching the wear limit. In addition, the spring-applied brake can be equipped with further accessories such as a microswitch for monitoring the wear and condition of the brake, or a release lever for manually releasing the brake.

The COMBIPERM permanent magnet brake on the other hand has a maximum torque of 145 Nm and is characterised by compact dimensions, zero backlash and a higher power density. Furthermore, particularly fast switching times are also a feature, says Zysk. “With the smallest COMBIPERM, the switching time is just 2 milliseconds, with the largest version being only 12 milliseconds. In this way, we can contribute to robots being able to perform their primary task safely and efficiently, thus saving time and costs.”

For further information, please visit For more information, please visit www.keb.co.uk

7-8 June 2023 | NEC Birmingham

7-8 June 2023 | NEC Birmingham

Innovation, insight and future inspiration

Innovation, insight and future inspiration

Celebrating the advancements in manufacturing & engineering excellence and innovation

Celebrating the advancements in manufacturing & engineering excellence and innovation

There has never been a more important time for our sector to pull together and to work together, to create a shared agenda and Manufacturing and Engineering Week will do exactly that. I am delighted to be part of the Advisory Board and that MAKE UK are a partner of this groundbreaking event.”

There has never been a more important time for our sector to pull together and to work together, to create a shared agenda and Manufacturing and Engineering Week will do exactly that. I am delighted to be part of the Advisory Board and that MAKE UK are a partner of this groundbreaking event.”

Stephen Phipson CBE, Chief Executive, MAKE UK and M&E Advisory Council Chairman

Stephen Phipson CBE, Chief Executive, MAKE UK and M&E Advisory Council Chairman

INCORPORATING

INCORPORATING

Find out more at www.mandeweek.co.uk @mandeweek2023

Find out more at www.mandeweek.co.uk @mandeweek2023

WAREHOUSE AUTOMATION

End to end automation will be essential to meet changing demands EMS

According to the Office for National Statistics, online orders accounted for one in four UK retail sales in January 2023, still higher then pre-pandemic levels. E-commerce is growing, and warehouse facilities must adapt to keep up with rising demand. Here Dave Walsha, sales manager at precision drive system supplier EMS, explores the role automation will play in the future of the warehouse industry.

Restrictions put in place to control the spread of COVID-19 changed the shopping habits of the UK. So, to keep up with an influx of online orders and rising consumer expectations, warehouse managers must prioritise efficiency.

The final piece of the puzzle

To increase warehouse productivity in line with rising online orders, warehouse managers should focus on accelerating their automation journey. Warehouse automation isn’t brand new, and many units have some degree of automation integrated. The next step, and the key to ultimate efficiency, is to fully automate warehouse logistics.

The development of robots that can successfully load and unload lorries are providing the final piece of the puzzle, making complete warehouse automation possible. Lorry loading and unloading has previously been a difficult step to automate. One reason for this is that artificial vision systems can have difficulty distinguishing where one box begins and another ends in a crowded trailer.

In addition, a robot may find it hard to rummage through a jumble of boxes if they have fallen over in transit, or to pick up an object with a complex shape. There’s also the varying weights and sizes of cargo that the robot must contend with. It must have the ability to forcefully lift something heavy and delicately handle a fragile package.

Lights out

A warehouse unit with end to end automation can become a lights out facility

The development of robots that can successfully load

warehouse is the powering motors — and they must meet stringent requirements.

The motors need to be compact so the automated machine can fit into tight spaces between racks. Low weight is another important requirement of the motors, allowing the robot to make quick and agile movements. The motors must also exhibit high power so that the automated machines can move heavy cargo.

warehouse automation possible

― where human workers are not constantly needed to maintain productivity, and can therefore operate in complete darkness. Dark warehouses are the epitome of efficiency, with many automated machines working together in perfect harmony.

Magnificent motors

Enter an automated warehouse and you’ll be surrounded by a flurry of robots that appear to be running the facility. However, the true driving force of an automated

EMS is the sole UK supplier of FAULHABER motors, which are renowned for their unbeatable power to weight ratio. The multi-pole brushless motors are available in lengths as small as 14 millimetres, making them ideal for robots with small space requirements.

Online shopping is increasing in popularity, and warehouses must evolve to meet new demands. End to end automation allows warehouse managers to increase unit productivity without the need for additional floor space or employees ― accelerating a package’s journey from warehouse floor to customer door.

For further information, please visit www.ems-limited.co.uk

and unload lorries are providing the final piece of the puzzle, making complete

An Obvious Need

OnRobot believes deploying robotic applications on the manufacturing floor has been too complex and time-consuming for far too long. Therefore OnRobot has been working hard to break down these complexities and enable easier deployment from just one unified, automated platform.

With the advantage of OnRobot´s applications working with over 14 collaborative robots, OnRobot has achieved zero complexity and one-stop-shop. However, deploying/redeploying is still a time consumer.

The revolutionary approach with D:PLOY will simplify the installation process even more, allowing the end user to focus on what truly matters in their production line and business.

D:PLOY will be the first automated, application-centric software platform for making cobots talk to each other. While the adoption of intelligent robots is growing, the installation and programming of these systems remains a time-consuming and complicated process.

The D:PLOY platform will enable the automated deployment of these collaborative applications to create, run, monitor and redeploy individual cobots from a single online environment. Configuration times can then be reduced by up to 90%.

EXTREMOPHILE ROBOTS

EMS

Inspection robots allow safe maintenance in challenging spaces

Maintenance in industrial settings is essential to maximise efficiency and prevent accidents, but can be a hazardous and difficult job. In these harsh conditions, robots can perform inspection and maintenance tasks to safeguard human workers. Here Stewart Goulding, managing director of drive system supplier, EMS, looks at some of the industrial environments where robots dare to venture.

Some of the world’s most valuable industries, such as the power generation and oil and gas industries, bring high risk as well as important commodities. Regular maintenance at their sites is crucial for preventing accidents and failures, but performing inspection tasks can be difficult and dangerous. Inspection robots allow these duties to be completed easily and safely.

Boiler benefits

Robots are able to carry out maintenance tasks in the hard to access, hazardous and dirty environment of a water tube boiler. These boilers are commonly used in steam turbine power generation, but also in other industries such as chemical processing and paper manufacturing. Water is fed into the system and travels through tubes past a furnace to produce superheated steam.

Robots are able to carry out maintenance tasks in the hard to access, hazardous and dirty environment of a water tube boiler.

If damage to these boilers, such as material corrosion, is left unchecked, there can be catastrophic safety implications and unplanned, costly interruptions to critical industrial processes.

Inspection robots are capable of performing maintenance tasks easily and to a high standard. They can crawl along the water tubes and carry out visual inspections using a camera system. They then measure the thickness of the tube walls using ultrasonic thickness sensors and clean the tubes.

Conducting maintenance tasks with a robotic system, rather than human workers,

holds a number of benefits. As the robots can be operated remotely, human workers remain out of harm. In addition, many traditional preparation tasks, such as securing work permits and assembling scaffolding, are no longer required, therefore saving time and money.

Oil and gas orienteering

Remote-controlled inspection robots hold benefits in other high risk environments, such as those in the oil and gas industry. If damage goes unnoticed, dangerous consequences can follow, such as leakages, failures and explosions. Regular inspection is important, but can be challenging where equipment is in tight or hazardous spaces, or in the case of offshore oil rigs, underwater. In these situations, inspection robots are replacing traditional human inspections, performing tasks such as gauge readings and monitoring acoustic abnormalities.

Meritorious motors

When designing inspection robots, it’s important that engineers choose motors with high reliability, as a robot failure would require a complicated recovery job. Keeping the system compact should also be a priority for design engineers, so that the robots can fit into tight spaces, such as water tubes.

The FAULHABER BXT flat brushless motors offer a short drive solution with class-leading torque, therefore delivering high power while still being able to fit into small space envelopes within inspection robots. EMS is the sole UK supplier of FAULHABER motors, which are all made in a high precision manufacturing process that ensures the greatest accuracy and reliability.

Keeping industrial equipment in check ensures operations run safely and efficiently, but maintenance can be challenging and dangerous for human workers to carry out. Inspection robots can perform inspection tasks in tight and hazardous areas, helping to keep important equipment running and workers safe.

For further information, please visit www.ems-limited.co.uk

KEEPING NETWORKS AFLOAT

Combating flooding with automation

Each winter, the UK is battered with a barrage of storms that lead to all manner of problems for utilities operators, from power outages to water asset damage. Due to the predictability of seasonal flooding, effective automation systems are proving an increasingly vital investment to help water operators keep assets functional. Here, George Walker, managing director of water utilities automation specialist Novotek UK and Ireland, explains how software deployments can keep water networks afloat during flooding.

The UK Met Office announces a new A–Z of storm names every September, officially beginning the new storm season for the UK. For the 2022-23 season a full list of 21 names has been provided, including Nelly, Khalid and Tobias. Naming storms is one way of being better prepared, as it raises awareness among the public. However, despite the predictability of storm season, the impact on utilities companies routinely causes significant problems.

Unsurprisingly, an excessive surplus of water can cause problems in the water network. If assets such as pumping stations become flooded due to a high volume of rainfall or overflowing surface water sources, it can cause further flooding in domiciles and office spaces. It’s for this reason that water and sewage companies are obligated under the Water Industry Act 1991 to ensure their systems are resilient and that the area they serve has effective drainage.

Yet ensuring resilience in the water network is no simple task due to the size of the network and the number of distributed assets. It’s for this reason that water operators depend upon supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems at remote sites and, increasingly, an effective data management and control platform. The local control systems are necessary to accurately monitor and control equipment, but an effective overarching system makes it possible to remotely address issues as they arrive.

For example, Novotek routinely works with water companies across the country to help them establish more effective automation setups to facilitate remote decision-making in a streamlined, efficient manner. One of the challenges that arises frequently is that of data silos, where field engineers may have access to pertinent equipment health or performance data that is valuable but inaccessible to other teams. Fortunately, this is best — and easily — addressed with an overarching system that collects data once and

presents different views to different stakeholders.

Not every system will be well positioned to provide flexible data views to users and be capable of ensuring effective response to floods. Ideally, an industrial automation platform should also feature effective data visualisation, as well as predictive analytics that can use locally collected data to anticipate the likelihood of asset damage or outage. These attributes allow operators to easily coordinate an effective and rapid response to seasonal flooding as it occurs, at the most vulnerable or at-risk parts of a network before further problems ensue.

As winter storms continue to become more frequent and impactful, water operators must be increasingly prepared to combat the effects and maintain uptime of network assets. Whether the storm you are facing is called Michael, Lorna, or Harry, automation has long been a necessity due to the scale of operations, but the effectiveness of automation deployments has never been so important.

For further information, please visit www.novotek.co.uk

Despite the predictability of storm season, the impact on utilities companies routinely causes significant problems.

THE RISE OF THE MACHINES

The early 20s will be remembered for the COVID-19 pandemic, but folded into that simple statement are all sorts of lessnoticed, world-changing consequences. Not least of these was that a recordbreaking number of assembly line robots were purchased in 2021. According to the official resources, orders were up 37% compared to the same period the year before, an increase of almost 30,000 units worth $1.48 billion.

Lockdown, originally industry’s greatest fear, has become its greatest opportunity. Online sales have driven up demand, but human workers have been in short supply. The result is that all industries are now racing to automate.

2022, Enter the JAKA Zu Cobot range. See www.JAKA.com for the full product range.

Collaborative robot 2.0 is here! With the Zu model, JAKA is at the forefront of the latest major innovations in Cobots, making them safer and easier to teach.

EASE OF PROGRAMMING.

Until now, a major bottleneck for manufacturing has been the teaching stage, usually requiring time and highlevel programming experience. JAKA seeks to change that with the JAKA Zu Cobot.

JAKA Zu programming is done on a Tablet / pad or laptop readily available in the UK with a Zu app installed. No in depth knowledge of programming is required as the App is using a drag and drop programming method.

None of this will compromise performance. The JAKA Zu Cobots has a jointed-arm with 6 degrees of freedom, high accuracy and maximum 18kg load.

SAFETY FIRST

JAKA has always been especially proud of its state-of-the-art safety features which protect the workers essential to global supply chains. On the JAKA Zu models, force sensors can automatically stop

the Cobot whenever contact made with humans. Additional sensing and camera systems can also be added to enhance this further.

8 CRUCIAL FACTS ABOUT JAKA ZU

• Ease of programming on detachable tablet / lap top computer with Zu App.

• High flexibility / accuracy and load capacity.

• Large number of add on end effectors to suit any application.

• Force sensors as a state-of-the-art safety feature.

• Integrated camera systems for part location / recognition.

• Service support in the UK and 24/7 direct support from manufacturer.

• Online training available in easily understood video files.

• CE certified.

Lockdown, originally industry’s greatest fear, has become its greatest opportunity.

The JAKA Zu7 with controller

A typical camera for 2D sensing

DRIVE TECHNOLOGY

Böllhoff relies on drive technology from KEB Automation

Based in Bielefeld, Germany, Böllhoff offers its customers system solutions – and realises these with the support of KEB Automation. Drive technology from KEB has proven to be the right choice, particularly in the area of servo technology, not least because the drive controllers lead to cost savings and require noticeably less space in the control cabinet.

High availability and process reliability, costoptimised systems and the smallest possible space requirement in production – these are the challenges that the Böllhoff Group faces. The family-owned company was founded in 1877 and offers solutions for fastening and assembly technology, as well as logistics. For example, Böllhoff is in demand in the automotive industry and also with the corresponding suppliers to some extent in the aerospace sector. For customers in these and other industries, Böllhoff supplies, among other things, processing and riveting elements.

With “RIVSET”, for example, Böllhoff offers a self-pierce riveting system that creates mechanical, high strength connections of

identical or combined materials. In the past, this was primarily based on a hydraulic drive. However, this also meant that the hydraulic hoses had to be routed over the robot –not beneficial for maintenance teams and difficult when it came to locating faults within the hydraulics.

AIR CONDITIONING NO LONGER REQUIRED

Servo technology and the matching drive solutions from KEB Automation proved

For more information, please visit www.keb.co.uk

to be much more practical and reliable in this context. As Jörg Münstermann, Head of Software and Automation at Böllhoff Automation comments: “We use KEB inverters in our controls to drive servo motors that we need in our processing systems. Especially with the integration of servo technology at our company, which was new territory for us at the time, we were very well supported by KEB.”

COMBIVERT F6 drive controllers from KEB, for example, are used at Böllhoff. These drive controllers can also be installed in the control cabinet as a push-through variant. The advantage here is that heat can be emitted directly to the outside of the cabinet, resulting in reduced heat gain inside. This eliminates the need for an air conditioning unit, which leads to cost and space savings.

For Münstermann, there are also other arguments in favour of working with KEB. For example, KEB drive technology was very easy to integrate into Böllhoff’s control architecture via the EtherCAT bus and the worldwide service locations were also an important factor.

The family-owned company was founded in 1877 and offers solutions for fastening and assembly technology, as well as logistics.

