Process Engineering Control & Manufacturing - Issue 55 2022

Process

MANUFACTURING

Control &

Engineering

ROCKWELL AUTOMATION - 6

STROMAG - 20

Why you should lean on a partner who knows your lifecycle

Fast reacting Stromag brakes ready for Hinkley Point C nuclear power plant

PECM

Global Success Through Innovation Issue 55 2022 £4.95 www.pecm.co.uk

MACH 22 - 46 MACH 2022 set to be the most significant gathering of manufacturers in the UK this year

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Process

MANUFACTURING

Inside...

Sections

Control &

Engineering Inside Issue 55

Editors Choice

4

Mach Show Preview

45

Air gas and & Control

50

Boilers & Maintenance

51

Manufacturing and Engineering Week Show

52

Control & Automation

56

Electrical & Electronics

72

Facilities Management

80

Fluid Handling

83

Gears, Drives & Motors

86

Health & Safety

88

Hydraulics & Pneumatics

97

Machining & Machinery

98

Measurement & Monitoring

110

Process Technologies

112

Software & Systems

114

Switches & Sensors

120

Tools

122

Training & Recruitment

124

Valves & Flow Control

129

ROCKWELL AUTOMATION

Why you should lean on a partner who knows your lifecycle

EMBEDDING CIRCULARITY

Worn Again Technologies builds on its ambition to develop textile recycling plants integrated into the urban ecosystem

BPL

BPL Engineering Group turns up the volume with £1m Worcester Presses investment

STROMAG

MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING WEEK

Celebrating the best in UK manufacturing and engineering excellence and innovation

THE YEAR OF AUTOMATION

Dr Paul Rivers, CEO of Guidance Automation, looks back at lessons learned and outlines his predictions for 2022 and beyond

KERSTAR

Filtermist moves Kerstar production to Telford as part of new expansion plans

Fast reacting Stromag brakes ready for Hinkley Point C nuclear power plant

ROCOL

MACH 22

HV WOODING

MACH 2022 set to be the most significant gathering of manufacturers in the UK this year

Abbey Cuts Fluid Costs With ROCOL FlexPunch machine arrives as HV Wooding completes £1.5m investment push

Cover photo: Hufton&Crow / ARC

“The centre of excellence for strainer and filtraaon technology”

www.bartonfirtop.co.uk Issue 55 PECM

3

W

Discover the new easy way to control CIP processes.

For more efficient cleaning and higher system availability

RANTY AR

ct

on

s

years if m p r o d

u

The new compact conductivity sensors LDL100 and LDL200 from ifm impress with their fast and precise media differentiation.

This helps you to control CIP processes efficiently and to increase the availability of your system. The new LDLs are also simple to commission: They are ready for use out-of-the-box and transmit the conductivity and temperature of the medium via a single M12 connection - digitally and loss-free thanks to IO-Link. As there is no additional evaluation unit required, you also save system costs. So easy, so good. ifm – close to you!

Go ifmonline ifm.com / uk

Process

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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 55 PECM

5

EDITOR’S CHOICE

LIFECYCLE SERVICES ROCKWELL AUTOMATION

Why you should lean on a partner who knows your lifecycle

By Rachael Conrad, VP GM Services, Rockwell Automation If we had to pick a theme song for lifecycle services, it would definitely be “Lean on Me,” by the late Bill Withers. As the song goes: “You just call on me, brother, when you need a hand/We all need somebody to lean on/I just might have a problem that you’ll understand.”

With challenges like cybersecurity, digital transformation and workforce shortages, in addition to traditional OT obstacles, having the ability to lean on a partner is vital to plant operations leaders, engineers and maintenance teams. A collaborative partnership, such as LifecycleIQ™ Services from Rockwell Automation, offers expertise to customers at any stage of the plant or asset lifecycle. Much like the song says, with a simple phone call (or instant message) a customer can lean on Rockwell Automation for a wealth of resources and seek help with business challenges.

The simplest explanation of lifecycle services is that they help manufacturers get the most out of their machines so that they can work faster, smarter and with more agility. In other words, they help expand what’s possible. Not sold yet? Here are three more benefits to working with the right lifecycle partner.

CONSULT MORE EXPERTISE Our lifecycle services professionals are consultants who are loaded with technical and business expertise, industry knowledge and solution application experience. While the typical factory manager or engineer is familiar with plant issues, a lifecycle partner will allow you to call in a pinch hitter when you are facing any number of complicated scenarios. For example, our LifecycleIQ Services team provides comprehensive end-to-end consulting for every stage of operations. Whether you’re implementing drive systems, starting up a new operation line, optimizing your plant floor assets, or modernizing an entire system, a collaborative partnership can offer a second set of eyes on the problem, help you identify potential roadblocks and determine the best route to success.

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PECM Issue 55

A collaborative partnership can offer a second set of eyes on the problem, help you identify potential roadblocks and determine the best route to success.

