Process Engineering Control & Manufacturing - Issue 42 2020

Engineering Process

Control &

MANUFACTURING

PECM

Global Success Through Innovation Issue 42 2020 ÂŁ3.95 www.pecm.co.uk

FANUC - 94

DERITEND - 96

AMARAY - 102

Adopting Automation - Rugby MP praises Fanuc UK for changing perception of Industrial Automation at Inugural Open House.

One of the UK's leading providers of engineering solutions is celebrating a major birthday in style after announcing a ÂŁ1m boost in sales.

With more than 320 packaging patents to its name, applying ingenuity to enhance the customer experience continues to define Amaray's success.

Rock Solid Pumps Huskyâ„¢ - Durability when you need it most.

Long Life and Low Overall Cost of Ownership High Flow Rates for Increased Productivity Fast and Easy Maintenance

DISCOVER ALL ADVANTAGES

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Engineering Process

Sections

Control &

MANUFACTURING

Inside...

Inside Issue 42

Editors Choice

4

Southern Manufacturing Show Preivew

24

Automotive

34

TLT TURBO

LEUZE

Global ventilation fans and systems manufacturer, TLT-Turbo GmbH, has announced the redesign of its Auxiliary and Booster fan range.

Leuze 2D code readers fulfil challenging role in automated tyre inflation line.

Control & Automation

40

Electrical & Electronics

51

Facilities Management

57

SICK

Fasteners & Fixings

60

Fluid Handling

62

Gears, Drives & Motors

64

Health & Safety

66

Machining & Machinery

74

SICK has developed its most powerful and accurate 2D LiDAR sensor to date for food and beverage or end of line packaging applications, even at high speeds, in low ambient light or when goods or packs are matt black or glossy.

Measurement & Monitoring

80

News & Events

93

Packaging Innovation Show Preview

98

Packaging

100

Process Technologies

106

Product News

114

BRILLOPAK

Software & Systems

124

Storage, Handling & Distribution

130

Ergonomic PakStation eases Morrisons’ manual case loading pains.

FANUC

SOUTHERN MANUFACTURING & ELECTRONICS 2020 Southern Manufacturing & Electronics returns to Farnborough International in Hampshire from February 11th to 13th 2020.

Tom Bouchier, Managing Director at FANUC UK, reflects on the state of automation over the last 12 months, and looks forward to what could be a pivotal year for UK manufacturing.

ILAPAK LTD Concerns over cross contamination on production and packaging lines are mounting following a spate of deaths linked to unlabelled allergens in food products.

AVT Tackling the issues of excessive vibration.

“The Centre of Excellence for Strainer and Filtraaon Technology”

Low Loss Basket Strainer® Cartridge Filters Y-Type Strainers Mono-in-line / Basket Strainers Duplex Strainers (Rotagate® & Firplex®) T-Type Strainers

Coalescers & Seperators Pressure Vessels Flame Arresters Sight Glasses Silencers Spools

Materials available include: Carbon Steel & LTCS Stainless Steel 304/316 Cunifer Hastelloy 6MO Duplex & Super Duplex Stainless Steel Aluminium Bronze Inconel 625 & 825 Monel Titanium All Exooc Metals Catered For ISO9001:2015 ISO3834-2:2005 ISO29001:2011 ISO14001:2015 OHAS18001:2007 SSIP Safe Contractor

Issue 42 PECM

3

hygienic furniture & equipment

WE’RE ‘TEKNOMEXCITED’ ABOUT OUR NEW TRESPA TABLE Adjective: to be thrilled at the potential of this new collaboration between industry leaders Naturally antimicrobial surface provides 99.9% reduction in 24 hours

Inset rear legs for easy positioning

Trespa Lab benches and cupboards coming soon!

304 grade stainless steel

Easy clean diamond bracing

For more information get in touch today Quality

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Engineering Process

The leading source for innovators in Technology, Manufacturing and Maintenance within the Engineering & Processing industry worldwide.

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Every issue of the magazine contains the latest news, in-depth features, together with product innovations and case studies showing how process engineers are implementing new technologies to reduce costs and impact on the environment.

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Issue 42 PECM

5

EDITOR’S CHOICE

INDUSTRY 4.0 RITTAL

RITTAL UNVEILS NEW AX AND KX ENCLOSURE RANGES Rittal showcased its new AX compact and KX small enclosures at the Hanover Trade Fair 2019 (Hannover Messe).

The AX and KX enclosures are both embedded with digital processes, delivering simpler, faster assembly and component installation, greater flexibility and enhanced safety. In other words, Rittal has rethought and redesigned the two enclosures inline with the principles of Industry 4.0.

Digital transformation brings new challenges for products, their operating environment and their operational availability. This launch marks a transformation of AE - a standardised product made by Rittal for more than 50 years. More than 35 million AE enclosures have been manufactured making it the most popular compact enclosure in the world.

at Rittal with responsibility for the IT and Industry Business Units and Marketing.

The digital age is increasingly making its presence felt in switchgear workshops with a growing need for automation, greater flexibility and product availability.

DIGITAL CHAIN “FROM CUSTOMER TO CUSTOMER” Rittal provides effective support for the entire value chain surrounding the production of panels and switchgear - from engineering to ordering to automation.

The data can also be uploaded to EPLAN software engineering software and used for downstream tasks, complete with any modifications. This substantially cuts the time and effort needed for the engineering process.

Once the customer order is received by the Rittal Global Distribution Centre (GDC), it is shipped directly to the customer. The GDC is seamlessly integrated with the nearby, highly automated manufacturing plant, ensuring the timely and reliable shipping of the required items. As a result, all standard products can, where required, be sent to customers based in Germany within 24 hours.

Digitalization and automation in the era of Industry 4.0 are creating new enclosure challenges.

Its digital product twin delivers high-quality data for the entire design, configuration and manufacturing process. QR codes allow all parts to be precisely identified and assigned. The launch of the AX and KX, brings compact and small enclosures inline with this approach.

The two latest additions to the Rittal enclosure portfolio contain improved features, along with new opportunities for value creation.

“We understand the principles behind digitalized industry and we have developed a new generation of compact and small enclosures in response. In conjunction with the introduction of our Blue e+ range and the VX25 large enclosure system, this means all our core products have been entirely redesigned, and are fit for Industry 4.0,” explains Uwe Scharf, Managing Director

For example, the Rittal Configuration System (RiCS) provides customers with a fast and simple system for configuring enclosures, accessories and modifications and an automatic plausibility check helps prevent erroneous choices. The results can be transferred directly to Rittal’s online shop, and this then gives the customer immediate access to both price and delivery date.

The time-savings start at the point of delivery to the customer: panels can be removed individually because there is no need for the usual disassembly work. Doors and cam locks are easier to install, typically without the need for tools. The wall mounting bracket can be quickly screwed into place from the outside of the enclosure, without impacting the enclosure’s protection rating.

Simple

◾ Digital configuration ◾ Consistent data quality ◾ Intelligent engineering

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PECM Issue 42

SIMPLE, FAST, FLEXIBLE AND SAFE

precise and time-saving incorporation of interior installation rails.

Photo: Rittal Limited

As the rails have a 25mm spacing (pitch pattern) the AX and KX can use accessories from the VX25 portfolio, such as lights or terminal blocks. This keeps the inventory of the smaller parts to a minimum, and there is no need for machining, such drilling, etc.

Safety is a high priority for all Rittal enclosures. Installing components into the AX and KX leaves their protection category unaltered and the same is also true of their UL certification, which is essential for deployment on the North American market.

Overall, the new design features make the compact enclosures more robust, and ensure greater resistance in particular to dynamic loads.

SUITABLE FOR MANY REQUIREMENTS The new product lines provide answers to many varied needs.

KX small enclosures (from 150 mm x 150 mm x 80 mm) are ideal if only a few components are to be housed in terminal boxes and bus enclosures.

AX compact enclosures are between 120 mm and 400 mm deep, with a maximum size of 1,000 mm x 1,400 mm.

This substantially reduces the risk of damage during transit as the brackets, which protrude beyond the sides of the enclosure, can be attached on-site at the final destination.

The AX and KX are more spacious than their predecessors, the AE, CM, KL, EB and BG enclosures.

The rising number of sensors and actuators being deployed in the switchgear industry is, in turn, raising the quantity of cables to be housed. The new enclosure’s modular design - along with improved cut-outs and larger gland plates - creates (on average) a third more space for cables. In addition, integrated locators in the side panels enables the simple,

For all models, there is a choice of sprayfinished sheet steel or stainless steel. Despite the greater number of potential use cases, the total number of components and accessories, and as a result complexity, has been markedly reduced.

Further information at www.rittal.co.uk and www.friedhelm-loh-group.com or on twitter @rittal_ltd.

The new one: the AX/the KX. Opens up perspectives.

The new generation of compact and small enclosures.

www.rittal.co.uk Issue 42 PECM

7

EDITOR’S CHOICE

EFFICIENT AND COST-EFFECTIVE TLT-TURBO

TLT-TURBO FAN RANGE REDESIGNED TO MEET SPECIFIC MINING INDUSTRY NEEDS Global ventilation fans and systems manufacturer, TLT-Turbo GmbH, has announced the redesign of its Auxiliary and Booster fan range. Developed in close collaboration with clients, the new designs address both efficiency and cost-effectiveness, in a versatile product range that meets the specific ventilation requirements of the mining industry.

The development of the new fan range concept began in early 2015. Following a lengthy global market study to gain an understanding of the market requirements, the range was defined in mid-2017, with the fabrication of the first units taking place shortly thereafter. “The development of the Auxiliary and Booster fan range would not have been possible without the input of clients. This ensured that we focused on key market-driven requirements including energy efficiency, noise reduction, cost-effectiveness and turnaround time,” says Michael Minges, Technical Director at TLT-Turbo Africa, who headed up the fans’ designs.

“To sell these products we needed to ensure close customer relationships and visibility. We are striving to change the industry’s mindset on the use of such fans to ensure proper fan selection for the ventilation required. In

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PECM Issue 42

optimizing mine ventilation, efficient, highquality Auxiliary and Booster fans can add as much value as surface fan installations.”

TLT-Turbo started commissioning of the first iterations of the fan range towards the end of 2017 within the Sub-Saharan market through its Africa office. From there, they based the development of the various fan sizes of the new range on market interest. The fan designs and their performance validation was completed at the end of July 2019. They aim to complete product rollout, with all supporting documents and certification, by the end of September 2019.

Minges explains that meeting identified market demands was the main focus of the improved designs. “As energy efficiency is one of the main drivers of industrial equipment usage, and minimum efficiency requirements on certain equipment are often legislated, TLT-Turbo identified the need and opportunity in the market for more efficient mining fans compared to what is currently in use.”

The new designs include several innovative additions to enhance performance in order to provide exceptional underground ventilation.

The fan range was developed using the latest in engineering flow technology which allowed

TLT-Turbo to improve the aerodynamics, and thus the efficiency of the fans. A unique stator design and aerodynamic fairings, all manufactured from wear-resistant composite materials, resulting in improved efficiencies and reduced noise levels. The modularity of the fan casings allows for quick and easy assembly with interchangeable ancillary fan parts. The motor mounting in coherence with a machined impeller track ensures low and controllable blade tip clearances for improved performance and efficiencies. Pad mount motors are used for all fan sizes and help reduce vibration levels in the axial direction of the motor significantly which leads to longer motor bearing life and lower maintenance requirements.

Minges says that all possible measures are taken to ensure the highest quality and best possible performance of every fan supplied by TLT-Turbo. “All fans are ISO 5801 tested unless the client agrees to type testing on higher volume orders. We ensure the client quoted performance is met before the fans leave the factory. Test certificates on both raw data and calculated performance can be provided on request. Fan efficiency is determined with the performance test and this quality check ensures we deliver on what we promised the client.

Clients are regularly invited to witness the performance tests to sign off on acceptance.

The fans also come with pressure ports that can be hooked up to a calibrated handheld measuring device to measure performance in-situ.”

In addition to performance and efficiency, ease of maintenance was also a major consideration in developing the new Auxiliary and Booster range. The modularity of the product design and the interchangeable standardized parts allows for quick turnaround time on parts supply. “For example, we only have two blade types for the full product range and generally only one motor barrel per fan size accommodating various motor sizes and types. Standardization on the product is the key to successfully managing maintenance and repair as it allows ample supply of spares for companies certified to do the repair work. The design track record

has indicated a longer mean time between failure (MTBF) than previous products,” Minges explains.

The fan range is being rolled out in phases.

The preliminary testing at sites located in SubSaharan Africa has been launched successfully.

The next phase is globalization as the new range will be rolled out in the USA, Canada, Europe, Russia and Australia. Following this, product supply and support will be extended to TLT-Turbo offices in South America and India. In the interim though, Minges says that these fans can be supplied to clients worldwide from TLT-Turbo Africa.

TLT-Turbo Africa has received a number of orders for these fans since the end of 2017.

These orders include South African clients seeking a solution for deepening a gold mine and for Kamoa Copper in the DRC as an exclusive supplier. “The feedback that we have

received thus far has been that the fans are meeting our and client expectations. I am proud to say that one EPC consultant used the phrase ‘superfan’ to describe the new range and indicated that he has not heard a fan of this size so quiet before,” says Minges commenting on the reception of the new range.

“The Auxiliary and Booster fan range was developed to enhance TLT-Turbo’s mining ventilation product portfolio. The product is based on historic innovative designs by the TLT-Turbo Africa R&D team. Continual product development and keeping up to date with the latest technologies is ingrained within the engineering teams of TLT-Turbo.

Ensuring that innovations are market and client-driven with the end result being a benefit to the industry, puts us in the forefront of advancement in ventilation solutions,” Minges concludes.

About TLT-Turbo TLT-Turbo GmbH builds radial and axial flow fans for virtually any application. First-rate engineering, tradition and progress in air handling technology and a worldwide support network have been the cornerstones of their excellent global renown as a fan and systems manufacturer for more than 140 years. TLT-Turbo GmbH fans and the associated system components are deployed successfully all over the globe. To date over 10,000 fans have already been installed. Their subsidiaries, branches and agencies span the globe including TLT-Turbo offices in Germany, China, Austria, Russia, South Korea, USA, Chile, Hungary, Australia, India and South Africa.

Visit www.tlt-turbo.com for more information.

Issue 42 PECM

9

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Spillcare Products

SMITHS INTERCONNECT ACQUIRES REFLEX PHOTONICS TO EXPAND INTO HIGH SPEED DATA TRANSMISSION MARKET

Contain, control and clean up spills in and around the workplace

Smiths Interconnect, a leading provider of technically differentiated electronic components, subsystems, microwave and radio frequency products, today announces that it has completed the acquisition of Reflex Photonics, Inc. (“Reflex”). strengthening our presence and positioning in harsh environment fibre optic end applications”.

Founded in 2002 in Montreal, Canada, Reflex is a recognized global leader in rugged highreliability optical transceiver modules for space, defence, aerospace, and industrial applications. Reflex optical transceivers deliver high signal density and ultra-fast speeds for low Size, Weight and Power (SWaP) solutions.

Smiths Interconnect President Karen Bomba said: “We are pleased to welcome Reflex to the Smiths Interconnect family of technology brands. We are a leading supplier of technically differentiated components that are critical to our customers’ products and operations; Reflex adds leading ruggedized and radiation-resistant transceiver technology to our offering,

View our range and order online at www.darcy.co.uk

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“Reflex’s focus on harsh environment applications where high reliability is the key purchase criterion, makes the company a renowned player in the marketplace” added Paul Harris, VP Sales and Marketing.

“Its commitment for strong performance and its focus on innovation are the perfect fit for Smiths Interconnect’s long-term strategy and will provide our customers with a wider range of solutions encompassing multiple market segments”.

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Precise process monitoring

Hygienic pressure transmitter with IO-Link Interface

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Whether food or beverage industry, milk production or meat processing: The ifm pressure transmitter, PM, reliably monitors your process, with a high accuracy of 0.2 percent! The excellent temperature compensation allows for rapid temperature changes in the process, eg. In CIP / SIP up to 150° C. This makes the pressure transmitter ideal for demanding applications in the food industry.

A free factory calibration certiďŹ cate for each sensor is available as a download.

Interested? ifm - close to you!

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EDITOR’S CHOICE

FASTER TOOLING & ASSEMBLY 3DPRINTUK

THE EXTREMES OF ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING When Norway based Kongsberg Maritime, a specialist in technology for use in extreme conditions, was designing a chassis for a subsea measurement instrument, it turned to 3DPRINTUK to help with the manufacture of key components. MEPCA found out more.

Kongsberg Maritime is an international technology group working in the maritime, defence, aerospace and digital sectors.

Kongsberg is at the forefront of pushing technology in extreme conditions, so it comes as no surprise that additive manufacturing has a role in their design process. As additive manufacturing grows and becomes a viable, recognised option for producing custom parts with a finish close to injection moulded parts, more and more design engineers are exploring and adopting selective laser sintering (SLS) technology to produce innovative products. As a result of this growth, the more engineers demand from the technology, the more investment is made to advance the capabilities of the method.

Kongsberg Maritime delivers products and systems to merchant vessels and offshore installations for positioning, navigation, automation and handling systems, as well as products and systems for seabed surveying and monitoring, and fishing vessels and fisheries research. 3DPRINTUK specialise in low-volume production through additive manufacturing and in particular SLS. By 3D printing parts in SLS Nylon P12, and with very few restrictions in design, manufacturers can create components with reduced weight while maintaining strength. Users of the innovative method save on manufacturing costs thanks to material savings and assembly time reduction. In addition, clever design means that the number of components gets reduced and prototyping that used to take weeks can be done in days, in multiple variations, all branded with unique part numbers.

Robert Kovacs, Senior Subsea Design Engineer at Kongsberg Maritime approached 3DPRINTUK when they started a new project to design a chassis for a scientific subsea instrument used in underwater positioning and mapping. “The part is a multi-functional product chassis, not just a simple bracket to join two things together. It has clever features and functionality that we would not get from a similar metal or injection moulded part,” explained Robert. “The chassis flexes extensively to allow a heat shrink sleeve to

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PECM Issue 42

be placed around battery cells and a PCB, which simplifies assembly tremendously.

To secure the product during transport and handling, a tiny slide-bolt arrangement allows for a zip-tie to be inserted, again greatly saving handling time and reducing risk.”

Small printed extrusions act as standoffs, screw guides and screw anchors which make the whole assembly extremely rigid.

Features such as these cost nothing during printing but save greatly on handling, assembly and repair. “Right from the start, deciding to 3D print this pivotal part in a new design meant that we were able to shrink the size of the product while integrating features and functionality that are simply not available through other manufacturing methods,” continued Robert.

Robert was also able to save money on the cost of other products by nesting parts.

As well as price breaks for higher quantities, 3DPRINTUK allow users to nest parts around one another to take advantage of any unused space. The smaller the space users take up within the printer, the less they are charged.

Summing up his experience of additive manufacturing, Robert concluded: “I believe that the biggest advantages when 3D printing parts are the time savings thanks to faster tooling and assembly, along with the ability to make far more intelligent parts.

We would, of course, have these features and advantages if this part was injection moulded. But it is not possible to make an injection mould tool with all these features in one part, as it has too many details and undercuts in too many different directions.”

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EDITOR’S CHOICE

SICK’S LMS4000 SICK

MOST POWERFUL AND ACCURATE 2D LIDAR SENSOR YET With its LMS4000, SICK has developed its most powerful and accurate 2D LiDAR sensor to date for food and beverage or end of line packaging applications, even at high speeds, in low ambient light or when goods or packs are matt black or glossy.

The SICK LMS4000 2D LiDAR Sensor’s exceptionally high laser scanning frequency helps to produce more than half a million measurement points per second to calculate the position, shape, volume or surface quality of goods or packs over a wide depth of field, and at ranges up to 3 metres.

Both precision and high-speed processing power are assured with the SICK LMS4000. It achieves a six-fold increase in measurement resolution, compared to previous LiDAR sensors even at very low remissions and no matter where the object is positioned, whether on a conveyor, in a container, carton or pallet, and whether it is freestanding or touching another object.

The SICK LMS4000 is therefore ideal for fast-moving food and beverage, packaging or logistics applications where accurate dimensions, volumes or positions need to calculated, including automated palletising and depalletising, positioning tasks such as robotic pick and place, and shape and contour verification in quality control e.g. completeness presence and completeness checking of multipacks.

The LMS4000 works using visible red laser light and the time-of-flight measurement principle to deliver precise data on the position and size of a wide variety of objects and transmits this data to an external evaluation unit, often in conjunction with an encoder. With SICK’s Continuous Wave technology, the LMS4000 needs no external illumination or additional line lasers.

Because it is considerably less sensitive to ambient light, and has a wide depth of field, it can be considered as a cost-effective alternative to vision systems for 3D object profiling in some applications.

Says Neil Sandhu, SICK’s UK National Product Manager for Market Product Manager Imaging, Measurement, and Ranging: “The LMS4000 is by far the most accurate 2D LiDAR scanner from SICK with some

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PECM Issue 42

to achieve better throughputs with excellent repeatability and reliability.”

Available in 10mW and 13mW variants with a laser protection hood option, the LMS4000 family of 2D LiDAR sensors are quick to install with M12 connections including switching I/Os and Gigabit Ethernet to ensure rapid data transmission.

They are complemented by a range of industry-standard mountings and SICK encoders. truly outstanding vital statistics, including a very high 600Hz frequency and an angular resolution of less than 1 degree. In addition, several devices can be mounted together to extend the measuring range without any danger of interference.

“The LMS4000 impresses because it achieves extremely high point-density measurements for accurate measurement and 3D profiling of goods at high speeds.

So, our customers have a great opportunity

The LMS4000 is easy to set up and parameterise using SICK’s SOPAS configuration software. Digital filters for pre-processing and optimising the measured values also help to tailor the sensor settings for specific applications.

For more information about the LMS4000, please contact Andrea Hornby on 01727 831121 or email andrea.hornby@sick.co.uk. www.sick.co.uk

EDITOR’S CHOICE PORTAFLOW PF220/PF330

SIMPLE CLAMP ON, NON INVASIVE FLOW MEASUREMENT FROM MICRONICS

• DSP measurement technique • Reynolds number correction • Easy to install • Simple to follow programming menu

The Portaflow range brings simplicity to the non-invasive measurement of liquid flow and results can be achieved within minutes of opening the case.

Compact, rugged and reliable, designed to provide sustained performance in: Process fluid monitoring and Energy Management including Water, Glycol, DI, Diesel and Fuel Oils.

For System audits, Pump verification, Boiler testing, Leak detection and many more...

For fur ther information call us on

+ 44 ( 0 )1628 810456 or email sales@micronicsltd.co.uk w w w.micronicsflowmeters.com 1317-Micronics PF330 Ad 88 x 267mm Dec 2019 v3.indd 1

Issue 42 PECM

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10/12/2019 18:46

EDITOR’S CHOICE

CABLE INNOVATION HEATSENSE CABLES

HIGH TEMPERATURE CABLE MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY REACHES A NEW LEVEL ABOUT HEATSENSE Established in 1984 by two engineers from Fothergill & Harvey in Lancashire, Heatsense has steadily built its reputation and is today regarded by many as the UK’s leading specialist manufacturer and supplier of thermocouple cables and extension wires. Many original customers continue to do business with Heatsense and a number of its original employees still work for the company.

CAPABILITIES Heatsense’s manufacturing capabilities cover a broad range of specialist high-performance thermocouple and signal cables that operate in extreme environments. The company is regarded as a technology leader in fluoropolymer extrusion.

The company manufactures thermocouple cables and extensions wires, equipment wires, coaxial cables, multicore cables, micro cables and fine wires.

Insulation materials include PFA, FEP, PTFE, ETFE, PEEK, EFGLAS, PE, PU, PVC, Taped & Sintered PTFE, Mica, Silicone, Polyimide & Aramid Yarns. Braiding materials include glass & ceramic fibres, other specialist yarns and various metals.

Markets include automotive, aerospace, nuclear, medical, general industry and oil & gas.

These cables are resistant to flame, oils, chemicals and operate in ultra-high vacuum, cryogenic, radiation and nuclear environments. The company offers a range of approvals that meet all internationallyrecognised specifications.

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PECM Issue 42

Highly customer focused, Heatsense offers a bespoke advanced technical design and manufacturing service, rapid response times, short lead times, low MOQ’s and competitive pricing.

Current management acquired the business in 2014, relocated it to Greater Manchester and made significant investment in plant and equipment, broadening the company’s manufacturing capabilities. Throughout 2018, the company saw significant growth; acquiring new equipment and significantly expanding its workforce.

Heatsense has achieved both ISO9001:2015 and ISO14001:2015 Accreditations since 2014 and is currently working closely with the NAMRC (Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre) on the F4N (Fit for Nuclear) Approval Scheme.

The company is also working towards AS9100:2016 and aims to be accredited in 2019.

Call: (+44) 01706 767070 www.heatsensecables.co.uk

The UK’s leading specialist high-performance cable manufacturer We’re a technology leader in high-temperature fluoropolymer extrusion and material used in the manufacture of specialist high-performance cables that operate in extreme environments

INSULATION EXPERTS PFA, FEP, PTFE, ETFE, PEEK, EFGLAS, PE, PU, PVC, Silicone, Taped & Sintered PTFE, Polyimide, Aramid Yarns, Mica, Glass & Ceramic Fibre

MARKET SPECIALISTS

Automotive

Aerospace

Nuclear

Medical

Industrial

Research

PARTNERSHIP BUILDERS Advanced technical design & bespoke manufacturing service • Rapid response times • Short lead times • Based in the UK

• Service international partners • Competitive pricing • Low MOQ’s

*Registered *Registered owner owner of of the the world-renowned world-renowned INTEMP INTEMP trademark trademark

Find us online: heatsensecables.co.uk or call: (+44) 01706 767070

EDITOR’S CHOICE

QUANTUM EXPANDS DRIVES SERVICE OPERATION IN 2020 This continued growth of new VSD Contract Partnerships has led to the opening of two more Quantum Service Centres in Glasgow Scotland and Thurrock in the South East of England, at a time when most in the Drives Industry are cutting costs, reducing staff and freezing training.

Quantum now have a nationwide network of 6 Drive Service Centres, meaning their ever-expanding team of 21 Drive Service Engineers have a local base to operate from to ensure the best level of service is always delivered to customers.

Quantum Controls, with over 25 years’ experience as an ABB Drive Service Partner, are Official Drives Service Partners for Schneider Electric, Nidec Control Techniques, Mitsubishi, Danfoss and Vacon.

These partnerships are recognition from all the UK’s major Drive Manufacturers that Quantum are unique in the marketplace today. Quantum Engineers attend all the relevant training courses covering their Partners Drive Product Ranges which means they can offer a unique service to the UK manufacturing industry, who usually have a myriad of different drives on site.

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PECM Issue 42

A service partnership with Quantum Controls ensures professional cover for all your drives no matter, what type, size or age.

The two new Service Centres will house: • Local Base for 24/7 Drive Service Engineers in Scotland and South East • Drive Spares Stock – Suitcases for major manufacturers • Drives Stock • Rental Drive Stock • ABB Motors Stock • Drive Repair Facility • Electrical Installation Services

Massive stock of Drives and Rental Drives available If you would like to know more about our Service Contract Partnerships, you can contact us on: Ben Johnson (South East) b.johnson@quantum-controls.co.uk or 07739 705 238 Karolina Markevica (Glasgow) k.markevica@quantum-controls.co.uk or 07970 630 846

Over 25 ABB Spares Suitcases

01661 835 566 service@quantum-controls.co.uk www.quantum-controls.co.uk

EDITOR’S CHOICE

01332 835001 | mwpolymers.co.uk

Polyform

A flexible external repair system for leaking and damaged pipelines

Inert Waste Waterproof Low Odour Flexible No Grit Blasting 50 year life

Supplying the gas industry with innovative solutions for over 40 years

we

WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH…

Litre Meter now distribute the Lake Monitors range of VA meters for a variety of applications including bidirectional flow, high temperature and high pressure.

x

The Basic unit is rated to 116°C and 240 bar in brass. High temperature versions rated to 315°C and high pressure versions to 410

bar are in stainless steel.

There are versions for pneumatics, hydraulic test analysis and phosphate ester measurement, too. Call today. www.litremeter.com

Issue 42 PECM

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EDITOR’S CHOICE

QUALITY HINGES TALK TO THE EXPERTS.

HENRY HOWARD FINANCE ENTERS NEW DECADE AS PROPEL UK finance success story changes name as it drives a 40,000 strong customer base and attracts significant equipment suppliers to its platform. Henry Howard Finance Group has announced a change of name to Propel in support of the company’s strategic positioning as SME funder of choice and the name behind hundreds of UK equipment suppliers.

‘’Our Propel Promise, being small enough to care and deliver a brilliant personal service to our customers, and big enough to have the expertise and

technology to be a leader in SME finance, is a commitment to all our existing and future customers. “The change to Propel came from the team who wanted a bold, contemporary and distinctive brand reflective of the company today and our aspirations for the future’’, says Anne Williams, Chief Operating Officer.

01827 63391 sales@goldwassallhinges.co.uk Whatever your hinge requirements, we offer a solution.

Bespoke/Stock - UK maunfactured - Expert advice

To find out more about Propel please call 01633 415222 or visit www.propelfinance.co.uk.

PEMD 2020 PROGRAMME Take a look at the PEMD 2020 programme at www.theiet.org/pemd.

Three packed days feature over 180 presentations from 39 countries, all examining the latest initiatives and developments in power electronics, machines and drives.

Take part in technical sessions including:

• Distributed generation, energy storage and fuel cells • FACTS and power electronic converters for energy systems

• High-frequency converters and power supplies • Machine control • Monitoring, diagnostics and prognostics • Permanent magnet machines • Rail and aerospace systems • Smart grids and microgrids • Thermal management

www.theiet.org

Issue 42 PECM

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EDITOR’S CHOICE

FAST MOVING CONSUMABLES BRAMMER BUCK & HICKMAN

EXPECT THE BEST WITH A VENDOR MANAGED SERVICE

By Ian Hall, Vendor Managed Services Director – UK, Brammer Buck & Hickman The process of buying, restocking and managing fast-moving consumables can take up valuable time and money for any industrial or manufacturing business.

Purchasing from multiple suppliers is timeconsuming, creates many invoices to process, increases delivery costs and can lead to cash being tied up in inventory with the risk of making stock obsolete if demand isn’t closely aligned to supply.

However, with a vendor managed service solution, these issues can be resolved.

WHAT IS INDUSTRIAL VENDING? The main purpose of industrial vending machines is to dispense consumable items that are used most frequently by employees at the point where they are needed. This might include personal protective equipment,

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PECM Issue 42

cutting tools, abrasives, hand tools, cleaning items, lubricants and greases – and much more. You decide which staff have access to which machines and you can even restrict access to certain items. Access to the items are gained by a touch screen or barcode scanner followed by the entry of a PIN number unique to that person.