Atkin automation appoints technical consultant

Atkin Automation, a division of Group Rhodes, has appointed Richard Priest as Technical Consultant for its coil processing division.

Richard was formerly Contracts Director for Atkin Automation and has 40 years’ experience in the press feeding industry, having started with the business as a Draughtsman back in 1982. His new role will see Richard assisting customers with the specification and design of the Atkin Automation range of products.

Mark Ridgway, CEO of Group Rhodes, said: “We are very pleased to welcome Richard Priest as Technical Consultant for our Atkin Automation division. Richard has a wealth of experience in the press feeding sector and has worked with our customers for many years regarding their specific machinery requirements. As demand for bespoke and often complex equipment increases, Richard’s skills will be invaluable in enhancing our technical service to customers.”

Atkin Automation has over 70 years’ experience in manufacturing high quality coil processing equipment, to suit a wide range of international industry sectors. From its UK factory in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, Atkin Automation manufacturers a range of coil processing products with punching, notching, shearing, roll forming and other automated equipment to create the production lines demanded by the many manufacturing companies which process high volumes of metal strip during product manufacture.

For more details about Atkin Automation visit the website https://www.grouprhodes.co.uk/ corporate/companies/atkinautomation

For more information about Group Rhodes visit https://www. grouprhodes.co.uk/ or contact the Technical Sales department on + (44) 01924 37 11 61.

https://www.grouprhodes.co.uk/corporate/companies/atkin-automation

GLOBAL INVENTORY

Quality, service and a competitive product

NORTH SOMERSET based Famatel UK Ltd is one of the leading producers and suppliers of electrical products for over 10 years with Head office in Spain, factories across Europe and we are one of 7 Subsidiaries around the world and the group is growing every year. Famatel group ultimate objective is to intergrade group under one system offering global view of inventory and sales world wide enhancing its ability to change to market needs in every country at a moment notice.

As a distributer and assembler of industrial power distribution products and systems it holds a full range of BS4343 / IEC 309 electrical distribution products and manufactures a wide range of enclosures from IP20 to IP67 along with its new GRP range.

The company also has the ability to integrate its distribution products together to offer its customers a custom build solution to meet specific requirements. Famatel UK Ltd says that it employs a strict system of quality control that flows thought the Famatel SPA group.

We pride ourselves on producing system to our customers’ needs on time and on budget, within the time frames needed.

We produce Electrical distribution systems in Plastic , Metal, Staines Steel , GRP, with or with our transformers if necessary single and three phase.

We pride ourselves on producing system to our customers’ needs on time and on budget, within the time frames needed.

More than 25 years of experience in the international electric sector

By believing in this project we’ve truly crossed borders. We’ve become a global business where people, their attitude and their knowledge are the backbone to the Famatel project. Our corporate strategy rests on the pillars of teamwork and respect for diversity; it’s led us to have a presence in over 60 countries with 3 production centers and 7 subsidiaries. A demanding, honest and well-motivated team strive every day to consolidate our position on the national and international market by strengthening our relationship with clients and suppliers alike

Sales/General Enquiries

01934 412133 | sales@famatel.co.uk

Custom Build

custombuild@famatel.co.uk

STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY

CWB ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS

Lighting the way for crash testing in the UK

The latest state-of-the-art crash testing facility in the UK opened its doors in January 2023. Completed in December 2022, it delivers the largest capacity Servo Sled capabilities in the UK.

The facility design called for a collaboration between multiple inhouse and external highly-skilled, expert engineers with practical experience and knowledge of this specialist field. The lighting system being a crucial component, was no exception.

If you’re not familiar with the field, you might be wondering why the lighting aspect is so important or indeed such a challenge to get right. Historically, such laboratory installations used halogen lamps to deliver the substantial lighting levels required for filming the tests at speeds in excess of 1000fps. The lamps provided continuous lighting without any visible flickering on the high-speed filming.

The major issue with this approach, notwithstanding the huge energy requirements, was the level of heat generated by the lamps which constrained operation in this temperature controlled

environment. The test facility must operate within an internationally regulatory prescribed temperature range and if this is exceeded, with calibrated equipment surface temperatures being too high, the test is postponed so that the ambient temperature can drop and equipment can be maintained at the correct temperature range for a minimum of four hours before testing can resume as per the regulations.

To overcome this problem, another common approach is to use specialist high pressure lamps which generate less heat. However the draw back here is the size of the lamp, time the lamp takes to reach full brightness and the re-strike time after power off. This poses problems when performing system checks immediately before a test.

CWB Electrical Engineers has been building specialist crash test lighting systems for 15 years. We have systems above and below ground, in sled and full scale crash laboratories and can even remanufacture obsolete lighting units if required.

Our systems deliver the latest LED flicker free technology and are designed for the physical constraints of the laboratory they are to be installed in. They are manufactured in kit form to minimize disruption and on site assembly time. The system has no warm up time, instant re-strike and operate between 60-75% more efficiently than conventional systems with very little heat radiation.

Our systems proudly sit in several of the worlds best known Proving Grounds in the UK.

For further information, please visit www.cwb-ee.co.uk

Our systems deliver the latest LED flicker free technology and are designed for the physical constraints of the laboratory they are to be installed in.

CONTROL SYSTEMS ENGINEERS AND ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION CONTRACTORS

CWB Electrical Engineers Ltd specialises in industrial electrical applications and control systems. We work with a wide variety of clients from small independent factories to large global manufacturers, delivering a service tailored to their specific business requirements. Based in Bedfordshire, just north of London and with a new branch opening in South Wales, we support clients and businesses all over the UK and internationally.

Why Choose Us?

Our engineers have extensive experience and knowledge in a wide variety of highly specialised industrial applications. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail, reliability and solutions based approach.

A TRUE WARRANTY

WILKINSON STAR

JASIC 5 Year Warranty Charter on all models

There is no compromise on the quality of JASIC equipment..such is our confidence in this technology we can offer an unparalleled 5 year ‘true’ warranty on all models. Jasic’s manufacturing site is over 80,000m2 and is arguably the largest and most modern inverter manufacturing base in China.

How do Wilkinson Star provide such an industry leading product guarantee?

EQUIPMENT QUALITY

WE ARE SERIOUS ABOUT PRODUCT QUALITY. SOUND PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY IS WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM JASIC PRODUCTS

• The manufacturer has invested millions of dollars into cutting edge integrated test laboratories on site – JASIC undergoes 42 individual tests to meet high quality standard.

• Jasic’s 4 centre strong R & D facilities has been ranked as the most progressive facility along with being the first welding laboratory awarded UA certification by China from TUV Rhineland.

UNPARALLELED AFTER SALES SUPPORT

NO OTHER DISTRIBUTOR CAN MATCH US ON THE LEVEL OF SERVICE FACILITY INVESTMENT MADE IN THE UK

• Wilkinson have 50 years’ experience in servicing welding equipment. Our state of the art service workshop facility and our 16 strong after sales service team offer the most recognised technical support in the welding industry. All equipment is fully supported by Wilkinson Star trained technicians.

• No other UK wholesaler can repair inverter boards to component level. At Wilkinson Star we have a dedicated

CUSTOMER CONFIDENCE

CARE IS OUR BYWORD AND YOUR PRODUCTIVITY IS OUR PRIORITY

• We provide a dedicated technical support line which you can call for any technical support queries

• If on site support is needed we provide this through our highly trained technicians who cover the country

• We can also interchange power sources to keep you up and running

• If required, Wilkinson Star will arrange at its expense to collect and return your JASIC product to carry out service or repair in our workshops

BE

VIGILANT WHEN PURCHASING EQUIPMENT WITH EXTENDED WARRANTY

WITH JASIC 5 MEANS 5

JASIC’s warranty is a true 5 years; this means a problem at 6 months, 3 years or 4 years 11 months is treated with the same level of care.

No extensions. No additional costs…… just 60 rolling months of product peace of mind

ALL YOU NEED TO DO IS REGISTER YOUR PURCHASE AT JASIC.CO.UK FOR 5 YEARS PEACE OF MIND – IT’S REALLY THAT SIMPLE

For further information, please visit www.jasic.co.uk

BLUE LASER TECHNOLOGY

Dimensionics, a supplier of measuring and testing technology, has chosen 2D/3D laser profile scanners from Micro-Epsilon for use on its Disionic Sheet Control measuring table, a fully automatic system for testing the dimensional accuracy of sheet metal.

The Disionic Sheet Control measuring table is equipped with two scanCONTROL 3000-25/BL laser profile scanners from Micro-Epsilon. The scanners, which have a compact design with integral controller, measure sheet metal blanks and check these for width, length, angle, straightness, deflection (convex/concave) and the planarity of the sheet metal edges.

The two laser profile scanners are mounted on the XY table. Each scanner has a measuring range of 25mm and is guided over two edges in the X and Y direction of the sheets. The sensors use Blue Laser technology to ensures they achieve maximum precision and reliable results on demanding surfaces such as shiny metallic sheet.

The laser profile scanners transmit the measurement data via Gigabit Ethernet to the extensive system software for analysis. Based on the data, any production errors such as inaccurate edges or dimensional deviations due to inaccurate positioning can be detected. As a result,

the production quality of the sheet metal blanks is checked in a traceable and reliable manner. In this way, the laser profile scanners, together with the Disionic

For further information, please visit www.micro-epsilon.co.uk

Dimensionics chooses 2D/3D laser profile scanners from MicroEpsilon to check dimensional accuracy of sheet metal at high speed

Measurement and data output for the entire test process take just a few seconds.

Above, the Disionic Sheet Control measuring table for the fully automatic testing of the dimensional accuracy of sheet metal. Below, the measuring table is equipped with two scanCONTROL 3000-25/BL laser profile scanners.

HEATING USING A LOOP PROFILE

Enclosure heaters with an innovative heating body

The thermal management specialist STEGO presents its enclosure heaters with an innovative, loop-style heating body. The company is offering a total of five heater series ranging in power from 10 to 150 W for thermal management applications. Certified safety when exposed to shocks and vibrations enables the heaters to be used for a wider range of applications, while pressure clamps help to reduce installation time.

LOOP HEATERS TO PREVENT CONDENSATION INSIDE YOUR CONTROL CABINET

Enclosure heaters are the tool of choice for preventing condensation in control cabinets. Heating the air inside the cabinet avoids temperature fluctuations and keeps relative humidity constant, thus protecting electric and electronic components against harmful humidity as it condenses and preventing short circuits.

STEGO, a pioneer in enclosure heaters, will be showcasing its enclosure heater with a completely new heating body: the loop heater. No fewer than five series featuring the new body are being launched on the market: the LPS 164 and LTS 064 series are based on the compact loop profile and deliver a heating power of between 10 and 50 W, while the larger loop profile in the LT 065, LTF 065 and LP 165 series gives them a heating capacity of 50 to 150 W.

THE LOOP: A BRAND-NEW DESIGN FOR THE HEATING BODY

The most striking product and design feature of the compact convection heaters is the

innovative aluminium profile strip that forms part of its heating body and, in fact, gives it its name – the loop – based on its shape with similarities to a figure-of-eight and thus also the symbol for infinity.

This profile is extremely efficient at absorbing the heat from the PTC heating elements, meaning that users benefit from improved, uniform heat transmission inside their control cabinet.

SAFE AND USER-FRIENDLY

All loop heaters come with a clip so that they can be attached quickly to their 35 mm DIN rail. Pressure clamp connection reduce installation time for the user by up to 50%. Cables with rigid wire and ferrules can be connected quickly and without any tools. The clamps exert constant pressure on the cables, which provides added security when transporting pre-assembled control cabinets, for example. You therefore need not worry about the connecting cables ever coming loose during operation. The LTF 065 loop heater series with integrated tamper-proof thermostat offers additional potential for

savings as there is no need to have a separate thermostat for control purposes. The LTS 064, LT 065 and LTF 065 series are designed to be touch-safe. Their light-grey, insulated plastic housings keep the surface temperature under 80°C, thus protecting maintenance and operating personnel from burns in the event of accidental contact. STEGO products are approved and safety certified independently by globally recognised testing institutes such as VDE, UL and EAC.

SHOCK- AND VIBRATION-PROOF

The loop heaters are shock- and vibrationproof and have the approvals to prove it. The innovative loop profile allows the heater to be assembled in a completely new way: rather than being pressed together, the heating body and heating element are firmly interlocked by the spring action exerted by the loop profile. The elastic property of the aluminium profile is leveraged to maintain a strong force on the heating elements at all times, even in the event of temperature cycles during operation, and to ensure constant heating power throughout the heater’s service life. The effort that went into this design has been well worth it: all touch-safe loop heaters, i.e. the LT 065, LTF 065 and LTS 064 series, have been successfully tested for shock and vibration resistance in accordance with the standards DIN EN 60068-2-27:2010-02 and DIN EN 60068-2-64:2009-04 in relation to the standard DIN EN IEC 61373:2011-04, cat. 1 B. This also makes them demonstrably suitable for situations exposed to a strong vibration impact in environments such as rail and mobile applications or wind power.

For further information, please visit www.stego.co.uk

Enclosure heaters are the tool of choice for preventing condensation in control cabinets

LPS 164 Loop enclosure heater 10 to 50 W

LTF 065 Loop enclosure heater 50 to 150 W Touch-safe

LTS 064 Loop enclosure heater 20 to 40 W Touch-safe

LT 065 Loop enclosure heater 50 to 150 W Touch-safe LP 165 Loop enclosure heater 60 to 150 W

INSIGHT & INNOVATION

Foodex Manufacturing Solutions Returns to the UK Food & Drink Shows in 2023

After a five-year hiatus, Foodex Manufacturing Solutions will be back at the NEC, Birmingham this April (24th – 26th), as part of the UK Food & Drink Shows. Bringing together the very best of the hospitality, manufacturing and grocery, speciality & convenience retail sectors, the shows are set to showcase the very latest products, big thinking, key insights and address key trends through the lens of the developing cost-of-living crisis.

The must-attend event unites Foodex Manufacturing Solutions (incorporating Ingredients), National Convenience Show, Farm Shop & Deli Show and Food & Drink Expo under one roof, giving food and drink professionals 2023’s most comprehensive snapshot of the latest developments across multiple industries. Register for a free pass at foodex.co.uk

The three-day event is well known for its ability to bring together the great and the good from the industry’s diverse sectors with innovative exhibitors, hot-topic seminars and business-changing awards central to the shows’ unparalleled line-up.

Visitors to Foodex Manufacturing Solutions, the UK’s premier trade event for food and drink manufacturing, processing, packaging and logistics, will leave with heightened awareness of the sector’s technology, automation and sustainability capabilities. A jam-packed show floor will be showcasing the latest products and services to improve operational efficiency, with exhibitors such as BST Detectable Products – specialists in metal detectable, x-ray visible, shatter resistant and antibacterial food safe products (Stand C131); leading anaerobic digestion operator, BioteCH4 (Stand K100); and Fortress Technology – experts in inspection equipment (Stand K41), showcasing their wares.