A partnership can also provide advice and guidance for IT/OT convergence, including networks, infrastructure, and cybersecurity posture, along with understanding the challenges and opportunities of a wide variety of manufacturing domains and environments. This can help your team improve productivity and securely share data and information across your entire enterprise.

As a real-world example, one North American paper mill wanted to reduce obsolescence risk by modernizing their

drive systems. By working with LifecycleIQ Services, the mill identified their goals and decided to build remote monitoring and network infrastructure design into the project, ultimately improving system performance response by 30%. Partnering with the lifecycle team expands your knowledge base and gives you access to new solutions and years of experience – all with a simple phone call, instant message or email.

ONE QUICK ACCESS POINT Whether it’s working with a local municipality, an IT partner or an automation subcontractor, outside support isn’t a foreign concept for most manufacturers.

In fact, most companies require some form of outside support, especially as they encounter skills shortages, obsolescence risks and greater operational complexity.

However, as synergy continues to boom and companies face increasingly complex, interconnected business environments, a lifecycle partnership can be a breath of fresh air in the form of simplicity.

A collaborative partnership provides one point of access for assistance and accountability. Rather than spending precious time deciding where to ask for help or who to contact for support, bringing in a lifecycle partner will be your one-stop shop for outside help.

And the right collaboration should be a resource for the entire lifecycle of the plant or production environment, not just the automation assets. Additionally, the entire plant will more than likely have multiple products from multiple vendors.

The right partner will be able to step in and provide value even when working with other brands and other machinery, and help you find the right solutions to any issue.

ACCESS TO ADDITIONAL TEAM RESOURCES When you partner with Rockwell Automation LifecycleIQ Services, you not only gain access to support services, but you open a door to a broader ecosystem of partner companies through the robust Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork™ program.

With one call to your LifecycleIQ Services team, your request will be coordinated across multiple technology, application and market access partners. Working with the services team will bring you access to new possibilities and a variety of solutions you may not have had before. For example, take a global packing equipment manufacturer based in North America.

They may not have the resources in other countries to support their end-customers, but by collaborating with a lifecycle team

like Rockwell Automation they can access new connections that allow for increased distribution.

A COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIP TO LEAN ON Manufacturers are facing more challenges than ever. Having a partner to lean on

will provide you access to professional expertise, simplify your external communication and open the door to new connections. Whether you’re feeling strong about your operations or not – the right collaborative partner will only make you more efficient, more productive and more solutions driven.

For further information, please visit www.rockwellautomation.com/en-gb.html Issue 55 PECM

7

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Simpson StrongTie FX-70® is now Seashield FX-70™ Winn & Coales International Ltd has recently acquired the FX-70® Structural Piling Repair and Protection System from Simpson StrongTie. In 2022 our long-established SeaShield™ Systems will have provided 50 years of pile protection and rehabilitation systems for timber, steel, concrete piles, and marine structures. By adding the FX-70 system to the SeaShield range we are now able to offer clients a one-stop pile protection provider.

Since its debut in 1970, the FX-70 system was the first to use a custom-made tongueand-groove seamed fiberglass jacket with a high-strength, water-resistant repair grout.

The system has extensive case histories for timber, steel, and concrete pile applications and is an excellent addition to our range of products.

To learn more about the SeaShield FX70™ System and for all your pile protection and rehabilitation needs, you can contact your local representative directly by calling +44 (0)20 8670 7511 or by e-mailing us at mail@denso.net.

For more than 90 years, the Winn & Coales International Group of companies has been creating bespoke and off-the-shelf solutions that provide enduring protection against corrosion. Through their seven subsidiary companies in the UK, USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia & New Zealand, together with their global network of distributors, they are able to provide their solutions to challenging corrosion problems all over the world.

By adding the FX-70 system to the SeaShield range we are now able to offer clients a one-stop pile protection provider.

www.denso.net

The Visulex K55 fixed lens cameras from Lumiglas® Visilume present our latest process surveillance & observation technology with the Visulex K55 fixed lens cameras from Lumiglas®. Available in both non-ex and ATEX approved specifications, the K55 is a PoE unit, meaning it is easy to install and start operating and can be viewed on a laptop or pc. This avoids a complex installation and less set up difficulty. Available in HD and 4K versions, it has a 2 MP camera unit and automatically adjusts

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PECM Issue 55

its aperture settings to maintain optimum view settings. Multiple picture viewing software is also available for systems comprising of 2 or more camera’s, with optional connectivity to mobile viewing via Apple or Android devices. Save time and money on regular process inspections and view real-time pictures with this easy to install technology.

Email: sales@visilume.com Phone: +44 (0) 1457 865700 Web: www.visilume.com

End-of-Arm-Ecosystem

Any Robot | Any Gripper | Any End Effector • • • •

Standardised Interfaces Simple Installation Manual or Auto Tool Change Mechanical or Vacuum Grippers

Zimmer Group (UK) Ltd, Bretby Business Park, Ashby Road Bretby , Burton On Trent, DE15 0YZ Tel: +44(0)7891 204 306 | www.zimmer-group.com

EDITOR’S CHOICE

DESIGN

Feasibility, Model, Create

DEVELOP

Processes, Tooling & Cost saving

MANUFACTURE Injection Moulding, Assembly & Quality Assured

Cybertools has been delivering the highest standard of plastic injection mould tools and moulded parts for nearly 25 years.