A vendor managed service is a time and cost saving solution designed to give greater control over budgets for consumable items, whilst taking care of your supplies so your team has more time to focus on areas that add real value to your organisation.

The service works by using stock management expertise. A quick analysis of your processes can streamline your supplier base to consolidate your invoicing as well as analysing stock holding, and design optimum ordering processes ultimately creating improved efficiencies.

Furthermore, you can track data from the

inventory management system and gain valuable intelligence about the supplies being used and by whom.

If you’re thinking about introducing a vendor managed service solution into your business, you’re bound to be looking for a product/ service that comes with both great service and great value. With a lot of options out there, navigating the way could seem difficult.

WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT FROM THE VENDOR MANAGED SERVICE PROCESS? The process should start with a full analysis of your parts usages and stock holding data by a specialist supply chain expert who will identify optimum inventory for your specific needs. An expert should assess critical parts, consignment stock, obsolete stock and stock not fit for purpose. They should then continue to analyse your stock control and identify all issues and examine your labelling and location processes.

Next, further analysis will determine the critical stock to hold, identify parts alternatives, review stock obsolescence and order frequency on items, establish optimum levels and make recommendations on quantities versus reduced orders. Based on a previously conducted audit you should then be presented with an appropriate inventory management strategy that can be seamlessly integrated into your business. The results should provide clear and tangible benefits to your organisation.

Lastly, any results of any recommendations your vendor managed service experts suggest should be fully quantifiable by value over time, with cost savings and benefits set against agreed parameters.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A SERVICE PROVIDER Making sure you’re investing in a service that works for everyone involved can often be difficult. So first, take the time to consider all vending and inventory related company challenges that you’re currently facing. By doing this, you’ll have a better understanding of the help you need as well as what you should expect from a vendor managed service.

Quality: When investing in any service or product, quality is key. Expect a good company to be engaging, attentive and quick to respond to queries and questions. However, although a good indicator of the quality of the company is through their communications, you also need to take the time to look at the actual quality of the product and service, from the range of products available, through to the vending machines themselves and to the all important service behind the vending (often an area where suppliers fall down).

If you’re able, try and see the service or product in action and ask to speak to existing customers.

Knowledge: From a good vendor managed service provider, along with quality it’s also important to have knowledge. Knowledge can come in two halves: knowledge from the company and knowledge from you, the service receiver. Naturally, you should expect a good vendor managed service provider to have an in-depth understanding of the products and the issues you face when it comes to consumables, but don’t assume they do. Ask some searching questions and if they’re hesitant about answering or cannot direct you to someone who can, they may not be as knowledgeable as you might think.

On the other hand, a part of the knowledge comes from you. As mentioned earlier, it helps to have an idea of what you want to achieve with this service. Ultimately, this will make the process quicker and more successful. Take the time to consider your exact needs and how you need the supply to work.

Understanding: Similar to knowledge, understanding refers more to the service and, more importantly, how well a service

provider can help with your current situation.

A good vendor managed service provider should be able to provide an understanding of your situation and should not only suggest how they can help but should also give extra support past the initial service. For a provider to show understanding of your unique situation, it often means they have both indepth knowledge and hands-on experience, which is invaluable.

By managing all your general maintenance consumables, Brammer Buck & Hickman’s

Vendor Managed Services can help generate cost savings, productivity and efficiency improvements.

For more information or to request a demonstration of any of the Vendor Managed Services through Brammer Buck and Hickman contact 0870 240 2100 or email at vms@bbh-rubix.com

Issue 42 PECM

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SOUTHERN MANUFACTURING & ELECTRONICS 2020 SHOW PREVIEW

A MUST-ATTEND EVENT

SOUTHERN MANUFACTURING & ELECTRONICS 2020

AN IMPRESSIVELY WIDE EXHIBITOR LIST COVERING THE FULL SPECTRUM OF ENGINEERING ACTIVITIES

Southern Manufacturing & Electronics returns to Farnborough International in Hampshire from February 11th to 13th 2020. As in previous years, the 2020 event will assemble an impressively wide exhibitor list covering the full spectrum of engineering activities, from C-class components to the latest hightech machine tools, automation and specialist subcontract services. Firms from all around the UK will be participating, along with a sizeable selection of off-shore exhibitors from all over Europe, Asia and the Far East.

Farnborough, the birthplace of the British aerospace industry, occupies a special place within UK manufacturing. Its geographic location positions it in the middle of one of the most important regions for aerospace manufacture, with nearly a quarter of the UK’s £35bn aerospace industry situated inside a 50 mile radius, not to mention a significant assortment of major global aerospace manufacturers, for example Lockheed Martin, Gulfstream and Airbus Space & Defence.

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Include substantial levels of automotive, medical technology, marine and high-tech manufacturing activity throughout the south east, and the value of the event to the engineering supply chain becomes self-evident. Furthermore, as the majority of companies supporting these industries are SMEs, Southern Manufacturing’s inclusive format, which supports participation from a wide variety of specialist enterprises, creates a distinctively vibrant marketplace with an extraordinarily wide appeal.

The event is split roughly equally between manufacturing and electronics. In the former, the Production, Machinery and Tooling area is perhaps the most popular, providing visitors the chance to discover the latest offerings from many of the UK’s foremost vendors.

Firms exhibiting for 2020 include Bystronic, C. Dugard, Haas Automation, Hurco, Laser Lines, Matsuura Machinery, Mitutoyo, TRUMPF, XYZ Machine Tools and Yamazaki Mazak. Other well known names include AMF Andreas Maier, Faro, MecWash, Brady, Henkel, Bruderer and Roemheld. Engineering service providers exhibiting include Orbital Fabrications, Perfect Bore, Rose Plastic, Twickenham Plating, Washington Metalwork, Southern Springs & Pressings, MJ Allen and many more.

The electronics aspect offers a wealth of production and inspection products from firms for example Blundell Production Equipment, Mycronic, AdoptSMT, ASM Assembly Systems and PACE Europe amongst others. Component vendors include ESI Technology, Wurth Electronics, TDK Lambda, Luso Electronics, the Rebound Group, comprising Easby Electronics, Delta Impact and Rebound

Electronics, plus major European vendors such as Austria’s CODICO, Transfer Multisort Elektronik and Yamaichi Electronics. The scores of service suppliers taking part range from award-winning design consultancies such as Bytesnap Design, full contract manufacturing from firms such as JJS Manufacturing, Volburg SIA, and PCB production from European Circuits, MV Circuit Technology and Shenzen X-Mulong amongst many others.

Following last year’s successful alliance, Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2020 will once more be partnering with the Farnborough Aerospace Consortium, alongside prestigeous national bodies including Composites UK, NetComposites, the Confederation of British Metalforming, the GTMA and the British Gear Association.

Also taking part this year is Locate in Kent, an organisation offering a wide range of services and support to firms looking to locate in the region.

Together with the exhibition and demonstration zones, the complimentary seminar programme is a hugely popular element. Two programmes run in tandem in two theatres, devoted to manufacturing and electronics respectively. Topics discussed will include the latest developments in advanced manufacturing technology, innovation, digital transformations in manufacturing, Lean, marketing and a review of the current regulatory landscape in areas such as CE marking.

Farnborough International Conference and Exhibition Centre provides complimentary car parking for 3,500 vehicles and is wellserved by road and public transport links.

A regular free shuttle bus service operates from both of Farnborough’s mainline railway stations directly to the event. The venue itself offers a high standard of facilities including a complimentary WiFi service in the foyer area along with top quality catering outlets.

Admission to the show is free of charge. More information and tickets are available from www.industrysouth.co.uk

Issue 42 PECM

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SOUTHERN MANUFACTURING & ELECTRONICS 2020 SHOW PREVIEW

COMPREHENSIVE ERP SYSTEM SAPMAN V12

IF YOU MAKE STUFF WE’LL HELP YOU MAKE IT IF YOU HAVE A WAREHOUSE WE’LL HELP YOU MANAGE IT IF YOU HOLD STOCK WE’LL HELP YOU CONTROL IT

Buying an ERP system used to be a major capital expense, potentially running to tens of thousands of pounds for an up and running system. The cost of the software purchase and associated consultancy made it a hugely considered financial outlay.

For manufacturers looking for a rapid Return On Investment – this was a major obstacle for many businesses : together with the desire to spend their CapEx budgets on modern machinery and increased manufacturing capacity rather than software!

For companies that want the software “out of the tin” - and do not require any bespoke programming – a system install and set-up, including training and data conversion would be around £2,950. Our licencing is £50-£75 per month (depending on user numbers) with no minimum contract obligation.

Additional users can be added as required and, indeed, reduced.

A key market for us is Sage users. Sapphire Manufacturing Systems Ltd. The developer of Sapmanv12 has been an Authorised Sage Developer for over 20 years. So most of our users run on Sage50 and Sage200, and we

still have some clients on Sage Line 100 yet to upgrade.

One of the great advantages of Sapmanv12 for Sage users is that users can benefit from multi depot stock and full Serial Number and Batch Traceability without the need to upgrade their accounting engine from Sage50 to Sage200. This is an additional cost saving benefit We can demo the software remotely via Team Viewer or organise a visit to your premises or you can visit our Bristol Demo Suite : call us on 0333 456 12 12 to have a chat

COME VISIT US AT THE SOUTHERN MANUFACTURING AND ELECTRONICS SHOW IN FEBRUARY ON STAND E105 26

PECM Issue 42

At its core Sapman v12 is a sophisticated Manufacturing, Warehousing and Stock Control solution. This modular product provides extensive facilities for Stock Control, Sales and Purchase Order Processing, Warehouse Management, Bill of Materials, Works Order Processing, Engineering Control, MRP and CRP. With the Microsoft SQL database engine at its core this product provides a leading edge business management solution.

Our highly skilled team has 20 years of experience resolving our customers’ Assembly, Manufacturing Control and ERP requirements, their Stock Control and Warehouse Management needs using our advanced, effective and efficient software solution.

Sapman v12 fully integrates with Sage’s Accounting solutions: Sage 50 and Sage 200. It also provides an upgrade path from Sage 100.

disposable BBQs our customers rely on Sapman v12 to run their businesses.

Sapman v12 is highly customisable to operate with virtually any business model. With successful installations in a huge range of industry types from manufacturers of medical products to

Sponsored development of specific functionality is possible where customers require some modification to allow the software to exactly map their business’s operational model.

SAPMAN V12 AND SAGE 50 IT ALL STARTS WITH A SALES ENQUIRY! SELL IT

with collapsible/expandable nodes

Quotations: Quote ( including price breaks)& Drawings & Pricing : v12 can attach drawings to the Quote

SFDC Shop Floor Data Capture : using barcodes v12 manages the job though the shop floor

SoP : The Sales Order Processing gets underway

WiP With Shop Floor Data Capture SFDC v12 knows :

MAKE IT

What Material/Subcomponents have been used, Who has worked on the job and on what machine - Get Material, Labour & Machine Variances & produce management reports -

Stock : Stock Enquiry : Check material Needs : Make to Order or Ex Stock?

If not it may generate a Purchase Order for more Stock If the Sale item is Make To Order (MTO) then the Works Order Processing routine kicks in v12 is suitable for Batch Manufacturing, Make to Stock, make to Order, Kanban & service works Stock values from v12 update Sage50 Nominal Ledger PoP Purchase Order Raised Purchase Invoice received & Sage 50 updated for Nominal Codes, Purchase Ledger and VAT WoP The confirmed order has to be manufactured & v12 produces the works order BOM V12 produces the BoM : tree-view

Every stock issue is linked to an original GRN - ensuring full Serial Number and Batch Traceability

WHAT THEY SAY “We really like the Shop Floor Data Capture system which enables us to see the current status of any Works Order live and onscreen.”

Alan Saitch, Managing Director, Lada Engineering Services Ltd

“V12 offers us greater productivity, improved communications with third parties and the interconnectivity between the various menus and our Sage Accounting software makes operating our company infinitely easier.”

Colin Mallard, Finance Director, Lakeland Laboratories Limited

Stock Finished item is booked into Stock v12 knows where it is; it covers multiple sock locations and stock with Sub Contractors Stock values per client defined categories can be up dated to Sage50 Nominal at client defined times

“V12 was a complete transformation for our business back in 2014, with the added bespoke service and repair package designed by the SMS team the customer input and traceability became seamless.”

Mike Perkins, Managing Director, Encoders UK Ltd

SEND IT Stock Stock records updated, Despatch note raised; Certificates of conformity produced Sales Invoice raised & Sage 50 updated

For more information on Sapmanv12 please visit our website at Sapmanv12.co.uk Email us on info@sapmanv12.co.uk Or please telephone us on : 0333 456 12 12

for Nominal Codes, Sales Ledger & VAT Issue 42 PECM

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SOUTHERN MANUFACTURING & ELECTRONICS 2020 SHOW PREVIEW

PROTECTION OF EQUIPMENT IN TRANSIT PROTECHNIC

COME AND VISIT US ON STAND B260

CASE SOLVED

Protechnic have been manufacturing specialist cases in the UK for over 30 years and during that time have developed a number of unique products that are ideally suited for the safe protection of equipment in transit. Keith Judson MD takes up the story: It takes a long time to build a company from a standing start and even longer to establish a reputation for quality and service, but I am proud to say that Protechnic has become one of the industry leaders in bespoke case design and manufacture. Much has changed since the inception of Protechnic some 30 years ago, but we still hold true to our values of continual development and improvement, one of our axioms is that 'you should not let your last good idea be your last good idea' and our expert team of engineers are always looking for ways to develop our products, and incorporate the latest materials technology, our design ethos is to make our cases stronger, lighter and more cost effective, always with a keen eye on what the customer needs.

In our quest for excellence we have such pioneering products as the Smart Case, Exo Case, Nio Case, MultiPad. The Exo Case, in particular, is a patented product and is truly ground-breaking in the world of transit cases. We take great pride

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in the quality and service, and accordingly we are ISO 9015 accredited, and we are fully committed to the concepts of continual improvement as enshrined in the latest ISO standard.

We know from experience that a successful company is not just about great products - it is about the ability to connect with and listen to the needs of our customers. Our bespoke design and finish service enables us to fully customise our solutions to match the technical requirements. It is testament to our customer service that we are still supplying some very long-standing customers from the early days of Protechnic.

Together with our bespoke products, we have a vast range of injection moulded, vacuum formed and roto moulded cases that enable us to offer the perfect solution across many industries including, oil and gas, aerospace, MOD, medical, automotive and many more, in fact just about any application that requires the safe transit of equipment. Our capability extends to foam engineering and we are able to specify and design the case interior to suit the requirement, based on the fragility of the equipment to be housed and the shock/ vibration characteristics of the application.

Our product designs are driven by our customers, from a simple transit case to very

involved designs for transporting highly valuable and delicate equipment. We treat every requirement with the same ideology – what would be the best solution for our customer. There are many drivers in a case design, it may be cost, strength, weight, protection, aesthetics, timescale and we operate in a very wide range of industries that bring their own particular demands, but our skilled team of design engineers will establish the essential criteria in sufficient detail to allow our estimators to offer the most competitive solution. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Protechnic Ltd, Unit 1 West End Trading Est Blackfriars Road, Nailsea, BS48 4DJ Tel: 01275 811310 sales@protechnic.com

BESPOKE CASES BUILT TO LAST A team of industry experts, driven by a passion to innovate and succeed.

COME AND VISIT US ON STAND B260

MADE TO MEASURE CAD ENGINEERING

Qualified and skilful engineers using latest 3D CAD software technology.

WATER-JET TECHNOLOGY Efficient accurate and fast panel and foam prduction.

FOAM ENGINEERING

Masters in bespoke protective foam inserts.

ENGRAVING

Fully customisable and detailed engraving service.

UV PRINTING

UV printing to make your final product unique.

Delivering safe and reliable products that meet ISO 9001 high-quality standards.�

CONTACT US sales@protechnic.com (+44) 01275 811 310 www.protechnic.com Protechnic Ltd Unit 1, West End Trading Estate Blackfriars Road, Nailsea Bristol, BS48 4DJ (+44) 01275 811 310 sales@protechnic.com

SOUTHERN MANUFACTURING & ELECTRONICS 2020 SHOW PREVIEW

EFFECTIVE WORKABLE SOLUTIONS PINNULA COME VISIT US AT STAND H115

PINNULA ENABLES BUSINESSES TO FUNCTION EFFECTIVELY Our team have years of business process experience, decades of integration knowhow and skilled software development giving Pinnula the ability to deliver effective workable solutions which model your organisations requirements.

WHY DO I NEED AN ERP SYSTEM? ERP Software is crucial to running your business smoothly and efficiently. It reduces the manual work required while allowing you control over every aspect of your business. It provides the mechanism for you to succeed.

PRODUCTION Uniplan provides all the sophisticated options required to effectively control production. From MPS (Master Production Scheduling), Sales and Prospect demand inclusion to Works Orders, the MRP (Material Resource Planning) module within Uniplan provides complex yet easy to use production methods. Full capacity planning, finite and infinite scheduling and MRPII capabilities make any company’s processes possible.

STOCK Controlling stock is essential to managing your business. Uniplan’s inventory management is well equipped to deal with your requirements. Through its multilocation and batch traceability processes managing warehouse, stores, consignment and remote locations and well as lineside and KANBAN production locations aiding stock visibility and control. Serial numbers can be easily tracked from manufacture or purchase through their lifecycle even when using our servicing applications to trace aftercare and maintenance work.

SHOP FLOOR JOB TRACKING AND COSTING Uniplan allows you to alleviate the manual and exhaustive collation of costs and job information by automating the process, capturing the information and then managing the results. Uniplan’s diverse functionality allows time, tracking and material bookings from a wide variety of devices such as phones, tablets and mobile computers utilising scanning and barcoding.

CRM/CONTACT MANAGER Contact Manager is a fast and easy way to organise your resources and remind/control who did what and when, which is essential for modern working environments. Easily visualise the position of your customer or supplier delivering a quality experience.

STAFF Keep track of your staff, by planning where they should be and when. Diary functionality makes your resources, holidays, absences and training visible. Automatic links to payroll provide reliable and accurate information, reducing hours of manual calculation.

ACCOUNTS Uniplan handles all accounting transactions from purchase and sales invoice through to the general ledger with banking and HMRC integration. There is also a payroll suite to accompany the employee resource options which is also fully integrated. www.pinnula.co.uk

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Pinnula

P

UNIPLAN ERP ACCELERATES YOUR GROWTH Enquiry Manager CRM/Prospect/Task Manager Stock Management Plan Capacity/Scheduling Resource Management Bill of Materials Production Control Job Costings Process Management Packing & Shipping Serial Numbering Barcoding & Labelling Shop Floor Job & Time Tracking Full Batch Traceability Procurement/Sales Full Accounts/Payroll/HR Bank Integration Dashboard Analytics

Plus much more!

Flexible System Add and remove modules as your business evolves

Uniplan ERP is a modular, scalable and flexible Manufacturing System designed to suit your business as it evolves and grows.

Add functionality and users as the business develops.

We provide functionality rich software which can be configured to best match your business processes.

We have years of experience in implementing systems and can manage a full implementation from start to end.

Uniplan ERP will deliver both greater efficiency and control to your business.

Experience Savings We have been building ERP Reduce costs through systems for over 40 years critical process management

www.pinnula.co.uk | sales@pinnula.co.uk | 01709 839933

FREE FREE SEMINARS SEMINARS FREE FREE PARKING PARKING

FARNBOROUGH | Hants | GU14 6TQ th | 12th th | 13th th FEBRUARY 11th

9.30am9.30am-4.30pm 4.30pm (3.30pm (3.30pm close close Thurs) Thurs)

Where Industry and Innovation converge Meet over 800 national and international suppliers at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre this February at Southern Manufacturing & Electronics (inc AutoAero) 2020. See live demonstrations and new product launches of machine tools & tooling, electronics, factory & process automation, packaging & handling, labeling & marking, test & measurement, materials & adhesives, rapid prototyping, ICT, drives & controls and laboratory equipment.

Free industry seminar programme online @ www.industrysouth.co.uk The exhibition is free to attend, free to park and easy to get to. Doors open at 9.30am on Tuesday 11th February.

PRE-REGISTER TODAY

for for your your Fast Fast Track Track Entry Entry Badge, Badge, Preview Preview Magazine Magazine and and Event Event Catalogue Catalogue at at

www.industrysouth.co.uk Supported Supported by: by:

OIL & GAS DEFENCE FOOD & DRINK A U T O S P O RT MARINE A E R O S PA C E PA C K A G I N G LOGISTICS ELECTRONICS A U T O M AT I O N ROBOTICS MEDICAL COMPOSITES S PA C E E N G I N E E R I N G RAIL T R A N S P O RTAT I O N

SOUTHERN SOUTHERN MANUFACTURING MANUFACTURING & & ELECTRONICS ELECTRONICS is is an an ETES ETES event event organised organised by

by European European Trade Trade && Exhibition Exhibition Services Services Ltd Ltd

Tel Tel 01784 01784 880890 880890 ·· email email philv@etes.co.uk philv@etes.co.uk

SOUTHERN MANUFACTURING & ELECTRONICS 2020 SHOW PREVIEW

WITH BREAKTHROUGH TECHNOLOGICAL PARTNERSHIPS

CORINTECH LTD: CUSTOM ELECTRONICS DESIGN & MANUFACTURE Electronics design and manufacturing experts equipped to take your product from concept to supply, all under one roof. With skilled teams in design, manufacture, procurement and quality assurance, Corintech can assist with all aspects of your project at any stage. Design skills cover all elements of electronic product design. Particular specialisms include wireless and IoT integration.

When it comes to manufacturing, Corintech can cover everything from PCB assembly to full product box build. Quality is

paramount; all processes follow AS9100 quality standards.

Corintech’s facilities in the UK and the Far East can offer large batch production, rapid turnaround, supply chain management and fully traceable components, while still maintaining local customer support.

Visit Corintech at Stand D165 of Southern Manufacturing 2020.

Corintech Ltd +44 (0)1425 655655 info@corintech.com www.corintech.com

Make your life easier with some of the most innovative connectivity solutions on the market today engineered to meet wearability & IoT requirements as well as high data transmission rates: ■

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Issue 42 PECM

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AUTOMOTIVE

DIESEL MYTH BUSTER EAME

DIESEL’S DAYS AS A FUEL FOR COMMERCIAL VEHICLES ARE FAR FROM OVER

By Dirk Pyatt, EAME Commercial Fuels Marketing Manager Increasingly stringent environmental standards continue to put the spotlight on diesel’s environmental performance. At the same time, alternative fuels and a growing interest in electric vehicles are generating headlines. However, diesel’s days as a fuel for commercial vehicles are far from over, although some misconceptions about its performance remain.

It is important to correct these myths to enable an informed debate about fuel options and environmental regulation. Clear-cut data put into a well-defined context benefits everyone involved in the critical dialogue about how to power vehicles in the future. So what are the key misconceptions that need to be addressed?

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Europe’s roads is increasing. According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) the number of medium and heavy duty commercial vehicles registered across the European Union during the first half of 2019 increased on average by over 16% compared with the same period in 2018, with Belgium, Germany, France and the UK with increases above the average5. By law, these vehicles employ the latest engine designs, taking into account the latest Euro VI emission requirements.

MYTH: ALL DIESEL FUELS ARE ESSENTIALLY THE SAME. IT’S REALLY JUST A MATTER OF FINDING THE CHEAPEST PRICE. There is a belief that all diesels are the same and price is therefore the most significant criteria for making a purchasing decision.

However, all diesel fuels are not equal. For example, many bulk diesel deliveries do not contain detergent additives, and those that do are normally designed to help prevent the formation of deposits on fuel injectors, which otherwise degrade engine power and fuel economy over time. Some diesel fuels are optimised to not only keep injectors clean but also clean up existing deposits.

The additional detergency contributes to improved fuel efficiency and may reduce the need for maintenance. Fuel efficiency is important for medium and heavy duty commercial vehicles given the significantly lower miles per gallon consumed compared with light duty vehicles. Given the high cost of long-haul diesel truck engines and the significant investments operators make in their fleets, owners should prioritise quality when choosing fuel, especially if they want to maximise the longevity of their vehicles and reduce costly maintenance.

MYTH: DIESEL HAS LOST ITS APPEAL AND POPULARITY. Recent conversation around diesel might suggest it has lost its popularity but according to recently published research, 96% of medium and heavy commercial vehicles (over 3.5t) in the European Union run on diesel1, a figure that will likely come down over time.

The reasons for diesel’s continuing popularity in the commercial vehicle sector are clear: compared with other types of fuel it currently has a higher energy content, offers great driving range and fuel efficiency, stronger lowend torque for towing and hauling, is quick to refuel and supports good truck engine durability. Diesel units also remain some of the most efficient combustion engines available.

And with the latest technology, they have become cleaner, too.

In fact, the latest Euro VI requirements are the most stringent ever. As well as special filters that significantly reduce particulate matter (PM) emissions, they also feature technology that converts most of the nitrogen oxide

(NOx) from the engine into harmless nitrogen and water before it leaves the vehicle. A recent study showed a 93% reduction in NOx emissions for Euro VI diesel hybrid buses compared with Euro V conventional diesel buses2.

MYTH: ALTERNATIVE FUELS AND ENGINES WILL REPLACE DIESEL IN THE NEAR FUTURE. It is true that biodiesel, natural gas, fuel cells and electricity are all gaining traction. Public transport is a high-profile example. As of March 2019, there were 3,669 hybrid buses, 155 electric buses and 10 hydrogen buses operating in London, out of a total fleet of 9,1423. In addition, the German Federal Ministry of Transport has recently set up a €300 million fund that will see electric buses on the streets of 11 of the country’s cities by 20224.

However, in the commercial vehicle sector alternative fuel options have made less headway, especially in the long-haul market; in fact, the number of heavy trucks on

DIESEL CONTINUES TO PLAY A VITAL COMMERCIAL ROLE WORLDWIDE Diesel engine and fuel technology will continue to evolve, as will alternative options. This will ensure that fleet owners have increasing access to the solutions they need to meet both commercial and regulatory requirements without compromising operations.

ExxonMobil is collaborating with engine manufacturers to develop fuel technologies that help meet the current and future needs of diesel engines. Furthermore, ExxonMobil is supporting the Logistics Emissions Reduction Scheme in the UK, which is working with members to reduce emissions from freight. 6 However, the bottom line is that diesel remains critical to the commercial vehicle market – now and into the future. Fleet owners should therefore work with suppliers that offer consistently high quality diesel to ensure they get the full benefits of the latest performance-enhancing formulations.

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AUTOMOTIVE

SIMULATION IN THE 1980S FORD

WHEN FORD MET WITNESS John Ladbrook, Ford’s simulation technical expert, has been responsible for overseeing the implementation of the PTME simulation strategy since the early 1980s. This role also included sponsorship of many engineering projects across various universities and resulted in John’s appointment as Fellow with Cranfield University in 2001 and Honorary Professor at the University of East London in 2016.

The emergence of simulation back in the eighties allowed engineers to influence the planning process in a way that was previously rarely considered. Simulation models made transparent the effects of change and investment and allowed a wide variety of options to be tested cost effectively.

Experimentation and thorough investigation of cause and effect led to a greater body of evidence that could be presented to senior management to justify decisions.

“Sharing and effective communication of the simulation results was, and still is, absolutely essential to establishing successful modelling,” John argues.

This approach of using predictive simulation models was so successful that Ford soon mandated that investment in simulation would be a pre-requisite for all future program verification – and so the PTME invested further in Lanner’s commercially available WITNESS software to support model development and satisfy Ford’s demand for predictive analysis.

This commitment to upfront analysis in advance of any production or manufacturing decisions led to regular meeting forums based around the simulated results. Productivity soared, but each major study project took approximately 600 hours to complete – effectively 4 months of full-time work.

This led to a situation where the demand for simulation was far greater than the supply.

Ford needed new ways to break the deadlock and John was tasked with solving this problem without significantly increasing the business headcount.

NEW CHALLENGES

As part of their program to continually improve the efficiency of simulation and reduce costs, Ford opted to develop its own productivity-enhancing software, known as the Ford Interactive Replacement

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Simulation Tool (FIRST). FIRST was built to not only decrease the time required to answer engineering questions, but also to enable simulation capability at a more accessible skill level. Key to the design was a simple spreadsheet interface that an engineer, without deep modelling and simulation skills, could populate with data and then rapidly run experiments which, in turn, fed back a set of easy to understand results.

“Our FIRST system was used across all projects for new and existing machine production lines,” John recalls, “By this stage, Ford’s simulation capabilities were widely recognised as being world class and were seen as a beacon for the industry. At this stage, only two full time engineers were responsible for Ford’s simulation strategy, supplemented by various university located projects, making such accolades all the more impressive!”

Sponsoring local universities created a mutually beneficial relationship between Ford, Academia and the students. This allowed Ford to gain access to resources and expertise while also providing students with real world context to incorporate into their thesis and experience in a world-class automotive manufacturing engineering team. Since 2007, Ford’s PTME simulation team has grown from 2 people to 13, five of whom had previously been students working on projects at Ford.

This collaborative approach remains in place today – enabling chosen students to gain a greater knowledge of cause and effect through the use and manipulation of simulation and in some cases leading to longterm employment within Ford.

FURTHER REFINEMENT

Ford’s development of simulation stepped up a gear when, in 2007, an additional tool was developed to allow for greater flexibility and even easier access and learning for new users. This model became known as the Ford Assembly Simulation Tool (FAST). It refined the lessons learned with FIRST and utilised more of the open connectivity power of WITNESS software. The result was a consolidated, more flexible tool that could be used more widely across powertrain assembly and engine machining production lines. Management were demanding an improved alignment to reality and the improvement through FAST meant this demand could now be met.

The simulation of each project study with FAST was now taking under three months to complete. This efficiency was a great improvement and simulation was consequently becoming more and more in demand. In response, a greater number of WITNESS nodes were deployed across the Ford networks, allowing the team to answer more questions with wider experimentation that improved results.

Over the next few years, the development of FAST continued; utilising HPC (High Performance Computing) clusters in which banks of powerful processors provided John with the computing power he needed to further increase experimentation rates and team productivity. Before this could be achieved, development of WITNESS and the Ford infrastructure had to be made and this was successfully achieved through collaboration between Ford’s simulation team,

Ford’s IT department in North America and Lanner’s development team. The HPC experimentation shaved another 2-4 weeks off the delivery time for each project study, but again the key outcome was delivering more analysis and decision support for management. In the first full year of using HPC, Ford’s simulation team experimented across a total of approx. 100,000 hours of WITNESS simulations. A figure that has since quadrupled by the end of 2016!

Another factor crucial to the team’s success has been that of delivering easy to understand analysis in a format that others could easily interpret and relate to. Investing in the development of sophisticated tables, charts and analytical calculations, Ford’s simulation experiments now seamlessly generate engineering, manufacturing, execution and performance measurement reports in the exact format that Ford management understand and are familiar with.