With face-to-face business back in full swing, buyers will once more have the opportunity to connect with potential suppliers and troubleshoot problems

through various interactive events and discussions.

Andrew Reed, Managing Director – Wine & Exhibitions, William Reed, said: “The knockon effect of the pandemic has meant that the manufacturing sector has not been able to come together in person in five years. When it returns to the NEC in April some of the incredible developments that have been made in this specialist sector will be plain to see. Whether you’re looking for a simple solution to an existing problem or a product at the vanguard of innovation,

there’ll be an answer for you at Foodex.

“The UK Food & Drink Shows are historically an event in which industry professionals can regroup, dissect problems, and share ideas. Our industry’s spirit was laid bare throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, now – as we face yet further challenges, namely the costof-living crisis – I have no doubt that we will unite once again in April to prove our resilience.”

Encompassing the entire industry, the UK Food & Drink Shows are unrivalled in their ability to bring people together, build and foster better relationships, discover business building insight and celebrate innovation, all with the support of the multiaward-winning William Reed brand.

For further information, please visit www.foodex.co.uk

The UK Food & Drink Shows are historically an event in which industry professionals can regroup, dissect problems, and share ideas.

FEATURING:

FEATURING:

Where the processing, packaging & logistics sectors meet

Informing, inspiring and connecting the industry

We look forward to this April when the industry comes together at the UK Food & Drink Shows, encompassing Foodex Manufacturing Solutions, Farm Shop & Deli Show, Food & Drink Expo and National Convenience Show.

We look forward to this April when the industry comes together at the UK Food & Drink Shows, encompassing Foodex Manufacturing Solutions, Farm Shop & Deli Show, Food & Drink Expo and National Convenience Show.

Register for FREE: foodex.co.uk

Register for FREE: foodex.co.uk

This is a trade event. No under-18s will be admitted.

This is a trade event. No under-18s will be admitted.

F Series Swivels for Use on Hose Reels

A rotary union, or ‘Swivel Joint’ is used to transfer fluid across a rotating interface. At Rotaflow we have produced Swivel Joints for many applications within all areas of engineering and for all over the world: From Brewery, Food and Drink, Process, Drilling & Mining, Oil & Gas to Nuclear, Chemical and Subsea.

We provide solutions that have enabled all manner of different fluids (including oils, fuels, corrosives, food) and/ or air/steam to be transferred through awkward, and often, already established production infrastructure. With almost 40 years of experience, we have designed and manufactured swivels to withstand and perform effectively when faced with many tricky environmental factors: Overcoming issues with heat, pressure, size and material choice. Our dual roller and ball bearing race designs mean you get a longer life; an increased reliable service, and a higher capacity for axial and radial loading and all without leakage. So, less downtime and more productivity.

Swivel joints will allow the movement on a slowly rotating drum or remove the damaging effect of twisting on hoses. We manufacture in Carbon Steel and 316 SS with “specials” in any grade of metal to suit customer specification. With bores ranging from 0.25” to 40”; Vacuum duty to 20,000PSI and multi passaged designs allowing multiple flows of fluid though a single unit.

Photo attached shows F Series Swivels having their first coat of paint in readiness for despatching to America.

To find out more please visit our website and/or give us a call.

Tel: +44(0)1663 735003 sales@rotaflow.com www.rotaflow.com

Rotating Cylinders

Swivel joints allow pipework to pressure 1/4” to 40” and beyond. Vacuum to over 20,000psi

Bulk liquid dispensing skids for mobile and static applications

Self-contained mobile demountable skids for IBC delivery vehicles

Land based skids for loading and unloading of road tankers with fuels, oils and chemicals

IBC and barrel filling

PD or centrifugal pumps for handling all types of petro-chemical liquids

Dispensing systems designed to suit customers specific requirements in terms of liquids and flow rates

Electric, hydraulic or donkey engine drive options

Optional transfer methods, hose reels, loading arms custom hoses and couplings

Highly accurate LC flow meters with mechanical or electronic registers Liquidhandlingsolutionsforthe petro-chemicalindustry

Galvanized or stainless-steel framework for protection against the elements

PERFORMANCE & PRECISION

Supplying

the food packaging & processing industry with air for the past 40 years

HPC is a core supplier in the oil-free (dry screw) compressor market, and has served the food processing and packaging industry for over 40 years with the most reliable and energyefficient compressed air equipment.

Meeting the strictest air quality standards, HPC offers the full range of independently certified Class 0 oil-free compressors to meet all the critical demands of the food and beverage industries. HPC’s compressed air systems help drive primary processing equipment, mechanical conveyors, packaging equipment, printing and labelling, palletizers and de-palletizers, and air-driven hand tools, to name a few applications. The compressed air generated can safely be used in processes where the air is in ‘Direct Contact’ with the food product ensuring both product quality and safety.

With their “built for a lifetime engineering”, HPC’s 2-stage oilfree rotary screw compressors deliver the best combination of efficiency and reliability. Too often, oversizing and lack of suitable system control wastes electrical power. Unreliable compressed air, inconsistent pressure and flow rate increase the risk of production downtime and product spoilage. With the additional issue of air leaks, improper uses, and artificial demand, up to 50% of the air produced can be wasted. HPC has performed tens of thousands of air system analyses and has the expertise to help you improve the reliability of your compressed air station whilst aiming to reduce your electrical power costs.

Designed for lower service costs, with tailored customer maintenance packages, HPC offers a range of energy-efficient fixed or variable speed models in an array of power sizes (2.2kW up to 355kW) and pressure options. With either integrated refrigerated or heat-of-compression dryer options and advanced control and monitoring, HPC oil-free compressors comprise tried and tested components that deliver the durability and compressed air availability to meet even the toughest demands.

Supported by over 100 highly qualified engineers from HPC centres and its nationwide Authorised Distributor Network, HPC’s range of reliable, energy-efficient, and independently certified ISO8573-1 Class 0 oil-free compressors also offer a unique heat recovery system, making it the first choice for reducing energy costs and your carbon footprint.

HPC is also planning to launch a new range of HPC KAESER CSG oil-free compressors in the new year. Delivery of the units is expected to start from March 2023.

HPC’s oil-free compressors backed up by HPC’s 5-year No Quibble Warranty. This warranty is supported by KAESER in its entirety for the first year. Thereafter, KAESER supports parts requirements for its duration, extending its support on major components including airends, motors and coolers. .

www.hpccompressors.co.uk

◊ Manufacturing up to 1450mm diameter

◊ Turning - CNC lathes, Vertical Machining Centres

◊ Gear Cutting - Hobbing, Shaping, Gears, Sprockets & Pulleys

◊ Bevel Gears, Helical, External & Internal cut Gears

◊ Rack Shaping, Broaching, Keywaying

◊ Vertical Boring, Centreless & Rotary Grinding

◊ Bore Honing ◊ Induction Hardening

◊ Drilling & Tapping ◊ Marking ◊ Blacking

◊ Toothed Timing Belts stocked and cut to size

◊ Roller Chain in carbon steel, stainless steel in stock

◊ Large stocks of all products ◊ CAD - CAM Design & Development

◊ ISO 9001 : 2015

Introducing QualCoil H

Preformed Windings are very pleased to announce the launch of ‘QualCoil H’, the first resin rich diamond coils suitable for class H motors and generators. QualCoil H has successfully passed 1,000 hours on VE test.

Preformed Windings are a highquality supplier of high voltage diamond with customers including ABB, Siemens and GE who say:

“Preformed Windings have supplied many sets of high voltage coils to GE Renewables over the years. The quality of product and service is exceptional, and they are a trusted partner in our supply chain. We enjoy collaborative and cutting-edge research and development with Preformed Windings, which positions both organisations as thought leaders in the hydro industry. Their products offer significant benefits such as very low partial discharge and a long service life”

daysoft® celebrates its 1 billionth

1,000,000,000 daily disposable contact lens made in the UK and sold direct around the world for half the price of competing brands from 20p delivered.

EARLY FIRE DETECTION

Explosion Prevention with GSME and HOTSPOT detector

With the GSME and HOTSPOT detectors from REMBE, an artificial intelligence has been created that detects fire and explosion events at an early stage. The GSME detector is an artificial nose, “trained” for pyrolysispopularly known as smoldering gases, while the HOTSPOT detector represents an artificial eye that already detects surface temperature changes of 1 °C.

REMBE´s HOTSPOT X20 measures surface temperatures using an intelligent evaluation system, which divides the field of view into detection zones. A separate temperature threshold value can be set for each individual zone in order to tailor the detection to the process as far as possible. The HOTSPOT X20 can even identify small temperature increases (1 °C) and enables to warn the operator of a fire or glowing embers at extremely early stages. The HOTSPOT X20 can also be used in explosion atmosphere up to zone 20 and under high dust loads and monitors a temperature range in the standard version of 0-200 °C (higher temperatures possible, but typically not required).

Mainly hydrocarbon compounds are released when many substances thermally decompose. If there is incomplete burning without a flame and a low oxygen supply, carbon monoxide is created as well.

The GSME X20 pyrolysis gas detector, for instance, has been designed for detecting these gases, even as they develop. Alongside carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon compounds, nitrogen oxide and hydrogen compounds (CO, HC, H2 and NOx) are also monitored. With the aid of an intelligent evaluation algorithm, a process behaviour can be ideally mapped and normal off-gasing be adopted. If a concentration increases above the usual level, the GSME X20 immediately triggers an alarm. The detector, is also suitable for explosion atmospheres up to zone 20, monitors concentration ranges from 0-100ppm.

When the location and mounting position are ideally designed in an explosion protection concept, HOTSPOT X20 and GSME X20 allow explosions and fires to be prevented through early detection.

For further information, please visit www.rembe.com

REMBE´s HOTSPOT X20 measures surface temperatures using an intelligent evaluation system, which divides the field of view into detection zones.

DSEAR 3 DAY - Risk Assessment Training Course (11th - 13th October)

Our “Three Day” DSEAR course is aimed at those who responsible for conducting DSEAR assessments, but are not necessarily fully confident with the process. They may work in a flammable environment, inaddition to being responsible for managing the area, day to day.

The course content:

• Legal foundations

• How sources of danger arise.

• What is the difference between flashpoint, fire point, boiling point and Auto Ignition?

• The fundamentals on the origin of Explosions, Deflagrations and Fires

• Risks resulting from improper storage or handling of these substances

• The meaning of the danger triangle and pentagon.

An overview of the regulations, understanding solvents and their physical properties, explosive dusts, ATEX classifications, gas groups, temperature ratings and BS 60079-10 Ex Zone determination, all giving

a greater understanding of how ATEX fits into the DSEAR equation when establishing hazardous zones.

Reference is made to the theoretical understanding of flammable vapours with examples of how the L.E.L can be converted into a meaningful quantity of chemical per cubic metre.

Supported by a full and detailed 200-page, training manual to assist with their learning.

sales@dsc-ltd.co.uk

www.dsc-ltd.co.uk

SETTING THE BENCHMARK

KONECRANES

Full

Plastic Omnium Automotive Ltd. used to encounter issues with stock management, slow stock access as well as low stock accuracy and lack of space. Today, its MRO materials are continuously accessible, the location of each required item is easily identified, and no transaction goes unnoticed as each pick is recorded. The benefits brought by a Konecranes Agilon® automated warehouse bring substantial savings of approximately £70,000 annually. The investment payback time was less than six months.

Plastic Omnium operates globally with 135 production plants in 25 countries and 25 R&D centres. Its diversified customer portfolio, industrial excellence and innovation strategy make it a major player in the automobile sector. The Edison Road facility supplies tailgates to Jaguar Land Rover.

“We were looking for better control of our maintenance spares. The main driver was knowing if we had a spare or not for parts and related transactions. We needed to reduce the occurrence of spare parts not being available at the time of breakdowns. Space reduction was another consideration,” says Duncan Lewis, Plant Engineer and the main user of Agilon at Plastic Omnium.

The company looked at several traditional alternatives to solve its stock management issues. “We visited a site where we saw Agilon in action”. Upon further investigation, the Agilon system seemed to suit best for storing smaller maintenance spares because of transaction accountability, the photo and weight options, and the accountability by secured logon.”

Plastic Omnium made a detailed ROI calculation to find the total savings potential. They added up the time taken up by the current manual process of searching for spares and the value of manual work that Agilon does automatically plus the future savings potential through an automatic replenishment process. “We estimated that we could pay back the Agilon system in six months and save up to £69,600 per year. It is

a massive saving for any business,” Duncan points out.

Agilon has improved our response time to breakdowns as people know where to go to get a spare. Currently, there are some 2,600 parts stored in the system.

The 14-metre long and 6.1-metre high Agilon system at Plastic Omnium was installed only in three days whereas installing a traditional stock management system takes from six to eight weeks. Members of our staff have been very impressed seeing it in action and using it.

Deploying Agilon in the Plastic Omnium warehouse has brought significant benefits. “Agilon has improved our response time to breakdowns as people know where to go to get a spare and if we have one or not and act accordingly if we don’t. It has also helped us pass financial and system audits. We have quick access to the parts through the portal, and control over P&L and stock levels. It improves budgeting, accountability and working with suppliers. We are all very impressed with it,” Duncan Lewis concludes.

For further information, please visit https://www.konecranes.com/en-uk/agilon

accountability, traceability and 100% stock accuracy with Agilon warehouse automation - Savings up to nearly £70,000 annually

Agilon has improved our response time to breakdowns as people know where to go to get a spare.

SPECIALISTS IN TOOLS & GAUGES

WISEMAN THREADING TOOLS LTD

WISEMAN THREADING TOOLS LTD Specialists in Tools & Gauges for Screw Threads

We have been supplying threading tools and gauges since 1987.

Together with supplying plain plug and ring gauges this is all that we do, we therefore consider ourselves to be specialists in this field.

We supply worldwide.

We hold extensive ready stocks that include all of the standard stuff that others offer, but also includes taps, dies, die nuts, die head chasers, thread rolls and gauging for threads not normally available 'off the shelf '.

Our real time stocks can be checked and purchased online at www.threadtools. com Just enter the thread details into the search box on the home page.

You will be directed to the item, if stocked, or to our specials, (custom manufacture), sales team. who will quote to supply at competitive rates, in good time.

As an account holder you can also order online from our listed in stock items, at your normal terms. We realise that you need the right item at the right price and quality, and in a reasonable time frame.

We are geared to provide that.

We can ship stocked items same day.

Our experienced sales staff can assist and advise you on any technical issues.

We welcome enquiries from resellers and can offer terms to suit.

WISEMAN THREADING TOOLS LTD

11 Padgets Lane

South Moons Moat

Redditch B98 0RA UK

+44(0)1527 520 580 sales@threadtools.com www.threadtools.com

Threading Tool Specialists

HSS DIES & DIE NUTS

Large shelf stocks for all Standard and many Special Threads. Check our stocks online.

THREAD CUTTING AND ROLLING HEADS and parts and repair service

HSS TAPS

Huge Stocks for all Standard threads

CUSTOM MADE taps our SPECIALITY!