Our reputation for providing complete and innovative solutions for the plastic injection industry has established us as a key and trusted partner for large and small companies, around the world.

Through our design, toolmaking and manufacturing capability we offer customers a comprehensive service from product conception to market.

Talk to us when considering your next project.

Cybertools Ltd Unit 2 + 3 + 4, Watermill Ind Est, Aspenden Road, Buntingford Hertfordshire, SG9 9JS. Main Office: +44(0)1763 271211 www.cybertoolsltd.co.uk

Issue 55 PECM

9

HEATSENSE CABLES

Specialist High-Performance High-Performancethermocouple thermocoupleand andsignal signalcable cable manufacturer capabilities manufacturer continues continuesto tobroaden broadenmanufacturing its manufacturing capabilities CAPABILITIES CAPABILITIES

Heatsense Heatsense Cables Cables is is the the UK’s UK’s leading leading specialist high performance specialist high-performance thermocouple thermocouple and and signal signal cable cable manufacturer. manufacturer. The Its company is highly customer focussed and manufacturing capabilities cover a broad offers a bespoke technical design and range of specialist cables that operate manufacturing service, rapid response in extreme (harsh) environments.

The times, short times, low MOQ’s company is alead technology leader in and competitive pricing.

The high-performance company is fluoropolymer extrusion, a technology leader in fluoropolymer taping and cable wrapping.

Related extrusion, performance taping and processes high include cover sintering, cable wrapping.

Related processes include colouring, etching and the application cover sintering, colouring, etching and the of various specialist coatings.

The range application of various coatings. covers cables that are specialist resistant to flame, The range covers cables thatoperate operateinin oils and chemicals and which extreme cables resistant ultra-highenvironments; vacuum, cryogenic and high to flame, oilsenvironments. & chemicals and which operate radiation in ultra-high vacuum, cryogenic and high radiation environments.

The company offers a bespoke advanced technical design and manufacturing service INSULATION & BRAIDING and undertakes development work on new EXPERTS cable designs and materials.

Insulation materials include; PFA, FEP, PTFE, ETFE, EFGLAS, SILICONE,EXPERTS PE, PU, INSULATION & BRAIDING PVC, Taped & Sintered PTFE, Polyimide, PFA, FEP, PTFE, ETFE, EFGLAS, SILICONE, Aramid, PTFE impregnated yarns and Mica.

PE, PU, PVC, Taped & Sintered PTFE, Polyimide & Aramid Yarns, PTFE Braiding materials include glass, quartz, impregnated yarns and Mica. ceramic fibre and other specialist yarns and various metals.

Braiding materials include glass, quartz & ceramic fibres, other specialist yarns and PRODUCTS various metals.

The company manufactures a broad range of cables including; thermocouple cables, PRODUCTS RTD cables & PRT wires, sensor wires & The high-performance cable range includes cables, cryogenic cables, glass, quartz, thermocouple cables, RTD cables & ceramic fibre and pure nickel cables,PRT wires, sensor Range wires &(250°C cables,- micro-wire the INTEMP® 1250°C), & miniature resistant cables, cryogenic cables, heat radiation cables, equipment wires resistant & wirescables, – the INTEMP™ & cables,cables high voltage multicore range ofmicro cables, glass fibre, quartz, ceramic cables, wires & cables, micro-coaxial & pure nickel cables, radiation resistant cables, high-flex braided cables and wires & cables, equipment wires, UHV & PTFE yarns & threads.

To support these low outgassing cables, high-voltage wires activities Heatsense has its own specialist & cables, micro-coaxial cables, bespoke thermocouple calibration facilities and cables, multicore cables, high flex braided cable testing laboratory. cables and PTFE yarns.

Markets include, aerospace, nuclear, INDUSTRY4.0 automotive,, medical, R&D, oil & gas Heatsense fully embraced LEAN and generalhas industry.

The company manufacturing techniques has meet made offers a range of approvalsand which substantial progress on its continuous internationally recognised specifications.

improvement journey. The company EXPANSION

is currently working onextremely Industry 4.0 Heatsense remained active technology, utilisinglockdown digital processes during the COVID period. Over the course ofproduction the last twelve on individual lines months to further Heatsense acquired quality plant &and equipment, improve efficiencies, throughput including 16 additional high speed yarn rates. braiders, a PTFE Paste Extrusion Line, a horizontal twin headed taping line, an EXPANSION additional corona etcher and refurbished Heatsense continues to add specialist and upgraded a number of manufacturing plant &equipment and over the last twelve lines. The company also upgraded its months has installed a PTFE paste extrusion internal manufacturing systems and ‘went line, 16 high speed yarn live’ onadditional a new fully integrated ERPbraiders, system. a horizontal dual headed taping line, an additional corona etcher and refurbished The company continually strives to and upgraded several manufacturing lines. broaden its manufacturing capabilities

The has also upgraded its internal and company improve efficiencies.