This has had the effect of further encouraging senior management to ask even more business questions of the simulations; success breeding success! Fast configuration of scenarios, fast experimentation and fast analysis and creation of reports underpins the success of Ford’s FAST simulation capability.

RECENT WORK – A SYMBIOTIC SIMULATION

In 2015, the PTME in conjunction with the University of East London PhD began developing a “symbiotic solution” with an aim to shrink the required configuration time for each study even further. With the abundance of connected data sources available, it becomes feasible to tap into live manufacturing systems and condition the data directly into the formats consumable by the simulation.

Ford leveraged the API interface to WITNESS to connect and control models using interfaces from other systems. The result are models configured and driven directly by live and accurate data sources effectively generating a digital twin of real world systems.

Models will increasingly be fed in this way in the era of smart manufacturing as modelling becomes embedded in operational as well as strategic decision making. The symbiotic

simulation of the real facility will take the latest data and plans and constantly assess future performance.

IS SIMULATION MATURITY IN SIGHT?

Today, John states, “Software underpinned

by WITNESS predictive simulation software and a talented team of ten have allowed the PTME to cover more ground and to develop a bigger and more detailed picture of actions and consequences than ever before. Advanced modelling as well as simulation questionand-answers now work hand-in-hand, allowing significant cost-savings. It is Ford management’s thirst for simulation that has enabled and allowed these advances.”

“Success is also marked by the growing use of simulation in the plants and, most of all, in other departmental meetings where we frequently hear ‘what does the simulation say?” John remarks. “In my opinion, we are by no means at the peak of the maturity curve – having spent the best part of my career establishing a world class simulation capability at Ford, I am excited about how future developments will enhance our achievements further.”

Looking into the future, the goal is to continue to reduce the elapsed time required to complete a study project. If analysis can be returned in less than one business day an even wider range of questions can be asked and answered in enough time to influence decisions. To do this PTME aim put more intelligence into the upfront assimilation of the data. Simulated outputs will continue in the same formats but the tools used to present results will change; the team are already looking at alternative options for analytics, both locally and deployed across networks.

INCREASING DEMAND

It is also forecasted that as business complexity and demand for volume increases steadily year-on-year, the use of predictive simulation will increase along with the scope of business questions. John’s team are looking to introduce more advanced analytics capabilities into Ford’s current tools to be able to handle their increasing complexity.

Redesigning the user interface will allow PTME to guide production engineers, who have typically been internal customers of the team, to use the simulation tools. Removing the additional complexity in the project process means that the correct implementation decision can be taken every time. And this simplicity will be essential to the next milestone in Ford’s simulation program.

In the near future Ford are aiming to allow every plant to run their own simulations on demand. Using FAST, on-site engineers can expect to be able to look back 3 months, get statistically stable data, condition the data for the experiment, run the simulation and obtain results. They should then be able to use AI and manual intelligence to guide their actions based on their modelled predictions.

Key Ingredients to Ford’s Simulation Success John identifies a number of key factors in making simulation a success at Ford: Establishing the right methodology and developing a streamlined process to enable fast simulation along with efficient data entry.

Modelling at the correct level of detail. The level of detail needs to be determined by the questions that are to be asked of a model. It is easy to waste time with too much detail. John states “My advice to others looking at building their simulation capabilities is to consider how to model robustly. Do not get drawn into emulation (modelling every detail) which is time consuming in terms of building the model, gathering input data, and which may yield little return in terms of model accuracy relative to the input.”

Integrate simulation modellers with the plant teams. The simulation team has now been co-located with manufacturing, so that communication can become more direct – and that engineers on both sides can feel integral to the overall process.

Develop reporting systems that communicate well. The right report will be understood immediately by the recipient and enable quick actions.

Develop methods to run model experiments quickly. The development of an HPC scaled deployment with Lanner has allowed for fast results and the solution is scalable.

SIMULATION AT FORD – THE BOTTOM LINE John considers that the use of simulation is key to driving efficiency at Ford.

“Have we achieved everything we set out to achieve? Absolutely, and more. I am immensely proud of the simulation capability we now have, and the fact that it has driven multi-million-pound savings in production programs across the world over the years is testament to the software capability and our methods of use.”

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AUTOMOTIVE

MOTION & CONTROL NSK

NEW NSK BEARINGS FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE TRANSMISSIONS AID EFFICIENCY AND RELIABILITY

NSK has unveiled its new LCube II series of tapered roller bearings for use in electric vehicle (EV) transmission systems. LCube II bearings are specifically designed to improve efficiency by contributing to better fuel economy (lower power consumption), and enhance reliability through higher levels of durability and seizure resistance.

To improve efficiency and fuel economy in EVs, the industry has seen a shift to using less lubricant and/or lower viscosity lubricant in transmission systems. As a result, tapered roller bearings in EV transmissions are being subjected to increasingly severe lubrication conditions, heightening the risk of depleting

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the lubrication oil film, which in turn promotes surface damage and potential bearing seizure.

Higher efficiency transmission systems are seen as key to improving EV fuel economy, so NSK set out to develop a highly reliable tapered roller bearing capable of overcoming these hurdles. The result is the new LCube II. Of particular note, LCube II bearings feature pore-like micro-indents in the rolling contact surface and roller head. This microstructure helps retain an oil film, which significantly inhibits surface damage. The upshot is that LCube II tapered roller bearings achieve more

than eight times higher durability and equal or greater seizure resistance compared with conventional alternatives, even under severely low (thin) oil film conditions.

An additional benefit is that improved lubricant oil accumulation and retention on the roller surface contributes to 10% less friction at low speeds in comparison with conventional bearings. Reduced friction is a further factor that imparts a positive effect on overall efficiency in EV transmissions. www.nsk.com

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31/08/2016 09:04

Issue 42 PECM

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CONTROL & AUTOMATION

BOOSTING PACKING SPEED BRILLOPAK

ERGONOMIC PAKSTATION EASES MORRISONS’ MANUAL CASE LOADING PAINS

Potato packs are fed at the optimal ergonomic height to mitigate repetitive strain injuries Replacing the manual turntable-style potato case loading system at Morrisons’ Rushden depot with two award-winning Brillopak PakStations has boosted packing speed. Most importantly, the systems have made the job more manageable and ergonomic for the team members performing this repetitive end-of-line task.

Having automated two packing lines around the same time, site manager Andy Day says that the thing that shocked him most about the PakStation was “how much it transformed the efficiency and tidiness of the packing line and surrounding area.”

From the outset, the Rushden team was resolute that the turntable had to go. “It wasn’t right for the 66 million kilos of potato

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packs that are processed by the depot annually, or our people that had to bend, twist and turn to maintain a consistent packing pace,” states Andy.

lead to bags dropping on the floor, product damage, split bags and waste. Obviously, this doesn’t align with Morrisons fresh produce quality strategy.”

The rate in which potato packs come through the back end automated packing system previously meant operatives manually loading straight from the lines onto conventional pallets, simply couldn’t keep up. Not only was the backlog a team stressor, packs would start to pile up and bump around the roundtable. Presentation of the packs in the crates was also erratic.

Being a seven-day-a-week operation handling up to 14 product SKUs at any one time, extra capacity was clearly needed. Yet, physically fitting more people around the turntable to pack faster was unfeasible. Space just wouldn’t allow it.

More people and product friendly Protecting workforce welfare by reducing the duration people work on a specific task, coupled with enhancing comfort during the pick and pack process were among the key catalysts for introducing semi-automated packing, reflects Andy.

Andy recalls: “Every time a pack rotates around the table, it’s moving. The longer it sits on the roundtable and moves for, the greater the risk of product accumulations. This can

He explains: “During peak times we operate four packing lines in 12 hour shifts. Likefor-like we still employ the same volume of people on the manual lines. Only now, we tend to use a smaller pool of people and have the option of rotating them between packing, crate separation, palletising and the robotic lines, which offers them greater job variety.”

A simple touchscreen enables staff to adjust/control the speed with the flow wrapper

Andy estimates that the site’s reliance on agency staff has reduced by around 40%. He believes that some of this could be attributed to fewer staff absences as a result of the more ergonomic system.

“There’s certainly some correlation between having a core team of people that are familiar with the system and the camaraderie that people build when they work together daily.

It’s very evident that our pack team now shares a stronger work ethic,” adds Andy.

To improve how packs were presented to the manual packers and consequently presentation within the retail crates, the Rushton team worked collaboratively with Brillopak to engineer two modified PakStations. A hybrid version of five apple PakStations installed by Morrisons at the Thrapston depot several years ago, Rushden’s modified design guarantees pack orientation to the workforce that collate the trays. Rather than clusters, packs come through in single file. This helps to guarantee consistent presentation of packs within the trays.

Additionally, the design of the PakStation lines helps to mitigate repetitive strain injuries and makes the whole manual packing process seamless. “Our colleagues find it much more ergonomic,” states Andy. “They’re not bending over or moving around the turntable or repeatedly lifting trays.”

ZONE CONTROL

By arranging two Brillopak PakStations staggered back-to-back means one operative can feed a continuous stream of crates to both packing lines concurrently, and remove filled crates placing them on the conveyor for palletising. Because this is done at the rear of the machine, crate clutter is minimised. Rather than doubling up the role, one crate feeder is deployed elsewhere in Rushden’s facility.

The lines, which are located in a busy warehouse, adjacent to the robotic installation, has also helped the team to introduce clear work zones, further reducing trip hazards. The consistent packing speed and fewer front to back end bottlenecks means that OEE across the whole packing zone has improved.

For additional flexibility, the two PakStation lines can be converged to run through the robotic cells. Having an equal split between robotic and semi-automated pack lines means that Morrisons can move labour around and scale up production to accommodate seasonal demands.

Each PakStation system features its own colour touchscreen control panel. This enables

Workforce moral has improved since Rushden installed the PakStation operatives to control and adjust the speed in which product is presented from the flow wrap system. “It’s so straightforward to use that I’m never worried about pressing the wrong button and breaking the system,” comments Dave, a longstanding packhouse operative.

Last year the system won the PPMA 2018 Group Award for Innovative Packaging Machine. Industry judges commented:

“The strength of the PakStation lies in its optimisation of manual human labour rather than trying to replace it completely. This gives a best of both worlds scenario along with reduced damage to product. Impressively short payback time and overall equipment performance improvements.” www.brillopak.co.uk

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CONTROL & AUTOMATION

D28 ROUND TUBE SYSTEM MK PROFILE SYSTEMS

ENRICHMENT OF THE MK PROFILE SYSTEM

Two round variants will expand the existing aluminium profile cross-sections from the extensive mk profile system.

Two profile cross-sections with a diameter of 28 mm as well as a small number of formfitting and stable connecting elements will soon expand the mk profile system. The new D28 round tube system was developed for lean production purposes to provide more streamlined and economical use of production resources. Almost any design for individual workshop and assembly equipment can be built using only 13 standard components.

Whether for supply trolleys, shelves, racks or extensions for workstations, the easyto-use D28 round pipe system means that a single person can put together brand

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new structures or extensions with little effort. Profile machining is not required for the solid and load-bearing construction of standard elements.

The D28 round pipe system is compatible with the mk 40 series profiles, offering the possibility to combine square and round cross sections. This combines the advantages of both series, ensuring high stability and versatility as well as weight and cost savings.

The system can also be combined with round tube components from other market leaders, making it easy to expand any existing designs. In some cases, the range of functions and stiffness are even more extensive thanks to the innovative profile cross-section.

Benefits • Simple, fast and economical design • Fast integration of existing applications • Very easy installation with little effort • Durable sturdy connection technology • Easy connection to 40 series mk profiles with no need for profile processing • Additional connection without obstructing edges using mk clamping connectors • Fully compatible with round tube profiles of 28mm diameter • Degree of assembly freely selectable (components, assemblies, complete solutions) • Particularly light profile at 0.6 kg/m

D28 Round Tube System for fast and easy Constructions Simple, fast and economical design Quick modification of existing applications Durable and sturdy connection technology

www.mkprofiles.co.uk

CONTROL & AUTOMATION

BESPOKE AUTOMATION LEUZE

LEUZE 2D CODE READERS FULFIL CHALLENGING ROLE IN AUTOMATED TYRE INFLATION LINE

Autarky Automation, a leading UK developer and manufacturer of bespoke automation and conveying systems, opted for the latest Leuze 2D code readers to help meet the demands of an automated tyre inflation line established at the Daventry, UK plant of TyreLine, a specialist in the provision of wheel and tyre assemblies for everything from wheelbarrows to high-performance sports cars. The code readers are used to identify assemblies by capturing data from barcodes that can be mounted at any point on the wheel diameter, and at any location across the conveyor’s width.

Founded in 1972, East Grinstead-based Autarky Automation helps customers to improve the productivity, reliability, safety

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and functionality of automation and conveying systems, while reducing waste, maintenance costs and downtime. Modular conveyor technology forms a significant part of the company’s offer, enabling sophisticated automation systems to be developed quickly, safely and efficiently in sectors such as automotive, food, medical, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, electronics, plastics, domestic products and aerospace.

In particular, Autarky’s modular conveyor technology, with a wide range of standardised components and accessories, allows a flexible approach to line construction and subsequent modification, helping to minimise project planning times and assembly costs.

A case in point can be seen with a recent project for Tyre-Line, which has been supplying industry with wheel and tyre assemblies since 1984. Tyre-Line had been running with a basic tyre inflator for standard steel wheel assemblies, while performing the inflation of tyres for high-end alloy wheels manually. However, with ongoing order growth, the company sought to improve throughput by acquiring a Hofmann tyre inflation machine that would accommodate its entire range of wheel and tyre assemblies.

Once installed, Tyre-Line wanted to automate the process of assemblies entering and leaving the machine, putting out a tender for a suitable conveyor system. The tender was won by Autarky.

omnidirectional, static or in fast motion, or inverse or mirrored. The DCR 200i is a small, camera-based 1D and 2D code reader. Thanks to its simple and intuitive operation and configuration, the product can be integrated in different applications extremely quickly.

“We presented Tyre-Line with a number of layout, solution and kit suggestions that would meet the demands of inflating such a wide range of assemblies, including tyres for high-value alloys,” says Brad North, Director of Autarky. “Among the principal challenges was how we would go about reading the barcode on each wheel and tyre assembly.

Capturing the barcode information would tell the Hofmann machine which assembly was approaching and hence what inflation pressure would be required.”

Each wheel and tyre assembly features a paper, low-tack adhesive barcode label.

However, Tyre-Line did not want to be restricted by having to place the label in exactly the same position on every assembly, as this would take time and precision. Instead, Tyre-Line tasked Autarky with devising a solution that could read the barcode in any location, and with the assembly at any position across the width of the conveyor. To resolve this issue, Autarky turned to Leuze electronic, the sensor people.

“Having discussed the application with Leuze experts, we opted for their DCR 200i 2D code reader,” explains Mr North. “We acquired three and mounted them on a loop array at the optimum angle and height so that the barcode could be captured at any position on the assembly and conveyor. Linked to the existing PROFINET communications network, the Leuze DCR 200i 2D code readers capture data from the barcode that is subsequently relayed to the Hofmann machine.”

The project took some 18 weeks to complete, with the barcode capture process described by Mr North as one of its most challenging aspects.

“If it was a tray, for example, which is a prismatic shape so would likely feature a barcode that is always in the same position, it would be easy,” he says. “However, a round object that looks the same whichever way it is positioned makes for a real challenge.

And yet it is one that had to be overcome as Tyre-Line can be faced with processing assemblies for high-performance cars, taxis and caravans, all at the same time. Correctly assembly identification is vital to the line’s success as it determines the right inflation pressure, which is why selecting the best code reader was absolutely imperative.”

Autarky is no stranger to Leuze solutions; the company has used hundreds of the company’s standard barcode readers and photoelectric sensors.

“We have a solid working relationship with Leuze and always receive good service, which is what made it such a straightforward decision for us,” says Mr North.

Leuze code readers capture 1D and 2D codes without fail, be they printed, directly marked,

The DCR 200i can be configured either via a web-based software tool with simple installation wizard and menu selection, or directly on the device. Additionally, configuration via configuration codes can be carried out via smartphone app. Optics models are available for larger operating ranges or miniature codes. For fieldbus integration, standard interfaces such as PROFINET or Ethernet TCP/IP are provided.

The stainless steel housing model with IP69K/IP67 rated protection helps ensure resistance against cleaning agents during washdown processes.

Concludes Mr North: “At Tyre-Line, the Leuze 2D code readers work all day, every day, helping the company achieve far higher throughput rates than previously.

Today, a wheel and tyre assembly passes through the inflation machine every 7 seconds. Aside from pure speed, Tyre-Line is also enjoying a boost in inflation accuracy and repeatability, as the automated system has eliminated any potential for human error.”

A video of the automated conveyor application at Tyre-Line can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=ktwEvZqprKM

www.smart-sensor-business.com

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CONTROL & AUTOMATION

2020: THE YEAR OF AUTOMATION FANUC

A PIVOTAL YEAR FOR UK MANUFACTURING

As 2020 begins, attention inevitably turns towards what lies ahead in the year. Tom Bouchier, Managing Director at FANUC UK, reflects on the state of automation over the last 12 months, and looks forward to what could be a pivotal year for UK manufacturing.

A report published by the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee (BEIS) in September highlighted the disadvantageous position of UK automation. Falling behind its G7 counterparts in terms of robot density, Britain will struggle to keep pace with the productivity of international competitors if action is not taken.

If UK manufacturing is to realise its potential, it must overcome its apparent reluctance to automate. There is undoubtedly a superb base of technology and research in British industry, which, providing it can overcome the current barriers to automation, provides a fantastic platform for economic growth and prosperity.

However, barriers remain, and the UK must work together to move industry forward.

ADDRESS MISCONCEPTIONS

The biggest challenge we face as a nation is to generate awareness around the

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benefits that robots and automation can bring to businesses. There are a number of misconceptions that must be addressed, which are ingrained into our society for various reasons.

One of the most damaging beliefs is that automation is expensive. This is particular

prevalent amongst those that need it most, specifically SMEs that are ready to expand their business but perhaps feel they do not have the capital to do so. The fact is that automation is not out of the financial reach of many UK manufacturers, and the economic gains of introducing robots into a production line more than offsets any upfront cost.

In addition to the subject of expense, there is a general lack of awareness over the numerous applications that automation can be used for. With benefits for a whole host of industries, such as automotive, aerospace, food & beverage, OEM, and medical, there are a wide range of industries which could enjoy significant economic growth by adopting automation. Plus, advances in collaborative robots, or cobots, add another tool to a manufacturer’s armoury.

The way we, as an industry, educate the end user on the benefits of automation is crucial. Business owners are understandably protective of their company, and no one is interested in being lectured on how they could be improved. Last year, FANUC hosted its first ever UK Open House, showcasing the potential of automation by providing manufacturers with a hands-on experience with the latest robots. These events are very important for industry, and manufacturers should endeavour to attend similar open days in the years ahead.

EDUCATE FOR TOMORROW

Alongside upskilling those already working in manufacturing, we must provide pathways for those seeking to enter the industry. The most effective way to secure the future of UK businesses is to provide a stream of enthusiastic and automation-literate employees, capable of engaging with the latest technology.

There has to be a concerted effort to engage young people, and the best way to do this is to continue to provide strong apprenticeship programmes. The key is to take a cross-party approach to this, because the health of UK industry is too important to be politicised.

We must look at how funding can be used to foster growth – for example tax breaks could go to OEMs to enable them to improve training and prioritise apprenticeships.

It is also important that organisations, such as WorldSkills, continue to inspire young people and develop their skills. It raises awareness over the need to address growing skills gaps, which we can see all too clearly in UK manufacturing. FANUC’s ongoing partnership with WorldSkills is part of its commitment to raise awareness of automation, and by equipping apprentices with the competencies and knowledge to take into the future, British businesses can continue to compete on a world stage.

ATTITUDE CHANGE

Changing perceptions of automation and robots should not be limited to UK manufacturing – it is something that needs addressing on a much wider scale. Resistance to automation can largely be attributed to the distrust of robots that is inherent within British society. The pervasiveness of this mindset should not be underestimated, and everyday features as prevalent as ‘I am not a robot’ buttons on websites are indicative of the negative attitudes towards robotic technology.

By educating those outside of UK industry as well as those within it, we can break down some of the barriers to robotics by removing the stigma associated with the word. Rather than fighting against the introduction of modern technology, Britain should be pioneering automation, and changes to attitudes will help make this possible.

INCLUSIVENESS

Encouraging people to talk about automation is a great start, but to foster inclusion within technologies is something which is beneficial to UK industry as a whole.

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) refers to the networking of devices for the purpose of interaction and data exchange, and is likely to be a major trend in 2020.

FANUC is introducing its own IIoT platform into the European market, known as the FIELD system, which stands for FANUC Intelligent Edge Link and Drive. It is great for breaking down barriers to automation within factories themselves, enabling communication between various machines and robots of different generations and manufacturers. This type of open platform technology can play a major role in encouraging a wider adoption of automation, and it is an exciting prospect for the year ahead.

This type of open communication can actually be applied to the way UK industry liaise with Government. Many, myself

included, frequently call on the Government to be more decisive in leading the transition to new technologies, and to provide a platform upon which British businesses can grow. But a certain degree of responsibility lies with experts to support the Government, by providing a crucial base of industryspecific knowledge to support their efforts to influence a change in attitudes.

FINAL THOUGHTS

There is clearly room for improvement in the UK when it comes to adopting automation into manufacturing, and the low robot density compared with our G7 counterparts is worrying. However, there is sufficient appetite for progress and technological advancement to be optimistic that 2020 will be a pivotal year for British businesses.

Addressing misconceptions and tackling barriers to automation with a positive mindset is the key to improving productivity in UK industry, and by generating awareness and offering training, there is no reason to believe that the year ahead will be anything but successful.

FANUC Corporation The FANUC Corporation is a world leader in factory automation for CNC control systems, robots and production machinery (ROBODRILL, ROBOCUT and ROBOSHOT). Since 1956, FANUC has pioneered the development of numerically controlled machines in the automation industry. With 263 locations supporting 108 countries worldwide and more than 7,000 employees, FANUC offers a dense network in sales, technical support, research & development, logistics and customer service.

For more information on FANUC, or to see its current product range, please visit: www.fanuc.eu/uk/en.

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CONTROL & AUTOMATION

A ‘SMART’ FACTORY FLOOR SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC

ENSURING THE SUCCESS OF THE ‘COBOTICS’ MOVEMENT IN 2020 Robots are being used to carry out tasks previously performed by humans, but in just a fraction of the time. Robots are being applied to the food and beverage industry to assist in functions including; packing, handling, quality control and even maintenance.

THE EXPLOSION OF ‘COBOTICS’ Like many industrial processes, food and drink production is always at risk from human error, which can cause downtime, poor quality and product loss, ultimately increasing costs. To minimise these risks and protect the production line, we are seeing the introduction of ‘cobotics’ compact, easy-to-use and collaborative robots to work alongside humans.

By Martin Walder, VP Industrial Automation at Schneider Electric With the UK manufacturing industry under increasing pressure to deliver more at a lower cost, the coming years will see manufacturers take steps to create a completely ‘smart’ factory floor.

Thanks to recent advancements in technologies, most notably with the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), using smart technology is feasible for a greater number of manufacturers. However, a truly ‘smart factory’ is one that is completely digitised with a high level of automation and connectivity throughout its whole supply chain.

There is a significant increase in the demands for robots, and indeed cobots, as a result of rising wages and skill shortages. As automation developers introduce better sensing/ vision capabilities, ever more complex applications can be tackled. More responsive safety systems will also allow cobots to work alongside humans with greater flexibility, improving productivity, hygiene and safety.

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As automation developers introduce better sensing capability and more responsive safety systems, the application of robotic equipment in this space will only increase – paving the way for improved interaction so that complex processes can be completed faster, more easily and more safely.

With this change comes an additional benefit for a skills-poor industry struggling to attract engineering expertise. The cobotics movement doesn’t replace humans, rather it simply frees up highly skilled workers time for more value-add activity.

MINIMISING THE RISKS We are beginning to see how this collaboration can minimise risks to employees working on the factory floor. Robots are able to perform more dangerous and repetitive jobs that can often be hazardous for humans, such cutting and slicing. In turn, this allows workers to apply their skills elsewhere. It also eases the social implications of the trend, ensuring the two parties can work in harmony towards productivity goals, while tackling the problem of engineering expertise retiring out of the workforce.

With increasingly sophisticated sensors and more highly functional robotic equipment, the collaboration between humans and machines on the factory

floor is imperative to ensure uniformity and efficiency. This is because robots not only reduce the chances of human error, but also because they manage resources to achieve the best margin. For example, food manufacturers such as bakers have started to notice increased productivity and quality as a result of incorporating smart technologies into their equipment.

Connecting these devices has shown it is possible to control speed, precision and the volume of ingredients, combining high turnover with consistent quality.

THE JOURNEY TO SUCCESS For food manufacturers to ensure that they are getting the most out of their food lines, it’s important that they implement robotics and analytics. Ultimately, the only way to protect the food line from human error or equipment failure is to gather a greater insight into processes – with the capability to react in real-time. If we are to progress and take manufacturing to the next level, incorporating robotics into the production line is a vital part of this and the health and longevity of the sector relies on it.

For the ‘robotics and cobotics’ movement to thrive, we must educate our workforce on its benefits and capabilities. With greater understanding, will come greater implementation and proficiency. Over the next ten years, we expect to see it proliferate and manufacturers to reap the benefits of greater efficiency, profitability and performance. At the same time, any manufacturing operations that do not adopt digital technologies will get marginalised – if not lost. Ultimately, legacy/non-connected technologies do not fit into the digital ecosystem, where analysis and optimisation are fundamental.

We are set to see more manufacturers recognise the true benefits of smart manufacturing. In the meantime, increased data insights and connectivity will lay solid foundations for new, and more effective business models.

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CONTROL & AUTOMATION

HUMAN MACHINES MPAC LAMBERT

A NEW ERA OF AUTOMATION

As robotics and artificial intelligence combine, headlines start to predict the end of the world as we know it. Whether used as a point of fear, or a more optimistic view of the future, there is no denying that human roles in the workforce are changing. But, when it comes to humans being replaced by robots, there are a number of factors, when combined, rule out the use of robots in many applications.

Mpac Lambert provides technology leading automation solutions to the medical and consumer healthcare markets, and has established itself as a global leader in cutting-edge automation processes and transformational technologies. Mike Lewis, Innovations Director at Mpac Lambert takes us through his thoughts on this era, and how humans can make manufacturing more automated.

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“Human drive is the key to automation in manufacturing. There is this obsession with job-stealing robots that can cause us to overestimate the impact of automation. Every machine, piece of hardware or software, is only as good as the people behind them.

that people can. Instead, we focus on seamless integration, and building machines that work with people, not in replacement of. People are able to provide muscle, whilst machines provide added cognition, and together – both are crucial to accomplishing a given task.

“When integrating automation, we take a holistic approach. We constantly ask ourselves ‘why’. The automation needs to create efficiencies, be highly flexible and customisable. Ultimately for us, it comes down to design – everything needs to add value.

“At Mpac Lambert, innovation is key, it offers us opportunities for new efficiencies as well as products and processes. We work with you to design and develop your product, and its manufacturing processes. We detail all proposed automation and evaluate its impact on the product design and production process, so the resulting effect is improved product quality, automation throughput and efficiency.”

“Automation helps us reduce uncertainty in complex processes and provides us with product consistency and quality control. But what it doesn’t do is have the flexibility and dexterity of the human hand. Automation can’t think, adapt or react in the same way

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ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

New Safety Lock Out For Mains Cut Outs

Tempa Pano

Whippendell

Now available from Martindale Electric – leaders in safe isolation and electrical safety – is the new LOK6W, a simple and effective locking off device for Henley and Lucy mains supply cut outs. Designed to restrict finger access to live contacts and prevent the reinsertion of a fuse whilst maintenance is in progress, the LOK6W is an essential accessory to keep electricians, installation teams and their customers safe in accordance with Electricity at Work Regulations.

In common with the LOK6, the new LOK6W features an extendable design which also makes it suitable for larger Red Spot type fuse holders rated at 63A and 100A. Also available from Martindale Electric is a full range of locking off kits, voltage indicators, test lamps and proving units for implementing safe isolation procedures in all installation categories up to 1000V CAT IV.

With an extensive range of products, from small junction boxes to wall mounted enclosures up to large modular systems, Tempa Pano has strived to innovate to suit the market requirements.

Aiming to provide customers with integrated solutions Tempa Pano correspondingly offers a comprehensive range of accessories to compliment the enclosures which include low voltage busbar systems, climate control products and facilities to help the client with installation.

With all these options Tempa Pano can provide it’s customer with complete solutions, tested to the highest standards. Below is a breakdown of the Tempa Pano Enclosure and Busbar ranges: • IP65 Wall Mount Enclosures • IP55 & IP65 Junction Boxes • IP 55 Floor Standing Enclosures • 304 & 316 Grade Stainless Steel Enclosures.

• ATEX Approved (Ex e & Ex ie) Enclosures • Electronic System Cabinets • Console Systems • Power Distribution Busbars • Climate Control Products.

Whippendell specialises in providing electrical solutions for harsh environments such as the Rail, Naval and Commercial Marine Industrial Sectors. This includes design, manufacture, inservice support and maintenance.

For example, the company has been supporting the Royal Navy since the 1930s, with equipment on all current surface ships and submarines.

We offer a range of electrical panels, motor starters, control systems, power conversion equipment and aircraft ground power support systems.

For more information, please contact Martindale Electric on 01923 441717 or visit: www.martindale-electric.co.uk

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Many of our solutions arise from a reverse engineering task to replace obsolete systems with modern alternatives. Typical applications include high pressure air control systems, pumps, steering gear, stabilisers, lifts, winches, mechanical handling equipment and HVAC systems. Solutions can be designed around Whippendell components or to customer preferred requirements and components – use of COTS and PLC technology is standard. www.whippendell-marine.co.uk

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www.gradconn.com 52

PECM Issue 42

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ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM WEEE

WASTE ELECTRONICS – COSTLY, COMPLEX AND FAR FROM COMFORTABLE Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) is the elephant in the room. A quick scan of recent news articles pulls up a plethora of missed targets, new legislation, illegal exportation and high technology. A heady mix of information, indeed, and truly a minefield. On top of this, DEFRA said in the recent UK Resources and Waste Strategy that it plans to review UK WEEE regulations again in early 2020.

Those involved in the industry need to be fully aware of the timescales for delivery, the scale of change and impacts of EU Exit discussions on parliamentary process and economic pressures on the economy as a whole.

But ask any manufacturer of electronics in the UK today what they are looking for in terms of compliance with management of their WEEE, and they will probably simply say ‘a level playing field.’

There are those who are truly taking a stand – multinational consumer facing brands with a lot to lose in reputation terms – and those who are simply paying lip service to the WEEE Directive and environmental legislation.