We stock taps for many non standard (SPECIAL) threads

All types; Spiral flute and point, Fluteless, Left Hand, etc, etc.

THREAD GAUGES all types. Large stocks for standard and SPECIAL threads. Any non stocked can be quoted for custom manufacture.

CHASERS FOR COVENTRY & LANDIS TYPE DIE HEADS

Ready stocks for most size heads most standard and some special threads Geometry available for most materials. Custom manufacture our speciality!

THREAD ROLLS FOR ALCO & FETTE HEADS. READY STOCKS CUSTOM MANUFACTURURE

PLASTICS TECHNOLOGY

What really matters in drives for plastics machinery KEB AUTOMATION

One industry, countless applications. Plastics technology not only requires a wide range of machines, but also drive components that can be flexibly adapted. Benjamin Mönnig, Head of Application Sales at KEB Automation, explains what is important in plastics technology and why increased sustainability and plastics processing can work together in practice.

In which areas of plastics technology do customers rely on KEB in particular?

With our drive solutions, we are represented in all areas of plastics technology. This includes extrusion technology, such as blown film lines with auxiliary drives, profile extrusion or blow moulding machines. But we also supply injection moulding machines such as all-electric, hybrid or hydraulic machines with servo pumps, always with the aim of making the machine or system as efficient as possible.

Different fields of application also means different requirements for the drive and automation solutions. How does KEB meet these needs?

Providing individual solutions for our customers in the plastics industry are our strength. Our experts from the plastics team go into detail about the requirements of the respective application and therefore find the right drive solution. Users benefit from our system solutions. This means starting with

brakes for rotary table drives, gearboxes, servo motors, drive controllers, industryspecific software and control technology. We provide customers with coordinated hardware and software solutions from a single source that are specially tailored to the plastics machine.

Which aspects of drive technology are manufacturers of plastics machinery currently attaching greater importance to?

Plant and machine builders have a justified interest in a high level of efficiency for their application. In addition, the quality of the drive components must be convincing to ensure maximum reliability and efficiency over a long service life and to prevent production downtime. A fast and globally positioned service is also important in order to receive straightforward and competent support if the unexpected

should occur. Many customers also rely on the advantages of sensorless control or DC coupling. This enables the exchange of energy with other drive controllers, saves energy and ultimately contributes to increased sustainability. We also offer our customers options for feeding the surplus energy back into the grid.

Plastics processing and sustainability sounds like a contradiction. To what extent can KEB’s drive solutions have a positive environmental impact in plastics machines?

It’s not a contradiction. Our drive controllers provide very high control quality in terms of speed and torque accuracy. This increases reproducibility and significantly reduces rejects. Furthermore, it enables the end customer to produce particularly thin-walled materials. This, in turn, has a positive impact on the subsequent transport of the packaging and therefore also on the environmental impact, which can be reduced in this way. The importance of plastics in sustainable industries such as electromobility and the role they play in a well-functioning circular economy should also not be forgotten. However, sustainability at KEB already starts with the production of our components. Product design focuses on the lowest possible consumption of resources and at the end of the lifecycle, around 75 per cent of our product can be recycled.

For more information, please visit www.keb.co.uk

Our drive controllers provide very high control quality in terms of speed and torque accuracy.

For plastics machine builders, the quality of the drive components is critical to ensure maximum reliability and efficiency over a long service life and to prevent production downtime.

Laser Cutting (Flat Profiles) Sheet & Plate–Upto25mm thick

Laser Cutting (Rotary) Tube, Round, Oval & Box section

Waterjet Cutting

Fabrication

Sheet & Plate–Upto200mm thick

Bending/Folding, Countersinking, Tapping, Drilling

Welding MIG & TIG

Aluminium - Stainless Steel - Galvanised Steel – Steel – Copper – Brass – TitaniumCarbon Fibre – Acrylic – Polycarbonate and more

Themajority of materials listed arein stock andallarefullytraceable.

Savingyour business time,turningweeks into days and days into hours!

Offering one of the fastest turnarounds in the UK for laser cutting and low volume fabricated components, this fast-track service has previously been sold to the F1 Automotive industry only; we are now able to offer it to all industries.

AN IDEAL SUPPLEMENT

Three reasons for using second-hand machinery in manufacturing

Remain competitive despite the difficult market situation and with a low budget. Second-hand machines as an ideal supplement for your own business.

The last few years have hit many companies hard and pushed many productions to their limits with logistical difficulties and increased raw material and energy prices. However, in order to remain competitive it is necessary to continue to develop your own production and keep it up to date. A good and cost-effective solution is to buy second-hand machinery.

Three reasons to trust second-hand machines in your own production

Firstly, used machines usually cost less than new purchases. This allows companies with smaller budgets to expand their own production. In addition, some used machines can be refurbished to meet the same standards as new machines at a fraction of the cost. However, used machinery as good as new is also available through insolvency sales.

Secondly, buying second-hand machinery avoids waiting times in delivery. Companies in the machinery and plant construction sector have long order lists, but have not been able to work through them due to the pandemic and geopolitical tensions in recent years. The result is long delivery times for new purchases. Used machines,

however, are ready for use immediately after purchase.

Thirdly, second-hand machines are the more sustainable alternative to buying new ones. Machines are given a second life and the raw materials and energy that a new production would entail are saved. Especially in times when a joint effort is needed to save CO2.

When buying used machinery, it pays to work with professionals. The industrial auction house Surplex has locations in 15 European countries and a broad-based team that has the expertise to locate and value industrial equipment for sale and purchase. In addition, Surplex offers excellent customer service, attentively guiding customers through every step of the buying process. From product selection to after-sales support, Surplex and its knowledgeable staff guarantee a reliable delivery system at competitive pricesmaking them the perfect partner for any used equipment purchase.

For further information, please visit www.surplex.com/en

From product selection to after-sales support, Surplex and its knowledgeable staff guarantee a reliable delivery system at competitive prices

ENGINEERING INNOVATION

WEBSTER TECHNOLOGIES

Innovative cutting and trenching equipment and services

Webster Technologies has come a long way since the 1960’s designing, developing and manufacturing heavy duty equipment for the coal mining industry. It was here that we brought much needed innovation becoming the first to use hydraulic technology for cutting.

The closure of the coal mines in the late 80’s brought some challenging times for the company. Ian Webster turned this into an opportunity to reach out to other sectors, designing and developing equipment for the construction and tunnelling industries.

In 2000 Webster Technologies was formed and one of Ian Webster’s most successful designs is the Rockwheel. Now an industry standard, the hydraulic excavator mounted attachment (also referred to as rotary cutters or transverse cutting units) is used extensively in the UK and around the world on high profile projects for demolition, tunnelling, trenching and a range of other applications such as soil mixing which we are now looking to advance in and put our own stamp on.

The business has grown from strength to strength, and boasts the largest rental fleet of Webster Rockwheels in the UK. Our ethos of innovation and continuous improvement led to developments of the original Rockwheel design which

continues to be one of the most technically advanced on the market.

As a designer of our own products we know what it takes to turn an idea into a reality. We are passionate about what we do and thrive on tackling even the most complex design challenges. Our team has experience in designing and developing solutions for projects including sub-sea mining, salt mining in Canada, Micro and Narrow Trenching and more. We are also Proud Authorised Dealers in UK and Northern Ireland to the Infrastructure Industry covering road planning, road milling and road stabilising, foundation drilling, chain and wheel trenchers, agriculture, and recycling.

Being recognised for our latest innovation, we received the prestigious World Demolition Award, The ROCKHIT, which challenges conventional design concepts resulting in environmental and sustainable benefits including fuel savings, increased productivity and improved operator/driver health and safety conditions. Described as ground breaking and a massive step forward for innovation in the Hydraulic Hammer market, we are embarking on the final developmental stages towards product launch. We are looking to engage with UK manufacturers who are interested in being part of this exciting journey.

Our ethos of innovation and continuous improvement led to developments of the original Rockwheel design which continues to be one of the most technically advanced on the market.

UNMATCHED FLEXIBILITY

SILVERSON

Silverson High Shear Laboratory mixing equipment

Silverson Laboratory mixers have been sold all over the world and are used by companies from small start-ups to larger international brands. The popularity of Silverson Laboratory mixers can be attributed to their versatility; they can be used to mix, emulsify, homogenise, disintegrate and dissolve, with an efficiency and flexibility unmatched by other machines.

Silverson Laboratory mixers are used for a variety of mixing processes from simple liquid/liquid blending, forming emulsions and reducing particle size to more complex mixing applications. They are ideal for all routine laboratory work, research and development, QA analysis and small-scale production.

Silverson offers a comprehensive range of Laboratory scale mixers which are used across industries as diverse as pharmaceuticals and chemicals. Whether you are processing 1ml or mixing batches of 50 litres, whatever your application, you’ll be sure to find a mixer to suit your needs.

The advantage of a Silverson over simple agitators and stirrers stems from the specially designed rotor/stator workhead; the high-speed rotation of the rotor blades draws materials into the workhead where they are intensively mixed, before being projected back into the body of the mix at high velocity. With this method, ingredients are fully incorporated and any agglomerates are eliminated.

The Silverson L5M-A laboratory mixer will soon be available with the body finished in white engineered polymer for increased durability and ease of maintenance. The updated radiused edges allow for easier cleaning. With its integral tachometer, ammeter and programmable timer, the L5M-A offers a level of instrumentation invaluable in applications where process validation and repeatability are required.

There are over 40 workheads, screens and assemblies available for Silverson Laboratory mixers. These easily interchangeable workheads enable any machine to perform a wide range of mixing operations and allow one mixer to perform duties that in the past may have required several different pieces of processing equipment.

One of the main advantages when choosing a Silverson Laboratory mixer for R&D or pilot-scale production is the ability to scale up from the laboratory to full-scale production models with ease.

Silverson offers the largest range of capacities from a single manufacturer - from 1ml up to 30,000 litres - and because all Silverson mixers are manufactured to the same precisionengineered tolerances anything you produce in the laboratory can be replicated in production and scalable results are achievable across the entire product range, without the need for reformulating.

The L5 Series Laboratory

mixer is suitable for the widest range of applications

With a capacity from 1ml up to 12 litres and the ability to mix in-line with flow rates up to 20 litres/minute, the L5 Series offers excellent reproducibility when scaling up to full-scale production and provides an accurate and easy means of forecasting the performance of larger Silverson machines under full-scale working conditions.

For more information please visit: www.silverson.co.uk

Email: sales@silverson.co.uk • Telephone: (+44) 1494 786331

MAKING METAL WORK FOR YOU

West midlands premier laser cutting subcontractor CENTRAL PROFILES

In 1999, Russell Flory established Central profiles with an ambition to create a lasercutting company that would stand out from the others in the West Midlands. His vision was to build a trusted brand, with a dedicated team committed to engineering excellence. Fast forward to the present day and we are proud to say this vision has come to fruition. Throughout the years, we have continued to invest in machinery, software, and personnel - even during challenging economic times. And, we don’t plan on slowing down any time soon.

NOT JUST LASER CUTTING

At our 40,000sft premises in Kidderminster, we not only provide Laser cutting, but a range of services in house. Including metal bending, manual welding and even robots for higher volume repeatable bends & welds. By offering all of these services in-house, we have complete control over each stage of the production process and can guarantee the highest level of quality for every metal component we manufacture.

OUR CUSTOMERS

Primarily, we do sub-contract work, working with a range industries. Including Automotive & Transport to Security, Medical Equipment, and even Garden Furniture.

We develop close relationships with our customers that go beyond what you would expect. Striving to offer a personalised service, no matter the size or frequency of their orders.

Our team takes pride in delivering the same level of attentive service every single time.

WE CONTINUE TO GROW

We have recently made a considerable investment in a top-of-the-line, fully automated powder coating track, something that we have wanted for some time to meet customer demand.

Powder coating is highly sought-after in the industry for its durability and its ability to protect metal from rust, as well as for its attractive finish. Whether it be for interior or exterior use, there is a powder coating option that is suited to your needs.

Thanks to our recent investment, we are now able to offer powder coat only services to new customers.

For further information, please visit www.central-profiles.co.uk

Our team takes pride in delivering the same level of attentive service every single time.

CONTACT US TODAY

TO LEARN HOW WE CAN HELP WITH YOUR LASER CUTTING NEEDS.

01562 744788

sales@centralprofiles.co.uk

Kidderminster DY11 7QN

We are the experts when it comes to providing laser cut parts for your business

SHEET METAL & TUBE CUTTING

We have heavily invested in obtaining the best equipment in the industry, allowing us to offer our customers laser cutting on either low to high production scale

METAL BENDING & WELDING

With five press brakes in house, we can take on any metal bending job, no matter the complexity or size With our commitment to excellence, you can trust that your metal bending projects will be completed with precision

FINISHING SERVICES

Our newly installed fully automated powder coating track will give your parts an unparalleled finish, free from rust, scratches, and the exact colour you desire Our state-ofthe-art system ensures your parts will look perfect every time, giving you peace of mind and exceptional quality results

"Making Metal Work For You Since 1999"

VOLUMETRIC FILLERS

KINEMATICS & CONTROLS CORPORATION

Obviously, one can do it gravimetrically, by trickling material onto a scale with an integral feedback loop continuously monitoring and controlling the rate feed. Admittedly, this way of filling is very accurate. But it is also an agonizingly slow process and not well suited to high output production. Furthermore, it is fair to point out that a manufacturing process will rarely call for this ultra-precise level of accuracy. For processes which require only from ±1% to ±5% repeat accuracy per dose, and/or requires higher productivity outputs, volumetric powder filling is a far better choice! However, volumetric filling of powdered materials is not without its own challenges.

By definition, all volumetric filling processes are called to deliver the same volume of material in each and every dose. In liquid filling applications, the weight of each delivered amount holds very closely from dose to dose because liquids are essentially incompressible.

By contrast, powders are compressible substances. In the process of filling powders volumetrically, the apparatus must somehow ensure not only that the same volume of powder is delivered in each dose, but also that it is delivered at a consistent density. This means that the density of the powder held within its volumetric chamber must somehow be compacted and delivered at a uniform constant density. We don’t necessarily need to know what the density will be for any volumetric powder charge, only that its value is consistent from dose to dose. We control the delivery weight by adjusting the volume of the chamber.

All Kinematics’ powder fillers are volumetric fillers. They all operate on the same core principle. Powder is picked up and simultaneously compacted in its allotted volumetric chamber by means of a uniform vacuum force. The open end of the chamber is then doctored of any excess powder to insure an exact and repeatable volume is delivered.

Finally, a gentle puff of low-pressure air is then exchanged with the vacuum to expel the charge into its designated container.

Kinematics & Controls Corporation has been designing and building both liquid and powder fillers for more than forty years. We have long since abandoned all efforts at turning out liquid fillers. They are too easy to make. We prefer the added challenge of building low-dose, high precision, powder filling equipment.