The company continues to develop digital manufacturing systemsitsand wentstrategy live on a encompassing shopfloor data capture, new fully integrated ERP system.

ERP, CRM and machine automation.

MARKETS & ACCREDITATIONS

Heatsense is ISO9001:2015 and Markets include aerospace, nuclear, ISO14001:2015 Accredited and has F4N automotive, medical, R&D, Oil & Gas and Status (Fit for Nuclear), awarded by general industry.

Heatsense is EN9100:2018, the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing ISO9001:2015 and ISO14001:2015 Research Centre. The company is in the Accredited.

The Company has also been process of working towards AS9100D:2016 awarded F4N and (Fit for Nuclear) Status.

Accreditation expects to be accredited by the end of this year.

For further information please visit www.heatsensecables.co.uk and/or contact T: +44 (0) 1706 767070 sales@heatsensecables.co.uk W: www.heatsensecables.co.uk

For further please visit www.heatsensecables.co.uk For further information please visit information, www.heatsensecables.co.uk and/or contact sales@heatsensecables.co.uk

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PECM Issue 55

SPECIALIST HIGH-PERFORMANCE SOLUTIONS

CABLE INNOVATION

SPECIALIST HIGH-PERFORMANCE SOLUTIONS SPECIALIST HIGH-PER UTIONS

EDITOR’S CHOICE

SPECIALIST HIGH-PERFORMANCE SOLUTIONS

SPECIALIST HIGH-PERFORMANCE SOLUTIONS

Thermocouple Cables

RTD Cables & PRT Wires

Sensor Wires & Cables

Micro Wires & Miniature Cables

Heat Resistant Cables & Wires for Extreme Temperatures

Glass Fibre, Quartz, Ceramic & Pure Nickel Cables

INTEMPTM Range of Cables

Radiation Resistant Wires & Cables

Equipment Wires & Cables

UHV & Low Outgassing Wires & Cables

High-Voltage Wires & Cables

Micro-Coaxial Cables

Bespoke Cables

Multicore Cables

High Flex & Braided Cables

PTFE Yarns

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

EDITOR’S CHOICE

EMBEDDING CIRCULARITY WORN AGAIN TECHNOLOGIES

Worn Again Technologies builds on its ambition to develop textile recycling plants integrated into the urban ecosystem Worn Again Technologies (WAT) and its strategic partners gathered in Copenhagen to discuss the next steps towards building modern polymer recycling facilities for textiles. Drawing on inspiration from Amager Bakke, an energy-from-waste plant with an outdoor sports center on its roof, the organization aims to engage communities and change perceptions around manufacturing, both environmentally and culturally.

After completing extensive feasibility and pilot scale tests, as well as laying out its future vision of the textile recycling industry, Worn Again Technologies is getting closer to building its first full-scale

plant. The technology relies on innovative polymer separation and purification technologies to turn non-reusable, hard to recycle polyester and cotton fiber blends into new, high-quality materials for making new textiles.

The two-day gathering enabled a compelling exchange of insights and ideas between WAT management and strategic partners. The aim is to shift the paradigm and perception from isolated recycling plants to social architectural landmarks engaged with community, supporting the textile industry commitment of net zero CO2 emissions by 2050.

Torsten Wintergerste, Chairman of Worn Again Technologies Board of Directors, explains: “Creating a successful circular economy for textiles requires more than an innovative recycling technology and all stakeholders from consumers to retailers and law makers need to connect and work together for a cleaner future.”

Copenhagen offered an ideal location for the event, as the capital aims to become the world’s first carbon-free city. Even more, attendees were able to draw inspiration from Amager Bakke, also known as Copenhill, a combined heat and power waste-to-energy plant that is also an artificial ski slope and sports attraction.

An energy-from-waste plant with an outdoor sports center on its roof, Amager Bakke is an inspiration to WAT, as it is integrated into the urban ecosystem. (Photo Copenhill Hufton&Crow / ARC)

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PECM Issue 55

Copenhagen offered an ideal location for the event, as the capital aims to become the world’s first carbon-free city.

During the two-day event, attendees visited Amager Bakke, also known as Copenhill.

Right and below, Worn Again Technologies (WAT) and its strategic partners met in Copenhagen to discuss the next steps towards building polymer recycling facilities for textiles.

Jacob Simonsen, CEO at Amager Bakke, comments: “We were delighted to host Worn Again Technologies, as we share a common passion and vision in improving the sustainability of industry. We both believe that facilities can coexist with community landmarks and engage the public. It is exciting to see how Worn Again Technologies is planning to create the future of textile recycling. As societies, we face a huge textile challenge. This is why I applaud companies investing in technology aiming at reducing textile waste and turning it into a resource.”

Erik Koep, CEO at Worn Again Technologies, concludes: “The meeting was extremely productive. We were able to take significant steps forward with our plans for a full-scale textile recycling plant.