With more than 300 different types of plastic used in manufacturing, it’s complex, it’s costly and it’s a far from comfortable issue.

Speaking at the RINA Electrical and Electronic Equipment and the Environment conference in London this week, Dr Kevin Bradley, Secretary General of BSEF, The International Bromine Council, says what’s needed is pragmatic solutions and a better approach to sorting out the waste at source.

“No one is collecting enough,” he states bluntly, adding: “and an awful lot of WEEE is still stuck in people’s drawers – they don’t know what to do with it. In terms of recyclers, there isn’t a single company that processes plastic waste – especially that containing brominated fire retardants (BFRs) – from start to finish. There are a lot of grey areas, and material is exported, with companies washing their hands of the responsibilities.”

He sees a number of issues. First and foremost, scavenging of WEEE for the best (read: most profitable) parts means a

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reduction in the overall availability of raw material.

Meanwhile, the illegal export of whole WEEE articles and materials – such as recycled plastic shred - out of the EU is causing all sorts of industry headaches and leads us back to the ‘level playing field’ argument.

Bradley describes a situation where removing the unwanted parts of the WEEE – such as flame retardants - is costly, time-consuming and expensive. He paints a picture whereby a UK recycler has 10,000 tonnes of plastic shred that potentially contains fire retardants. It could be sent to a specialist processor in the EU to remove the offending chemicals – and under the WEEE Directive all BFR-containing plastics must be separated from other plastics – but it can take six months to get an export licence.

“Getting such a licence is expensive, complicated and you might need help to do the paperwork. Meanwhile, you’ve got 10,000 tonnes of plastic shred clogging up your warehouse – so what do you do?” asked Bradley.

It’s clear that current complexity and cost means recyclers are looking for alternative solutions. But the alternative is often shipping rough shredded plastic to Asia, where it is processed and sent back to Europe. And that’s how flame retardants have been found in food packaging on European supermarket shelves.

Bradley says part of the problem here is that while sorting is a requirement, the directive doesn’t proscribe what must be done. “If we can get it right at the first stage,” he says, “then that’s half the battle. Recyclers are being asked to do things manufacturers are not.

Under the current system, there’s no coherence between the WEEE directive and waste shipment regulation – so there are differences in implementation and interpretation within Europe, and globally.

The burden of WEEE is also on producers, with industry circles keen to learn more about Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).

In 2017, Valpak, the compliance, recycling and waste services company, carried out a review of the main EU systems for EPR for Packaging across major EU countries.

Ben Storer, Senior Technical Advisor at Valpak, explains that the “PackFlow 2025” study researched what elements were essential to successful EPR schemes. “We looked at what full net costs may mean, and look like, as well as what could be learned from other schemes.

This has formed the baseline for our proposals and feedback for EPR Reform consultation. It has been broadly welcomed by the industry,” he says, adding that the report’s findings helped the European Commission finalise its proposals for a Circular Economy Package - including significant changes to EPR for packaging.

This year, Storer explains, has seen the UK Government seeking detailed consultations on proposals for how the UK system could be improved and changed in the future.

“This led us to further develop our thinking and develop a “hybrid model” for EPR,” says the technical advisor, adding: “The hybrid model was referenced and referred to in the DEFRA consultation responses and we believe it provides all the beneficial aspects of the other models. We hope it will be taken forward further by the Government.”

He offers a stark warning in terms of EPR: “The biggest change will be the move to full net costs. This means producers will be expected to pay the entire costs for collecting, recycling and disposing of packaging in future, rather than just a contribution towards it.”

Of course, a move to full net costs, he says, puts a much higher emphasis onto data reporting and ensuring that this is accurate, as this drives costs.

He suggests any future system should be designed to use this extra funding to increase efficiency, improve the quality of recycling and develop further recycling infrastructure in the UK. Meanwhile Scott Butler, WEEE Fund Project Manager with the not-for-profit Joint Trade

Associations (JTAC), a collection of electronics industry trade bodies including TechUK, is keen to see new innovation and technologies adopted in the sector.

The UK-based WEEE Fund was developed by some of the major producers as a reaction to UK WEEE regulations. “In short,” he explains, “if producers don’t meet the WEEE collection targets, they can pay a fee into the fund, based on the average cost of collection plus some escalators – so it’s designed to encourage collection.”

Funds collected are then invested in new schemes and research projects, many of which wouldn’t otherwise go beyond the drawing board.

The WEEE Fund – which has so far raised more than £8 million - is one of a number of such schemes; many set up by producers working in the same space.

The Fund provides financial support to research projects – with the evaluation panel looking for innovation. It also offers Local Authority and community organisation grants, with Butler saying they “look to support collection and reuse schemes.”

“Thirdly, we invest in communication and behaviour change. We are embarking on a major consumer facing campaign in 2020 to educate and encourage WEEE recycling,” he reveals.

The WEEE Fund is currently backing research into the sources and destinations of WEEE in the UK – in the hope that it will help producers meet future collection and recycling targets.

Dr Chris Robertson, Head of Product Regulatory Compliance at RINA, the global assessment, technical consultancy, engineering, inspection, certification and research organisation, agrees with Kevin Bradley that what’s needed is a level playing field.

He says: “Everyone should have to do the same thing, but it’s patchy and depends on which sector a company operates in, in terms of compliance. The sensible thing to do is to try and anticipate what legal and other changes are coming up – and ensure you understand what this means in terms of compliance requirements, financial obligations, and market access.”

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ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS Visit www.radics.tech for more information

THE EL-SIE RANGE

RADICS - BASED I&C SOLUTIONS: ADDING VALUES FOR NPP SAFETY AND PROFITABILITY RadICS platform, approved by U.S. NRC on july 31.2019, provides state-of-the-art safety functions and possesses the following cost benefit features: • High Reliability with Fault Tolerant Features that are based on IEC 61508 SIL 3 certification.

• Simpler Maintenance and Repair due to the advanced diagnostic and monitoring features.

• Surveillance Testing Optimization due to extensive self-diagnostic testing features to reduce burdens on plant personnel.

• Lower regulatory risks because it has the newest and most complete NRC-approved Topical Report.

• Unique diversity strategy approved by NRC. No need for a Diverse Actuation System.

Although Lascar Electronics has been manufacturing data loggers for over 25 years, even for the original inventors of the USB data logger the launch of the new ELSIE range is a major event. The ELSIE is the first in a new generation of EasyLog products that takes data logging to another level.

the coloured LED indicators and sounder mean the EL-SIE can grab your attention when it needs to. Each logger is supplied with batteries (two standard AAAs), a USB cable and a wall bracket so it’s ready to use right away, and one set of batteries will typically last over a year.

Capable of measuring ambient temperature, humidity and pressure, each can store over 1 million readings inside the sleek metal housing. The bright and clear display shows readings and device status at a glance, and

The new EL-SIE range: data logging has evolved.

Lascar Electronics www.lascarelectronics.com +44 (0)1794 884567

DON’T BE HELD BACK BY A PART NUMBER With an impressive selection of over 25 industry-leading brands and several new product ranges added to Rhopoint Components’ portfolio in 2019, they have taken steps towards serving the ever-growing demand for customised solutions in the electronics industry. Off-the-shelf products no longer sufficient and using a close-enough part often means a compromise elsewhere.

Rhopoint Components represent carefully selected manufacturers who can satisfy this market shift, while continuing to serve the industries where the flexibility and high quality have always been important. Whether an

unusual package, resistance value, tolerance beyond the datasheet values or specialist terminations, Rhopoint Components offer customisation on the vast majority of their range of passive and active electronic components as well as pressure, temperature and liquid level sensors. Custom components can be surprisingly cost effective – often in line with the standard models, in addition to saving cost elsewhere in form of saved board space or eliminated need for an additional component.

To see how Rhopoint can help equip your design with the right components, contact their technical sales team or visit their website.

• Resistance value • Tolerances • TCR • Package • Terminations • Lead lengths and more....

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FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

ENERGY AWARDS 2019 SEELEY

SEELEY INTERNATIONAL HAS WON AT THE COVETED ENERGY AWARDS 2019

Breezair direct evaporative cooler (model TBSI 580) has been named Energy Efficient Product of the Year 2019, by a panel of esteemed judges.

The results of the Energy Awards 2019 were revealed on the 21st November at the Hilton Park Lane, London where the energy industry elite came together for a night of recognition and celebration of the sector’s achievements, with awards presented by comedian Miles Jupp.

Breezair TBSI 580 has won in the Energy Efficient Product of the Year and was praised by the expert judging panel, who are drawn from across the energy sector.

With 23 categories rewarding different aspects of the industry, the awards recognise the leading people, products, projects and services in the sector.

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Judges agreed that evaporative cooling technology has a lot of potential, both in energy and environmental terms. The addition of inverter technology looks like improving efficiency further. ‘Could be a game-changer’ judges commented. The environmental effect of having no refrigerant in the system was also noted.

Evaporative cooling can be the most energy-efficient solution when cooling large industrial and commercial areas, using water as a refrigerant and up to 80% less energy than conventional air conditioning systems.

Andrew Gaved, Editor of Emap’s H&V News magazine, who co-hosts the Energy Awards said: “To get to the target of Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050 is exactly what has been on show at the Energy Awards. It should give us all hope for the future.”

For more info visit www. seeleyinternational.com or write to uksales@seeleyinternational.com.

FASTENERS & FIXINGS

THE HUCK FLOORTIGHT ®

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EASY TO INSTALL BLIND RIVET DESIGNED FOR PLYWOOD AND PLYMETAL APPLICATIONS

Floor Tight

Floortight_xsection Due to their cost effectiveness and versatility in so many applications, blind structural faster technology has become an essential part of many modern industrial production processes. Huck FloortTight is an ideal blind fastener for all wood to metal applications. For example, “In plywood and plymetal vehicle floor applications, you need a fastener that’s strong, vibration resistant and watertight. Just as importantly, you want a fastening system that’s designed to reduce installation costs” adds Dan, MD at Star Fasteners.

WHY USE A STRUCTURAL FASTENER?

superior strength to conventional flooring screws and reduces the number of fasteners required and thereby the number of drilled holes. With various clamp strengths available, it is proving to be a popular fastening solution.

Available Sizes: 1/4”, 5/16” Materials: Steel Headstyles: Standard, Wide Flange, Plymetal, 90° Countersunk WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING A HUCK FLOORTIGHT FASTENER?

The presence of the mandrel accounts for a 60-80% increase in load-carrying ability in shear and tensile over conventional nonstructural blind fasteners. Structural blind fasteners can be differentiated from nonstructural not only by their overall increased level of strength, but also by the fact that their published shear values will be higher than their tensile values.

• Installing Huck FloorTight fasteners means the only labour required is one person to drill the hole and install the fastener. It is a one-sided installation process

Historically the Huck FloorTight has been specifically designed for use in vehicle flooring manufacturing. However, it is not its only use “we are seeing it used in quite innovative applications including commercial vehicle trailer internal walls, fastening ply to steel uprights. We recently helped specify the FloorTight into a large heavy-duty trailer where the load, due to its awkward size and weight, was buffeting the trailer side making the existing screw heads raise and breakaway, which then snagged and damaged its contents”. The FloorTight fastener offers

• FloorTight uses the force of the mandrel pulling up from the blindside to form a bulbing footprint, which stops the fastener pulling through and securely clamps the materials, whereas self-threading screws only rely on the thread cut into the steel as their anchor point.

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• Its self-countersinking feature eliminates the secondary counter boring process in plywood. Across a job it adds up to huge time savings. An extremely strong fastener installed with one less step!

• A large grip range eliminates the guesswork. The FloorTight fastening system accommodates material thickness ranging from 19.1mm to 41.3mm. The fasteners offer high clamp, high tensile and high shear

strength and when used in a commercial vehicle application it helps to eliminate the shifting and buckling of a trailer floor.

• Watertight. Unlike ordinary nuts and bolts, the FloorTight fastener is watertight on the blind side, preventing moisture from entering through the body of the installed fastener.

• Superior performance, time after time.

When it comes to holding power, FloorTight never gives up. Its design eliminates overtorque, screw head-poppers and loosening common in conventional floor screws.

• There are Numerous Health and safety benefits using the Huck FloorTight blind fastener. The installation process is easy on the ears and the environment. All Huck fasteners use quiet, non-torque tools for lower noise. And health risks are reduced because operator muscles and joints are not subjected to the constant torque of power tools.

• The engineer can be sure each FloorTight fastener has been installed correctly every time”.

Specialists in the supply and distribution of Huck Fasteners, Star Fasteners proud to be the UK’s largest Huck fastener stockists.

Working with a diverse range of end users and distributors from across a number of industries including rail, solar, wind power automotive, marine and the commercial vehicle market.

Huck FloorTight® Self-countersinking head eliminates the counterboring process in plywood, as well as dimpling in plymetal floors.

A high-strength pin locks in place within the shear plane for added holding power and durability.

360° internal locking feature creates a solid mechanical lock to prevent loosening.

Expansion within the weather-side stringer, coupled with the 360° internal lock provides excellent moisture resistance on the weather side.

Installation Sequence 1

Insert fastener in hole.

Apply installation tool.

2

3

4

The nose assembly (orange), attached to Huck’s installation tool, is placed over the pintail (white). When the trigger is pressed, the nose assembly jaws (red) pull on the pintail, drawing the pin though the sleeve, causing the blind side sleeve to expand, partially setting the sleeve in the top sheet and pulling out all the sheet gap.

Continued pulling on the pintail forms a mechanical lock between the pin and sleeve end. The anvil on the installation tool then countersinks the fastener head into the top of the material to a preset depth set by the anvil.

The anvil’s large bearing face then prevents further travel of the sleeve head into the top material.

The pin is then separated in tension at the break neck groove.

In fact they can be used in any industry where a quality, strong and dependable fastener is a required… application possibilities are endless!

Star Fasteners is also an accredited Huck tool service and repair department; expert technical knowledge and a large tool hire fleet complements the service. An important aspect of Star Fasteners quality promise is a

well-stocked tool room.

As a well-established leader in the global Huck fastener distribution network Star Fasteners are committed to supplying customers with the highest quality and most innovative fastener solutions on the market.

Systems are ISO 9001:2015 approved, and accreditation from Alcumus SafeContractor has been achieved.

For more information about Star Fasteners unique value added services have a look on starfasteners.co.uk or contact us on the following: Tel: +44 (0)115 9324939 email: sales@starfasteners.co.uk www.starfasteners.co.uk

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FASTENERS & FIXINGS / FLUID HANDLING

SD PRODUCTS INTRODUCING THE LATEST INNOVATION FROM KETTERER DRIVES The new short-stroke linear drive (KuLi) from Ketterer Drives and halstrup-walcher is characterized by high dynamics and a large stroke with a compact size. Thanks to the integrated electronics, the drive is much easier to control than pneumatic cylinders and considerably less expensive when the entire product lifecycle is considered.

The new electrically operated linear drive is extremely compact and highly dynamic.

With a length of 82 mm the stroke is 40 mm, which can be traversed in less than 100 milliseconds. The standard version of the KuLi offers thrust forces of up to 300 N. Depending on the task, it is possible to select the stroke speed, stroke force, stroke length and mechanical connection to suit the application.

The drive is especially suitable for use in automation and conveying technology as well as in the construction of special machines, where the use of pneumatic cylinders has been widespread until now.

Unlike the latter, the KuLi short-stroke linear

drive doesn’t require sealing and throttling equipment to achieve uniform plunger speeds. In addition, all auxiliary components required for pneumatic cylinders such as hoses, valves, compressed air tanks and silencers are dispensed with. The shortstroke linear drive is thus considerably less expensive. A company achieves the greatest saving with the use of short-stroke linear drives when it dispenses with the

entire compressed air system through the conversion.

A complete range of Ketterer products is now available to UK customers through SD Products. www.sdproducts.co.uk

LABTEX Labtex supplies leading laboratory products including HUBER liquid temperature control systems, DIEHM glass reaction systems to 100 litres, PREMEX and AMAR high pressure autoclaves, POPE wiped film or short path evaporators and distillation systems, Nutsche filter dryers, BOLA labware in PTFE and other technical plastics, Vacuubrand vacuum pumps, ASECOS storage solutions for hazardous materials to BS EN 14470-1 and SICCO desiccators.

We also work with LLG Germany, the 3rd largest lab supplies distributor in Europe and have a catalogue of 20,000 items from over 200 respected brands.

We are now distributing the advanced metering pump range developed by the highly regarded and innovative Heidelberg based company, ProMinent. This exciting new specialism will further enhance our ability to offer solutions for an increasingly wide range of scale-up processes.

The foundation of ProMinent’s global success story is highquality products based on decades of engineering expertise, an in-depth understanding of applications and continuous innovation.

The modular ProMinent range, integrated into carefully designed solutions, will enable customers in a wide range of industries to achieve maximum safety and efficiency in their production processes.

We share Prominent’s commitment to environmentally

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sound, sustainable and cost-effective solutions for metering technology in the pharmaceutical, chemical and manufacturing sectors.

Greg Smith, Managing Director at Labtex, said “ProMinent group’s position as a global market leader means a continuous commitment to excellent products and services and an obligation to think and act responsibly. It is a real privilege to be working with such a great company, with an innovative culture and commitment to excellence, very similar to ours.

I look forward to the journey ahead.”

Sales & Service 01484 600 200 info@labtex.co.uk

FLUID HANDLING

DIXON LAUNCHES NEW COUPLINGS & ACCESSORIES CATALOGUE Dixon are excited to be launching their new full colour comprehensive Couplings and Accessories catalogue which will be available from January 2020.

The company’s global reach includes a wide range of products for numerous industries, including petroleum exploration, refining, transportation, chemical processing, food & beverage, steel, fire protection, construction, mining and manufacturing.

The new 400 page catalogue comprises of Dixon’s traditional hose fittings and couplings including Cam & Groove couplers, quick disconnects, valves and clamps; with the addition of some new products such as the Arctic Steel range of marine water strainers and accessories, ADS outalarm liquid level measuring probes, split flange swivel joints and a brand new loading arm.

The newly enriched technical section serves as an excellent information reference point to procurement, engineering and maintenance teams alike.

New innovations featured within the latest catalogue include evolutions in the design of traditional Cam & Groove fittings; the

Vent-Lock safety release Cam and Groove couplings permit the release of static pressure when disconnecting hose assemblies whilst the armless EZ Link Cam & Groove couplers feature a push-to-connect positive locking system and low-profile design perfect for space is restricted.

At Dixon™ we are committed to providing ‘the right connection’ for your fluid handling applications. Our world-class customer service backed by over 100 years of manufacturing expertise and BSI ISO 9001 approval ensures you will receive accurate hose coupling and assembly recommendations for your application requirements. We are proud to design and manufacture fully tested and certified customised solutions to your fluid and air handling challenges.

For additional information, products and technical support Dixon’s evolving website plays host to the full product range and keeps you in touch with all of the latest product developments, technical information and literature.

To request a copy of the new catalogue in hard copy contact Dixon’s customer Service Team on: 01772 323529 or email: sales@dixoneurope.co.uk.

Alternatively download your own PDF version direct from the website www.dixoneurope.co.uk

Dixon Hose & Coupling Products The Right Connection for your fluid transfer application Products:

• Hose assemblies • Fittings & accessories • Clamps • Quick release fittings • Blow-Out prevention couplings

• Valves • Loading arms • Liquid level sensing • Marine Accessories • Bespoke Fabrications

New Couplings & Accessories Catalogue Now Available

+44 (0)1772 323 529 • dixoneurope.co.uk •

©2019 Dixon Group Europe Limited

• T E C H N I C A L E X P E RT I S E • U N C O M M O N E X C E L L E N C E • D E S I G N • C U S TO M E R S E RV I C E • I N N O VAT I O N • M A N U FA C T U R I N G • Q U A L I T Y • T E C H N I C A L E X P E RT I S E •

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GEARS, DRIVES & MOTORS

Cross+Morse

Power Transmission Manufacturing Specialists Since 1984

◊ Manufacturing up to 1450mm diameter ◊ Turning - CNC lathes, Vertical Machining Centre ◊ Gear Cutting - Hobbing, Planing, Shaping Gears ◊ Bevel Gears, Helical, External & Internal cut Gears ◊ Rack Shaping, Broaching, Keywaying ◊ Vertical Boring, Centreless & Rotary Grinding ◊ Bore Honing ◊ Induction Hardening

◊ Drilling & Tapping ◊ Large stocks of Transmission Drive components ◊ CAD - CAM Design & Development ◊ ISO 9001 : 2015

Yes we can make it.

Cross + Morse. Shady Lane, Great Barr. Birmingham. B44 9EU sales@crossmorse.com Tel: +44 (0)121 360 0155 Fax: +44 (0)121 325 1079 www.CrossMorse.com

NEW NSK DEEP-GROOVE BALL BEARINGS FOR ELECTRIC MOTORS BOOST ENERGY EFFICIENCY The low energy consumption of electric drives is an important target in many industrial applications and rolling bearings can play a role in delivering this ambition. NSK demonstrates this effect with a new series of deep groove ball bearings that generates up to 80% less energy loss, a factor that has a positive effect on the energy efficiency of electric motors.

Before this development, NSK conducted an intensive investigation into the parameters influencing the energy loss of bearings, drawing a number of interesting conclusions.

As a result, the new bearing series uses new

grease that has been specially developed for friction reduction, while the grease filling level has also been optimised.

In comparison with a conventional deep groove ball bearing, the new NSK high-efficiency bearings demonstrate 60% less friction when using a steel cage. If a plastic cage is used, internal friction is reduced even further, by almost 80%. www.nskeurope.com

ABSOLUTELY DRIVEN NEW RANGE OF DRIVES AND VARIABLE SPEED GEARBOXES

For further information and sales contact Greg Smith on 01484 600200 or greg@labtex.co.uk 64

PECM Issue 42

ATEX compliant to EC Directive 94/9/EC

Distributed in the UK by:

www.labtex.co.uk

GEARS, DRIVES & MOTORS

PRODUCTIV’S RAPID RESPONSE BRINGS CYCLOPIC CENTRELESS WHEEL DRIVE SYSTEM TO ADVANCED ENGINEERING 2019 A novel centreless wheel drive system with multiple potential applications was showcased at the Advanced Engineering event in Birmingham 30-31 October, assisted by Coventry-based venture engineering specialist Productiv.

Productiv has created a working prototype of Cyclopic’s revolutionary patented Wheal system, which combines drive, steering, braking and operating height adjustment in a single unit.

The ground-breaking prototype was showcased at the entrance of the National Exhibition Centre and was well received by thousands of visitors the show attracted.

Each Wheal is fitted with its own separate drive system, giving complete 360-degree manoeuvrability – allowing for easy parallel parking, and so creating a ready solution for urban zone parking. In combination with road reading technology, the Wheal also delivers a unique vehicle levelling capability with no need for additional fluid power systems for levelling.

In just 13 weeks, Productiv created a complete working aluminium prototype

A

SOURCE OF

GEARS GEARBOXES

TIMING PULLEY

for the show, from the Cyclopic team’s own prototype, as well as optimising the electronics and control software.

Alan Rallings, Director of Cyclopic, commented: “Uniquely combining operating vehicle height, drive, steering and braking in a single unit, the Wheal has multiple applications, not least in electric vehicles and other mobility solutions. The Productiv team did an exceptional job in creating a completely operational model with full control system, in such a short period, once we knew we were given the opportunity to showcase the Wheal at the Advanced Engineering event. We anticipate strong interest from many sectors given the flexibility and capability of the Wheal.”

Matt Hardwick of Productiv added: “This was a genuine challenge which showcases the unique capabilities of Productiv in having design, prototyping and systems engineering all under one roof. The Wheal is a highly novel design which is versatile enough to be used in both on-road applications, such as delivery vehicles, and other applications such as caravans/trailers.”

Cyclopic Ltd would welcome any interest from any company or individual that would like to invest / sponsor the next stage of prototyping the Wheal For more information on Productiv, visit www.productiv.co.uk.

Further details on the Wheal can be found at www.cyclopic.co.uk.

1 20/200

2 20/100 3 20/70 4 20/50 5 20/40

COUPLINGS

6 20/30

MOTORS

7 20/25 8

20/20

Bespoke Badge Manufacturers We supply a wide range of domed badges for all industries which can be customised to include your own design, logo and details. We offer a full print and dome service for manufacturers wishing to enhance their products.

We can print directly from your supplied vector artwork or hi-res PDFs. All our products are tailor made to your requirements and ideally suited for all control panel and product marketing, even in harsh environments. For a cost effective and professional way to brand and personalise your products for your market or application contact us by phone or email with your requirements.

Small Production Runs Here at Dash Dynamics, unlike many of our competitors, we specialise in small production runs. So if you just need a series of machine panels for a new prototype or low production run, then simply send us your artwork and we’ll get on with it.

All at a realistic price.

Turnaround time is fast! In most cases, if you order before 11.00am, the order will be produced the same day and after overnight curing it will be sent the following day via first class post or carrier depending on size.

International orders are accepted too.

dsg@davall.co.uk

9

tel: +44 (0)170 728 3131

10

It’s good to have a vision

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www.dashdynamics.co.uk

info@dashdynamics.co.uk

01995 606 158

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HEALTH & SAFETY

HYGIENE CREDENTIALS ILAPAK LTD

UNDECLARED ALLERGEN AVOIDANCE

BY MACHINE DESIGN

By Tony McDonald, director of sales and marketing at ILAPAK UK Concerns over cross contamination on production and packaging lines are mounting following a spate of deaths linked to unlabelled allergens in food products. Food and ingredient manufacturers and packers are realising that the stakes for undeclared allergens infiltrating supply chains are too high, particularly where free-from foods are concerned.

As this state of heightened awareness sets in, there is increasing interest in the hygiene credentials of packaging equipment.

Switching from a dairy to a dairy-free product, for example, requires complete and thorough changeover and washdown procedures to avoid even a trace of cross-contamination.

ILAPAK has many years of experience in designing form, fill, seal equipment for operation in high risk environments and has just launched a new ultra-hygienic bagmaker and flow wrapper, both of which are compliant with the USDA’s strict sanitation performance standards. This project has enabled us to identify the design principles that need to be adherred to if equipment design is to support the food industry’s increasingly rigorous approach to crosscontamination avoidance.

through the machine rather than getting lodged in a crevice. An example of this might be where the guarding is bolted to the main machine frame or where there are cross members on the machine.

MIND THE GAPS

Where possible, surfaces should be sloped not flat to prevent debris from accumulating.

On ILAPAK’s machines, all top surfaces are inclined (so that factory personnel can’t leave objects on top of machines), and all tubes and bodywork are inclined.

Any joints should be fully welded rather than spot welded and there should be no plates against plates or joints against joints. If it is unavoidable to have, for example, two plates next two each other, it is preferable to insert a spacer so that any product will fall straight

BITS, BOLTS AND BLIND HOLES

There shouldn’t be any threads sticking out from bolts or any blind holes. Any holes should be drilled right through so that there are no recesses where dirt can build up.

STRATEGIC SLOPES

As food manufacturers and packers are realising that the stakes for undeclared allergens infiltrating supply chains are too high, there is increasing interest in the hygiene credentials of packaging equipment.

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ILAPAK’s Vegatronic 6000SD USDAcompliant system is extremely quick to clean, yielding dramatic reductions in operating costs and increases OEE

EXTREME FINISHING

frame VFFS, and two years ago, applied this design principle to its HFFS series. Essentially, on an open frame machine, the only enclosed space is the electrical cabinet. The rest of the machine is open, which means product debris falls through the machine rather than getting stuck and that accessibility is much better for cleaning.

OPEN FRAME DESIGN

On ILAPAK’s machines, the forming tube is mounted on a swivel arm for easy removal, reducing changeover downtime and increasing machine efficiency. This also means that the operator can remove the forming tube out of the way of the discharge conveyor and pick it up without any tripping hazards.

All film and product contact parts should have ‘extreme’ finishing and guarding should be constructed from material that is highly resistant to harsh cleaning detergents.

ILAPAK’s USDA compliant machines go through a passivation process after welding.

This seals the porous stainless steel surface, creating a super-smooth finish.

Historically, FFS machines were closed frame in their design - in other words, all electrical and mechanical components, motors and drives were housed within a box or frame.

The closed frame design can lead to product or liquid getting trapped in the closed box - a breeding ground for bacteria. In 2007, ILAPAK was one of the first to introduce an open

REMOVAL OF PARTS

FAN COVER DESIGN

Motors and gear boxes usually have fans on them, which creates a contamination hotspot as product can fall into the fans and collect.

ILAPAK uses motors which are sealed to IP66 or 67, with some motors up to IP69k rating, preventing ingress of product and enabling full washdown.

ILAPAK’s Vegatronic 6000SD incorporates all of these features, which makes for a USDAcompliant system that is extremely quick to clean, yielding dramatic reductions in operating costs and increases OEE (Overall Equipment Efficiency).

www.ilapak.co.uk

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HEALTH & SAFETY

THE HSE STEP UP THEIR GAME EXTRACTABILITY

COULD YOU BE NEXT? WHAT TO DO WHEN THE HSE LETTER ARRIVES

It has been nearly a full year after the change in health and safety guidance for all welding fume, including mild steel welding, and the HSE have increased their field presence in the industrial world. In fact, they could soon be paying you a visit.

The HSE have begun conducting visits to sites where welding is being carried out, along with any other business where fumes, dusts, vapours or small fibres considered detrimental to human health might be present or created. This is being done with little to no prior warning of appointment date and time but is proceeded by mandatory form requiring the business to state the effectiveness of their fume control measures.

Any and all businesses with insufficient fume control measures could be issued improvement notices, enforcement orders or fines. They even have the power to issue prohibition notices and stop the practise of welding processes being carried out.

There is no window of leniency; businesses are expected to have already tackled this problem.

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Compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations Act 2002 means, in part, accepting that opening a window or relying on general ventilation is inadequate in terms of welding fume control.

Similarly, welding outside will require at the very least, suitable respiratory protection equipment (RPE). A quick and easy solution for the business unsure of the effectiveness of their current fume extraction is the introduction of PAPR, air fed, welding helmets.

These lightweight power air-purification respirator (PAPR) units provide a 2-speed clean air flow of 170lpm or 220lpm and is fully CE rated to EN 12941 TH2.

It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure up-to-date fume extraction equipment is being used correctly. The ProtectoScan Edi is an indoor Environmental Detection Instrument (Edi) that measures particulate levels, records real-time data and can switch on your fume extraction equipment once a pre-set level has been detected. Edi has an LED traffic light display, alerting users to

any notable issues and providing an instant visual representation of what is going on in the workshop. Edi will also measure noise, temperature and humidity and is the perfect solution for monitoring and recording exposure levels, every second of the day, 365 days a year.

With the recent Industry 4.0 trend seeing a greater integration of automation and data exchange in the manufacturing sector, the ProtectoScan Edi is Extractability’s boldest step yet to help employers remove hazards from the workplace, stay within the regulations and improve health and safety among their workforce, creating a safe and clean workplace environment for everyone.