For further information, please visit www.kcontrols.com

Dispensing accurate dose weights of powdered materials is always challenging

Kinematics & Controls Corporation has been designing and building both liquid and powder fillers for more than forty years.

POWDER FILLING…

CHOOSE YOUR BEST SYSTEM, FOR PRECISION DOSING

Kinematics and Controls Corporation manufactures high-precision, low-dose, dry product fillers for tank monitoring, level control and leak detection.

Our products include both standard “off-the-shelf” products, and custom-designed components and machines for O.E.M. applications.

4400/TX Automatic Benchtop Rotary Shuttle

Features:

• Fills Bags or Bottles

• Eliminates Costly Hand Weighing

• Single Fill Chamber is Easy to Calibrate

• Vacuum/Volumetric Dosing Principle>

• Handles Free-Flowing or Sticky Materials

• Built-In Product Agitation

• Dose Range: Approx. .05 gm. – 75 gm.

• >Repeat Accuracy: Approx. ±1%

• Fill Rate: 25 Fills/Min. (Max.)

4400/VC Semi-Automatic, Portable Powder Filler

Features:

• Low cost

• Eliminates Costly Hand Weighing

• Vacuum/Volumetric Dosing Principle

• Fills Free-Flowing or Sticky Materials

• Repeat Accuracy: Approx. ±1%

• Fill Rate: Approx. 15-18 Fills/Min.

Extremely accurate, low-weight powder

Custom configured linear powder delivery

The self-contained vacuum-pressure control module

Certified 316 S.S. construction

5500/TX Semi-Automatic, Bench Top Powder Filler

Features:

• Delivers Free-Flowing or Non-Free Flowing, Dense or Fluffy Powders

• Accurate/Repeatable Dose Weights of up to 180 gm.

• Production Rates of up to 25 Fills/Min.

• User Selectable Operating Modes

• Modern Drive Technology

• Certified 316 S.S. Construction

5500/MO Modular Powder Filling System

… Designed for systems integrators.

Kinematics’ Model 5500/MO, modular powder filling system was designed to provide a simple, turn-key solution for machine builders who need to integrate a precision, small-dose powder filling station into a larger, more fully featured, custom automatic packaging line.

Literally, be “UP” and filling powders within 24 hours of uncrating the system. The complete 5500/MO system comprises three (3) plug-andplay modules.

Kinematics and Controls Corporation

5600/PP Robotic Powder Filler

THREE TIMES THE PERFORMANCE

Deluxe Chain making a mark in the UK

A new chain which claims to offer three times the performance of comparable Roller Chain was Donghua Limited’s ‘product of the year’ in 2022.

Donghua Limited is the UK arm of the Hangzhou Donghua Chain Group which manufactures over 40 million metres of finished chain per year. X3 Chain was introduced to the UK last year and, due to its exceptional performance, some of our Product Partners and Stockists are already replacing all standard Roller Chain and only offering X3!

The chain is designed for high demand drives and offers three times the performance for wear resistance, fatigue resistance and high speed performance compared to similar chain. Since it was launched in 2022 it has already made its mark in the timber, waste & recycling and mining & quarrying industries.

Its superior quality, durability and outstanding wear and fatigue resistance are achieved by the new hardened, shot-blasted plate shape, calibrated pin and bushing holes, special heat-treated and surface coated pins, seamless rollers and bushings, and high performance pre-lubrication.

It is manufactured on its own purposebuilt production line - which includes new production techniques and new surface treatments - and is designed with a unique

pin coating, optimised plate geometry and high precision stamping.

X3 is part of our Premium Range which offers customers a deluxe solution to problems with chain wear, chain fatigue, corrosion, high speed, lubrication, chain length accuracy and chain strength with specific build features designed to enhance durability and withstand a range of arduous environments.

Supplied pre-loaded and pre-lubricated as standard, X3 is available in British Standard 06B to 24B in simplex and duplex, ex-stock from our 25,000 sq ft warehouse in the West Midlands.

Donghua also supplies roller chain in Standard and Solution ranges:

The Standard Range features a variety of standard Roller Chain manufactured with precision to suit simple drives with large diameter sprockets or complex drives with multiple sprockets and high load bearings. The Solution Range offers customers a genuine solution to problems with chain wear, chain fatigue, high speed, lubrication, chain length accuracy and chain strength offering optimum performance in extreme conditions.

Chains within this range include: chromized pin (CP) chain, heavy duty chain, selflubricated roller chain and EXL chain which incorporates our unique ‘Easy Break Technology’ enabling the chain to be cut in the field using Donghua’s Plate Extractor tools.

https://www.donghua.co.uk/X3-chain

OPTICAL DISTANCE SENSORS

Advantages of optical sensors in coordinate measuring machines

Coordinate measuring machines are used for high precision quality and parts inspection. Optical distance sensors are increasingly being used for this purpose to replace conventional mechanical gauges. There are numerous reasons for using non-contact sensors: the measurement is reactionless, fast and offers high resolution. Modern optical sensors such as laser triangulation sensors, laser scanners and confocal sensors are particularly suitable for this purpose, says Glenn Wedgbrow, Business Development Manager at Micro-Epsilon UK.

Coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) detect the geometrical properties of workpieces in detail. For many years, measuring systems were equipped with tactile sensors, but these are increasingly being replaced by optical sensors. Optical sensors offer numerous advantages over tactile measurement technology. Laser triangulation sensors, laser scanners and confocal chromatic sensors measure the target without making contact. This means that the sensors do not have any influence on the measuring object. The measurements are performed with micrometer accuracy and are normally faster than contact measurement methods.

In practical use, optical sensors are extremely flexible. They measure distance, dimensions, position, angles, shape, roughness and even 3D profiles. MicroEpsilon offers a broad sensor portfolio that has proven itself in numerous measuring machines. The sensors are used in various systems for both measurement and precise positioning.

Fine positioning with laser triangulation sensors

For positioning of the measuring head, optoNCDT 1900 laser triangulation sensors measure the distance to the target or baseplate. This type of sensor is particularly suitable for precise distance control and object detection. This allows the CMM’s geometry data acquisition systems to be aligned with maximum precision. The laser sensors are integrated into the measuring head system, which is typically attached to the vertical z-axis – the quill. The laser sensor delivers maximum signal stability and due to its compact design, is easy

to integrate. The lightweight, robust laser sensor makes it ideal for measurements with high accelerations. The sensor operates at measuring rates of up to 10 kHz and offers a linearity of ±1 µm and a repeatability of 0.1 µm. The measurements can be started via the encoder pulse of the CMM, thus achieving absolute time-synchronous values. Due to the sensor’s intelligent Advanced Surface Compensation feature, stable results are achieved, even on challenging surfaces. With up to 50,000 lx, the sensors are extremely resistant to ambient light and can therefore be used in highly illuminated environments. For signal optimisation, two-stage measurement averaging is available, which enables a smooth signal curve at edges and steps.

Roughness measurement and geometrical inspection

In terms of resolution and measuring rate, confocal chromatic sensors are among the most powerful measuring systems in optical metrology. For example, they are used for high-resolution distance measurement on various surfaces and for roughness measurement. The confocal sensor systems from Micro-Epsilon combine stateof-the-art technology and easy integration. The sensors allow a tilt angle of up to ± 30° and offer a high numerical aperture. This enables high resolution and small light spots. Curved and structured surfaces can therefore be detected precisely and reliably. In this way, gears or external threads can also be detected. Due to the non-contact measuring principle, the sensor does not affect the target object, which enables wear-free measurements. This is why values can be detected much faster compared to tactile measuring principles. With the confocalDT controllers, measuring rates of up to 70 kHz can be achieved. For measurement in confined spaces, compact sensors, as well as sensors with a 90° beam path are available, which can be integrated in the CMM measuring head to save space

Micro-Epsilon offers a broad sensor portfolio that has proven itself in numerous measuring machines.

CMMs detect the geometrical properties of workpieces. Optical sensors offer many advantages over tactile measurement technology, as measurements are reactionless, high resolution and fast.

3D measurement of complex geometries and rotating components

When measuring large, complex components, the scanCONTROL series of 3D laser scanners from Micro-Epsilon are used. These scan large measurement areas at high resolution and are ideal for use in CMMs due to the low sensor weight. Measurement data acquisition is very fast with measuring rates up to 10 kHz. As a result, a complete 3D point cloud is available, which allows precise evaluation, quality inspection as well as further processing. The scanCONTROL laser scanners are based on the latest GigE Vision and GenICam standards and can therefore be integrated in a wide range of image processing environments. The 3DInspect software is a powerful tool for parameter setting, evaluation and output.

Among other things, laser scanners are used for prototype scanning. The sensor can be guided by a robot arm or integrated in a measuring table. The scanner measures the component while being moved over the component from all sides. Taken from multiple directions, the user obtains a 360° image. A software solution transforms it into a complete 3D point cloud within an extremely short time.

Curved and structured surfaces such as gears or external threads can be reliably and precisely detected using confocal chromatic sensors.

To enable high-precision measurements, the measurement data must be perfectly synchronised with the measurement position. Conventional sensors are often triggered externally and detect the profile with a time delay that causes inaccurate position data. The scanCONTROL laser scanners from Micro-Epsilon, on the other hand, offer a special CMM trigger for this purpose. This is a parameter output optimised for CMMs. The sensor can therefore send trigger pulses in the middle of the exposure time and thus assign the profile to an exact measuring position. Fine tuning is also possible, for example, to compensate for run times of the pulse in the cable. As scanCONTROL laser scanners

Laser scanners are used for 3D measurement of complex geometries and rotating components. For quality assurance of rotary pistons, the piston surface is measured 360° and compared with the nominal shape within a narrow tolerance.

are available with different measuring ranges, both large and small objects can be detected. The captured 3D point clouds can be compared with existing CAD models to make any discrepancies obvious.

For more information on optical sensors for CMMs, please call the Micro-Epsilon sales department on +44 (0)151 355 6070 or email info@micro-epsilon.co.uk

For further information, please visit www.micro-epsilon.co.uk

The large aperture angle and the high numerical aperture of confocal chromatic sensors enable high resolution with a small light spot size

Line optics: An excellent option for infrared temperature measurements

Expanded functionality of Impac pyrometers especially for wire production and pouring stream measurements

IMPAC pyrometers Series 6 Advanced represent the “flagship-class” of small-sized infrared thermometers by Advanced Energy. They are extremely fast and highly accurate digital pyrometers (single color or 2-color) with very long temperature ranges, analog output, digital interface, and focusable optics.

Different models are available with integrated LED display with laser targeting light, view finder, or integrated color-TV camera.

Besides the standard optical heads, the pyrometers ISR 6 and IGAR 6 are also available with integrated line optics as an option.

These special “line optics” offer significantly wider measurement spots in shape of a line and provide additional advantages for steel applications, especially for wire production or pouring stream measurements.

The line shaped spot guarantees that vibrating or oscillating wires or a moving pouring stream do not move out of the pyrometer’s target spot. Thereby the

wires respectively the pouring stream need to be aligned diagonally to the line shaped spot.

In combination with the fast response time of 2 ms even very fast processes can be measured reliably. The optics can be manually adjusted at all distances between 210 mm and 5000 mm.

Pyrometer Series 6 Advanced w. different optics

Pouring stream measurements with Line optics and horizontally enlarged spot

ADVANCED CODING & MARKING

MACSA ID UK

Macsa ID UK launches game-changing SPA 2 series of laser coders for the packaging industry

Newly simplified modular laser platform is easy to operate, cost effective, versatile and reliable - delivering maximum marking resolution on a wide range of substrates

Further underlining its position at the forefront of advanced coding and marking equipment, Macsa ID UK recently launched its clean and energy efficient SPA 2 series of modular laser coders for the packaging industry. Featuring several technologies and multiple power options, the newly simplified platform delivers maximum marking resolution and definition at higher speeds more consistently over time. A true gamechanger, the systems are versatile and reliable, as well as cost effective to own, maintain and operate.

Boasting a modular design, Macsa’s flexible SPA 2 lasers can be easily integrated with any production line or application, and adapted to meet the changing needs of the user at any time. Providing high quality marking on a range of packaging materials, such as wood, thermal labels, board, metallised board, glass, ceramics, metals, rubber and plastics, the SPA 2 platform is available with CO2, DPSS or Fiber technologies (several wavelength options). Plus, laser power from 3w-250w, enclosures for standard, dusty and wash down environments, extra powerful performance and high speed heads.

For superior precision, there are two basic SPA 2 printheads for different speed and quality requirements. The new XQS printhead is suitable for most applications whereas the HPD printhead is recommended for high resolution images, difficult substrates, product modification and marking areas above 250mm2. Digital galvos make calibration, trouble shooting and replacement much easier. A UHS printhead is available for very high speed lines and longer, more complex messages.

Due to the innovative EEP® (easy exchange printhead) feature, operators can switch printer heads on site using just two connectors, allowing the laser system to

be adapted to the requirements of the production line at all times.

Macsa’s SPA 2 series is exceptionally easy to install, program and operate. A wizard supports installation and online help videos, technical guides and tips can be accessed via a new 10- inch handheld touchscreen controller designed to make programming quicker and to eliminate operator errors. The lasers can also be controlled direct from a PC via an ethernet link or PLC with Profinet or OPC-UA.

The enclosure has been redesigned with a flat front surface allowing simple integration of vision systems and other devices. With models that meet IP54 and IP65 standards, the SPA 2 lasers are designed to operate in dusty or damp environments and in extremes of temperature.

The novel RAF® (reverse airflow cooling)

system means that filters are changed less frequently and not needed at all in some circumstances. A sealed air system transfers heat from the laser to the cooling air itself. This eliminates the risk of dust being deposited directly into the system component. Part of the exhaust air is blown over the focusing lens keeping it dust free so that print quality is maintained without the need for operator intervention.

The SPA 2’s surface recognition feature, which is included within its 3D printing kit, allows printing on multi-level surfaces, ensuring an optimal focal point at all times. An external Z-axis controller enables operators to adapt the SPA 2’s vertical coding axis in order to vary the height between print cycles and adapt it to different products.

The SPA 2 connector box offers a wide range of communication ports, enabling the system to be integrated with all elements of the production line. These new lasers support Macsa’s Optima software for real time control and compatibility with desktop printers, label printer applicators and label applicators.

Macsa’s SPA 2 laser coders are available with a range of software, accessories and services, are fume, waste and consumable free and use less power and energy.

The SPA 2 range is backed by Macsa’s advice and consultation services, installation assistance, training, technical support and extended warranty.

For further information, please visit www.macsa.com/en-uk/

The enclosure has been redesigned with a flat front surface allowing simple integration of vision systems and other devices.

Bespoke Weighing and Process Control Solutions

Tinytag Data Loggers: Robust Environmental Monitoring Solutions

Data loggers for indoor, outdoor and industrial/process application

waterproof

• Data downloaded to PC

• Cost-effective

Accompanying probes are available for monitoring extremes of temperature, and for awkward to reach areas such as pipework.