In particular, visiting Amager Bakke was key to stimulating the discussion on how Worn Again Technologies’ facilities can integrate into urban ecosystems and contribute in a variety of ways. We aim to develop facilities that will benefit local communities as well as supply the textile industry, all while creating a circular economy.”

For further information, please visit www.wornagain.co.uk Issue 55 PECM

13

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Thorite celebrates incorporation centenary with webstore launch Thorite, the UK’s leading independent air and fluid power product, systems and services provider, has celebrated the centenary of its incorporation with the launch of a new webstore.

FREE P&P*

Have you tried our brand new webstore?

EASIER. FASTER. MORE INTUITIVE. A simplified shopping experience from beginning to end.

The webstore features a clickand-collect service for more than 30,000 products, including more than 100 brands of pneumatic, compressed air, vacuum and fluid handling components. In-stock items can be collected within two hours of purchase.

Thorite’s Managing Director, Stephen Wright, said the company’s strong customer service and aftermarket support was central to its successful trading history.

He added: “We worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to ensure our customers received the products and support they required.

“That experience gave us valuable insight into the ways customers interact with the company and inspired us to develop a webstore which is easier, faster and more intuitive.

“We’re delighted to reach this milestone 100 years of incorporation confident that our customers are benefitting from a service that is constantly improving.”

www.thorite.co.uk

Compressors & Ancillary Equipment Pneumatic Control Equipment Process Control & Pumping Vacuum Products & Solutions Electro Mechanical Drives

10% OFF*

YOUR FIRST ONLINE ORDER USE OFFER CODE

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0800 034 5850 www.thorite.co.uk *T&Cs apply

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PECM Issue 55

KASTO has the solution KASTO Ltd is the UK subsidiary of KASTO Maschinenbau GmbH, Germany. The company manufactures manual, semi-automatic and fully automated bandsaws, circular saws and hacksaws.

Whatever the application, from job shop to mass production with robotic sorting, KASTO has the solution.

The company also builds industrial warehouses for computer-controlled storage and retrieval of bar, tube, profile, sheet and other materials. The systems can be either stand-alone or interlinked with saws, other machine tools, robotic sorting systems, MRP and ERP systems, and more. If a company is running out of warehouse or factory space, KASTO has the answer.

KASTO’s service encompasses planning, design, software development, project management, execution, service and support, all from a single source.

Email: sales@uk.kasto.com Web: www.kasto.com

Santoprene peristalticpump pump tubing Santoprene peristaltic tubing

Santoprene tubing is the standard choice for peristaltic tube pumps and exhibits similar properties to silicone. Its excellent durability results in significant cost savings over other types of tubing and a substantial reduction in down-time.

Santoprene tubingbores is the choice for tubing has a number Supplied in a range of lengths, andstandard wall thicknesses, Santoprene peristaltic Itsfor excellent durability results excellent propertiestube whichpumps. make it ideal use in peristaltic pump applications: inUnmatched significant cost savings resistance to wear over other types of tubing and substantial reduction in down-time. Supplied Wideachemical resistance inNon-toxic a range of lengths, bores and wall thicknesses, Food grade Santoprene tubing has a number of excellent Autoclavable properties which make it ideal for use in peristaltic Suitable for most CIP and SIP solutions pump applications: Temperature range from -2°C to 135°C • Unmatched resistance to wear Advanced Supplies carry large stocks of the most common sizes for next day delivery in the • Wide chemical UK and mainland Europe. resistance • Non-toxic Contact our team today to discuss your requirements.

• Food grade Tel: +44 01257 424231 • Suitable for most CIP and SIP solutions info@advancedsupplies.co.uk • Temperature range from -2°C to 135°C www.advancedsupplies.co.uk       

Advanced Supplies carry large stocks of the most common sizes for next day delivery in the UK and mainland Europe.

Contact our team today to discuss your requirements.

Tel: +44 01257 424231 info@advancedsupplies.co.uk www.advancedsupplies.co.uk

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EDITOR’S CHOICE

INNOVATIVE DESIGN OLIVER VALVES

A completely new seal design was the only answer!

The Fife LNG plant at Mossmorran, operated by SHELL, can provide a challenging environment for any highpressure valve, but when a need arose for a number of ANSI class 300 DBB valves with a high operating temperature range, few manufacturers could meet the requirements.

The requirement for ANSI 300 class, 2” DBB valves suitable for a temperature range from -50°C up to +350°C would force the designers at Oliver Twinsafe to completely rethink the sealing technology used in their double block and bleed ball valves.

An additional layer of complexity, on top of this already challenging application, came with the requirement to meet the demanding MESC 77/300 design validation test that includes fugitive emission testing The actual ball sealing was readily achieved as Oliver Twinsafe already manufactures a wide range of metal seated valves, dispensing with any elastomeric seals completely. But even here special attention

was needed in relation to the ball and seat materials, especially the tungsten carbide coating required to ensure long service life. For zero and low through seat leakage requirements, such as this application, porosity control of the Tungsten Carbide coating is of paramount importance. Other sealing sites throughout the valve would prove more challenging, especially the dynamic sealing requirements for the operating stem used to rotate the ball.