For more information, an evaluation to determine if you are compliant, or to have your current fume extraction equipment tested, contact Extractability on 0845 862 2620 or email service@extractability.eu

Does welding take your breath away?

The HSE are currently visiting all fabrication companies to ensure adequate, working, certified fume extraction is in use.

They have the power to issue an improvement notice, enforcement order, fine or even a prohibition notice!

The solution is simple. Extractability, a division of Weldability Sif, can evaluate your company to determine if you are compliant, advise what fume extraction solutions are available to you and install or provide the necessary equipment.

Contact us today to discuss.

0845 862 2620 • sales@extractability.eu www.extractability.co.uk

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www.weldability-sif.com

WELD www.learn-to-weld.com

HEALTH & SAFETY

HEALTH & SAFETY AT WORK INSTITUTION OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY & HEALTH

IMPROVING PRODUCTIVITY, EFFICIENCY AND REPUTATION

Could your business benefit from greater productivity, increased efficiency, reduced costs, enhanced reputation and a safer workplace?

If so, now is the time to invest in IOSH’s Managing Safely, the market-leading safety and health course for businesses of all sizes.

•

•

It has been delivered worldwide for over 25 years by a huge network of training providers.

It is tried, tested and trusted.

And there’s more: •

•

•

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It’s thorough but flexible. With the consequences of safety and health failure potentially fatal, you cannot rush training. Our three-day course takes the right amount of time to get learners up to speed. It’s available face-to-face or via e-learning to suit your business needs.

It’s business focused. IOSH works with business leaders in the development of flexible courses to ensure they deliver the insights and efficiencies you need to gain a competitive edge.

It’s unique. Managing Safely combines practical step-by-step guidance with an engaging and inspirational approach that will make your managers think afresh about how safety and health can positively impact the whole business.

PECM Issue 42

It’s contextualised. The content of the course and the scenarios that are explored will directly reflect your sector, workplace and even factors relating to your geography or business demographic. So, it’s easy to put everything they’ve learned into practice.

It’s a vital achievement and demonstrates that they have the knowledge to be more efficient, productive and safe in the workplace – to the benefit of all.

It’s world-class. IOSH is the Chartered body for safety and health professionals and the quality of the training and the content of the course reflects that.

Here’s why:

Why IOSH?

•

Track record. Managing Safely from IOSH is the market leader in safety and health and we’ve trained 172,000 delegates on 23,000 training courses in 76 countries.

•

Vision. We can help you prepare for tomorrow. The world of work is transforming at a rapid pace and we want to ensure that you are ready to embrace those changes and profit from them rather than being left behind.

•

Status. We are a global organisation with 47,000 members in 130 countries, many of whom are business owners themselves, and we represent their views to governments and regulatory bodies to make sure business can continue to drive the positive change we all need and deserve.

Who should attend?

This course is for anyone who manages or supervises people, in any industry sector or environment. They’ll learn to: •

assess risks

•

control risks

•

understand responsibilities

•

understand hazards

•

investigate incidents

•

measure performance

They’ll learn about the ‘why’ as well as the ‘how’. Why should we look out for our colleagues? Why should we continue to innovate? How can I make a difference?

Successful delegates are awarded an internationally-recognised IOSH Managing Safely certificate.

www.iosh.com

There’s a reason Managing Safely doesn’t cut corners The consequences of rushing health and safety training can be fatal. So Managing Safely takes exactly the right amount of time to get participants up to speed. That’s why our three day health and safety course is the most popular for line managers, in any sector, worldwide.

Managing Safely Tried. Tested. Trusted. www.iosh.com/managingsafely

HEALTH & SAFETY

Q-BALL E REMBE

MAXIMUM VENTING EFFECTIVENESS AND MINIMUM WEIGHT

As a pioneer in developing systems for flameless explosion venting REMBE GmbH Safety + Control has fundamentally changed the world of explosion protection already in the eighties. With Q-Ball E the German engineers are now presenting a new development, which possesses the potential to revolutionise flameless explosion venting once again.

This is because the Q-Ball E is going to set a new benchmark in venting effectiveness and weight. Primarily designed for elevators, the principle of contour parallel venting is taking effect on the Q-Ball E. A maximum venting effectiveness is guaranteed whereas the required vent area simultaneously is reduced to a minimum. The design is characterised by another new feature; the extremely low weight of the Q-Ball E. Competitive products with comparable performance will easily have more than twice weight.

Therefore, the Q-Ball E is ideally suited for installation on components with a low strength. The dimensions of the three available Q-Ball E sizes are designed to fit perfectly on elevators. Moreover, the integrated signalling unit enables reliable monitoring and maintenance. A sanitary

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cover protects the Q-Ball E in a perfect way against wetness and dust indoors and outdoors.

Nowadays, it is a common industrial standard for flameless explosion venting devices that in closed rooms neither flames, nor pressure or dust can exit the respective unit. The dangerous effects of explosions need to be reduced to a minimum and harmless level; the noise of the explosion shall be minimised to an acceptable level. Ideally, production downtimes can be avoided or significantly reduced.

REMBE meets these requirements with explosion-proof housing structures that will stay stable even during extremely dynamic explosions. Additionally, filter inlets made of a special stainless mesh material developed

by REMBE will cool down hot flame gases (up to 3000 °C) extremely efficiently within only 500 milliseconds. This reduces the volume of ejected gas and extinguishes the explosion – heat, dust and pressure remain in the vessel.

Proximity to an external wall is not required, so this simple protection solution can even be used in the middle of production halls.

The optimised production process remains in the building.

About REMBE REMBE is mostly associated with REMBE GmbH Safety and Control the specialists for explosion safety and pressure relief worldwide. The company offers customers crossindustry safety concepts for systems and equipment.

All products are manufactured in Germany and meet the demands of national and international regulations.

The customers who purchase REMBE products are among the market leaders of various industries, including the food, chemical, pharmaceutical oil and gas as well as wood industries.

The technical engineering expertise is based on more than 45 years of application and project experience. www.rembe.com

T +49 2961 7405-0 info@rembe.de

Made in Germany

Your Specialist for

PRESSURE RELIEF and

EXPLOSION SAFETY

© REMBE® | All rights reserved

Consulting. Engineering. Products. Service.

Gallbergweg 21 | 59929 Brilon, Germany F +49 2961 50714 | www.rembe.de

MACHINING & MACHINERY

FLOW OF COMMODITIES EDM ZONE

THE BENEFITS OF WIRE EDM MANUFACTURING Wire Electronic Discharge Machining, otherwise known as Wire EDM or sometimes spark erosion, is a form of cutting materials which can conduct an electronic current.

The process works by transmitting a rapidly repeating electrical charge in order to create small impressions on the top layer of material. You can think of the process like a precision band saw moving through the material.

Wire EDM has a number of key benefits which make it a great choice for manufacturing component parts. Firstly, Wire EDM is able to cut very hard materials with no impact. Metals such as Tungsten Carbide, one of the hardest materials in existence, can be cut with Wire EDM. Other methods of machining require immense force or pressure to create the shape needed. Because there is no impact needed, the material is able to remain structurally secure and without imperfections such as stress distortions.

Wire EDM also does not leave any burn marks which could make the part visually unappealing.

If you need to manufacture extremely complex shapes Wire EDM is capable of producing great results. Thanks to using, what can be, extremely fine wire, very precise shape can be achieved.

Furthermore, with the Ionised Water which surrounds the wire and cutting area, any material which has been cut away is flushed out in order to avoid causing issues to the remaining material.

Some Wire EDM machines have an automatic wire feed system which continually feeds fresh wire through the machine and towards the cutting area. The machines also auto cut’s the wire to the desired length and then rethreads the wire into place to maintain cutting accuracy.

After the wire has been used it can’t go back through the machine to be used in the cutting process again. In order to avoid wasting the used wire, however, some machines have a built-in feature which chops up the used wire.

The final key benefit to note with Wire EDM is that it’s fast and cost effective. For companies looking to produce a large number of components while maintaining the quality, Wire EDM represents a great option. With an experienced machining

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engineer who is capable of completing the task in a one step process the time taken can be significantly reduced compared to other manufacturing techniques.

Furthermore, the whole process is costeffective as there is very little waste and no need for any heat treatment or cleaning up of parts after machining.

Overall Wire EDM represents a great option when it comes to manufacturing component parts which require high accuracy and a quick turnaround.

For more information you can visit www.edmzone.co.uk

MACHINING & MACHINERY

PRINT & PACKAGING SOLUTIONS SAICA PACK

TECHNOLOGY INVESTMENT BOOSTS SAICA PACK CUSTOMER OFFER Saica Pack has purchased state-of-the-art converting machinery to offer advanced print and packaging solutions The top-of-the-range model provides unrivalled printing, die-cutting and folding of corrugated cardboard packaging Features include up to six-colour high quality post printing and a rotary die-cutting facility for retail ready packaging Saica Pack has delivered a multi-million pound investment in the South West – giving customers access to the latest innovations in packaging manufacturing.

The corrugated cardboard packaging expert has installed a state-of-the-art flexo folder gluer from BOBST at its Thatcham site.

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The three-in-one machine is designed to produce all types of boxes from standard RSC up to full die-cut and high graphics to give customers a wide-range of options for packaging design and manufacture.

Kevin Thomas, Regional Director, Saica Pack South West, said: “As a business we continually innovate so our customers can too.

“This investment will enable our customers to access state-of-the art packaging solutions including advanced printing capabilities and colourway options whilst giving them the benefit of greater flexibility and streamlined manufacturing processes. This, coupled with Saica Pack’s award-winning in-house design teams provides customers with the complete end to end packaging solution.”

Able to work with corrugated board and a wide range of flute types, the flexo folder is high graphics ready, printing boxes of up six colours including varnish. Other benefits include the multifold – an advanced functionality that allows the production of two or three ups in one pass.

Kevin added: “Saica Pack is committed to the development of sustainable packaging solutions. This new equipment will enable us to continue pushing the boundaries of design and manufacture and we look forward to sharing these benefits with customers existing and new.”

www.saica.com

HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS / MACHINING & MACHINERY

NEW CATALOGUE OUT NOW

More than 30,000 carefully selected products.

Request a free copy today by phone, email or online.

Call: 01772 255109

Web: tom-parker.co.uk A selection of our new brands JORC condensate management

Online flipbook available

Rötelmann valves Camloc gas springs Lubetec UK lubrication fittings UK Flowtechnik flowmeters RUB valves Hydrotechnik measurement equipment

A selection of product additions CEJN ultraFlow series CDC M Series 20 bar fittings CPC PLQ2 series Tefen PVDF fittings Oetiker Stepless® ear clips Copely airtech hose Piab gripping tools Jubilee quick release straps Request a catalogue marketing@tom-parker.co.uk

TR-7 SERIES SIMPLIFIES ACCESS TO DATA The TR-7wb WLAN data logger with Bluetooth feature is ideal for temperature and humidity monitoring, and designed for those who require a broad range of measurement tasks. Recorded data can be automatically uploaded to T&D’s free of charge WebStorage Service, which is accessible anywhere and any time by computer or mobile devices.

The App “T&D Thermo” enables the use of mobile devices for viewing data recorded by TR-7wb/nw (wireless and wired LAN) series data loggers, as well as direct communication and operation with the TR71wb, TR-72wb and TR-75wb via Bluetooth. These applications allow uncomplicated and cost-effective protection of various goods and processes in public buildings, warehousing of sensitive products, and the supervision of laboratories and refrigerators.

For further information, please visit: www.tandd.com www.webstorage-service.com www.facebook.com/TandDCorporationEurope

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MACHINING & MACHINERY

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 0044(1527)520580 sales@threadtools.com www.threadtools.com

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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

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

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.

Wiseman Threading Tools Ltd 11 Padgets Lane, South Moons Moat. Redditch B98 0RA Worcs UK 004(0)1527520580 sales@threadtools.com www.threadtools.com

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!

MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

FLOW OF COMMODITIES DAILY FX

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT OIL IN 2020 Commodities are the lifeblood of commerce and economic growth. DailyFX, the leading portal for forex trading news, has built an interactive tool showing global commodity imports and exports over the last decade.

This unique tool allows traders to spot developments in the flow of commodities and the growth of both supply and demand while comparing the changes to critical economic indicators.

‘Global Commodities’ takes the form of a re-imagined 3D globe where the heights of countries rise and fall to show the import and export levels of a range of commodities over the last decade. The data visualisation allows users to switch views from a single commodity or market and show information relevant to that commodity or market’s performance.

John Kicklighter at DailyFX has used the tool to put together his top five things you need to know about oil in 2020:

1. GLOBAL TRADE DISRUPTIONS MAY AFFECT IMMEDIATE DEMAND

While the trade war has become a hot topic, the concerns of nationalism are leading longterm investors to wonder if global demand may drop without trade growth seen in prior years, which could hurt the long-term demand for oil and its price.

2. LONG-TERM DEMAND FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS COULD SEE THE MARKET BIFURCATED

Oil market insiders have long been aware of the IMO 2020, which is effectively maritime energy standards and is set to be the most significant change in environmental standards on record. While the focus is on shippers using lower sulphur grades and pushing up the demand and price of cleaner forms of energy, naturally, global trade disruptions, trade frictions or the lack thereof, can act as a multiplier on the impact of this measure.

3. THE RISE OF ALTERNATIVES WILL LIKELY CONTINUE TO WEIGH ON OIL’S DOMINANCE The rise of alternatives helps to explain why the longer-dated bets of oil prices made two-five years ago are below current prices.

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For example, solar power has been more popular, and the price of solar power has dropped by 50% since 2009. At the same time, major E&P firms are pressured to look for environmentally friendly forms of energy (i.e. not oil).

4. OPEC+ OR ROPEC PRODUCTION CUTS MAY SOON EASE, AND THE PRICE EFFECT COULD HURT

OPEC + Russia has met a challenger for global crude supply in the United States, but the two nations make up many production cuts that have stabilised the market. If either or both decide that they have paid their dues, and the market is stabilised, we could see a large influx of supply coming onto the market that could act as a broad ceiling on prices.

5. SANCTIONS ON IRAN MAY PROVE TO BE THE OIL MARKET WILDCARD

Sanctions around OPEC’s third-largest producer, Iran remain in focus in 2019 as the U.S. government has moved to tighten sanctions, but Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has said there’s no chance of the nation’s exports falling to zero after the U.S. tightened its position on sanctions waivers.

The IMF (International Monetary Fund) has stepped in saying such sanctions could result in aggressive inflation in Iran if the U.S. tightens sanctions.

To learn more about Global Commodities visit: www.dailyfx.com/research/globalcommodities

Introducing the New 2060 Process Analyser MAXIMUM FLEXIBILITY FOR THE TOUGHEST CHALLENGES IN PROCESS ANALYSIS The 2060 Process Analyser is the most versatile analyser in the Metrohm Process Analytics product portfolio and on the market. It enables 24/7 online or atline monitoring of chemical industrial processes, water, wastewater or other liquids.

• Monitor and safeguard your process 24/7 • Optimise process efficiency • Increase plant safety • Improve the profitability of your operations

www.metrohm.co.uk

MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

AUTOMATED FAULT DIAGNOSIS AVT

TACKLING THE ISSUES OF EXCESSIVE VIBRATION Automated fault diagnosis means vibration related problems can be detected and dealt with before they become a risk to operational efficiency, says Oliver Pogmore of AVT Reliability.

Vibration is a normal occurrence in all rotating machinery. However, changes in the level of vibration can be an important indicator of a developing fault that, if left unchecked, is likely to lead to equipment failure and unscheduled downtime.

A variety of issues can cause excessive vibration, from misalignment to poor lubrication, but bearings in particular are highly sensitive to external factors, accounting for 40% of all rotating equipment failures1.

Identifying the cause of excessive vibration is therefore crucial to any effective condition based maintenance (CBM) programme. And digital technology is proving to be a key driver for those companies most successfully achieving operational efficiency within ever tightening margins.

Low-cost, high-speed web based systems, such as AVT Reliability’s Machine Sentry™, are able to identify the ‘butterfly’s wing’ which could result in premature bearing failure and unscheduled downtime.

A tri-axial sensor fixed to a piece of rotating equipment provides continuous monitoring and visibility across three axes. Connected to the software via a handheld android phone or tablet via standard Bluetooth wireless technology, it allows data to be collected safely even from large, moving or hard-toaccess assets.

Its primary feature is an automated diagnostic assistant (ADA). Informed by thousands of hours of vibration data and extensive field experience of vibration specialists, ADA can predict stage 2, 3 and 4 bearing failure and detect a wide range of other common fault conditions commonly known to reduce reliability or halt production. It presents up to four potential points of failure, ranked in order of likelihood, and proposes an action plan to avert potentially costly equipment failure.

It is calculated that, for every £1 spent on ADA technology, at least £5 is saved in terms of

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time, expertise and hardware and software costs. Over a three-year period, it delivers an estimated increase in uptime of 33%. Parts are reduced by 23% and labour costs reduced by 16%.i This technology is scalable to any industrial plant and any maintenance engineer can use it, regardless of qualification.

The continuous availability of data also provides a bedrock on which to base an ongoing maintenance plan. And with its costs reducing in real terms even as the technology advances, the time really has never been better to consider a digital CBM programme.

www.avtreliability.com/ www.avtreliability.com/products/ machine-sentry

MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

Investing for your Future Requirements Accurate Laser Cutting (SJS) Ltd of Rotherham, has made a significant investment in new equipment, to enable then to offer the very best service and quality to their clients.

A total investment of £1.2 million will be made on two new pieces of equipment and supporting software. The equipment will comprise of a brand-new laser cutting machine and a pressbrake, the very latest technology and spec in the region.

The laser cutter will be a powerful 12kW model, on a 4m x 2m bed. with a 320 ton, 4.1m pressbrake to match. Both machines will be operated in conjunction with cutting edge, top level 3D and bending software and will be installed and fully operational by January 2020.

This is another great example of the company’s commitment to continued investment in the very latest technology to provide their customers with the very best products and service. www.accurate-laser.co.uk

ISO 17025 Calibration Services Accredited calibrations for pressure, electrical, flow and air velocity instruments via UKAS Laboratory 0604, offering reliable, quick turnaround and affordable sensor calibration for process & control instruments. Many of the calibrations are also available as onsite services, both traceable and ISO 17025 accredited.

Bespoke services are available for thermal uniformity surveys of for ovens, freezers and autoclaves.

Further extensions to our UKAS accreditation schedule are in process to extend our scope of calibration services soon. The accredited flow rigs and wind tunnels continue to offer world leading measurement uncertainty for UKAS air velocity calibrations on pitot, thermal, vane, cup, omni-spherical and ultrasonic anemometers across 0.05 to 80 m/s and for air and fluid flowmeters.

Web: www.youngcalibration.co.uk/calibration Email: ay@youngcalibration.co.uk Tel: 01273 455572

NEW! Wireless Alert TP: Temperature Sensor with Email Alerts Do you have a product or process that is sensitive to temperature conditions?

Do you need to know when conditions become detrimental to quality? Wireless Alert TP is a battery-powered temperature sensor that sends a warning email if a user-set level is reached.

Simply select your temperature limits, add an email address and connect to any Wi-Fi network using the Wireless Alert mobile app.

• -40°C to 125°C temperature probe with 1.5m cable • User-configurable high and low temperature limits • Sends email alerts and scheduled status reports • Flashing alert indicator • Wi-Fi connected • Simple to set up using the free Wireless Alert mobile app • Two years battery life (dependent upon usage scenario) • No ongoing subscription fees Visit www.filesthrutheair.com/wireless-alert for more info. sales@filesthrutheair.com +44 (0) 1425 651111

HOFFMANN GROUP UK MAKES KEY STRATEGIC HIRE TO SUPPORT UK LAUNCH Hoffmann Group UK, Europe’s leading system partner for quality tools, workstations and personal protective equipment (PPE), has boosted its business development division as part of its strategic UK rollout.

With over 20 years’ experience in the manufacturing industry, Peter Borrowdale joins the team as a national key account manager. Having held a variety of senior roles at businesses such as Cromwell Group, Replicade and Perspex Distribution, Peter brings with him a wealth of sector expertise in both manufacturing and key industry verticals such as aerospace.

In his new role, Peter will be responsible for retaining and developing Hoffmann Group’s international customer portfolio. This will involve working closely with both new customers and those that have long-standing relationships with the Hoffmann Group, as well as preparing business plans for tender opportunties and nurturing key customer relationships. Longer term, Peter will also assist in developing an overarching customer acquisition plan in order to help grow the fledgling UK arm of the business.

As part of the Hoffmann Group’s heavy investment in the UK, Hoffmann Group UK was launched as a fully-owned subsidiary of the wider business earlier this year in Birmingham., The business is set to grow rapidly in the coming months, having also recently expanded its specialist teams across PPE, cutting tools and strategic product categories.

Commenting on his appointment, Peter said: “Hoffmann Group is internationally known for being the partner of choice for manufacturing businesses across Europe and beyond, so I’m thrilled to be joining at such an exciting time.

“I’m particularly looking forward to building strong customer relationships in the UK and long-term, my goal is to play a central role in the development of the UK arm of the business, helping us to cement our reputation as a quality partner for any business in our field that demands the best in products, services and supply.”

Tim Paddison, managing director at Hoffmann Group UK, commented: “With his many years of experience across the

manufacturing industry, Pete is a real asset to our growing team as we look to further establish ourselves in the UK. “Pete and his team are a crucial part of the Hoffmann Group’s major UK investment plans, and will be critical to working closely with our customers and ensuring we have the dedicated resource to support their needs as we continue to grow and expand across the coming months.”

For more information, please visit www.hoffmann-group.com/GB/en/ houk/

Issue 42 PECM

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MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

LIQUID FLOW MEASUREMENT MICRONICS

BEST VALUE SOLUTIONS FOR PROCESS FLOW MEASUREMENTS

Liquid flow measurement in Process industry applications can present varied and challenging requirements and Micronics has had 35 years of experience in providing cost-effective and reliable solutions for applications in various industries including Nuclear Power, Dairy, Food Processing and the Semi-conductor industry.

There are many process liquid flows, which require a non-invasive measurement to avoid contamination of the liquid, in full pipe applications clamp-on, ultrasonic flow measurement is often the best solution and Micronics is the longest established UK manufacturer in this technology with a wide range of Clamp-on portable instrument and fixed measurement, metering products backed up by previous application experience and technical support.

The New U1000MKII-FM was launched earlier this year and is a “Best Value” Clamp-on, Ultrasonic flowmeter alternative to traditional inline meters, for non-invasive water flow applications, which offers significant installation cost and dry maintenance benefits over traditional in-line products.

Micronics has built on its success with the U1000 meter range to develop a MKII version, which extends the pipe size to cover

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applications from 22mm – 180mm (6”) OD pipe.

And whilst the U1000MKII-FM can still be used as a stand-alone product, the new product supports optional Modbus RTU slave and RS485 serial communications.

Still simple to install: connect power and enter the pipe inside diameter, adjust the sensors and clamp-on the pipe with no specialist skills or tools required but now with a wider range of application the New U1000MKII-FM offers a clamp-on non-invasive alternative to traditional in-line meter installation.

Micronics has the experience of providing flow measurement and monitoring solutions for Process applications including oils, paint and water solutions, acid, paper industry slurry and a wide range of both clean and dirty water applications for full, partial pipe and open channel flows. This includes products using Ultrasonic Doppler, Transit Time and the latest Microwave technology for waste water applications.

So if you need to measure or monitor process liquids, water or waste water flow in your industry we believe we have the solution and we would value the opportunity to discuss your requirements.

Please take a look at www. micronicsflowmeters.com and if you have any questions or specific applications you’re considering we would be pleased to provide an FOC no obligation proposal.

MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

MORE THAN JUST COMPRESSED AIR PRESSURE REGULATION Measure Monitor Control has announced that they are exhibiting at Air-Tech 2020 and focussing specifically on two of their partner manufacturers product ranges.

Managing Director Jerry Cook explained, “As the UK distribution partners for both SUTO-iTEC Gmbh and ID Insert Deal srl, this will be the first time both ranges have been exhibited in the UK and we have some very special displays planned.”

This event will be the very first opportunity in the UK to see the new SUTO iTEC S600 portable air purity analyser and it will be measuring compressed air quality live on all 3 days of the show. This instrument is unique at this price level in combining residual oil vapour measurement with fully ISO 8573 compliant dew point and particle measurement, to deliver ease and speed of monitoring of delivered air quality.

The whole range of ID Insert Deal srl products which cover pressure regulation and filtration for air, gases or liquids from 400bar to 15mbar will be introduced at this event. Regulators, filters, filter regulators and relief valves will all be on display and many of them are now certified “Food Safe” in accordance with EC 1935/2004 MOCA in addition to ATEX and EAC Ex for potentially hazardous environments.

Several completely new products will be launched at this event from both manufacturers and there will also be presentations to understand the practicalities of ISO 8573 compliance, compressed air leak detection pressure12/12/2019 regulation techniques.

PECMand hori CAQM.pdf 15:40:01

To learn more, visit stand AF104 at the NEC between 21st to 23rd April. www.measuremonitorcontrol.com

Compressed Air Quality Measurement: Dew Point - Particle Concentration - Residual Oil Vapour

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Handheld S505 Pressure Dew Point Sensor

Portable S600 Compressed Air Purity Analyser

Wall Mounted S601 Continuous Compressed Air Purity Analyser

See us at Air-Tech Exhibition stand AF104 21-23 April 2020 NEC Birmingham

T: +44(0)1443 772500

E: sales@measuremonitorcontrol.com

Issue 42 PECM

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MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

TEMPERATURE SENSORS LABFACILITY

LABFACILITY TEMPERATURE & PROCESS TECHNOLOGY

TEMPERATURE SENSORS

Labfacility manufacture a wide range of temperature sensors to suit your application. An extensive range of Thermocouples in IEC or ANSI calibration, PRT’s, Detectors, Environmental Sensors and Hand-Held Sensors / Thermometers are available to buy via our ecommerce website.

BI-METAL THERMOMETER TEMPERATURE GAUGES

Bi-Metal Stainless Steel Thermometer with bottom or back entry and ‘anyangle’ versions available. Use our custom configurator to send us your specific requirements, made to order.

THERMOCOUPLE CONNECTORS

We are Europe’s largest manufacturer of thermocouple connectors and accessories in IEC, ANSI and JIS Colour codes. The full range of connectors are available from stock for immediate despatch.

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L60 THERMOCOUPLE & FINE WIRE WELDER

The Thermocouple Welder, manufactured

by Labfacility, is a compact, simple-to-use instrument designed for thermocouple and fine wire welding.

THERMOCOUPLE CABLE / WIRE We offer a wide range of thermocouple, PRT and extension cable / wire in stock for immediate despatch. Thermocouple cables are available in IEC or ANSI Colour codes.

Insulation types include PFA, PTFE, PVC & Fiberglass.

RTD TEMPERATURE SENSOR WITH INTEGRAL TRANSMITTER & HIRSCHMANN CONNECTOR

A cost effective 6mm diameter Pt100 sensor and transmitter assembly housed in a 316 Stainless Steel body with 1/2” BSP process connection and fitted din connector with connection lead.

9KG PULL HORSESHOE MAGNET THERMOCOUPLE, SSOB PFA INSULATED WITH FITTED PLUG

A Rapid, reliable temperature sensing magnet for attaching onto ferrous surfaces. Available with 1.5 or 3 metres of PFA Teflon® insulated cable with stainless steel over-braid and a choice of mini or standard plug termination.

Labfacility will be present at the following Exhibition: Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2020 11th – 13th February 2020 Farnborough, GU14 6TQ Stand L135 www.labfacility.com

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Leaders in temperature measurement

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Labfacility are the UK’s leading manufacturer of Temperature Sensors, Thermocouple Connectors and associated Temperature Instrumentation and stockists of Thermocouple Cables.

Thermocouple Connectors

A comprehensive family of IEC / ANSI / JIS colour coded miniature and standard connectors, accessories, panels, terminal and barrier blocks: all manufactured by Labfacility Plugs & Sockets, / Quick Wire / Panel Mount / Fascia Sockets/ PCB Mounting / Duplex / High temperature

Temperature Instrumentation

Labfacility have always been associated with high accuracy temperature measurement manufacture.

L60 Thermocouple & Fine Wire Welder Bench Top Instrumentation Temperature & Humidity Transmitters Data Loggers Environmental Instrumentation & Sensors

Temperature Sensors We manufacture a wide range of temperature sensors to suit your application.

An extensive range of Thermocouples, PRT’s, Detectors, Environmental Sensors and Hand-Held Sensors / Thermometers are also available to purchase online for immediate despatch.

Thermocouple & PRT Cable/Wire A range of IEC / ANSI colour coded thermocouple cables / wire and PRT cables / wire to suit various applications. The range consists of the following: PVC, PFA, PTFE & Glassfibre insulated cables. We also offer retractable curly leads and extension leads.

www.labfacility.com Bognor Regis tel: +44 (0)1243 871280

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

MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

WASTEWATER TREATMENT ARVIA TECHNOLOGY

REDUCING THE WATER GAP AND HOW PROCESS ENGINEERS CAN PLAY THEIR PART Gary Richards, Director at wastewater treatment technology and advisory company, Arvia Technology discusses how effective wastewater treatment can form part of a worldwide effort to reduce the water gap and how process engineers can play their part.

It is a fact that global demand for water already exceeds supply and industries which rely heavily on water are one of the main culprits contributing to this ever-growing water gap. Often, water used across industries such as the pharmaceutical, chemical and oil and gas sector is discharged directly into the environment. Treating wastewater so it can be reused can play a significant role in preventing further pollution of water sources, reducing the amount of water consumed, ultimately reducing this water gap.

REUSING WATER The whole concept of reusing water that previously has been discharged to the nearest sewer or waterway may never have been considered by organisations.

By reusing water in a closed loop system, rather than bringing in new fresh water, organisations can improve their sustainability and help to reduce the depletion of global water supplies. As natural water supplies come under increasing pressure, the ability to reuse treated or processed water will become critical. Before water can be reused, it must be treated to reduce contaminants.

TRADITIONAL WASTEWATER TREATMENT Traditional wastewater treatment methods can partly eliminate or remove industrial chemicals, but some traces are still detectable in effluents. The final stage of water treatment, when only trace levels of pollutants reside in wastewater, has always posed problems for various industries.

In traditional wastewater treatment processes such as Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) combined with Hydrogen Peroxide, Fenton’s reagent (a combination of chemicals), and Reverse Osmosis, large doses of chemicals including biocides are used to eradicate contaminants or prevent the processes from fouling and blocking.

This is costly and produces a hazardous sludge which must be transported and incinerated.

THE GREEN ALTERNATIVE The good news is, there are modern, greener alternatives for the reduction of hard-to-treat organics from water and wastewater streams.