For sites requiring remote data access, Tinytag Radio and LAN loggers gather data automatically for viewing on a PC, across a LAN, or remotely across the inter net.

MAXILARM

OMNIFLEX

How distributed alarm annunciator systems can help nuclear, petrochemical and oil and gas facilities comply with strict safety standards

Businesses in the nuclear, petrochemical and oil and gas sectors generally follow best practice guidelines like the EEMUA 191 standard when it comes to safety-critical alarm systems. However, as regulations increasingly require data acquisition and sequence of events capabilities for critical alarm systems, many plant managers are struggling to find a cost-effective way of keeping up. Here Gary Bradshaw, director of remote monitoring specialist Omniflex, discusses why installing a distributed alarm annunciator system might provide the solution to plant managers’ problems.

In high-consequence risk environments like the nuclear, petrochemical and oil and gas industries, the use of safety, health and environmental (SHE) alarms is a key part of best practice guidelines like the EEMUA 191 standard. One of the key requirements of the EEMUA 191 standard is that critical alarms must be easy to understand, promoting quick and effective operator responses. This is where traditional hardwired alarm annunciators come in as they promote easy of use and rapid responses.

Alarm annunciators are panel-based alarms that are hardwired directly into relevant safety-critical processes, where each window relates to a fixed alarm point from the sensor. If an abnormal event is detected, the relevant window on the panel lights up and the alarm emits a sound, immediately giving operators the necessary information to act.

It is common to still see alarm annunciators in use that were first installed in the 1980s and 1990s, such as Highland, Rochester, Robinson, Bristol Babcock, Clifford & Snell, Sentry and Londex systems, which are all no longer manufactured or supported and do not meet the current safety requirements. As a result, many sites suffer from obsolescence and support issues and must now upgrade their critical alarm systems.

Considerations for updating alarm systems

There are three key considerations for plant managers when updating their alarm annunciators. Firstly, it is crucial that they determine what alarms are classified as SHE alarms and that these are directly hardwired into the processes. This is essential because networked alarms can be susceptible to outages, meaning, if the network goes down, you lose all the alarms on that network. If alarms are individually hardwired, and you lose one wire, you only lose one alarm, and if this alarm is detected from a normally closed alarm contact, then a wire break would still be seen as an alarm on the annunciator window.

The second consideration is the importance of having each of the alarm windows on the annunciator panel permanently dedicated to a specific process, providing pattern recognition and familiarity for operators. This improves operator responsive times, which is an important part of safety standards.

Finally, all alarms should be suitably prioritised using an easy-to-understand system, such as colour coding each window to match the severity of the alarm it represents.

This means that allows operators to have a clear order of priority in place for situations where multiple alarms go off, further aiding their chances of responding quickly and effectively.

Maximum flexibility

Omniflex’s Maxilarm alarm annunciator system offers a complete distributed modular alarm management system for critical plants. It incorporates features such as submillisecond time stamping at source, integrated analogue logging and remote Omni X LED alarm fascias, to meet EEMUA 191 guidelines. These features allow the Maxilarm system to provide a dependable layer of plant protection and early diagnostics of faults in real time.

The Maxilarm system can be configured using standard 24 vdc and 48 vdc input modules and has specialist sequence of event digital input modules. These ensure all the digital inputs are time stamped in real time to a resolution of sub one millisecond, which is the fastest on the market. This is ideal in facilities where the potential for multiple simultaneous alarms is high and it is important for operators to know the chronological order of alarm alerts. This also improves data auditing and event analysis capabilities.

To find out more about Maxilarm, visit www.omniflex.com/products/M1264A.

PRECISE MEASUREMENT

Autonetics chooses non-contact optical micrometers and laser triangulation sensors from Micro-Epsilon to measure shaft diameters and splines

Autonetics, a specialist in custom measurement solutions that are used in a wide range of industries, has chosen to use non-contact laser micrometers and non-contact laser triangulation sensors from Micro-Epsilon on its Vertical Gauging Unit (VGU), a measuring tool for the precise measurement of shafts and axes.

The VGU is equipped with a tailstock and servo drive, linear drives with rack, and a precision turntable. In addition, four optoCONTROL 2600 laser micrometers and an optoNCDT 2300 laser triangulation distance sensor from Micro-Epsilon are integrated into the VGU. All components together measure axial lengths, diameters, concentricity and splines, achieving cycle times and accuracies that cannot be achieved using manual measurement techniques. Not only do the sensors enable fast, non-contact measurement of shafts and splines, they also ensure stable measurements to sub-micrometer accuracy, even on metal surfaces. Comprehensive software enables evaluation of measurement data, recording of key values and data output to a PLC. The measurement data is automatically sent to the CNC controller so that tool adjustments can be made automatically in real time to compensate for tool wear.

MEASURING TRACTOR AXLE SHAFTS

The VGU is used, for example, in an automated machining centre for tractor axle shafts. The shafts are guided into the VGU by a robot and clamped into position. The measuring station moves along the shaft and uses the four integrated optoCONTROL 2600 optical micrometers to determine the diameters. The four micrometers individually have a 40 mm measurement range but are arranged in pairs and offset in order to detect a range of shaft diameters from 58 mm up to 178 mm. In addition, the optoNCDT 2300 laser triangulation sensor, in combination with the rotary stage, is used to measure the splines of the shaft.

The optoCONTROL 2600 is an optical measuring system (sensor unit and controller) with integrated high resolution CCD camera.

The optoCONTROL 2600 is an optical measuring system (sensor unit and controller) with integrated high resolution CCD camera. The sensor has been developed with solid state (non-rotating) optics and so the measurement accuracy does not drift over time. Using a special lens arrangement, an LED light source produces a parallel light curtain (visible red light), which is imaged on the CCD camera via a telecentric lens. If an object to be measured is placed in the light curtain, the

shadow it creates is detected by the CCD array – even transparent targets can be measured. The measured data is output via analogue and digital interfaces, enabling easy integration for both OEMs and end users. The system is insensitive to high external light conditions, as well as dirt and moisture. The optoCONTROL 2600 has a measuring range of 40mm, resolution of 0.1µm and measuring rate of 2.3 kHz.

The optoNCDT 2300 is the high performance model of Micro-Epsilon’s laser triangulation sensor range, with an adjustable measuring rate up to 49.14 kHz and a resolution of 0.03µm. The entire electronics is integrated in a compact sensor housing. The laser sensor is particularly suitable for high speed applications such as measurements on challenging surfaces, including diffuse reflective surfaces, glass and transparent plastics. The A-RTSC (Advanced Real Time Surface Compensation) feature enables more precise real time surface compensation during the measurement process. A range of interfaces are available including analogue, RS422, Ethernet, EtherCAT, Profinet and Ethernet/ IP.

For more information on the optoCONTROL range of optical micrometers or the optoNCDT range of laser triangulation sensors from Micro-Epsilon, please visit www.micro-epsilon.co.uk or call the MicroEpsilon sales department on +44 (0)151 355 6070 or email info@micro-epsilon.co.uk

For further information, please visit www.micro-epsilon.co.uk

Our Packaging Lasers

Achieve high quality laser coding on any packaging material for a wide range of markets including food, pharmaceutical, beverage, personal care and cosmetics.

Achieve high quality laser coding on any packaging material for a wide range of markets including food, pharmaceutical, beverage, personal care and cosmetics.

Achieve high quality laser coding on any packaging material for a wide range of markets including food, pharmaceutical, beverage, personal care and cosmetics.

Available as CO2, Fiber, UV and Green options, our advanced lasers do not require consumables, making them environmentally friendly and cost effective to run.

Available as CO2, Fiber, UV and Green options, our advanced lasers do not require consumables, making them environmentally friendly and cost effective to run.

Available as CO2, Fiber, UV and Green options, our advanced lasers do not require consumables, making them environmentally friendly and cost effective to run.

Clean technology with no waste or emissions of volatile organic compounds

emissions of volatile organic compounds

emissions of volatile organic compounds

Eliminates risk of ink or solvent spills

Eliminates risk of ink or solvent spills

Eliminates risk of ink or solvent spills

Energy efficient for minimal costs

Energy efficient for minimal costs

Energy efficient for minimal costs

Compact models for production line environments and modular options for flexible integrated applications

Compact models for production line environments and modular options for flexible integrated applications

Compact models for production line environments and modular options for flexible integrated applications

ontact Us :

Contact Us : tel: 01462 816091 email:

Contact Us : tel: 01462 816091 email:

01462 816091 email:

CON 3 Small Character aser Coder by Macsa starting from £6,995*)

SONAPHONE® & SONASCREEN®

The easiest and fastest way to save money and energy

On average, 30% of energy in industrial compressed air systems is wasted due to leaks. This not only causes unnecessary energy waste, but also contributes to a lower plant operational reliability. Therefore, improving energy efficiency in compressed air systems is an important issue in all areas of manufacturing and process technology, as compressed air is one of the most expensive energy resources.

Ultrasound is a proven technology for air leak detection which helps to avoid additional costs associated with misdiagnosed equipment failures and unplanned downtime. Detecting air leaks and repairing or replacing defective equipment can result in significant savings and help companies meet their energy targets.

The ultrasonic testing devices

SONAPHONE® and SONASCREEN offer intuitive, precise and fast leak detection and help significantly cut costs and reduce CO2 emissions.

SONASCREEN®: Extend Your Senses

The Powerful Ultrasonic Testing Device For Predictive Maintenance

SONAPHONE®:

The SONAPHONE® is used in combination with a BS10 airborne sound sensor and a very intuitive “LeakExpert” software app to detect and evaluate leaks in compressed air systems. The broadband frequency of the SONAPHONE® which is ranging from 20 to 100 kHz enables a quick and precise leak detection despite the industrial noises typical for manufacturing facilities. Graphical output of the test data is shown as a spectogram and leaks are displayed in litres per minute and cost per year. This information can be used to set priorities for repair. The integrated documentation functions enable modern broadband ultrasonic analysis and maintenance management. All relevant information about a leak is stored directly in

the SONAPHONE® database. Your measurement data can be exported in pdf or csv format in just a few steps and integrated into your maintenance software.

The new handheld acoustic camera SONASCREEN® generates acoustic images from both the audible and ultrasound frequency range. The device with IP54 protection has integrated data acquisition. It locates sound sources in real time and displays the results immediately on the screen. Additionally, the camera provides audible feedback through industrial headphones. It makes ultrasound not only audible, but also visible as you can see the leaks directly on your display. The SONASCREEN® enables fast leak detection in compressed air systems and helps to unlock energy saving opportunities. The device makes it possible to start the maintenance process without prior training, as it is very intuitive even for beginners. Thanks to the intuitive handling as well as pre-set setups, even inexperienced users can correctly evaluate the results at a glance.

For further information, please visit www.sonotec.eu

The ultrasonic testing devices SONAPHONE® and SONASCREEN® offer intuitive, precise and fast leak detection and help significantly cut costs and reduce CO2 emissions.

FOAMplus® perfect protective packaging solution from Storopack

As a leading global protective packaging supplier Storopack recognizes the importance of ensuring goods are protected during transit and arrive in perfect condition.

Damaged goods not only incur costs for replacement orders but also affect businesses’ reputations. So while costs need to be kept to a minimum it is vital to choose the correct protective packaging type.

Usually a void fill packaging medium will suffice. However when the product is more sensitive to shock and vibration, such as engineering, electronics, aeronautical, and many other expensive products then more consideration has to be given to using the right type of in-the-box protective packaging.

Storopack’s FOAMplus® range is a perfect solution for companies that manufacture or ship products that require this highest degree of protection eliminating transit and handling damage.

The success of FOAMplus® polyurethane foam is based upon its huge versatility as a packaging medium. The foam can either be dispensed directly into the carton where the expanding foam will mould itself to the contours of the product shape or can be made into pre-moulded cushions to enhance presentation. The product will satisfy the most rigorous cushioning demands for high value, fragile and awkward shaped products. The light weight foam packaging also ensures that shipping costs are kept to a minimum whilst providing customers with total product protection.

As a space saving solution FOAMplus®, polyurethane foam packaging is ‘on demand’ and mixes two components together which then expands up to 200 times its liquid volume negating the necessity for large storage areas required for pre-fabricated packaging.

The benefits for customers are numerous. As well as an ideal solution for protecting awkward and valuable products, customers with product

design changes and new product line additions are able to quickly adapt the packaging without the need to carry a large range of bespoke cartons or fabricated packaging.

There are two dispensing methods available for the insitu protective packaging solution. Either FOAMplus® Hand Packer, a manually operated system, with a fully electronic microprocessor control to maintain consistent quality that delivers the foam direct into polythene lined carton via a foam dispensing gun.

Alternatively the Bag Packer² Foam-in-Bag dispensing system is fast, easy to use, efficient and economical. The machine can produce up to 23 foam-filled bags per minute at the touch of a button. Polyol B 5504R, foam B component is made from 30 percent recycled polyurethane.

www.storopack.co.uk

SUPERIOR INDUSTRIAL PACKAGING PROTECTION

PAPERplus® - Paper pads provide maximum performance, high density, and strength. Ideal in-the-box protection for heavy products.

100% recycled content and 100% recyclable

EMBRACING AUTOMATION

GUIDANCE AUTOMATION

Creating a more efficient and engaged workforce – and a safer working environment

Few manufacturing and logistics companies are unscathed from ongoing challenges over the last few years; from supply chain disruptions, the difficulty of recruiting skilled staff, and the rapid rise in costs. To safeguard margins and profitability, efficiency improvements have become an imperative.

One way to transform productivity is by investing in automation. It can create a far more efficient and engaged workforce – and a safer working environment. Yet, too many companies have held back due to a fear of business disruption and a lack of available funds.

The good news is that automation doesn’t have to be disruptive or expensive. From Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) to lightdirected material handling solutions, with the right approach, companies can embrace automation step-by-step, adding value and building confidence with every small change.

Automation technologies, from AMRs to Pick-to-Light solutions, can be added without disruption or upheaval. It is a simple process to add one or two AMRs into an area of operation to reduce the amount of time spent walking by humans, for example. Not only can this automation be introduced seamlessly into the existing set up, but AMRs can even be trialled without cost with the right business partner. And once a company has experienced the ease of which an AMR can work side-by-side with humans, the business may evaluate the benefits of adding Pick-to-Light to reduce error rate and improve efficiency.

With an incremental approach to automation, the investment can be specifically targeted at the biggest areas of business pain. The entire process can be achieved step by step, reflecting a business’ needs and investment options – making it far easier to build a business case for automation. For example, by using AMRs to reduce the physical demands on staff, a company cuts the risk of injury and frees up staff to

undertake added value roles, such as quality assurance.

For any company unsure on where to prioritise, there is help available. Working with a partner who can assess the current operational environment and suggest where an AMR could take on the heavy lifting, for example, can help to refine plans. With the addition of a free AMR trial, cost and disruption concerns are addressed. Manufacturing and logistics operations can confidently explore the power of automation to support the human workforce, creating a safe, productive environment.