Industry standard stem seals, for more challenging applications usually made from Graphite, PTFE or PEEK, see a rapid degradation in their mechanical and physical properties at temperatures above 180°C. Searching for seals that can function across the required temperature range, Oliver’s R&D team turned to one of the world’s leading elastomer manufacturers who suggested a high-performance specialist polymer solution usually associated with jet engine technology.

designers and R&D team worked through many traditional configurations, with limited success; the only answer was to design a completely new stem seal arrangement in house.

The decades of knowhow in the Oliver team and a rigorous testing led development process, eventually came up with, a now patented, stem seal design that delivered fugitive emission leak rate B across the full temperature range required also passing the MESC 77/300 design validation test.

A combination of experience, innovative design, class leading R&D, and the drive to meet the most challenging applications makes Oliver Twinsafe one of the world’s leading valve manufacturers.

For further information contact Richard Featherstone at rfeatherstone@valves.co.uk or simply call us on +44 (0)1565 632636.

Or visit us at www.valves.co.uk/twinsafe.

Although now armed with a suitable material, turning this into an effect seal still remained elusive. The Oliver Twinsafe

For further information, please visit www.valves.co.uk/twinsafe

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PECM Issue 55

EDITOR’S CHOICE

46 Years’ Experience Supplying Mass, Water and Chemical Injection Flowmeters Worldwide Over the last 46 years, we’ve built a huge catalogue of products to suit your every need organised by flow ranges – from our standard range of flowmeters (popular in the UK, EU and US), to our bespoke range of customisable flowmeters that can be adjusted to suit to almost any flow application.

Our Base Model Flow Meter Range is specifically designed for quick delivery and lowering costs. Our four standard chemical injection flow meters are the basis of

our full range. We have made the standard flow meters more accessible and you can buy directly through our shop today. Select the product below and you will be directed to our online shop.

The range is ideally suited to low flow, high pressure services such as those found in chemical injection, hydraulics measurement and subsea.

Visit our web shop today at www.litremeter.com/ onlineproducts

Precision Rotary Atomizer Technology Your technical experts for plastic injection moulding

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT MOULDING TOOLING BEYOND THE MOULD Make Pentagon your UK supplier of choice for Mould Tool manufacture and Plastic Injection Moulding.

Whether you need a supplier for a new injection moulding project or sourcing a new manufacturing partner for existing production, Pentagon will support you at every stage.

For Effective Industrial Spraying and Misting Precise droplet size- adjustable electronically Very low energy use Long life, low maintenance Brushless motor technology Micron Sprayers Ltd, Bromyard, Herefordshire, England UK

Tel: +44 1885 482397 email: sales@micron.co.uk www.pentagonplastics.co.uk | websales@pentagonplastics.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1403 264 397 |

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PECM Issue 55

www.micron.co.uk

EDITOR’S CHOICE

SPECIALISED BRAKES STROMAG

Fast reacting Stromag brakes ready for Hinkley Point C nuclear power plant

The construction of a nuclear power plant is a huge undertaking requiring a wide array of construction equipment – especially heavyduty cranes. (Photo: Adobe stock – 192237200) A key component of the UK Government’s net zero emissions strategy, two new nuclear reactors at Hinkley Point C are currently under construction by EDF Energy. Stromag has supported the project by delivering specialised brakes for multiple cranes at the site, including those that will lift radioactive uranium fuel rods from the very heart of the reactors.

Located in Somerset in the South West of England, EDF is constructing two European Pressurised Reactors (EPRs) at Hinkley Point C. Once complete, the third generation advanced pressurised water reactors will provide clean energy to approximately six million homes.(1) The construction of a nuclear power plant is a huge undertaking requiring a wide array of construction equipment – especially heavy-duty cranes. Multiple crane OEMs supplying the project have enlisted Stromag to provide specialised

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PECM Issue 55

braking systems, each designed to offer the performance and reliability required for this strictly regulated application environment.

A NUCLEAR CRANE EXPERT

was to specify multiple braking systems for the nuclear fuel transfer systems - the most critical cranes in the entire facility.”

LIFTING THE REACTOR’S HEART

Stromag is a global manufacturer of high-performance braking systems for cranes and hoists. A leading brand of Altra Industrial Motion Corp., the business has a proven track record in supplying braking systems for nuclear applications.

Nuclear reactors rely on uranium fuel rods, inserted into the core, to generate heat via nuclear fission. However, like any fuel, the rods eventually become depleted and require replacement. This is carried out by a fuel transfer system inside the reactor building.

Michel Donnay, Plant Director of Stromag’s French facility in La Guerche Sur L Aubois, expands: “Our braking technologies are proven in nuclear facilities across Europe and Asia. We are very familiar with projects that involve the construction of this new generation of EPRs. Therefore, crane OEMs have approached us to provide brakes to support construction of the machinery and pumping stations at Hinkley Point C. However, the primary challenge

The system is comprised of heavy-duty cranes that lift out spent fuel rods from the reactor when it is offline. These rods are lowered into a separate cooling pond.