Arvia’s Nyex™ solution uses adsorption and electrochemical oxidation, providing an environmentally considerate process that treats water without the need to use chemicals. Treated water is safe for reuse for other purposes around the manufacturing facility, such as cleaning or irrigation; uses which chemically dosed water is often unsuitable.

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POSITIVE SIGNS Businesses which use water in their manufacturing processes must take responsibility for their wastewater treatment and water reuse. By removing these hard-to-treat pollutants from industrial wastewater, we can begin to tackle the global issue of fighting the water gap.

Arvia Technology works with companies in the UK, Europe and Asia.

It has treated challenging wastewater from the agricultural, chemical, electronics, oil and gas and pharmaceutical industries in Europe and Asia. www.arviatechnology.com

HIGH PERFORMANCE DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE TRANSMITTERS The Kobold PAD differential pressure transmitter is a microprocessor based high performance transmitter, featuring flexible pressure calibration and output with automatic compensation of ambient temperature and process variables; configuration of parameters communicated via HART®

Superior Performance & Reliability • High Reference Accuracy: ±0.075% of calibrated span • (optional: ±0.04% of calibrated span) • Long Term Stability: 0.125 % URL, with capacitive or piezoresistive sensors • High Rangeability • Data configuration with HART® configurator, • push buttons, or factory • Zero Point Adjustment • Continuous self-diagnostic function • Automatic ambient temperature compensation • EPROM write protection • Fail-mode process function • CE EMC conformity standards (EN 50081-2, EN 50082-2) • ATEX Exd Flameproof • ATEX Exia Intrinsically Safe • With individual diaphragm seals fitted, applicable for steam, gases, liquids, and for critical media

precise - multifunctional - reliable – proven For your FREE Product Summary Brochure

01623 427701 www.kobold.com info.uk@kobold.com

MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

STATE-OF-THE-ART KOBOLD

THE WORLD’S SMALLEST DUAL-TUBE CORIOLIS MASS FLOW METER: HIGH PRECISION MEASUREMENTS WITHIN 150 MM Due to the weight influence of sensor coils, for the measurement of very small flowrates it is common practice to use single tube Coriolis flow meters. The sensor coils of dual-tube Coriolis sensors are mounted onto one of the two measuring tubes, thus having, by very small tube diameters, a significant weight influence on the tube on which they are mounted.

Therefore, the influence of the sensor coils on the measurement results increases by decreasing tube diameter. For this reason single tubes are often favoured for the measurement of very small flow‑rates, where the coils are mounted to the chassis and not on the tube. However, with the use of just one measuring tube the influence of external interferences increases dramatically. To reduce this sensitivity and at the same time delivering accurate measurements at very small flow rates, Heinrichs Messtechnik has developed the dual-tube Coriolis principle to a new level.

In this new state-of-the-art technologie, the sensor coils are no longer mounted onto the tubes, but rather between them, thus freeing the measuring tubes from the influence of the coils weight allowing for extremly small tube diameters in dual-tube design.

The result is the world’s smallest dualtube Coriolis Mass flow-meter: The high Performance Coriolis (HPC). With an installation length of just 150 mm it is now possible to achieve high accuracy measurements with deviations of just ± 0.1 percent. Furthermore, the sensor shows insensitivity to temperatures of up to 180 °C, to pressures of up to 600 bar as well as to strong vibrations.

“Market observations have revealed an open gap in the measurement of small flow rates”, explains Frank Schramm, the managing director of Heinrichs Messtechnik GmbH. The current problem is that the state-of-the-art stipulates the use of dual-tube technology, where the magnets are mounted to one tube, the exciter and sensor coils to the other. However, for very small flow rates this principal has a decisive limit. For example, where extremely small

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Heinrichs Messtechnik GmbH developed the smallest dual-tubed-Coriolis-Mass-Flowmeter in the world: The High Performance Coriolis (HPC). With an installation length of just 150 mm high accuracy measurements are achieved with deviations of just ± 0.1 percent flow rates demands a tube diameter of just 1 mm, the vibrating behavior of the coils weight can influence the measurement results significantly. “Therefore it is common practice to use one tube systems for these applications, in which the coils are mounted to the chassis of the sensor.

This system has the decisive disadvantage in that the second tube, which also serves as a measurement reference, is omitted, requiring that the sensor coils be mounted on to the chassis of the enclosure making the sensor more susceptible to vibrations and other disturbances.

For this reason, Heinrichs Messtechnik GmbH has set as its objective, the development of a high precision, shock resistant Coriolis Mass Flow Meter. Emerged

is the High Precision Coriolis – short HPC – with its installation length of just 150 mm the smallest Coriolis mass flow meter in dual-tube design.

REDUCING DISTURBANCE INFLUENCES BY POSITIONING THE SENSOR COILS BETWEEN THE MEASURING TUBES “Due to the sensitivity single tube Coriolis sensors, a costly mechanical decoupling is often required, rendering them inappropriate for many applications. Our quest was therefore to find a means of unifying a dual tube design with very small diameter tubes”, explained Schramm. Since the fundamental problem lies in the weight

The whole development phase took a mere 1.5 years. To achieve this short development time Heinrichs Messtechnik utilized the latest simulation technology.

Instead of mounting the coils onto the tubes, the manufacturer chose to mount them onto a PCB situated between the measuring tubes. By simultaneously doubling the number of pickup coils from two to four, the resolution is increased significantly. of the coils, which when compared with tube diameters of 1.5 mm or less present a significant weight, Heinrichs Messtechnik adopted the following solution: The conventional approach of mounting the coils onto the tubes was abandoned in favour their mounting on a printed circuit board mounted between the tubes. This method also enables the use of four sensor coils instead of two, as is usually the case with dual-tube Coriolis, providing a higher resolution.

On the measuring tubes themselves only very light magnets are mounted, which, with a weight of only 0.08g, have little to no influence on the vibrating behavior of the tubes.

Instead of conventional brazing, the magnet holders are mounted onto the tubes using a special laser-welding technology. Utilizing this method, Heinrichs Messtechnik aims at keeping the production costs of the sensor to an absolute minimum, it not only allows for a stress‑free connection, but also eliminates the time-consuming and elaborate process of brazing in a vacuum oven.

INSENSITIVE TO EXTERNAL INFLUENCES Using the dual-tube design, the new HPC displays extreme insensitivity towards external influences, allowing for precise measurements with a maximum deviation of ± 0.1 Percent of the mean value and a Zero-point stability between 0.001 and 0.005, making a mechanical decoupling in most cases superfluous. Owing to the measuring tubes high working frequency of over 200 Hz, the coupling of installation vibrations or similar oscillations into the

measuring system is prevented and so with avoiding fault signals. A further advantage in mounting the sensor coils on a motionless PCB is the elimination of open wiring within the sensor, as is the case of standard commercially available devices.

This wiring often presents a vulnerable weak point, since the wire and its point of connection must vibration continuously with the frequency of the measuring tubes.

With the exception of the laser welded measuring tubes, the HPC consists essentially of a solid drilled and tapped stainless steel block. Furthermore, the HPC has been stripped of a splitter at the inflow of the tubes, instead possessing a reservoir – in which the process pressure distributes the fluid exact into the measuring tubes, hence preventing flow disturbances generally caused by splitters. This technique has the timesaving advantage of one less component to weld as well as one less potential material stress source.

The result is an extremely robust device capable of withstanding temperatures and pressures of up to 180 °C and 600 bar respectively. “In principle, the device may also be ordered with Hastelloy tubes and other alloys”, added Schramm.

VARIABLE ASSEMBLY CONCEPT For flexible installations, different constructive variations of the HPC are available: Besides the traditional Inline Version, which can be inserted directly into the process line, there are three further models available, which are suitable for either wall mounting, by means of wall brackets, or may simply be placed on a table. “For our Table model there are two available options: either with the measuring

pipes pointing downwards below the supply line or pointing upwards above the supply line. For the measurement of gas, upward pointing tubes are recommended to prevent any issues with fluid collecting in the tubes. The same also goes visa versa for the measurement of fluids”, Schramm remarks.

Collectively, the devices are available in three measuring ranges: 0–20, 0–50 and 0–160 kg/h. On request other adaptations are also available, for example, customer-specific enclosures, connectors or interfaces. In particular for the chemical and semiconductor industry, fully-welded stainless steel enclosures are also available.

RAPID DEVELOPMENT SUCCESS WITH HIGH-END SIMULATION The whole development phase took a mere 1.5 years. To achieve this short development time, Heinrichs Messtechnik utilized a state-of-the-art simulation technology. “By these means the required number of prototypes was drastically reduced, reducing so with development costs significantly”, Schramm says contentedly. Furthermore, with the aid of the simulation technology customerspecific requirements can be captured and individual solutions presented in the shortest of time.

The HPC was presented for the first time on the Hannover trade fair from 23rd to the 27th of April, simultaneously being the official launch of sales. Furthermore, ATEX and IECEx approvals are also planned as well as a patent registration of the technology. Parallel to the launch of sales, Heinrichs Messtechnik is also working on a new miniaturized transmitter with flexible interfaces, specially designed for compatibility with the HPC.

www.kobold.com

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MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

NEW 2060 PROCESS ANALYSER METROHM

CUSTOMISED ONLINE MONITORING OF INDUSTRIAL PROCESSES AND WASTEWATER STREAMS

Metrohm Process Analytics presents the 2060 Process Analyser, an integrated solution for 24/7 online monitoring of critical chemical parameters in industrial processes and wastewater streams. The new system is entirely modular by design, enabling custom configurations for monitoring single or multiple process streams.

concentrations by bringing the proven and high-quality Metrohm analysis modules, from the lab to the process.

Metrohm Process Analysers are well known for a modular configuration concept; we have now taken that flexibility one step further.

The Metrohm 2060 Process Analyser not only offers modularity within one cabinet, but also can contain up to four cabinets to create one single analyser platform.

Strict separation of wet part and electronics ensures safe operation in harsh environments with the ability to perform regular analyser checks without any interruptions.

One or multiple parameters, in single or multiple streams varying from trace levels to high concentrations in a single configuration.

Using multiple analysis techniques, the 2060 Process Analyser is capable of covering a broad range of applications and

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The analyser is designed to withstand harsh process environments, which results in a long Analyser lifetime and increased uptime due to less maintenance intervals.Â

Metrohm Process Analytics provides virtually any sample pre-conditioning system, such as; cooling or heating, pressure reduction, degassing, filtration and many more to meet your everyday challenges.

For more information visit www.metrohm.co.uk

NEWS & EVENTS

Apex Dynamics announces new appointment to boost UK presence

Babcock Wanson delivers ‘first class service’ for animal byproducts processor

BOGE’s total compressor rental service guarantees industry the air to work

APEX Dynamics, a global leader in the design, manufacture and supply of precision servo gearboxes, has strengthened its position in the UK and Ireland markets with the appointment of a new National Sales Manager.

Babcock Wanson has provided animal byproducts processor and recycler, P Waddington & Co (1947) Ltd., with a highly efficient solution for odour abatement and process steam production at its site in Bradford, West Yorkshire.

P Waddington & Co recycles all animal byproducts into energy and biofuels through its tallow, meat and bonemeal products. To minimise odour from the process, Babcock Wanson has supplied a Deodorising Oxidiser, specifically designed to abate odours and vapour emissions generated by the production process.

Process off-gases are oxidised at a temperature of 850-900°C within the Oxidiser’s chamber with a dwell time of approximately 1.0 second, before being discharged to the atmosphere as a harmless and odour free exhaust.

BOGE, a leading manufacturer of compressed air systems, is helping businesses across industry to cost effectively meet both short- and long-term demand for compressed air through its total compressor rental service.

The highly affordable service offers businesses an alternative to owning and maintaining their own compressors. BOGE and its network of experienced distribution partners specify compressed air systems based on the needs of each business, ensuring customers are consistently supplied with the correct volume of compressed air required. Skilled engineers oversee a fast installation and commissioning process and provide 24/7 nationwide service and maintenance support as part of the monthly fee.

For more information, please contact Babcock Wanson on 020 8953 7111 or info@babcock-wanson.co.uk or go to www.babcock-wanson.co.uk

Further information on the compressor rental service is available at www.boge.co.uk.

First of a number of key appointments boosting the sales team at APEX Dynamics UK, this is part of an ongoing strategy by the business to establish itself as a major player in the UK by investing in people and resources to develop new products and further expand its global sales network.

Joining the APEX Dynamics bandwagon as National Sales Manager is Andrew Parsons, who has extensive experience spanning two decades in engineering and motion control technology, both internally and in providing external support for key customers and system integrators. www.apexdynauk.com

HARTING’S T1 INDUSTRIAL WINS GLOBAL ELECTRONICS AWARD Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) connector recognised for innovation HARTING’s T1 Industrial has won the award for ‘Passive and Electromechanical Product of the Year’ at the Elektra Awards, held on the 4th December 2019 at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London.

The Elektra Awards recognise companies and individuals for their excellent performance, innovation and contribution to the global electronics industry and winning an award is seen as one of the most prestigious accolades a company or individual can receive.

With the T1, HARTING has established a new technology standard which transmits data via Ethernet at speeds of up to 1 GBit/s with just one pair of wires, making it the perfect solution for Industry 4.0 and the IIoT. Industry recognition for establishing this new standard highlights the immense potential of the new technology, which can supply both data and power in an IEC 63171-6 industry-standardised interface for Single Pair Ethernet (SPE).

SPE will be one of the key technologies that significantly shape the success of the

IIoT. The factory of the future will require high data streams and the industrial sector needs connectivity which adapts itself to increasingly growing demands. The T1 Industrial brings Ethernet from the cloud to every sensor, thus enabling the IIoT. Commenting on the award, Simon Asbury, Director of Sales and Marketing at HARTING UK, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that the Elektra Awards have recognised the innovative and visionary nature of the T1 Industrial

and Single Pair Ethernet. We’re confident that this new technology standard will help to efficiently deliver the many benefits of Industry 4.0 to our customers and we’re looking forward to working closely with them as we develop further applications and solutions.”

Further information: www.harting.com/UK/en-gb/singlepair-ethernet-infrastructure-for-IIoT

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NEWS & EVENTS

ADOPTING AUTOMATION FANUC

RUGBY MP PRAISES FANUC UK FOR CHANGING PERCEPTION OF INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION AT INAUGURAL OPEN HOUSE Rugby MP, Mark Pawsey, has praised FANUC for bringing the manufacturing industry together and hopes that it will help change the perception attached to automation in the UK, after attending the company’s inaugural UK Open House event on Thursday 31 October.

Hosted at FANUC’s UK headquarters in Ansty Park, Coventry, Mr Pawsey, who is also a member of the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Committee, was speaking on the final day of the event, which brought UK industry together to discuss the challenges of adopting automation in the UK. Discussing the BEIS Committee’s recent report, Automation and the future of work, Mr Pawsey highlighted some of its key findings and recommendations to UK Government, including the need for progress and to remove the slow uptake of automated systems.

The report, which was published in September highlighted the UK’s slow adoption of automation, and explained how it is being hampered by a lack of action from the Government. Stating that there are entire regions of the country at risk of being left behind G7 competitors, the report from the BEIS Committee argued that, unless concerted efforts are made to manage the transition to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, UK businesses will miss a pivotal opportunity for economic growth.

Speaking at the event, Mark Pawsey said: “This event is bringing together, not only customers, but people from around the industry. I’m hoping the coverage of this event will play its part in changing people’s perceptions about the opportunity that robots will provide.”

Mr Pawsey’s appearance came at FANUC’s first UK Open House, which saw over 600 manufacturing professionals attend over the course of the three-day event. Organised to promote automation and the opportunities that lie ahead for UK manufacturing, the event also covered topics including the necessity for smart manufacturing and the Internet of Things.

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FANUC’s UK Managing Director, Tom Bouchier, who also provided evidence to the BEIS Committee ahead of its report, said: “This is the first time we have hosted this event and opened our doors to such in-depth industry discussion. Over the last three days, we have received fantastic engagement from industry peers and also debated the future of our industry.

academia and universities, as well as how to overcome the skills shortage. Tom Bouchier concludes: “Perhaps the biggest challenges facing UK manufacturing surrounds education. Ensuring that school and university curriculums are exposing people to new technologies from a young age, as well as providing a clear route for anyone interested in studying the subject, is essential.

“We have discovered that there are a number of avoidable barriers preventing the UK’s adoption to automation, and it was great to hear from MP Mark Pawsey on the challenges that the BEIS Committee has submitted to UK Government. It is important that attitudes change and we hope that our three-day event has helped open people to new ideas and ways of working. Automation provides the UK with significant opportunities, not only on the potential economic impact, but also the productivity of UK manufacturers. However, we need to act now and ensure that the current scepticism surrounding automation in the UK is addressed.”

“We have also heard the different challenges facing SMEs across the UK, which was also discussed in the BEIS Committee’s recent report. The report calls for funding of an impartial source of advice for businesses looking to invest in automation, and the discussions we have seen at our event appear to back this idea up.

The three-day event also highlighted the concerns around support for the UK’s

“We hope that our event has not only provided a platform to continue this important discussion, but also paves the way for the UK to adopt automation across all manufacturing sectors.”

www.fanuc.eu/uk/en

NEWS & EVENTS

Lenze is well placed for 2020 despite tough market conditions

Konecranes Demag UK Ltd signs the Armed Forces Covenant

Following the release of Lenze’s 2018/19 Financial Report, this leader in mechatronic components looks well placed for 2020, despite tough market conditions.

GOING FOR GROWTH According to the figures, Lenze realised a 6.3% increase in revenue during 2018/2019 growing from €741M to €787.6M and all regions within the Lenze Group (Europe, America, Asia) contributed to this growth.

Lifting equipment manufacturer and service provider, Konecranes Demag UK Ltd, has signed the Armed Forces Covenant. The company has made a commitment to support the Armed Forces community and recognise the contribution to society and business made by serving, reservist and veteran military personnel.

RE-SKILLING FOR DIGITALISATION To meet the increasing demands of digitalisation, the Lenze group made significant financial and personnel investments in skills expansion. In order to meet the company’s projected growth and altered skills requirements, a number of new staff were appointed in key areas leading to a rise in the number of employees from 3,739 the previous year to 3,969. www.lenze.com/en-gb

As an Armed Forces friendly organisation, it has pledged to promote a recruitment pathway for service personnel, their spouses and partners, ensuring that no member of the Armed Forces faces disadvantage in seeking employment.

The company also recognises that in some circumstances special treatment may be appropriate and has promised support, including special leave and deployment, for reservists and leaders of military cadet organisations.

Aseptic Valve Solution The GEMÜ 650 BioStar 2/2 way stainless steel diaphragm valve is designed according to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) for use in sterile or hygienic environments. It is CIP/ SIP and Autoclave capable depending on the version with surface finishes down to 0.25 μm, electropolished.

The valve has an extensive range of accessories such as glowing LED switchboxes making the valve a high integrity workhorse for aseptic and hygienic applications. Normally closed (NC), Normally open (NO) and Double acting (DA) control functions are available as well as an ATEX or flow control versions with 4-20mA positioners.

It is also mounted on zero deadleg or multiport block bodies.

Website: www.gemu.co.uk Tel: 01925 824044 Email: enquiries@gemu.co.uk

www.konecranes.com

WES LTD LAUNCHES NEW INITIATIVE TO TACKLE SKILLS GAP WITH THE WES ACADEMY The skills gap crisis is an ongoing concern for many manufacturing and engineering businesses in the UK, as fewer apprentices come into the sector and an ageing workforce leave. The gap has been particularly recognised in the Utilities sector, which has set up the Energy and Utilities Skills Partnership, with a core aim being to attract, train and enhance the utility sector skills base.

WES is addressing the situation by taking positive action with a series of proactive initiatives.

These include working with Southampton Engineering Training Association (SETA), running a highly regarded apprenticeship scheme and, through its recently launched skills programme, to upskill its current workforce with the WES Academy training programme.

The Academy includes technical and commercial training documents, modules and seminars held at WES’ inhouse training facility. New starters can get to know the basics such as understanding the use

of chemicals, through to more specific technical training that includes such topics such as ‘test procedures for a dosing rig’ and ‘correct procedures for emptying chemical bunds’. The Academy is designed to be a continuous learning program with increasing competency of individuals demonstrated & monitored via the WES SharePoint intranet system.

The WES Academy is open to all employees and remote access allows offsite employees the option to log in to the training platform from their tablets. www.wes.ltd.uk

CENTRIFUGE ENGINEERING SERVICES LTD

Centrifuge Engineering Service Ltd has been in business for many years, working in the PetroChemical, Pharmaceutical, Fine Chemicals, Food & Beverage, and Waste-Water Treatment Industries, supplying new and fully refurbished equipment for various processes, also breakdown repairs, planned maintenance contracts, consultation, upgrades & installations.

We recently completed a full refurbishment of these Ferrum Centrifuges above for a regular customer of ours, including new drive system, hydraulics, pneumatics, process feed controller, critical dimension inspection, replacement bearing, seals and suspension, pickle passivation of all stainless steel

parts, and 2 pack epoxy painting following grit blasting.

We have various centrifuges in all sizes and configuration ready for refurbishing following discussions with our customers to find out exactly what they require the process to do, and more important to do it safely.

CES Ltd supply all types of Filtration & Separation equipment for all types of industries, including Basket, Decanter, and Disc Stack Centrifuges, Nutsche Pressure Filters, Filter Presses, DAF systems and Filter Bag Equipment.

Please call +44 1484 548200, or visit our website www.cesluk.co.uk

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NEWS & EVENTS

CONTINUED GROWTH DERITEND

£1M SALES BOOST DELIVERS A PERFECT 121ST BIRTHDAY PRESENT FOR DERITEND One of the UK’s leading providers of engineering solutions is celebrating a major birthday in style after announcing a £1m boost in sales and creating eleven new jobs.

Deritend Group, which looks after the repair and replacement of electric motors, pumps, gearboxes, electronic controls and induction equipment, is 121 years-old in 2019 and has marked the big anniversary with a string of new contracts with clients involved in utilities, food processing and the automotive sector.

The Wolverhampton-headquartered company has come a long way since it started out as a small electrical maintenance business in London in 1898, primarily repairing street lighting in and around the capital.

Today, it employs 110 people across four locations in the Black Country, Luton and Middlesbrough and, thanks to the clutch of recent wins, is on course to post £11m annual sales.

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“121 years in business is a fantastic achievement, especially considering all of the different economic changes and some really bad recessions,” explained Richard Hale, Managing Director of Deritend Group.

“We have acquired companies, we have sold firms and we have moved sites on numerous occasions – throughout all of this we have always stayed true to our founding principles of being small enough to care, but large enough to cope.”

He continued: “This approach, combined with investment in modern facilities and our people, means we are able to offer our customer a proactive repair and maintenance service for their critical assets, helping them minimise the downtime, decrease the costs and maximise the productivity of equipment.”

Deritend, which was acquired by Richard and his management team in 2001, plays a

critical role in ensuring we have clean water in our homes, production lines meet just-intime requirements and society has a regular supply of food.

A fully equipped fabrication operation in Middlesbrough and a skilled team of engineers located strategically across the UK continue to support customers ranging from Severn Trent/Thames Water and JCB to British Steel and Mondelez International, who own Cadbury.

Over £750,000 has been invested in new equipment, recruitment and upskilling its workforce over the last twelve months, with plans in place to relocate its Wolverhampton site to West Bromwich by the start of 2021.

“Many people will never know their lives have been touched by Deritend or our engineers,” added Dave Booth, Regional Director.

“Just last year we fixed an electric motor that was powering a pump delivering clean water to over 4000 homes. Without our speed of response and technical know-how, those residents could have well been out of water for some time.

“Our staff have been fantastic and a key part of the journey we have been on, with some of them working with us for over 45 years.

We wanted to do something to celebrate the 121st birthday and have organised a

series of celebrations at our four locations, where every employee will receive a gift as a memento of our anniversary and a ‘thank you’ from the management team.”

He concluded: “We are continuing to grow so there has to be a focus on ensuring we have the rich engineering skills to move forward and this will involve recruiting experienced engineers and embarking on a new Apprenticeship programme that has already seen us take on four apprentices.

“Make UK are helping us shape the delivery of the training and we have committed significant investment into ensuring this is a focal point of our recruitment activity going forward.”

For further information, please visit www.deritend.co.uk or follow @deritend on twitter

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PACKAGING INNOVATIONS SHOW PREVIEW

LATEST INDUSTRY TRENDS PACKAGING INNOVATIONS 2020

FUTURE OF PACKAGING TECHNOLOGY ON DISPLAY AT PACKAGING INNOVATIONS 2020 Processing and manufacturing professionals will have the opportunity to get hands on with the future of packaging technology when Packaging Innovations 2020 returns to Birmingham’s NEC on 26 & 27 February.

PRODUCT LAUNCHES The show, which is co-located with Ecopack, Contract Pack & Fulfilment, Empack, and Label&Print, will showcase solutions for use across the supply chain and will welcome over 300 suppliers, many of which will be launching their latest innovations to the UK market.

For instance, Yorkshire Packaging Systems will launch its Pizza Capping Solutions which utilise film that is OPRL approved and fully recyclable to LDPE level 4.

Sollas will showcase its auto wrapping machinery for products such as cartons. The technology utilises heat-sealable film, paper, and eco-friendly materials to create high quality presentation finishes.

Automated Packaging Systems will present its range of flexible packaging systems including the Autobag® bagging machines and preopened bags-on-a-roll, which have been designed to allow flexibility and optimise throughput.

Liberty Packaging Systems will also join the show with its series of equipment for shrink wrapping, including semi-automatic and automatic varieties to suit individual needs.

SHOW FEATURES Alongside the busy exhibition floor, Packaging Innovations will present an engaging seminar programme which will gather industry experts to share inspiration and insights that visitors can apply to their own packaging concepts.

Making its debut, the BIG Carbon Debate will unpick the challenges of creating truly eco-

friendly packaging with topics of discussion including convenience vs sustainability and carbon neutral targets.

The show will also host a series of sectorspecific forums, with specially curated content on offer for a range of industries including food, drink, pharmaceutical, beauty, and e-commerce.

For those looking for further inspiration, the show will present several interactive features including the Innovation Showcase which will display 12 of the most cutting-edge designs from the exhibition floor. The groundbreaking solutions will compete for the coveted prize of ‘Most Innovative Pack’, which is voted for by visitors.

Victoria Blake, Event Director of Easyfairs’ UK Packaging Portfolio, comments: “Packaging Innovations 2020 is the destination for anyone looking to discover the latest industry trends and packaging solutions. Many of our exhibitors are launching cutting-edge technologies and we have several new interactive features taking place, making 2020 our biggest and busiest show to date. I can’t wait for the doors to open.”

For any further information, please visit the Packaging Innovations NEC 2020 website or contact the show team on +44 (0)20 8843 8800 or PackagingUK@ easyfairs.com.

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PACKAGING INNOVATIONS, ECOPACK, CONTRACT PACK & FULFILMENT, LABEL&PRINT AND EMPACK 26 & 27 February 2020 | NEC, Birmingham

Explore the packaging supply chain “This was my first Packaging Innovations conference and I was blown away by the volume of suppliers, quality and aesthetics of the stands, and overall energetic, passionate, positive vibe of those in attendance. The seminars were excellent. I enjoyed the VIP area too! Will definitely be back next year.”

Leisel Grimes, Creative Realisation Assistant, Pearlfisher

“The UK is the leading the edge on environmentally friendly packaging, which is showcased at the event.”

Rob Cooke, Packaging Design, Google

GET YOUR BADGE FREE TODAY

www.easyfairs.com/PIUK

PACKAGING

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

FOAMplus® Your products deserve the best protection.

Expanding polyurethane foam pads mould around any product shape within seconds. Exceptional protection for fragile or awkwardly shaped products.

Contact us for a FREE* trial

T: +44(0)114 249 2004 E: packaging.uk@storopack.com *subject to qualification

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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% and 50% recycled content available

PACKAGING

EASY ON THE OPEN AMARAY

NEW AMARAY PACKAGING LINE HAS STACKS OF POTENTIAL With more than 320 packaging patents to its name, applying ingenuity to enhance the customer experience continues to define Amaray’s success. Most recently, the Corby-based injection moulding facility in partnership with Sumitomo (SHI) Demag, Waldorf Technik and Roth Werkzeugbau unveiled a pioneering, fully automated In Mould Labelling (IML) production line that’s repeatedly manufacturing, stacking and wrapping over 7,500 easy open, fully decorated rigid wipe lids per hour.

The push button lids, cleverly designed for a major blue chip personal care client, have proven to be a feat of functional engineering several years in the making. Yet, the project may not have got off the ground or have been quite so cutting-edge or financially viable without the cooperation of such forwardthinking machinery and equipment supply partners, claims Rick Ormerod, Head of Technical at Amaray.

Believed to be Europe’s first ever installation of a 12+12 stack packaging mould, and quite possibly the most sophisticated packaging production line in the world today, Rick credits the dedication of the entire team to delivering such a pioneering project.

Taking centre stage on the line is Sumitomo (SHI) Demag’s ultra-high speed 580-tonne El-Exis SP, fitted with a multi-cavity 12+12 stack mould. An integrated high speed IML Waldorf Technik robot places each label into the mould, and then removes and closes each of the 24-hinged lids as soon as they are extracted from the mould. This has to be done swiftly while the polypropylene is still malleable. Each lid is then placed on the conveyor where they are each quality checked by a camera. A robot then creates stacks of lids, passing to a bander, at which point the stacks collated and fed into an automated wrapper to create a brick of lids for loading onto a pallet.

Amaray considered its selection of partners for this new production line long and hard, emphasises Rick. “We intentionally chose suppliers that could bring fresh thinking and were leaders in their respective fields.

This was our first UK Sumitomo (SHI) Demag installation to join our fleet of 38 injection moulding machines. The team proved to be a driving force in scoping out the exact

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Partnering with Sumitomo (SHI) Demag, Waldorf Technik, Roth Werkzeugbau and Mevisco, Amaray believes it to be the most sophisticated packaging production line in the world today, integrating injection stack moulding, IML, robotics and vision

machinery specifications needed in order to create a fully automated, streamlined packaging production line.

“Through an open dialogue we were able to arrive at a cohesive direction together that would enable Amaray to achieve the best design, in the most productive and cost effective way possible,” adds Rick.

PUSHING THE DESIGN ENVELOPE The wipe lid builds upon Amaray’s media market domination. “It ties in very closely with manufacturing hinged casings to protect DVDs, computer games and videos,” comments Rick, who has extensive personal experience in moulding and IML. “All of this expertise melded together very well,” he highlights.

Driven by its underlying principle to make good things better, the company did extensive and ongoing market research with parents and carers to scope out how they could structurally improve upon the rigid pop up lid concept.

Rick explains: “Wipes are a classic on-the-go product where convenience and accessibility are paramount. During the design and trial phases, users repeatedly emphasised the dexterity challenges they face when changing or cleaning a wriggling child.

Above all else, they desired a secure lid that stopped wipes from drying out to save on waste, yet could be opened and closed with one finger.”