For further information, please visit www.guidanceautomation.com

Automation technologies, from AMRs to Pick-toLight solutions, can be added without disruption or upheaval.

Your first choice for complete automation solutions

With 30+ years’ experience in developing an innovative, flexible and robust suite of Autonomous Mobile Robot technologies, we can enable you to quickly and easily optimise your material handling processes and achieve your productivity goals.

Our long history and experience in automation allows our team to interpret our customers’ needs into a customised automation solution.

SEPURA™ Quality Filters Through

For filtration specialist, Bowman Stor, its homegrown SEPURA™ range of oil/water separators is only part of the story; the industry-leading firm also manufactures and supplies high performance replacement service kits for all brands of condensate filtration units, producing a comprehensive range from its UK headquarters and distributing them via a global network of partner organisations. Essentially, this means that any business using compressed air systems can benefit from the advantages of SEPURA’s innovative filtration technology.

It was in Bowman’s own laboratories that the company developed its revolutionary SILEXA™ media - a key ingredient in the success of the whole SEPURA range. Manufactured from recycled glass, SILEXA has been proven to be lighter, 20% more absorbent per weight, and cleaner compared to other OEM products. The SILEXA material has major environmental benefits, achieving outlet quality discharges as low as 5ppm.

Only genuine SEPURA-branded products contain the groundbreaking SILEXA™ media but Bowman Stor has created a dedicated app to make it even easier for every user to find the right SEPURA filter

kit for their specific filtration unit - quickly and efficiently - all by simply searching for their current manufacturer.

Available on both Android and Apple platforms, the application also includes an easy-to-use oil/water calculator which

www.sepura-technologies.com

helps establish the right size of filtration unit for the customer’s compressor system. With SEPURA’s comprehensive range of oil/water separator units and third party service kits covering low, medium and high capacity requirements for multiple industries, the app is the perfect way to find the ideal product for each specific use and send enquiries direct to the distributor.

Bowman Stor’s managing director, Richard Potts says; “At SEPURA we are committed to creating a greener future for everyone. A key part of this ethos is ensuring that, whatever equipment they use, our customers can achieve SEPURA’s unparalleled levels of performance, long service life and cleaner condensate. And that’s better for industry, better for the environment.

To download the app Go to your App Store and search “Sepura Technologies”.

To place an order or for further information on SEPURA’s unique range of filtration products contact:

Multi Factor Europe Ltd.,

t: 01978 855995

e: sales@mfeuk.co.uk

System

Providing America’s best industrial renewable energy and green computing hardware solutions

Industrial & Telecom Carrier Grade Servers 48V DC /110V DC Battery powered Datacenter and Telecom Carrier Grade NAS - servers for industrial operations

Leading IT innovator Providing America’s Best Industrial Renewable Energy and Green Computing Hardware solutions for a better planet!

Leading IT innovator Providing America’s Best Industrial Renewable Energy and Green Computing Hardware solutions for a better planet!

GREEN COMPUTING, Renewable Energy Computing provider

Industry’s Best provider of Renewable Energy and Green Computing high quality hardware for fully application optimized server, storage, embedded/IoT, and workstation solutions for Enterprise, Utility Industry, Government and any Industrial operation.

5G, IoT, Telecom Edge Computing, Industrial Grade

EVAC ISO CeFiX® and KF Chain Clamps EVAC ISO CeFiX® Fittings

EVAC ISO CeFiX® Seals

thesolutionprovider!

Look, What’s Lasing!

High Power Green Laser Diode with Detachable Fiber Output

Wavelength: 525nm

Power out of the ber: 1W 4W

Fiber: core 105μm, NA=0.22, detachable, connector FC/SMA905

External beam homogenizer: optional

Operating temperature: -40degC + 55degC

Dimensions: max 72mm x 44mm x 21mm

Applications: Remote illumination, Target designation

Erbium Glass Lasers 1535nm

Eye-safe passively Q-switched

High peak energy up to 700μJ

Miniature dimensions: 21 ~ 35mm x 8mm x 7mm

Applications: laser range-nding, laser imaging, surveying equipment

New wavelengths Green & Yellow Laser Modules

Wavelength: 520nm, 555nm, 577nm

Power output: 5mW 1W

Dimensions: Ø18mm x length 55mm

Operating temperature: -40degC + 50degC

Applications:

Industrial: pointing, alignment, semiconductor inspection

Biomedical: photoluminescence microscopy, intravital imaging

Clinical Medicine: robotic surgery, endoscopy

Green Laser Dazzler GLM-520-850-25560

Wavelength: 520nm

Output power: 850mW

Dazzling distance: adjustable, 3m to 30m

White LED tactical light incl.

Rechargeable battery with 5000mAh

Operating temperature: -20degC + 50degC

Protection standard: IP65

Weight: 800gr

Application: Dazzling equipment for police, special forces and border patrol

PUMP SOLUTIONS

NORTH RIDGE PUMPS

Handling abrasive liquid transfer whilst avoiding a life time of pumping problems

Handling an abrasive or viscous liquid is often one of the most demanding applications a pump can experience.

The inability of such fluids to flow well under gravity, suspension of sharp particles which can cut seals or gaskets creating leaks and solid concentrations which can reduce pumping efficiency, often mean that only a handful of pump technologies exist to handle such a requirement.

Whilst often there can be more than one solution for transferring an abrasive or viscous solution, selecting the right pump for the process application can often mean the difference between lowest life time cost, or a lifetime of problems!

Project Background

A client approached us with an application to transfer ceramic resin from containers to machines. This was a new process and they wanted to ensure any unit supplied could handle sharp solids without experiencing wear or failure as part of a robust manufacturing process.

The customer had various existing pumps on site, but were concerned that when handling the ceramic resin, premature damage may be incurred to the pump or internal parts.

We worked with the customer to obtain an overview of the process and once the specifics of the process were understood we determined that a peristaltic pump which transfers fluids at low speeds via a reinforced natural rubber hose was the correct solution. With a maximum operating speed of only 29 revolutions per minute, it would ensure that ceramic particles would not be given enough energy or velocity to cause damage to either internal parts, pipework or seals.

Peristaltic pumps not only operate at very low speeds, but as they are seal less there are not prone to leaks when handling abrasive media as is found with other pump designs.

The pump will transfer ceramic resin which is around 1000cst at up to 800Litres an hour, well within the pumps performance range meeting process requirements.

4 Reasons why a Peristaltic Pump was the best solution:

1. Slow pump operation ensured sharp

particles were not transferred at high velocities which could damage pipework or the pump.

2. Variations in viscosity means flow rates would not be affected due to its positive displacement design.

3. The Unit can run dry or with higher concentrations of solids without damage.

4. As the unit is seal less and contains a single wearing part, maintenance can be performed with ease, with very little experience, and only 1 spare part is required – a hose.

Additionally, the pump was supplied with 2 spare reinforced hoses, ensuring should maintenance be required in the future, they are on hand for maximum reliability in a hazardous environment.

If you have a process requiring the pumping of abrasive solid laden fluids, or have aging process equipment that is holding back your plant, contact us on 01773 302 660 or visit www.northridgepumps.com to see how we can help.

For further information, please visit www.northridgepumps.com

The pump will transfer ceramic resin which is around 1000cst at up to 800Litres an hour, well within the pumps performance range meeting process requirements.

No more £££ diesel as M&C Engineering keep sludge moving with Borger pump

M&C Engineering has helped a water company bring an end to a costly and time-consuming diesel pump application, by introducing a new skid-mounted unit from Borger.

Whilst a tank was being replaced at a treatment works, the water company were paying significant hire and running costs, as well as dealing with excessive noise – but the flow is now being diverted by a 24.4kW Borger EL 1550 pump, which has been skid-mounted by M&C Engineering, who also supplied valves, control panel and canopy.

Richard Shipp, Director at M&C Engineering, a full turnkey services provider, said: “We’re very impressed with Borger, as is our customer. The new pump has been running 24/7 with no problems whatsoever. The diesel pumps that were at the plant were very hungry and expensive to run – and although this is a temporary set-up to keep the RAS (Return Activated Sludge), moving, the Borger pump is lined up for a permanent installation with our customer, making good use of CAPEX”.

Benefitting from its Maintenance-In-Place design, which requires only basic tools for servicing, Borger’s self-priming rotary lobe pumps are proven worldwide across a multitude of industries, as well as in municipal wastewater treatment. With a reversible flow option, Borger’s rotary lobe pumps are also suitable for loading and unloading applications.

FLOW OPTIMIZATION

The BLUEline Nova sets new standards in pump technology. With or completely without casing protection – the BLUEline Nova achieves unrivaled volumetric efficiencies.

Made for one another – the newly developed DIUS rotors in combination with the flow-optimized pump chamber ensure perfectly smooth running at pressures of up to 12 bar.

THE NEW BLUELINE NOVA ROTARY LOBE PUMP

ATEX Application for Water Re-injection

Cat Pumps (U.K.) were contacted by an onshore wellsite based in the South of England, looking for a complete pump and motor unit that was able to deliver the pressure and flowrate required for their water injection “downhole re-injection” system. Following an online search, they discovered via the Cat Pumps (U.K.) website that Cat Pumps offer ATEX Pumps and Pump Motor Units that were a suitable solution for their application.

Our customer drills, appraises and develops any hydrocarbons found at an onshore wellsite in the Weald Basin in the South of England. During this process our customer wanted produced water from oil and gas fields to be reinjected into the formation to stimulate hydrocarbon production in aging wells. This is known as water injection or water flooding. Produced water is very expensive to dispose of, so it is cost effective to re-inject into designated wells, back into compatible ground formations.

Water injection into oil wells involves the following steps:

• Injection wells are first drilled close to the producing well. An injection well is a well that is designed to channel water into the surrounding formation in proximity of a producing well to stimulate hydrocarbon production or for fluid disposal purposes.

• Produced water or treated water is pumped into the formation under high pressure. Tests may be carried out to ensure that the produced water to be injected is compatible with the formation, therefore the water may be treated to remove fine particles that might clog the well and oxygen that encourages the growth of bacteria.

• The pressurised fluid exerts a sweeping force that collects existing hydrocarbon from hard-to-reach areas in the formation, driving the products toward a nearby producing well for collection.

Cat Pumps has provided high-pressure pumps, pump systems and components to the well drilling industry for over 30 years. Due to the field-proven dependability and superior suction capabilities, our pumps have become the industry standard for water injection applications worldwide.

With field-proven dependability in applications around the globe, Cat Pumps provides the best value for water injection systems.

Our customer advised:

“Cat Pumps had a very good understanding of our requirements. Their Technical support, after-purchase correspondence and ease of delivery to our location, made it a pleasure to do business. Any further requirements, we will contact Cat Pumps as our preferred supplier.”

Performance Under Pressure

The hostile environments and high technical demands of the Oil & Gas sector require quality, dependable high-pressure pumps. Cat Pumps positive-displacement pumps meet those harsh requirements, combining low life-cycle costs and high performance for:

• Reverse Osmosis Seawater Desalination

• Oil Well Stimulation

• Hose Pressure Testing

• Enhanced Gas & Oil Recovery

• Umbilical & Control Line Flushing

• Divers’ Hot Water Suit Umbilical Feed

• Chemical Injection

• TEG Dehydration Pumping

• Deck Wash-Down & Marine Growth Removal

• HPUs For Water & Water-Glycol Hydraulics

• Accumulator Charging; Blow-Out Preventers

• Equipment for Use In Explosive Atmospheres (Zones 1/21 & 2/22)

A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

HARFORD CONTROL

Can Sustainability Drive Factory Performance Improvement?

Instant, prioritised information, giving end to end visibility of production processes, will help to improve performance and become more sustainable

Sustainability can have different meanings for different people. Some manufacturers actively develop strategies to reduce their impact on the planet, with companies such as Diageo, Unilever and Müller already achieving great success. Other manufacturers are being squeezed in the middle with rising input prices; raw material and energy prices, plus increased labour rates, yet with little or no opportunity to pass these on to their supermarket customers. Against such a demanding backdrop, it is hard for manufacturers to see sustainability as an immediate priority.

Retailers Re-Evaluate their Suppliers

Retailers are battling for market share, adjusting to changing costs and consumer behaviour. Tesco announced the closure of the remainder of a few areas such as meat, fish and hot deli counters, affecting 2100 jobs while Asda is making changes to in-store Post Office outlets, night shifts and pharmacies, putting 300 jobs at risk. Apart from making internal structural changes, some supermarkets review their suppliers in an effort to discover more affordable and environmentally friendly solutions. Suppliers to supermarkets need to understand that “more efficient” manufacturers are always competing for their shelf space.

Manufacturers must look inwards to streamline processes and reduce costs, with sustainability key to both climate change and competitiveness.

Can Sustainability Drive Performance Improvement?

Leveraging sustainable manufacturing practices helps factories to reduce waste, improve operational efficiency, ensure quality compliance and gain competitive advantage. A Deloitte survey reported that almost half of 750 executives claimed that their environmental sustainability initiatives measurably boosted their financial performance. Andreas Müller, Group CEO

of Georg Fischer, stated that ‘sustainability is definitely a driver for economic success.’

Sustainability is such a big area. Where can manufacturers start?

Sustainability Starts with Visibility‘You can’t improve what you can’t see’ Sustainability can’t be achieved without visibility. Even though we often talk about Industry 4.0, many manufacturers still use paper to record production line activity. The lack of visibility of information captured on paper, as well as the time lag between recording and reporting, often lead to unnecessary rework, rejects, wastage, and generally higher production costs. Furthermore, manually recorded data requires a significant amount of paper, hastening the destruction of forests and

increasing greenhouse-gas emissions. Food and drink industry is the UK’s largest manufacturing sector, accounting for more than 30% of total greenhouse gas emissions.

Whether it’s for improving performance or helping with climate issues, manufacturers need to bring sustainability to their agenda. You can’t improve what you don’t measure and you can’t improve what you don’t see (real time visibility). Change should begin with a ‘root and branch’ evaluation, coupled with real-time visibility of actual performance. In this way, non-conformances, overfills, poor efficiencies and other forms of wastage quickly become obvious and actionable before defective products reach the retailer, where they could become even more costly batch rejections.

Harford Paperless Quality solutions provide instant visibility of actionable information for factories. Managers and operators are firmly in control of the production processes. With Harford’s Traffic Lights, operators are able to find out the root cause of downtime with our 5 Whys and Fish Bone diagrams (Ishikawa) analysis, in real time. Our in-depth granular ‘drill down’ tools provide most of the help required to find and fix the root cause of problems.

More Sustainable, More Profitable

For a sustainable future, manufacturers must become more efficient, less wasteful and reduce costs without compromising quality. We have enormous experience in helping manufacturers to improve their profits and become more sustainable. To find out more, call our team on 01225 764461 or visit www.harfordcontrol.com.

For further information, please visit www.harfordcontrol.com

Manufacturers must look inwards to streamline processes and reduce costs, with sustainability key to both climate change and competitiveness.

With over 55 years experience in helping factories improve performance and become more sustainable. Harford MES provides actionable insights in real time. Thus ensuring that no performance improvement opportunity is missed.