Then, new fuel rods are inserted into the core and fission can restart. Lifting heavy, radioactive uranium fuel rods is an incredibly dangerous process, with power transmission components installed on the cranes required to offer incredibly high levels of reliability and redundancy.

crane at Hinkley Point C, we also had to offer extra clamping force to ensure the required redundancy, which we achieved by specifying multiple units. If a brake fails for whatever reason, another unit can provide the necessary performance to halt the load.”

Jonathan adds.

At Hinkley Point C, this operation will be carried out by a huge circular crane located inside the reactor building, a so called a polar crane. Used once or twice a year, the crane is designed to have a lifting capacity of 300 tons. To ensure the crane stops with the maximum reliability and redundancy, the crane OEM selected Stromag to provide the service brakes and emergency brakes for the design.

In addition to the brakes, Stromag also supplied couplings, limit switches, hydraulic power units (HPUs) and monitoring systems.

SERVICE AND EMERGENCY BRAKES “The crane in the reactor building requires two braking systems,” explains Jonathan Balland, Area Sales Manager at Stromag.

“Service brakes carry out the normal braking operations for the crane when it is in use.

These units are usually mounted on the high speed shaft. Emergency brakes are mounted on the drum and offer highly responsive stopping performance if the load falls for any reason.”

For service braking, Stromag specified its C range of electromagnetic disc brakes.

Rated for over four million cycles in normal operating conditions, the electromagnetic design eliminates any risk of hydraulic fluid leakage, maximising reliability. The brake only opens when power is applied, staying closed otherwise. Once powered, only a small current is required to keep the brake open, which ensures low energy consumption in operation.

Hydraulic brakes are preferred for emergency braking applications due to the higher torque figure this configuration can achieve. While the world’s largest electromagnetic brakes can reach up to 10 tons clamping force, there is almost no

EXACTING STANDARDS

Stromag provided brakes, couplings, limit switches, hydraulic power units (HPUs) and monitoring systems. limit to what hydraulic brakes can achieve, with some in mining applications reaching up to 100 tons of force. This exceptional performance is critical for the polar crane at Hinkley Point C, ensuring that the heavy radioactive fuel rods can be stopped dead.

To meet these application requirements, Stromag specified SH hydraulic disc brakes.

“The key with the emergency brakes is to stop the load in the shortest distance possible. Our SH32 brake offers a 32-ton clamping force, but critically, with a closing time of less than 0.3 seconds. This ensures we can offer a reduced minimum distance of travel for the load if it begins to fall. For example, the braking systems may be required to stop 300 tons of load within 50 centimetres of travel.”

“For an application as critical at the polar

Stromag ensures the suitability of its braking systems for all customer applications thanks to rigorous testing and modelling. However, providing braking systems for the nuclear industry requires achieving the highest possible standards.

Michel says: “As a specialist in nuclear applications, we are accredited to the highest quality specifications. EDF has certified our applicable products as C3, which denotes suitability for use in all buildings at a nuclear power plant. We undertake customer surveys, independent consultations and assessments to define our critical steps and certify that all aspects of engineering work are carried out correctly. Typically, the quality documents we supply for products used on critical cranes in nuclear power stations can reach up to 1000 pages long.”

“We carry out all engineering work in-house at our facility in France, while offering our crane OEM customers technical support at their production facilities too. We are among a handful of companies worldwide who can provide these braking systems for critical nuclear applications.”

Stromag braking technologies are proven in nuclear facilities across Europe and Asia. (Photo: Adobe stock – 22340770) For further information, please visit www.stromag.com Issue 55 PECM

21

EDITOR’S CHOICE

ATEX FANS AXAIR

An Explosive Issue Outside of major users such as chemical, petrochemical and process industries, enquiries for flameproof fans tend to come from specifiers, resellers and end-users, many of whom may not be aware of ATEX Directives.

ATEX is an acronym derived from the French expression ATmosphères EXplosibles and exists in the form of two European directives for controlling explosive atmospheres. The first ‘equipment directive’ 94/9/EC (ATEX 100) covers manufacturing standards. The second ‘workplace directive’ ATEX 99/92/EC (ATEX 137) seeks to ensure that people are protected against the risk of blast injuries or asphyxiation by dangerous substances.

The 2016 updated legislation is Directive 2014/34/EU and assists with establishing a uniformity to the approach taken when supplying and distributing equipment such as industrial fans for explosive atmospheres.

Everyone involved in the specification, manufacture, installation, and use of equipment in flameproof zones has some responsibility in ensuring that the law concerning flameproof equipment is upheld.

This article highlights some of the issues affecting manufacturers and distributors of ATEX fans.

Unfortunately, a lack of practice with the subject tends to give rise to enquiries that begin with statements like “there is a slight risk of explosion, but we don’t think we need a flameproof fan” which places manufacturers in an awkward position because they are not ATEX consultants and are not qualified to know what the client can lawfully install.