To maximise post-consumer recycling efforts, Amaray made the intentional decision to use polypropylene. “It means that the entire component - lid and label - can be recycled after use,” says Rick.

In order to deliver this uncompromising design, the lid needed to be moulded as a single component and decorated and assembled in a seamless process.

From an injection moulding perspective, using a 12+12 stack mould although more productive, presented a tooling and processing challenge. Sumitomo (SHI) Demag’s UK packaging expert Kevin Heap explains: “To create the flip-like hinge was challenging in itself, as the tooling needed to accommodate varying depths of raw material. Unlike a single face tool, the polymer is injected in the centre between the two plates and has to be evenly distributed in all 24 cavities.”

Additionally, using a two-face 12+12 stack mould in conjunction with the IML system means that 24 cavities are opening at the same time, with a Waldorf Technik side-entry robot placing labels accurately within fractions of a second. “Typically, packaging moulders use a single face mould with a maximum of twelve cavities when integrating an IML system, so Amaray’s installation doubled the complexity. To insert labels on both tool faces required a much larger robotic system,” emphasises Kevin.

In addition to the ultra-high speed 580-tonne El-Exis SP, the Sumitomo (SHI) Demag team supplied fresh thinking to achieve the best design, moulded in the most productive and cost effective way possible

MULTI-TASKING ROBOT

Given that the El-Exis is the world’s fastest packaging machine, robotic speed was equally important. The Waldorf side-entry robot serves two purposes. As well as inserting the label into each cavity before the plastic is injected into the mould, it has to retract and then re-enter the moulding area to remove all 24 lids, closing them before the plastic hardens.

The robot then manoeuvres around to place the lids on a conveyor where the dimensions and label are fully quality checked. The vision system, cameras and software were supplied

by Mevisco, with Rick hailing their support and commitment to the project as being excellent.

If parts fail to meet the specified criteria they are rejected from the line by air blasts without interrupting the production flow. Utilising the latest Smart Factory innovations to ensure full traceability, the checking system monitors and captures the data of total parts produced, parts rejected and the reasons for those rejections.

Once the full quality check is complete, the lids are stacked and bound in-line, creating a brick of nine stacks which are wrapped and palletised ready for shipment.

“For moulders that are seeking to maximise profitability and productivity - particularly for high quality, decorated yet low margin branded lids - stack moulds provide an increasingly attractive option,” notes Kevin.

“With a stack system of this scale, moulders can get more production output per square metre, as well as saving on utility and maintenance costs.”

“Commissioning the stack mould was a bold move on our part. However, it massively increases our moulding capacity in each cycle,” adds Rick.

100% UNIQUE

While some moulders might be content following the rules, engineering something that has never been attempted before is always exhilarating, claims Rick. “It requires dedication and open communication, with engagement across all suppliers. For a mega-

In keeping with their ‘Making Good Things, Better’ philosophy, the Amaray wipe lid is uniquely designed and manufactured to be opened and closed with one finger

project like this there were so many aspects to consider. Yet, our uncompromising attitude was worth the effort as we have engineered a new process and technique for moulding packaging lids in high volumes.”

During some parts of the process, the tooling and machine was being built in tandem with developing the lid design and consumer focus groups, says Rick. “Creating something new, especially such a revolutionary production line, requires a different mindset.

Development is exponential. If you challenge yourself to think differently, you can be more disruptive. It’s only when you start to put the pieces together, adjusting the requirements as the project evolves and consumer feedback is generated, can you really refine the process.

Thanks to everyone’s engagement, this project has been an absolute privilege to work on.”

The entire Amaray team has closely watched the project unfold, with live production commencing towards the end of 2018. “Such was the excitement among colleagues, we were counting down the days to launch,” exclaims Rick.

“There are several examples in Europe of moulders using 8+8 stack moulds for producing IML margarine lids in high volumes,” adds Kevin. “However, using a 12+12 stack mould, Amaray’s line really has pushed the packaging boundaries.”

Sitting directly in view of Amaray’s conference suite, visitors to the Corby plant are quick to comment on just how ground-breaking the production line is. “From a functionality and user perspective, the single push button wipes lid is new and innovative. Equally inventive is the process for manufacturing them in such vast volumes,” ends Rick.

www.amaray.com

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PACKAGING

STREAMLINED WORKING BRILLOPAK

CRATE DESTAKERS SUPPORT MORRISONS’ WORKER WELLBEING AND EFFICIENCY

To help two Morrisons packing plants overcome production bottlenecks, Brillopak has installed four Crate DeStakers at the start of four robotic pick and place case packing cells. However, the real benefit is the difference the machines have made to workforce health and safety and job satisfaction, reports Rushden’s site manager Andy Day.

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Upstream, Brillopak Crate DeStakers have put a stop to operatives repeatedly overstretching to lift, separate and place clean retail baskets in a constant stream onto conveyors for filling.

Both Rushden and Gadbrook fresh produce depots supplying Morrisons’ customers nationwide recently invested in four state-ofthe-art UniPacker Robotic Pick and Place Cells

for packing vertical form fill and seal potato bags into standard sized 600mmx400mm crates. Having automated their packing lines, both sites needed assurance that the supply of crates to the robotic cells would be fast enough to not cause a backlog or result in labour being relocated to such a strenuous and repetitive task.

According to the Health & Safety Executive, the moving of awkward heavy loads is one of the key causes of manual handling musculoskeletal injuries and work-related upper limb disorders (WRULDs). Chronic back pain resulting from repetitive or awkward lifting accounts for around 35% of cases of occupational ill health in food and drink manufacturingi. The Brillopak crate separation and palletising systems are designed to address these issues by removing one of the most labour intensive tasks in case packing.

ADDRESSING PROCESSING PAIN POINTS

Prior to the automated lines going in, operatives at Morrisons loaded crates manually onto the conveyor. Once filled, another colleague would hoist and stack the heavy filled trays onto pallets. With more than 720 pallets passing through each facility daily, unloading the two-metre high stacks, separating, filling and then palletising the crates was physically demanding work.

Now, all movement of the empty and filled crates is done using robotics. By automating every part of the process from crate separation to palletising has resulted in 90% of the physical labour being taken off the line at Rushden.

Empty crates are automatically fed onto each packing line via a low belt conveyor, presenting stacks in a line to the Crate DeStaker. The Crate Destaker lifts up a whole stack while simultaneously pulling down the bottom crates. This motion ejects two crates at a time in a consistent line out onto the

main conveyor track to the robotic potato case loading station.

Each Brillopak Crate DeStaker unit can separate up to 480 crates every half an hour. Operatives then manoeuvre another pallet of washed and empty crate stacks into position on the infeed conveyor, so the process can continue.

Designed to feed multiple lines, another Morrisons site - Thrapston - has Brillopak Crate DeStakers in place supplying empty crates to 17 packing lines.

“The benefit to health and safety and workforce wellbeing is evident,” reports Rushden machine operative Dave. “The machine just does it for you. As people are rotated around different packing and warehouse tasks, the team seems a lot more cohesive.”

Site manager Andy agrees. “It’s a much calmer processing environment. Because the process is so streamlined, it feels less chaotic. Empty and filled crates are stacked in an orderly way, with clearly defined work and storage areas. Staff rotate around different jobs. This has increased team morale. Plus, they are not being constantly exposed to repetitive tasks, which is much better for occupational health.”

Brillopak Crate DeStakers and palletising stackers are modular by design, making it easier for packhouses to integrate with existing automated lines.

www.brillopak.co.uk

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Kecol Pumping Systems Kecol Pumping Systems offers solutions to many product transfer problems – read on to find out more.

K

ecol Pumping Systems Ltd are manufacturers of Air driven, Positive Displacement Piston Pumps and Priming Devices in polished stainless steel or carbon steel, for transferring high viscosity nonflowable products from drums and containers as used in the cosmetic, food, pharmaceutical, chemical and general industries.

Products in drums or similar sized vessels that normally need to be heated in order to reduce the viscosity - can be transferred cold. Products with a viscosity up to 10,000 Poise can be transferred (cold) using the Kecol Maxiprime Pump and follower plate system and is also used to transfer pastes and products that stick to the inside of an open top drum, wiping the inside of the drum or vessel, eliminating product waste.

Kecol Air Powered Drum Pumps and transfer systems are suitable for all standard size closed top or open top drums and can be adapted to suit open top containers with an internal diameter up to 1200mm.

Non contact parts as well as contact parts are available in polished stainless steel, clamp - type construction is also available for hygienic applications.

Typical applications in the food industry include transferring tomato

The inside of a standard 200 litre Open Top Drum is wiped clean – as the drum is emptied – with minimal product waste

puree, concentrated fruit juice, honey, fruit pastes, biscuit creams, jams, butter, margarine, sweet mince meat, sausage meat and meat pie fillings with cooked vegetables.

Applications in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries include transferring mascara, petroleum jelly, face creams, base creams, magnesium hydroxide, aluminium hydroxide, toothpaste, lip-gloss waxes and suntan lotions.

Kecol’s articulated pump systems

Kecol’s articulated pump systems

The Kecol Follower plate system will also work on 200 litre Open Top Drums fitted with an aseptic bag – wiping the bag clean

Applications in the chemical and general industries include the transfer of paints, resins, adhesives, polymers, latex, high viscosity grease, mastic’s and inks – all pumped cold without pre-heating the products.

As manufacturers, Kecol Pumping Systems can offer solutions to your particular product transfer problem, by offering a bespoke system designed to exceed your particular production requirements for single drum/vessel use or multi drum use.

Kecol Pumping Systems Ltd Faraday Drive Bridgnorth Shropshire WV15 5BJ T: 01746 764311 E: sales@kecol.co.uk www.kecol.co.uk

THE HOME OF VISCOUS PUMPING SOLUTIONS

Kecol have over 25 years of experience in handling all types of viscous products in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetics markets, as well as general industrial applications.

A sample of products we already pump… ✓Honey ✓Petroleum Jelly ✓Mascara ✓Sauces ✓Lanolin ✓Lip Gloss ✓Essences ✓Eye Ointment ✓Meat Paste ✓Paraffin Wax

T: +44 (0)1746 764311 E: sales@kecol.co.uk W: www.kecol.co.uk

✓Face Scrub ✓Teething Gel ✓Tomato Puree ✓Medical Adhesives ✓Veterinary Creams ✓Fruit Paste ✓Toothpaste ✓Malt ✓Jam ✓Wax

PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES

FOUNDATION FOR GROWTH ISHIDA

ISHIDA THE ‘NATURAL’ CHOICE FOR ARTISAN POTATO CHIPS

The collaboration between Belsia, a high-quality artisan French potato chip manufacturer, and Ishida, world leader in weighing and packing line solutions for the food industry, underlines the care and support that the company can provide to help small start-up companies achieve a foothold in the market and build a foundation for sustained growth.

Based in Beauce in Northern France, Belsia was established in 2015 when Matthieu and Clémence Maisons decided to devote 10 hectares of the family’s 160-hectare farm to growing the Lady Claire potato variety, whose intrinsic qualities are ideal for the production of high-end potato chips. First marketed in 2016 to local supermarkets, the potato chips, which are hand produced using 100% natural ingredients in four tasty varieties, quickly became a great success, reflected by ever-increasing volumes – 50 tons of potatoes processed in 2016, 150 tons in 2017, 300 tons in 2018 and 500 tons planned for 2019.

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AN ON-GOING COLLABORATION The first contact between Matthieu Maisons and Stéphane Woigt, regional sales manager at Ishida, took place during an exhibition in Paris and a dialogue was maintained during Belsia’s early years, during which time the company relied on second-hand packing equipment to process around 400kg of potatoes per day.

“At Ishida, we do not have large or small customers,” explains Stéphane Woigt.

“Instead, we have companies seeking the most suitable and reliable solution for their specific application. In the case of Belsia, when the company first approached us, it was not yet producing a significant enough volume to warrant the purchase of new equipment. However, we remained in regular contact, providing advice and establishing and maintaining a relationship of trust so that, when ready, Matthieu Maisons turned to Ishida to invest in a new potato chip packing line.”

As Matthieu Maisons confirms: “We appreciated that an international company like Ishida was willing to give equal consideration to the needs of a young company like ours.”

COMPLETE RESPONSIBILITY In 2018, after an assessment of three manufacturers, Belsia chose Ishida to devise a complete turnkey line with a small footprint, with Ishida assuming full responsibility for the entire installation and its performance.

During the 1990s, Ishida devised an integrated snacks packing solution, featuring a weigher mounted directly over a VFFS bagmaker to deliver valuable space savings. The multihead and bagmaker work in perfect harmony to deliver the highest speeds, efficiency and pack quality, without compromising Ishida’s proven precision and accuracy.

A FULLY INTEGRATED SOLUTION At Belsia, the line comprises a 10-head Ishida CCW-SE series multihead weigher with polished stainless-steel hoppers and an Astro bagmaker equipped with special stripping plates which clear the seal area before sealing to ensure excellent pack quality and close to zero film waste. In addition, Ishida has supplied a bucket elevator that feeds the potato chips to the weigher and a throat metal detector, positioned between the weigher and the bagmaker, to identify and reject any metal contamination before the potato chips are bagged. Belsia is packing both 150g and 40g bags on its Astro bagmaker.

The new Ishida installation, which is operating at 30 packs per minute for the 150g bag format, has enabled Belsia to increase production to 800kg per day of processed potatoes, combining excellent equipment reliability and minimum downtime for product changeovers with accuracy to within one gram of the target weight, thus avoiding overfills. All these benefits combine to provide substantial savings for the company and a short investment payback Equally important, the line is scalable and therefore will be able to support Belsia’s ongoing development of its potato chip range to deliver “a new flavour each year”, according to Clémence Maisons.

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION Matthieu Maisons concludes: “In addition to the reliability and speed of the line, we also appreciate its ease of use thanks to the intuitive touchscreens. Changing the bagmaker film reel takes only a few minutes and daily cleaning is easy. In our business where a production stoppage can very quickly cause problems, we are able to work

with confidence because we know we can rely not only the Ishida equipment but also on Ishida’s fast-response after-sales service.”

www.ishidaeurope.com

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PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES

SMARTSHELF – SCALE-ABLE INVENTORY SOLUTIONS REMOTE REAL-TIME INVENTORY MANAGEMENT SmartShelf weighing sensors from METTLER TOLEDO allow you to remotely monitor inventory levels in real-time.

With the capability to be integrated into shelves, racks, industrial vending machines or jobsite containers, SmartShelf allows for digital connectivity.

This enables seamless integration into existing networks and software systems.

Real-time visibility of your stock locations allows you to set inventory levels which can be automatically replenished, keeping operations stable and significantly reducing stock-checking time. Software access allows you to monitor stock levels remotely whilst also letting you analyse usage trends for easy supply chain optimisation.

You can also benefit from: Exact piece count per location Multiple different form factors to suit storage configuration Integration into picking solutions, including ‘Pick-to-Light’

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Discover more about SmartShelf remote inventory solution at www.mt.com/uksmartshelf For more information on Industrial products and service email enquire.mtuk@mt.com

PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES

316L STAINLESS STEEL FILTERS YOU CAN RELY ON Axium Process has developed its range of hygienic stainless steel filters ensuring ease of use, simple maintenance, dependability and outstanding quality is at the forefront of its design.

The standard filter range is available with short delivery times in order to meet customer demand and has a 90 degree or in-line housing option with fully interchangeable and replacement elements. The elements, which can be safely removed without specialist tooling, cleaned or steamed in place and quickly put back into service reducing unnecessary downtime, are available in wedge-wire, sintered mesh and perforated tube providing a filtration range from 5 microns up to 8000 microns.

Axium’s filters provide a reliable solution for critical applications such as a pre-filter for pumps or debris capture for CIP. The popular wedge-wire design is widely used for applications where product consistency and smoothness are essential and for powder dispersing applications.

The sintered mesh screen is ideal for high or low-temperatures and is used in the pharmaceutical, food and beverage industries for the removal of suspended solids, microflakes, fibres and for glass contamination prevention. For process security duties or coarse filtration applications, the company’s

perforated tube screen provides a robust and flexible solution.

When more complex filtering is required, Axium’s innovative filter systems can provide improved process efficiencies and substantial cost savings by reducing downtime, maintenance and screen renewal costs. The filter’s robust construction enables automatic or manual backflush facilities which can be fitted to the filter without fear of damaging the elements.

Axium’s filter systems include duplex, triplex and multiplex options and are engineered to give a small footprint, high flow rates and substantial dirt holding capacity. Systems can be customised with support framework, sample points, drainage, vent valves and pressure gauges.

www.axiumprocess.com

THE FILTER PRESS CO. LTD

The Filter Press Co. Ltd has been in business for quite a few years, working in the Effluent & Waste-Water Treatment, Food & Beverage, Petro-Chemical, Pharmaceutical, Fine Chemicals Industries, supplying new and fully refurbished equipment for various processes, also breakdown repairs, planned maintenance contracts, consultation, upgrades & installations.

We recently completed a full ‘turnkey’ project of a 1,000 ltr Solids Capacity Chamber Filter Press, as pictured above. This included the initial consultation, sample testing, particle analysis, to determine the requirements, automatic control system, hydraulics, process pumps, tank level monitoring, and installation.

We supply filtration systems in all sizes and configuration, including Chamber, Plate & Frame, Membrane, Dissolved Air Floatation ‘DAF’ Systems, and 316 St/St ‘Leak-free’ Filter Presses for the Wine & Beverage, Chemical and Pharma Industries.

We can also supply all types of Filtration & Separation equipment for all types of industries, including Basket, Decanter, and Disc Stack Centrifuges, Nutsche Pressure Filters, Filter Presses, DAF systems and Filter Bag Equipment.

Please call +44 1484 548200, or visit our website www.filterpress.eu

ANYTIME, ANYPLACE, ANYWHERE...

THE ON-CLOUD SOLUTION THAT DELIVERS SIMPLICITY CATIA 3D CAD On the Cloud: easy to implement (< 20 minutes to connect to your Cloud), full design suite of applications, together with collaborative framework to manage projects and design activity.

On the Cloud platform delivers flexibility and single point of access and common interface for all applications and enables all business units – design, engineering, simulation, manufacturing, sales, marketing, finance, procurement and

management – to engage in collaborative innovation. Move your business to the next level and network your organisation into a social design community.

Take away the headache and risk of backups, software upgrades, infrastructure cost and complexity and spend more time designing.

www.dte.co.uk/catia3dexperience-on-thecloud/

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PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES

DIN11864 AND DIN 11853 ASEPTIC UNIONS FOR ORBITAL WELDING DIN11864 and 11853 unions were developed to meet the exacting needs of the food, chemical and pharmaceutical industries.

This range of unions has been developed from the three most common systems used in the hygienic and sanitary industries; namely the “Aseptic” screwed union to DIN11864-1; the “Aseptic” flange union to DIN11864-2 and the “Aseptic” clamp union to DIN11864-3.

Available with optional lengths to suit both orbital and manual welding, these unions have been designed to match tube and pipe specifications to DIN11866 Table A (DIN11850); DIN11866 Table B (ISO 1127) & DIN11866 Table C (ASME BPE).

Size range: 10mm to 150mm and 1” to 4” Specials are available up to 304mm Materials: 316L SS 1.4404 and 1.4435 Specials available in Duplex and Alloy 22

www. alchemprocess.co.uk 01269 843800

VAISALA ADDS POTENTIAL FOR SMART INDUSTRIES BY BRINGING NEW SMART PROBES FOR DEW POINT AND MOISTURE IN OIL MEASUREMENT

Vaisala, a global leader in weather, environmental, and industrial measurements, has today launched six new smart probes for its Indigo product family, optimized for demanding industrial applications. New options for dew point and moisture in oil measurements bring more possibilities for industries to save energy, optimize processes, and improve product quality.

The new probes will improve customers’ process efficiencies by providing accurate and reliable measurement data for their industrial processes. The capabilities of the new probes are based on next-generation sensor technologies.

The new Vaisala DRYCAP® Dew Point and Temperature Probes DMP5, DMP6, DMP7,

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and DMP8 are optimized for low humidity and high temperature or pressurized environments. Dew point measurements are particularly important in various industrial drying applications, for example in ovens and compressed air systems. The dew point probes include Vaisala’s DRYCAP® sensor, which is immune to particulate contamination, water condensation, oil vapor, and most chemicals. Its fast reaction time gives it unmatched performance even in dynamic and low dew point applications, and the sensor’s outstanding stability enables a long two-year calibration interval.

The Vaisala HUMICAP® Moisture in Oil Probe MMP8 extends the Indigo product offering to include heavy industry applications such as measuring moisture in transformer or lubrication oils to protect engines from

wear and shutdown. Also introduced today, Vaisala HUMICAP® Humidity and Temperature Probe HMP3 is a generalpurpose remote probe suitable for duct mounting in non-pressurized applications with moderate temperatures. The probe structure allows the sensor to be replaced in the field without tools, providing maintenance flexibility in demanding applications that might require periodic sensor replacement, such as paint booths.

The HMP3 and MMP8 both include Vaisala HUMICAP® thin-film capacitive humidity measurement technology, which has become the industry standard in humidity measurement.

www.vaisala.com

PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES

VEHICLE TRACKING TECHNOLOGY MASTERNAUT

HOW CONNECTED VEHICLES IMPROVE THE EFFICIENCY OF A COMMERCIAL FLEET

As a fleet manager, you are often responsible for the activity of a large commercial fleet, which can sometimes contain hundreds of vehicles. Maximising the efficiency of the fleet is one of your primary goals, but how do you gather reliable data in order to make improvements across a large volume of vehicles?

A method which has proven successful in improving the efficiency of a commercial fleet is installing vehicle tracking technology, otherwise known as telematics. By installing vehicle tracking technology in all company vehicles, businesses can create a fleet of connected vehicles through which they can track a large amount of very useful data. Fleet managers can then use this data to determine areas where efficiency can be improved.

One area which can benefit from tracking technology is the fuel efficiency of commercial vehicles. For a commercial fleet, fuel represents a very significant expense, therefore improving fuel efficiency should

be high on the list of priorities for a fleet manager. Specific areas which contribute to high fuel usage are harsh acceleration and engine idling. Telematics devices installed in the cab of a commercial vehicle can provide alerts to the driver, which warn them when they are driving in a way which is known to increase fuel usage. When drivers are made aware of these issues through feedback from the in-cab systems, they are able to selfcorrect and therefore reduce the amount of fuel used.

Another area where commercial fleet managers should be looking to improve on, is the efficiency of the routes their drivers take. Inefficient routes can cause significant problems for the business and the customer.

In specific sectors, a late delivery could cause serious delays to the project as a whole, resulting in increased costs and unhappy customers. From a fleet managers point of view, when their drivers are not using the most efficient route, they aren’t able to complete as many deliveries or tasks in a day.

Installing telematics systems across an entire fleet allows a fleet manager to see the exact location of each vehicle within the fleet at any time. It also allows them to see the routes they have taken in the past and if there are faster options available to them.

Ensuring drivers take the most efficient routes during the day can not only increase productivity but customer satisfaction as well.

Overall, increasing the productivity of a commercial fleet can be achieved by installing vehicle tracking technology. It also allows fleet managers to gather insightful data which can help them improve the performance of their fleet in other key areas such as safety and customer service.

You can find out more about connected vehicles by visiting Masternuat’s website: www.masternaut.com/

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PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES

dqsfd

More new fume extraction systems meeting latest HSE welding requirements

ESAB launches first portable wire feeder with ip44 protection class rating for extreme durability

New antimicrobial-coated access control devices kill 99.9 per cent of prevalent bacteria

New from Wilkinson Star, one the of the UK’s largest independent distributors of Welding and Industrial Equipment, is the F-Tech Fume technology product range of high vacuum fume extraction systems and welding torches.

Welders and operatives can be exposed to welding fumes, grinding dust and oil mist in the working environment. It is therefore obligatory for employers to create safe and healthy working conditions for operatives by reducing these health risks. The F-Tech Armur is a high vacuum dust extraction system offering a mobile solution to extract dust from manual welding and grinding processes. The Armur unit features a high performance German motor and a choice of 3 mtr suction Armoflex or Armotech cantilever arm and a user friendly digital panel with hour meter, clogged filter alarm.

ESAB Welding & Cutting Products today introduced the Robust Feed Pro portable wire feeder, the first product in its category with an IP44 protection class rating, which means it is protected against water splashes from all directions, as well as solid objects larger than 1 mm. The completely-sealed Robust Feed Pro has a double-wall design with special impact zones made from a more flexible material to absorb more impact energy.

Contamination of clean environments could soon become a thing of the past, as Remsdaq launches its EntroPad range of access control readers, keypads and request to exit buttons with antimicrobial protection built in.

Third party testing to ISO 22196:2011 proves the integral antimicrobial protection on the new EntroPad devices kills up to 99.99% of E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria over a 24-hour period. This makes the EntroPad range ideal for use in access-controlled areas in hospitals, laboratories, surgeries, food manufacturing & preparation companies.

For further details please contact Wilkinson Star on 0161 728 7900 or visit wilkinsonstar247.com.

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All controls, power and gas connections are inside the case with a dedicated service cover, providing easy access to the electronics. “The Robust Feed Pro is the only feeder on the market that you can leave outside in a heavy rain. A heat kit inside the units wards off condensation and keeps the wire dry,” says Arne Lagerkvist, Global Product Manager, Heavy Industry Welding Equipment, ESAB Welding and Cutting Products.

Visit www.esab.com or call 01992 768515.

Robin Koffler, sales and marketing director at Remsdaq says: “Without antimicrobial protection, access control devices can become a breeding ground for a wide range of highly infectious bacteria.

Further information at: www.remsdaq.com/ solutions/integrated-security-systems

www.ansomatic.com

PROCESS CONTROL WITH AUGMENTED REALITY

Ansomatic is the latest innovation in Process control. It allows the operator to increase their productivity with the help of augmented reality. It projects the right information straight onto the workspace at precisely the right time in the assembly process.

ANSOMATIC is the latest innovation in process control. It allows operators to increase their productivity with the help of augmented reality. It projects the right information straight onto the workspace at precisely the right time in the assembly process.

NO ERRORS

ANSOMATIC uses vision to track the correctness and the quality of assembly.

It fully integrates sensors and assembly tools to ensure no fault manufacturing.

GUIDANCE

ANSOMATIC reduces confusion and training. It shows photos and videos on screen, projects onto work pieces and talks in the language of the user.

EASY

One of our customers stated that if you can work with Microsoft excel, you can work with ANSOMATIC.

BARCODE SCANNING

VISION SYSTEMS

VISUAL GUIDANCE

FASTENING

WEIGHT CHECK

ROBOTICS

PLC

ORDER PICKING

SENSORS

LABEL PRINTING

POSITION CONTROL

MULTISPINDLES

PRODUCT NEWS

JOINT DEVELOPMENT GENESIS ROBOTICS

DEMAUREX SA AND GENESIS ROBOTICS AND MOTION TECHNOLOGIES TO COLLABORATE ON NEXT GENERATION STATE OF THE ART PICK AND PLACE DELTA ROBOTICS Demaurex SA (Demaurex), a leading Swiss robotics company and pioneer of high speed pick and place robotics, and Genesis Robotics and Motion Technologies, an innovative start-up robotics company, today signed a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) to integrate Genesis Robotics’ revolutionary LiveDrive™ Direct-Drive Motors into Demaurex’s latest generation “Delta Robot Systems.” The JDA was signed at an exclusive signing ceremony at the Lausanne headquarters of Demaurex to begin what both companies hail as a milestone in the development of advanced robotics.

Demaurex engineered and industrialized the original Delta robot in 1988, based on a patent of Prof. Reymond Clavel of the Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL), introducing high speed, vision guided product pick and place systems to the robotics market for the first time. Demaurex and Genesis Robotics’ collaboration to develop this latest generation system represents a significant leap forward in the field of parallel kinematics, as two powerful technologies combine for the first time.

“Demaurex’s Delta Robotic machines and systems have been the class leader for many years, and with the incorporation of LiveDrive Direct-Drive Motors we will continue to hold that position well into the future,” said Frank Souyris, General Manager at Demaurex SA. “The LiveDrive technology offers new levels of simplicity and ease of

Demaurex, a pioneer in high speed pick and place robotics, will integrate Genesis Robotics’ revolutionary LiveDrive™ Direct-Drive Motors into its latest generation “Delta Robot System”.

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Demaurex SA and Genesis Robotics and Motion Technologies (Genesis Robotics), signed a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) to collaborate on next generation state of the art Pick and Place Delta robotics. Signatories from left to right: Chris Di Lello, CEO, Genesis Robotics; James Klassen, CTO, Genesis Robotics; Markus Kaufmann, CEO, Rotzinger Group; Frank Souyris, General Manager, Demaurex SA. use, eliminating the need for costly, bulky and unhygienic gearboxes all in a much smaller envelope. This will result in reducing the total cost of ownership and promoting ease of use for our customers.”

Genesis Robotics’ revolutionary LiveDrive™ Direct Drive Motor improves performance, reduces maintenance and increases uptime.

This level of speed, torque and precision has never been available in a such a compact device with such simplicity.

“This collaboration between Demaurex is significant for Genesis because it demonstrates that the power density of the LiveDrive motor can redefine the Delta Robot, taking it to a level that has never been seen before in practical application,” said James Klassen, inventor of LiveDrive. “The platform itself is what the industry has been waiting for: a high torque actuator that delivers three times higher torque density, high peak torque capacity, and the highest levels of precision.

Taking advantage of three foundational

discoveries – Magnetic Amplification, Advanced Structural Magnetic Architecture, and unparalleled Heat Dissipation – the LiveDrive Direct-Drive motor provides manufacturers with the ability to design simpler, faster and more precise robots and machines.”

Chris Di Lello, CEO of Genesis Robotics and Motion Technologies, said: “We are honoured to work with Demaurex SA as we believe that this collaboration demonstrates the powerful outcome that can be achieved when two companies with shared values, an intense desire to improve on the status-quo, and a deep respect for each other work together in true partnership.”

For more information, please contact: Roy Fraser, VP of Sales and Marketing, Genesis Robotics and Motion Technologies: roy.fraser@ genesis-robotics.com or visit www. genesis-robotics.com/demaurex

PRODUCT NEWS

DIGITALISING INDUSTRIAL PUMPS INSYS

HOW INDUSTRIAL ROUTERS CAN HELP MONITOR PUMP SYSTEMS Pumps use 20 per cent of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy and can contribute to up to 50 per cent of a plantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy consumption. Monitoring and using pumps more effectively are beneficial ways of reducing power usage and overheads.

Here Anna Wels, Vice President Market Unit icom for industrial router manufacturer INSYS, explains how industrial routers can be used to help monitor and optimise pumps.

Manufacturers and operators understand that pumps are central to a large amount of applications. A faulty pump can have disastrous effects, which can halt entire production lines or have dire consequences on the surrounding environment. As such, having an effective pump monitoring system is key.