DIAMOND CELEBRATION

PEPPERS

The global cable gland specialist Peppers celebrates 75 years in business

Peppers Cable Glands is proud to have upheld its unrivalled reputation for delivering quality products teamed with the highest possible level of customer service and flexibility throughout its 75 years of trading.

Peppers is the globally trusted cable gland specialist renowned for an endto-end service, providing customers with a total cable gland solution and unrivalled confidence in the quality of the product. Peppers solely manufacture cable glands and enclosure accessories. It is this streamlined expertise, teamed with unparalleled technical support and service delivery that has contributed to its continued success over the last 75 years.

Sales manager, Grayham Churchouse says, “We take great pride in providing our customers with a confidence and peace of mind when they buy from us. From the design engineers who specify our products, to the fitters at point of installation, to the organisations all over the world that utilise them; our service and product quality is paramount to our success. As a focused product manufacturer, we have gathered 75 years’ worth of expertise and resources into making the very best, fit for purpose cable gland and enclosure accessory range on the market.”

Peppers satellite manufacturing unit and expansive global distribution network gives them a superior control over the supply chain. Their clever “component manufacturing” process allows them to remain agile which means they can provide customers with an unbeatable level of

service, end to end. From quotation, to order processing, to manufacture, to a fast and reliable delivery time.

Peppers is a trusted brand that not only prides itself on its product performance and response times, but the knowledge and expertise that 75 years has created. This ultimately provides the customers with unfailing confidence that they are receiving the integrity that comes with the Peppers name, built up over the last three quarters of a century.

Peppers maintains a quality management system approved by ISO 9001:2015 as well as an extensive range of global hazardous area protection concepts and marine approvals.

We take great pride in providing our customers with a confidence and peace of mind when they buy from us.

75 YEARS OF SERVICE & QUALITY

Peppers is the leading cable gland specialist of our times, renowned for delivering a world-class end-to-end service, providing customers with a total cable gland solution and unrivalled confidence in the quality of the product.

Peppers continued success lies in their focus and streamlined expertise, and this is backed-up by unparalleled technical support and service delivery - all contributing factors to the companies steady growth spanning the last 75 years.

peppers.co.uk

AN ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

PP CONTROL & AUTOMATION

Outsourcing could solve industry’s ‘people puzzle’ predicts PP C&A chief

Outsourcing non-core manufacturing activities could provide a hidden answer to industry’s growing skills shortage according to one of the sector’s leading CEOs.

PP Control & Automation’s Tony Hague believes companies, struggling with the recruitment puzzle, are missing out on a golden opportunity to solve their ‘people woes’ and become faster and more efficient in the process.

With unemployment rates in the UK extremely low and Brexit’s brain drain causing one of the biggest employment crises seen in decades, firms are being urged to consider an alternative approach that could transfer risk and the costly

expense of finding and recruiting staff.

“The last twelve months have brought the job market firmly into the attention of manufacturers and we’ve recently seen several companies switching to alternative ways of balancing out recruitment and retention,” explained Tony.

“In a nutshell, if bosses decide to outsource certain tasks and processes, they can save costs associated with hiring and training new employees.”

He continued: “If you strip back recruitment to its very basics, then outsourcing part, or all of the machine build, means your strategic outsourcing partner will take on the costs and responsibility of recruiting

new employees and you don’t have to face the hefty bills associated with candidate advertising or appointing a recruitment agency.

“Naturally, outsourcing this ‘risk’ makes perfect efficiency and time sense. You benefit from having an expert in place to save you money and time and you don’t have to worry about hiring, training and indeed losing employees.”

PP Control & Automation, which employs 230 people at its world class facility in Cheslyn Hay, is one of the most experienced outsourcing specialists in the country, helping build machines that robotically milk cows, provide everyday packaging solutions, protect your phones

without a major hit to financials and gives you access to specialised skills that would usually be out of your reach.

“The final element that should never be overlooked is ‘speed to market’,” added Tony.

“If you’re a disruptor or an established manufacturer bringing an ‘innovation’ to market, then you must consider how quickly you can do it.

“On numerous occasions, PP C&A has been contacted after a potential client has

tried to set-up a new manufacturing line or diversified into an area that didn’t really fit what they wanted to produce.

“After an expensive experiment, the customer soon realised that pushing the boundaries in a non-core specialism would not bring them the product, or importantly, the financial benefits they were expecting.

“This is when they tend to turn to an outsourcing specialist, but by then it may already be too late, or certainly damage limitation.”

from water damage and cut parts that are used in F1 cars and the world’s airlines.

A driving force in the Manufacturing Assembly Network (MAN Group), the company is increasingly supporting businesses that are looking to automate their operations and are currently involved in some world firsts that will change the way industrial employees get their consumables and consumers receive their shopping.

Recruitment is only one of the ways that outsourcing non-core disciplines can have a major benefit to your business.

It can also deliver flexibility in capacity so you can manage fluctuations in demand

For further information, please visit www.ppcanda.com or follow @ppcanda on twitter

In a nutshell, if bosses decide to outsource certain tasks and processes, they can save costs associated with hiring and training new employees.

ACADEMY LAUNCH

IN-COMM TRAINING

In-Comm launches £3m Technical Academy in the home of the industrial revolution

A new £3m technical academy, located just a few miles away from the home of the industrial revolution, has been officially opened to the public.

In-Comm Training, which already operates two highly successful facilities in the Black Country and Shrewsbury, is looking to train more than 350 apprentices and upskill 2500 existing workers at its T54 centre over the next twelve months and opened its doors last Friday.

The ‘Ofsted Outstanding’ provider has created 20,000 sq ft of manufacturing training space, fitting it out with new equipment and state-of-the-art technology, spanning from the latest CNC machines, robotics, fluid power and material testing to welding, electrical, lathes, millers, CAD/CAM and metrology equipment.

A team of 20 expert trainers - all with considerable experience in industry - will be on hand to guide the engineers of the future and to deliver best practice courses that will help local companies futureproof employees for years to come.

“We’ve been operating in Shropshire since 2015 and all of our clients have been saying to us that Telford, regarded as the industrial epicentre of the north Marches, has been crying out for a dedicated manufacturing training centre for years,” explained Gareth Jones, Managing Director for In-Comm Training.

“Our approach, being very much employerled, meant we had to act on this, so we decided to make a £3million investment into taking on the building on T54 and creating a truly world class technical academy for

the thousands of manufacturers operating in the town and county.” He continued: “Telford is just a few minutes away from where the first industrial revolution started and industry is going through the next one, with digital transformation firmly on the agenda and a move to more sustainable production high on the list of priorities.

“Companies must act to make sure they have the skills in place to support this transition and this Technical Academy will play an important role in generating the talent of the future.

“Our manufacturers have a major role to play in this and we are using the opening as a rallying call to get more strategic partners involved in how we deliver training in the area.”

Telford External: (from left) Bekki Phillips (In-Comms Training), Claire Critchell (Telford & Wrekin Council), James Morgan (In-Comm’s apprentice of the year), Gareth Jones (In-Comm Training), Georgina Barnard (Black Country and Marches Institute of Technology) and Kathryn Jones (Marches Local Enterprise Partnership)

In-Comm Training (Telford) marked its official launch with an Open Day on January 26th, where senior delegates, including Selina Graham (the High Sheriff of Shropshire), Claire Critchell (Telford and Wrekin Council) and Kathryn Jones (Marches LEP) were given the opportunity to meet learners, trainers and the management team, not to mention touring the expansive facility.

They heard how the centre will be home to the Marches spoke of the Black Country & Marches Institute of Technology, which is pioneering a new approach to delivering today’s higher technical education for tomorrow’s careers.

The aim is to create a vibrant learning environment that leverages the capabilities of academia, employers, and higher education – all geared towards providing high quality training opportunities with clear

pathways to skilled jobs in automotive, advanced engineering, aerospace, construction, medical and renewables for example.

There will also be a strong focus on delivering upskilling and managed services from Telford, as well as expert consultancy on safety and quality compliance, leadership and management and continuous improvement.

In-Comm Training’s HNC offer will be expanded, with new engineering and manufacturing Level 4 courses available through apprenticeships or upskilling opportunities.

Bekki Phillips, Chief Operating Officer at In-Comm Training, added her support: “One of the other differences that separates us from other training providers, is our ability to leverage the expertise and capabilities of an army of technical partners.

“This includes the CNC machining technology of the Engineering Technology Group (ETG), the automation knowledge of Telford-based Bauromat, precision toolmaking of Brandauer, clean air experts Filtermist, energy specialists Schneider Electric and the metrology, measuring and CAD insight of Hexagon and The Torus Group.”

She concluded: “There’s no escaping the tough economic climate, but, at the same time, local manufacturers have some great opportunities through reshoring and leading the electrification race. Protecting the skills of today and future developing the skills required for tomorrow will be key in turning the potential into reality.

“A strong UK economy needs a buoyant manufacturing sector, and we’ll only achieve this by growing engineering and industrial skills. If we achieve this, our innovative companies will no longer have to worry about gaining access to the talent they need to lead the world.”

For further information, please visit www.in-comm.co.uk or follow @incomm_training

A strong UK economy needs a buoyant manufacturing sector, and we’ll only achieve this by growing engineering and industrial skills.

James Morgan, In-Comm Training’s Apprentice of the Year, officially opened the Telford Technical Academy.

Telford Internal: (from left) Gareth Jones (In-Comm Training), Selina Graham (Sheriff of Shropshire), James Morgan (In-Comm’s apprentice of the year) and Bekki Phillips (In-Comm Training)

Telford Opening (Action): Apprentice Abbie Clinton, aged 16, is benefiting from In-Comm’s new training academy in her hometown of Telford

VALVES

CUSTOMISED VALVE SOLUTIONS

OLIVER VALVES

Oliver Valves Win Project Packages off the Qatar Peninsula

Oliver Valves won multiple project packages on the North Field Production Sustainability (NFPS) project. Since 2021, Oliver’s has been working closely with digital control system suppliers on the project to offer specialised engineering support and guidance, in particular around Pressure Transmitter Manifold Bids. Many factors are key to building a successful working partnership and one core strength of Oliver Valves is their well-versed knowledge of project specifications in the region, and this proved invaluable and instilled confidence in the supplier’s team to go on to win the bids.

Oliver Valves have provided customised valve solutions since 1979. In this time, engineers have trailblazed the way in valve design, safety and innovation and have set industry benchmarks in standards. Cost and lead-times were two major considerations for the project bids. Engineer and procurement teams worked tirelessly to value engineer manifold designs and source the raw exotic material

that was required, and meet budget expectations.

Business Development Manager for the Middle East region, Haridas Embanath said, “The expertise and experience of our engineering team are the reasons why we’ve been successful in winning project packages such as this. We were able to share our knowledge of the specifications with our clients’ teams, which was invaluable to them.” This

resulted in orders being placed for over 600 manifold units with a total value of £157k.

Engineering sales support led by Sian Henrys was provided during the entire project. She says, “To have engineering and procurement teams come together to find the best solutions that meet clients’ objectives is what sets us apart from other valve suppliers, and it’s always great to see our hard work come to fruition.”

The project, which is one of the world’s largest natural gas fields, is situated off the north-east coast of the Qatar peninsula. There are two complexes that make up the project, which include two fixed steel jacket compression platforms, interconnecting bridges, interface modules, and living quarters.

For information on how Oliver Valves can provide valve solutions for your project, telephone +44(0)1565 632 636 or visit the website at www.valves.co.uk.

For further information, please visit www.valves.co.uk

We were able to share our knowledge of the specifications with our clients’ teams, which was invaluable to them.

World-leading

We

Instrument & DBB Valves

• Manifolds, Needle, Check and DBB Valves to 22.5K psi

• Cryogenic

• Severe Service 650ºC, 10K psi

• Forged & Bolted Construction

Hydrogen & Carbon Capture Valves

• Instrumentation, Ball, Needle and DBB Valves for Hydrogen and Carbon Capture Applications

• Pipeline Ball Valves upto 18”

• 10K Ball Valves for Hydrogen Fuelling Stations

Pipeline Valves

• 1” to 20” Bore Size

• High Temperature

• High Pressure

• Cryogenic

• API 10K Design

Subsea Valves

• Diver & ROV Operated Needle Valves

• Ball Valves Upto 15K

+44 (0)1565 632 636 | sales@valves.co.uk | www.valves.co.uk Reliability Under Pressure Oliver Valves Ltd Parkgate Industrial Estate, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 8DX, United Kingdom

LAUNCH YOUR DESIGN DREAMS

Freedom One Life are disrupting the powered wheelchair market with the launch of the Series 5

TMS CADCentre is a SOLIDWORKS Reseller based in Scotland. We are proud to support early-stage Start-ups (and Scale-ups) through the SOLIDWORKS Start Up Program. This is a three-year program providing entrepreneurs and start-ups free SOLIDWORKS software, training, and expert support to help them succeed.

In 2019 Freedom One Life joined the SOLIDWORKS Start Up Program with TMS CADCentre. Freedom One Life are disrupting the powered wheelchair market with the launch of the Series 5.

Freedom One Life was founded by Alex Papanikolaou, a powered wheelchair user. His frustrations with products on the market which constantly let him down and restricted his life due to limited range, breakdowns, and constant fear of being stranded made him question if powered wheelchairs could be designed differently. It turns out Alex wasn’t alone and met other people who were also fed up having to plan their lives around their powered wheelchairs. And so, Freedom One Life was born with the mission to enable users to live the life they choose.

The journey designing the Series 5 required the use of SOLIDWORKS to create concepts, validate designs and finally design parts and assemblies for manufacture.

Designing a powered wheelchair is not an easy task. There are a huge number of factors which need considered for every component and as all the parts connect together to form a complex assembly.

With SOLIDWORKS you can design, test using FEA (Finite Element Analysis), and visualise using the rendering package. Prototyping was difficult initially due to the size and cost of certain components. FEA contributed to the design process significantly and helped mitigate as much risk as possible before committing to expensive functional prototypes.

This not only saved Freedom One Life

I would absolutely recommend SOLIDWORKS Startups Program to other entrepreneurs. It’s great the support you can get from both SOLIDWORKS and TMS CADCentre and it’s a really good way to invest in start-ups. The first year is always difficult and to have access to SOLIDWORKS makes a real difference. I’ve told everyone I know and work with about the SOLIDWORKS Startups Program and how good the benefits are.

Scott Savage, Technical Director.

money, but it also helped them have confidence going into medical device testing because they’d tested everything using SOLIDWORKS Simulation first. They also used SOLIDWORKS Composer to design the illustrations and layout of the product manual.

Now after years of development, refinement,

and continuous improvement of the Series 5, they are now ready to begin fulfilling orders.

To apply for the SOLIDWORKS Start Up Program please get in touch.

Tel: 01324 550760

Email: solidworks@tms-scotland.com

Website: tms-scotland.com/solidworks

For further information, please visit tms-scotland.com/solidworks