However, while data collection has become relatively inexpensive, transmitting it via mobile connections, storing it and analysing it can prove costly. Being able to bring the analysis closer to the application can reduce costs and condense time to action. This sort of application is called edge computing; where computations are performed on distributed device nodes before they are transmitted.

Implementing edge computing is a great way of streamlining processes, regardless of whether it is in a large facility or a smaller, isolated location.

BEARING THE RAIN

Location can also cause a number of impacts on the system in question. For instance, sewer and rainwater systems can easily overflow during heavy rain, which can create hazardous situations and damage water treatment facilities. To prevent this, at some facilities in Germany, for instance, excess sewer water is syphoned out of the main water system into overflow basins during heavy rain periods. The basins hold the water and then pump it back into the system once the rain has stopped.

While this system decreases the stress on water treatment facilities, it does pose some issues.

The basins are in isolated remote locations, meaning that information must be transmitted to a central location before instructions can be issued, sometimes delaying response times.

Maintenance is also difficult, because crews must travel long distances to reach the location. It is imperative that the pumps are rigorously monitored, as their failure could cause high levels of environmental damage.

In order to fix these issues, the national German water board turned to INSYS icom.

to a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system that analyses the data.

Industrial routers can be installed with monitoring apps that can analyse data and be programmed to send commands to the system or to remote locations if certain criteria are met. The router, therefore, can securely send data generated by the system to a central location and can also carry out on site analysis.

However, many traditional SCADA systems are remote, meaning that there is a delay between the data being sent and the analysis providing insight. Industrial routers now have the processing power to use edge computing functions. This means that maintenance teams or SCADA systems can be directly notified when the health of a system starts to decline, allowing them to act well before the situation becomes critical. It is also more cost effective because less data has to be transmitted due to processing the raw data closer to the point of creation.

MULTIPLE PUMP MONITORING

Most systems, however, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t simply have a small number of pumps on site, but are instead larger structures with many pumps working in different conditions. In these situations, more process control and optimisation is required to ensure that pumps are running smoothly and efficiently.

Many centrifugal pumps are known to have up to 30 per cent overcapacity in power compared to the required levels for their application, yet this excess of power leads to wasted energy. At the same time the cost of downtime in manufacturing environments is continuing to grow. In fact, market analysts Accruent report that unplanned downtime costs industrial manufacturers an estimated $50 billion each year.

As such, it is vital for plant operators to have systems in place that can monitor pumps to ensure they are running optimally as well as supplying information to avoid unplanned downtime. These days, most pumps are equipped with smart sensors that collect information from the pump and then relay it

Pumps are a crucial part of many industrial and critical infrastructure systems and secure access is vital. Being able to securely monitor them using routers instead of relying solely on remote SCADA systems can simplify the process of optimisation and control. Industrial routers are a flexible solution to this challenge as they can be adapted to be used in both industrial production and service systems to great effect. ote access, while protecting vital assets.

So, whether you are thinking of kick-starting your digitalisation initiative or are looking to implement more edge computing applications to increase the agility of your pump systems, the answer could be closer to your pump than you think. www.insys-icom.com

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Electromagnetic Flowmeter MIM Series All metal design

Stainless steel version

°F °C

Flow and temperature measurement

Monitoring function

∑

Total and partial quantity counter

2 configurable outputs

Display operation also with gloves

90°

Rotating colour display

Space saver

01623 427701 www.kobold.com info.uk@kobold.com

PRODUCT NEWS

POLYFORM™ A system for sealing leaking pipes whilst live and leaking, approved for use without grit blast cleaning, for application by site staff. We provide training and technical support.

The system is simple, cost effective and permanent.

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119

PRODUCT NEWS

EMERGENCE OF SIMULATION SUMITOMO

WHERE DOES 3D PRINTING FIT INTO THE PLASTICS MANUFACTURING MIX? As disruptive trends go, 3D printing - also called additive manufacturing - is often touted as a technique to rival injection moulding.

But rather than viewing them as competing technologies, used for the right application they actually complement each other very well, emphasises Nigel Flowers UK managing director of Sumitomo (SHI) Demag.

In the last six years the global 3D printing market has more than doubled. By 2020, analysts estimate the sector will be worth US$3.1bn. In comparison, the global plastics moulding market is forecast to reach US$690. bn by 2023.i “While we cannot knock the level of innovation happening in the 3D printing space, in reality additive manufacturing is not the universal panacea it’s made out to be. Right now it continues to perform strongest for prototyping rather than mass manufacturing,” says Nigel.

Looking to the future, there are exciting developments in both markets. Whether the current global trade wars and currency fluctuations will accelerate demand for onsite production remains to be seen. Yet the idea that 3D printers are about to overthrow traditional manufacturing techniques including moulding, forging, casting, and even subtractive CNC manufacturing - is simply scaremongering. There is space for all of these technologies, notes Nigel. The key for any manufacturer is to make a wellinformed decision based on a number of criteria.

Examining production volumes, cost, barriers to entry and the future of part customisation, Nigel offers some counterarguments to help bust the myths that one technology is going to win over the other.

MYTH ONE: ECONOMIES OF SCALE

Cost is obviously a big factor when considering which technology to opt for, especially in the production of plastic parts.

For manufacturing components in high volumes, 3D printing today is currently not fast or cost effective enough to produce precision parts in large quantities. Where 3D printing is beneficial is for prototyping and for generating customised parts in low volumes.

Functionality also plays a big part. Just because you can print anything you want, it doesn’t mean that the design or materials

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will perform any better than the current methodology of injection moulding.

For several years now the medical sector has successfully used 3D printing to produce very bespoke components. Among them prosthetics, implants, hip replacements, hearing aids and even dentures. For these individual parts, injection moulding would not be a financially viable option due to the cost of creating a mould tool.

Similarly, aerospace manufacturers are embracing 3D printing to upgrade components and create replacement parts for maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) which is big business. In a report issued by Airbus, MRO spend will double to over US$120 billion per year in the next two decades, which involves upgrading the existing fleet of passenger aircraftii. For those parts which may have a long lead time, a complicated supply chain or no longer be in production, 3D printing offers a viable and agile alternative to the aerospace sector.

When designing a prototype using injection moulding, the process can again be quite lengthy. Whereas a 3D printer will let you create the part using the end material, injection moulders will typically use foam and adapt the design until it’s approved and the tool can be designed and tested. Here, an industrial 3D printer is often used to scope out and fine-tune the part, which can then be used as a blueprint to design the mould tool.

The tipping point for injection moulding will come relatively quickly once massproduction ramps up. Calculating the payback would involve comparing the unit costs and production time for 3D printing and offsetting this against the cost for tooling development, making, testing and shipping the tool, plus the new unit costs and any assembly. Typically, a contract mass moulder producing electronic casings estimates a ROI of 10,000 parts.

MYTH TWO: ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT

The sustainability credentials of 3D printing are often inconclusive. While some advocates say printing locally saves on transportation costs, gauging the true environmental impact is inherently more complex.

Take for example energy consumption. While injection moulding machines, particularly all-electric systems, continue to cut energy use - the latest Sumitomo (SHI) Demag IntElect range for example uses the same amount of energy as switching on a household kettle - some 3D printing processes used 50-100 times more electricity than injection moulding machines. Several years ago, a study by Loughborough academics, dubbed the Atkins Project, did find that the in-use phase through lightweighting, particularly components used by the aerospace industry, saved on fuel costs.

These savings more than compensated for the energy used during production, discovered researchers.

Many people equate 3D printing with less material waste. Yet in rapid prototyping where the development cycle could involve printing multiple versions, waste is still high.

Additionally, because of the mix of different materials, grinding up and recycling printed parts that have been 3D printed can be challenging.

In injection moulding, providing a regrind mix falls within an acceptable range and the molecular weight of the polymer hasn’t been compromised and meets the specifications, the mix, typically no more than 10% to virgin polymer, can be run through a machine.

However, moulders still remain cautious using reground plastics, especially for precision parts. The reason being even subtle changes to the original material could affect the shrinkage, cause flash or change the cosmetic appearance.

One sustainability area that additive manufacturing can assist with is extending the life of products, printing obsolete moulded parts if they are no longer in production.

Where there are complex geometries and features, 3D printing can help manufacture parts that may previously have been considered impossible.

MYTH THREE: REAL TIME MANUFACTURING

Printing on demand is one thing. Take for example a medical situation where surgeons pop next door to print a heart valve. Although data is involved in the process, given the time it takes to print one item, can this really be defined as real-time manufacturing?

Instead, smart factories with fleets of injection moulding machines, connected and capturing data to achieve speed and scale is probably the most revolutionary example of real time manufacturing, especially when production schedules can be automatically adjusted based on stock levels. UK in-house moulders are especially adept at managing production volumes and contract moulders use Kanban systems to ensure stock levels don’t run dry and that there are no bottlenecks in the supply chain.

switched to local moulding providers. The key driver has been faster turnaround of components with, Tier 1-4 suppliers eager to protect their business from volatile trade policies. This is certainly the case in the UK, where Brexit, the weak pound, the potential for increased red tape and disruptions to supply chains has been the trigger to reassess operations and productivity bottlenecks.

Obviously the import of raw materials needs to be factored in. It’s here where both technologies can benefit from having some stock in reserve. Not only does it give some extra business security, it reassures customers who are reliant on components that their orders can be fulfilled.

MYTH FOUR: REPEATABILITY

For mass volume production runs, repeatability is non-negotiable. Today’s injection moulding machines are designed to deliver quality parts, consistently, with tight tolerances and a high cosmetic finish, often in just a few seconds.

Moulded parts can be created thousands to millions of times in succession. For component reliability, such as an automotive part, this repeatability is critical.

If decorative features are required, In Mould Labelling, where the polymer fuses with the label inside the mould, can produce a good, repeatable finish. In many instances, this technology is used in combination with stack moulds to increase output while maintaining repeatability and quality. As well as packaging, this technique is widely used when moulding computer and mobile phone devices, as well as door panels and trims.

Similarly, the use of digital files means that 3D printing can deliver repeatability, albeit in smaller quantities.

MYTH FIVE: QUALITY

Of course, being able to produce components closer to home rather than relying on imports makes good business sense, especially during times of geopolitical tension.

For short run commodity parts that don’t have critical dimensions or demanding mechanicalperformance requirements, additive manufacturing can deliver functional parts.

However, finish remains a key sticking point right now. Because the parts are printed in layers, the surface finish can be a bit rough and ready. Currently, most 3D components need some post -processing work to smooth the edges, adding to the overall processing time.

Many domestic manufacturers have pulled forward their reshoring plans and have

In plastic injection moulding, the finish and surface texture can be created by the

mould tools itself. However, once moulded the part may need to undergo additional post production finishes, such as degating, removing excess material if the resin bleeds out, and potentially stamping and decorating.

Most of this process can be automated within the moulding cell.

MYTH SIX: TRACEABILITY

Traceability of 3D printed parts has been a key concern, particularly for industries like aerospace and medical. Counterfeiting has also been raised as a key issue, which can significantly impact brand value. Additionally, ensuring protection of intellectual property (IP) is another challenge.

To address this, software and hardware needs to be fully connected and the 3D print supply chain completely transparent. Developments include printing QR codes and embedding digital files into the component as it’s printed.

Although in fledgling stages, this can help with the checking of part authenticity, as well as maintaining a secure and compliant supply chain.

Traceability in injection moulding is more advanced, with most machinery suppliers providing secure data capture and documentation. Recently, Sumitomo (SHI) Demag developed an In Mould Decorating (IMD) cell, whereby each moulded part can be issued with a Unique Device Identifier (UDI), with all processing data held securely by a manufacturing executive system (MES). It represents a colossal change in how multiple components are individually issued with a UDI.

MYTH 7: STRENGTH

Variations in strength and durability will depend on the materials used. However, taking PET as an example, a 3D printer will create a part in layers. Therefore, the 2D contour might be strong, but the bonding between the layers will not be comparable to a solid mass that has been moulded.

The key test of strength is dependent on the tensile properties. Before embarking on any moulding or printing project, organisations need to understand fully how the material will perform long-term within the application itself. How it might react to heat. How the molecular structure will perform. This takes skill and a good understanding of chemical engineering.

A TIME AND A PLACE

To summarise, Nigel emphasises that there’s room for both techniques and technologies.

“3D printing is great for iterating designs and we are increasingly seeing moulders using them to test out new concepts and create tooling prototypes. Rather that pitching the two against each other, recognise that they each have distinct advantages and that the level of innovation will continue to accelerate for both.” uk.sumitomo-shi-demag.eu/

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PRODUCT NEWS

VISUAL VERIFICATION STAR FASTENERS

NEW INNOVATION FOR LOCKBOLTS

Star Fasteners has developed a clever colour changing indicator that visually verifies that Lockbolts have been installed correctly.

The new red coating helps to improve final product quality checks, crucially making pre-assembled, uninstalled fasteners much easier to identify. Dan Starbuck, Director at Star Fasteners explains “we were asked by a customer to remove welding from their production process in a safety critical application. We worked with them to specify in a Lockbolt pin and collar fastener.

They were so pleased with the outcome as manufacture time was halved and health and safety issues associated with welding were completely removed. There was just one concern and that was at the final quality inspection stage (PDI). Their question of how can we tell that a Lockbolt has been installed completely needed to be addressed. To a trained eye this is simple, but the customer wanted further assurance.

We developed the Lockbolt colour changing collar coating to give a clear visual warning; if the collar is red it is an instant indication that the fastener hasn’t been correctly installed or fully swaged” The Lockbolt fastener is a is a two-part fastening system that consists of a pin and collar, “Lockbolts are installed using a direct tension technique in which the pin is pulled and the collar is simultaneously swaged

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into the locking grooves of the pin. The material is clamped together, which creates structure and strength.”

In most cases, Lockbolts can replace welding. They are faster, safer, more productive and an environmentally friendly alternative method of joining. Advanced, two-piece fasteners are installed using a torque-free, direct-tension, swaged-on method, providing for a reliable installation.

This method of joining ensures a consistent clamp which is the key to a strong, reliable hold – so users know that the joint is permanent and vibration-resistant.

The patent pending colour changing Lockbolt collar coating is applied by Star Fasteners. A visible change occurs when the collar is swaged, in this case from red (uninstalled) to silver (installed). The firm explains: “It’s a definite visual that the fastener has been installed correctly. The bright red colouring, which you can see when the collar has not been swaged is very easy to see. If for example a fastener has been accidentally missed in the production process, the nose assembly is damaged or is becoming worn, or a collar has only been part swaged, then the red coating can be used as a precursory visual indicator, great for quality control purposes.

Some Lockbolt collars have swage bumps or bar indicators on the flange, these are partially flattened on installation, but cannot

necessarily be easily seen from a distance or in low light. Operators and quality managers have to be fully aware of their correct installation and if necessary, carry out additional checks using a swage gauge to identify fasteners that have not been correctly installed. The advantage of Star Fasteners’ method means operators do not require that level of familiarity. All they need to know is that a red collar has not yet been installed”.

While a new development, the colour changing Lockbolt collar has proved to be popular and is already in use with a number of chassis builders. With the implications of product recalls in terms of time, monetary cost and brand reputation, this innovation appears likely to be a requirement in automotive production and safety critical applications.

In fact, potential applications for the colour changing Lockbolt collar are as varied as they are for a standard Lockbolt, including solar and wind power, agricultural and commercial vehicles and machinery, rail, bridge building, screening equipment, portable / steel framed buildings and other industrial applications.

Find out more email sales@starfasteners.co.uk or call +44(0)1159324 939

PUMPS

LIFE STARTS AT 40 SULZER

40-YEAR-OLD REFINERY PUMP RECONDITIONED AND RETURNED TO SERVICE The normal life cycle for a hardworking and crucial asset such as a boiler feed pump is 20 years. However, a Sulzer BB3 pump removed from a refinery in Argentina has been given a new lease of life at 40. Rejuvenating legacy equipment is a specialist field that needs considerable expertise for a successful outcome.

The BB3 pump is one of the most widely used high energy pumps in the world, operating throughout the oil & gas industry as well as the hydrocarbon sector. In this case, one example was running as one of a pair of boiler feed pumps in a refinery in Argentina. The pump had to be taken out of service at short notice and refurbished quickly to ensure adequate capacity for the boiler.

MINIMIZED DOWNTIME The spare pump continued to operate but the failed pump was sent as a critical repair to enable it to return to active duty at the earliest opportunity. This would minimize any downtime and secure the reliable service of the pump for years to come.

Sulzer regularly provides maintenance services to the refinery and was one of the first to be invited to submit a quote for the inspection and subsequent repair of the pump. Sulzer’s bid was accepted in the main because of the price and the quality that the company offers, but also because of the speed with which such repairs can be completed.

REPAIR ASSESSMENT The pump, which had been in service for more than forty years, was removed and shipped to the service center in Buenos Aires. The initial inspection revealed damage to the pump body as well as corrosion of the pump case. The shaft was damaged and all the wear rings would also need to be replaced.

The pump shaft was removed and inspected in-house using non-destructive testing (NDT) procedures and found to be damaged beyond repair so it was also replaced. These tests are crucial in

detecting structural flaws and in this case, tests were conducted on all of the pump components.

Once the full extent of the required repair had been established, the casing walls were rebuilt using a welding process that adds a layer of material that can be machined back to specifications. With the welding complete, this section was again inspected using NDT before the casing was transferred to the machine shop where it could be re-bored.

COMPREHENSIVE TESTING In the meantime, the new pump rotor was reassembled and balanced, while the wear rings were replaced when the casing repairs had been finished. The pump was put back together before being hydro tested at 1.5 times working pressure. The test procedure was designed and performed by Sulzer’s engineers to ensure that pump was ready to be reinstalled.

Throughout the repair project, constant contact with the customer was maintained explaining the findings and the proposed resolutions. The customer was happy with the quality of the work completed and the attention to detail that ensured a robust repair.

Esteban Obiglio, Sales Manager, at Sulzer explains: “It is essential in any overhaul project to deliver the best possible solution and ensure the customer is kept up-todate. It is also important to understand the expectations of your customer and make every effort to deliver a cost-effective and reliable repair.”

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE Throughout the project, the customer frequently visited the service center to review progress and discuss options for the pump that remained in service, which was a similar age and therefore facing comparable issues with erosion and wear.

One potential solution, suggested by the customer, was to replace the casing, a project that could be completed in approximately two weeks.

Esteban concludes: “The customer was looking to the future and by discussing possible solutions, was able to assess all the options and make an informed decision.

The refurbished asset will provide costeffective and reliable service for many years to come.”

For more information on Sulzer, visit www.sulzer.com

Issue 42 PECM

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STRENGTHEN YOUR NETWORK

Procentec's Osiris provides unique insight in your networkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health and topology.

Individual license dedicated for your Windows PC Monitor PROFIBUS, PROFINET and Industrial Ethernet networks Commissioning of PROFINET and Ethernet/IP Predictive maintenance Built-in assistant Delphi helps get your operations running again

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Osiris as a software package Procentec's Osiris provides unique insight in your networkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health and topology.

Until now this powerful software tool was only available on Procentec's portable Mercury tablet and permanent Atlas module. Both devices run on diagnostics platform Osiris to analyse the information feed from, for example, an EtherTAP. This enables our build-in assistant Delphi to come up with a solution to help you to quickly and effectively get your operations running again.

PC-version of Osiris At the request of many users Procentec now offers a subscription PC-version of Osiris.

The features of Osiris as a Software are identical to the ones found on our Atlas and Mercury diagnostic platforms. With our new release we enable you to install Osiris on your very own hardware devices. Osiris offers reliable and smart diagnostics to better streamline the topology of a network.

Smart diagnostics prevent downtime Implementing a new network? Providing a solid baseline for a network prevents many operational problems down the line when new devices continue to be connected to the network. With Osiris it is possible to preventively detect all kinds of downtime boosters like EMC issues caused by faulty shielding, communication and power cables positioned too close together, termination troubles, plus complications with device connections and devices.

Preferably Procentecâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s powerful diagnostic technology is used for preventive and predictive applications, but the software solution is just as effective in quickly and precisely locating and solving network issues in case of gridlock; preventing staggering downtime costs.

Flexible ease of use Instead of having to analyse, interpret and formulate a way to solve your network issues yourself, by trying to make sense of all the messages, Procentec offers a virtual network engineer with the included Delphi

wizard that does all that in a fraction of the time. With Osiris you can realise 24/7 monitoring with total accuracy.

You now have the flexibility to deploy Osiris on your PC, laptop, and server or to make use of our Osiris diagnostics platform on our Mercury and Atlas devices for advanced active monitoring of your network. In this setup Procentec also offers passive monitoring for any Ethernet or PROFINET network featuring another 2019 release: the Procentec EtherTAP. The advantages are multiple.

Technology to create the future No matter which option you select to put Osiris to work, Procentec always guarantees an effective set-up to monitor network load, detect CRC errors, capture PROFINET alarms, check communication cycle times, notice dropped packets and measure the jitter in the PROFINET real-time communication.

In the end it all boils down to our strong commitment and focus on innovation in industrial automation to help manufacturers improve quality, efficiency, compliance, flexibility and use, so they can perform at the leading edge of their industry.

Would you like to find out what Procentec can do for you company? Fill out our contact form and our sales engineers will contact you as soon as possible.

SOFTWARE & SYSTEMS

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT MINESOFT

SURVEYING THE LANDSCAPE Of the various forms of Intellectual Property (IP), patent data stands out as the container of over 70% of the world’s scientific knowledge. This invaluable tool can arm a corporation’s R&D team with the knowledge needed to develop their innovations. Patent collections are largely the only source for the core ideas that go on to influence industry and aid technological advancement; a great number of processes and inventions described in patent literature are not disclosed elsewhere.

Analysing large amounts of patent information can reveal relationships and trends that would be difficult to discern when working on a patent-by-patent basis.

A powerful analytics platform, included in PatBase and compatible with PatBase Express, allows users to visualise market trends, avoid infringement, identify potential business partners and capitalise on licensing opportunities.

The Minesoft user community includes R&D engineers, legal operatives, associated internal and external counsel and C-suite executives. This has grown as more businesses recognise that patent data is a critical component to address throughout the company, from the start of a new project to the launch of a product. PatBase and PatBase Express allow the seamless creation of everything from board-level presentations to detailed landscape reports.

PatBase, co-developed by Minesoft and RWS, collates all the information and publications for a single invention into one place. This reduces duplication of results and work. With PatBase, Minesoft prioritises clarity of information by ensuring that detailed results, images and technical drawings are viewable from a single page.

PatBase has 130+ million patent and related documents from 106 countries (updated weekly), organised into 65+ million patent families. With data drawn from around the world, including non-Latin data, PatBase provides access to one of the most comprehensive and high-quality collections of patent data in the industry.

Patents are a rich and unique source of legal, business and technical information, a vital company asset and the backbone of scientific and technological advancements.

Minesoft is dedicated to supplying R&D departments everywhere with this source of knowledge. As the number of user types within the IP field broadens, the need for flexibility and ease of use of search and analysis tools becomes a greater priority.

Seeing this gap in the market, Minesoft developed PatBase Express. With the same high quality and comprehensive data as PatBase, PatBase Express includes a range of features that make patent search and analysis more accessible for a variety of professionals.

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SOFTWARE & SYSTEMS

THETA C DRIVING SIMULATOR ANSIBLE MOTION

FIRST SELF-CONTAINED ENGINEERING CLASS DRIVING SIMULATOR UNVEILED, CAPABLE OF VALIDATING THE LATEST AUTOMOTIVE MEGATRENDS A new compact and self-contained cube simulator, powerful enough to validate driver assistance and autonomous technologies in today’s vehicles, has been unveiled by Ansible Motion Limited. Thanks to its compact footprint and sophisticated computational architecture, the new Theta C driving simulator offers OEMs, Tier 1s, research institutes and industry bodies a more immersive and car-like, environment than is currently available from other compact simulators. It also avoids the complexity and facility challenges typically associated with automotive test equipment of this accuracy and calibre.

Ansible Motion’s principle of clean-sheet design and innovation has fueled the introduction of the most immersive environment ever for a compact Driver-inthe-Loop (DIL) simulator, whilst making the practical operation much easier. The key engineering class componentry required for human immersion is presented with meticulous attention to detail inside an approximately 2m x 2m x 2m cube. The Theta C brings a higher quality of simulation to those who have been restricted by space or cost. It incorporates a panoramic projection system, detailed vehicle interior, Ansible Motion’s renowned immersion technologies for driver touch points, active steering torque and seat loading systems, foot pedal and gear select emulation, along with a surround sound audio system. Its integrated form and internal sound isolation mean it can be used in standard office spaces.

“Vehicle complexity continues to increase, putting pressure on development timescales and resources. More companies and departments now need access to human-in-the-loop simulation technologies to validate hardware and software solutions,” says Kia Cammaerts, founder of Ansible Motion. “As the most innovative driving simulator company in the market, we identified that some current DIL simulators offer the required fidelity but also require permanent installations. This means a high capital expenditure to cover the simulator itself as well as the facility.

Theta C is different. The cube analogy is apt as Theta C is a fundamental building block for connecting real people with automotive simulations, anywhere in the world. We have optimised complexity, quality, and time-todeploy. You can wheel it in, plug in and start work. It can be operated stand-alone, or it can connect with external Software-in-theLoop (SIL) and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) systems.”

Combining versatility and ease-ofintegration with customers’ existing development processes, Theta C is compatible with all leading vehicle modelling and scenario tools, including those from Dassault, MSC, AVL, Mechanical Simulation, and more. Complex traffic and actor scripting, together with sensor integration, make Theta C ideal for validating scenarios for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), active safety and autonomy.

“The Theta C simulator is a direct response to our interactions with OEMs and Tier 1s, who are seeking dependable, rapid, and powerful validation tools. There is an unprecedented demand being driven by megatrends in autonomy, electrification, connectivity, and driver assistance,” adds Cammaerts.

Acknowledging this steep rise in vehicle technological developments and validation, Reportlinker analysts predict that the driving simulator market will reach 2.4 billion USD by 2025. Ansible Motion has ensured each element of its Theta C product line is scalable in terms of both hardware and software aspects in order to keep pace

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with the automotive industry’s technology progression.

Ansible Motion began production of the Theta C driving simulator after favourable responses were received from its initial exhibit at the JSAE 2019 Congress in Yokohama, Japan, in May 2019. The first production units will be delivered to customers in Q4 2019.

Theta C is part of Ansible Motion’s driving simulator range, which includes the flagship Delta dynamic simulator. The same computing and software architecture is used throughout, allowing simulation programmes to be scaled between the different simulators.

Interested parties can contact Ansible Motion directly to learn more about the Theta C driving simulator.

www.ansiblemotion.com

SOFTWARE & SYSTEMS

DRIVING INNOVATION SIEMENS

THE ABSOLUT COMPANY BEGINS COLLABORATION WITH SIEMENS DIGITAL INDUSTRIES SOFTWARE TO INCREASE MANUFACTURING EFFICIENCY AND FLEXIBILITY Siemens Digital Industries Software announced today a collaboration with The Absolut Company regarding Siemens Opcenter™ Execution software, part of the Siemens Digital Enterprise Suite, Manufacturing Execution System (MES) solution. The company will conduct a pilot of Siemens Opcenter Execution Process (formerly known as SIMATIC IT® Unified Architecture Process Industries) in one of their three factories in Åhus as the first step of an enterprise-wide roll-out across the three factories which produce spirits for global distribution. Siemens Opcenter can help The Absolut Company to better meet some of the challenges in beverage market including the increasing demand for high quality and variety in products and production as well as the high cost pressures of the global food and beverage market.

“The Absolut Company always strives to have best in class manufacturing where Industry 4.0 will be a key enabler to deliver on future consumer demands. We are happy to have Siemens Digital Industries Software as a key partner on this journey,” said Anna Schreil, VP Operations at The Absolut Company.

Siemens Opcenter Execution is part of Siemens’ offering for the consumerpackaged goods and food and beverage industries. The solution has been developed to cover the entire value chain, from reception of incoming material to distribution of produced goods, including quality control, product planning and scheduling as well as reporting, trends and advanced analysis. Siemens Opcenter Execution Process can help The Absolut Company to increase traceability, to manage orders more efficiently and to monitor production in real time.

“Companies across the consumer products industry are facing increased regulations, the need for global manufacturing to meet local demands, and competitive pressures that can result in reduced margins,” said Mats Friberg, Vice President & Managing Director for Nordic Operations at Siemens Digital Industries Software. “The Absolut

Company recognizes the key to staying ahead in this changing industry is through digitalization. We value the trust placed in our solutions and will be a responsive partner to The Absolut Company as it continues to move towards a digital enterprise.”

Siemens Digital Industries Software is driving transformation to enable a digital enterprise where engineering, manufacturing and electronics design meet tomorrow. The Xcelerator portfolio helps companies of all sizes create and leverage

digital twins that provide organizations with new insights, opportunities and levels of automation to drive innovation.

For more information on Siemens Digital Industries Software products and services, visit www. sw.siemens.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Siemens Digital Industries Software – Where today meets tomorrow.

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Horizontal and vertical bandsaws including block and tube saws, circular saws and hack saws are included in our range.

Whatever the application, from job shop to mass production with robotic sorting, we have a solution to suit your needs.

www.kasto.com

Get to know NEW DIMENSIONS in sawing technology KASTO Ltd

KASTOwin pro

+44 1908 571590

KASTOvariospeed

sales@uk.kasto.com

KASTOmicut

KASTOwin

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GERMAN MACHINE TOOLS THROUGH DESIGN CLEVER TECHNOLOGY AND HIGH INTELLECT IN CONTROLS LOW COST OF OWNERSHIP PRICES TO MATCH YOUR BUDGETS

Portable Confined Space Ventilators & Air Blowers Fume & Dust Extractors Where fumes, smells or dust occur, the Miniveyor Air VAF fans can move contaminated air out of a confined space or building.

They effectively exhaust fumes, ventilate confined spaces, and increase the flow of fresh air.

The Miniveyor Air range are tough! The rugged VAF ventilators easily withstand blows without denting, giving less downtime and greater productivity and come with an industry leading 10 year warranty on the body.

The vane axial fans work on positive and negative airflow and are at home either extracting dust and fumes or blowing clean air into a confined workspace. In fact whatever the industry you work in, from marine, construction, mining, telecoms, fabrication or maintenance services, our VAF series fans will take whatever is thrown at them.

VAF-200 (8”)

VAF-400 (16”)

VAF Air Ltd Tetbury Ind. Estate Tetbury, United Kingdom sales@vaf-air.com +44 (0)330 016 0002 or visit -

VAF-300 (12”) Pneumatic

www.vaf-air.com

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TRUST ARI

ZETRIXÂŽ

The premium process valve

Reliably tight, durable and versatile even in harsh industrial environments

Contact the UK sales ofďŹ ce on 01684 275 752 or email enquiries@uk.ari-armaturen.com

zetrix.ari-armaturen.com/uk