What can the fan supplier do with casual enquiries that must at some point turn into tightly specified orders? The first option is a blunt “come back when you know exactly what is required” and the second is to issue a questionnaire, usually with ‘tick boxes” and a bit of guidance appended, which may then be returned with conflicting selections.

What is needed in every case is an ATEX

ATEX must be understood as being an ever-evolving subject requiring competence and training. code that provides a well-defined minimum standard for the product that is required. For example, the code Ex II 2G IIC T4 essentially means European flameproof, surface industry (not mining), Category 2 (Zone 1), gas group II, type C (hydrogen or acetylene gas), maximum surface temperature 135º°C There are many other coding permutations including slightly different formats for dusty atmospheres (Zones 21 & 22). If codes cannot be provided there is lingering uncertainty over what is required.

Once an ATEX code has been established by the end-user the process of selecting a fan model and its essential features demands a degree of application knowledge.

For example, the type of electrical supply is important. Often the response to “what electrical supply do you have” is “can be single or three phase”. Single phase is an expensive option and not widely available from ATEX motor manufacturers. It may be cheaper to run a 3~ line than to buy a 1~ fan on a long manufacturing lead-time Any fan motor that is to be speed controlled with a VSD must also have thermistors fitted to protect against motor shell temperature at low speeds causing spontaneous gas combustion.

By not mentioning the VSD aspect at the enquiry or order stage the purchaser is likely to ultimately face time and product replacement costs.

Other matters include motors that vary from the most secure specification EEx d (explosion proof) through EEx e (increased safety), down to EEx nA (nonsparking) which has many similarities to a standard non-flameproof motor.

ATEX must be understood as being an ever-evolving subject requiring competence and training. Anyone requiring a better understanding of flameproof requirements would be advised to seek further information.

For further information, please visit www.axair-fans.co.uk

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PECM Issue 55

Scan with phone camera for info

ATEX & IECEx Certified Fans for Hazardous Environments We’re technical fan integration experts with an indepth knowledge of ATEX explosion proof fans suitable for zone 1 & 2 gas and dust ATEX atmospheres in line with ATEX 94/9/EC regulations.

ATEX Fan Selection Talk to our experienced team to discuss ATEX ventilation fans that are suitable for your application. We always advise that you have been made aware of the correct ATEX zone by a certified ATEX consultant before contacting us, this ensures we can provide the safest industrial ATEX fan to suit the explosive atmosphere that you’re operating in.

Choosing an ATEX explosion proof fan is a specialised area and a decision should not be taken lightly, we can only advise on a suitable fan based upon the information that you provide.

Axair Fans UK Limited 01782 349 430 | sales@axair-fans.co.uk | www.axair-fans.co.uk Talk to our team of integration experts now on our LIVE online chat

EDITOR’S CHOICE

REFINING PROCEDURES NORTH RIDGE PUMPS

Eliminating Manual Handling & Reducing Risk with a Transfer Pump

Manual handling is often the first stage of trialling a new production process or method of production.

When a new process, technique, additive, or mixture is created, it is sometimes necessary for personnel to manually test a process, refining procedures until they work as desired.

But what if such a procedure creates an unforeseen problem or risk?

CURRENT MANUAL HANDLING PROCESS North Ridge pumps were contacted by a soap manufacturer who were manufacturing conditioners. They had recently installed a Wax Melt as part of a new process, with production split across 2 levels, with Wax melted and mixed at ground level, before being carried to a mixer on an upper gantry 4M away.

The Wax was being melted at 80°C and the current process involved decanting the hot liquid into buckets, with personnel then carrying the hot liquid up metal stairs using the containers several times a day.

Around 200kg was being moved each day by hand which was laborious, as well as having a risk for potential disaster, as not only was the liquid likely to burn, and carried above other operators, but when lifted across to the upper gantry, it sometimes

spilt creating a slippery coating on the stairs which had to be mechanically removed.

Manual Handling Guidelines & Duties Although the weight of the wax in each bucket was only 14kg, with each day of production needing over 15 buckets, there was the potential for improvement of the existing procedure.

The current guidelines for manual lifting have a limit of 16kg for Women and 25kg for men but this is reduced if items are held above head height, away from the body or held by an operator whilst sat down.

HSE encourages employers to avoid hazardous manual handling, by avoiding the operation as reasonably practicable through either redesigning the task, automating or mechanising a process.

Having had experience of eliminating manual handling and automating transfer in other projects we knew how to solve their issue. Automating fluid transfer not only provides improved output and productivity it reduces the likelihood of injury whilst also limiting or reducing any liability.

We specified, selected and supplied a progressing cavity pump of hygienic design, with Stainless Steel casing and internals with a chemically resistant stator to handle any Oils, Wax and Chemicals within the soap up to 100°C. Transferring at a rate of over 100L/min the unit vastly out performed the existing methods, as well as providing scope for future increases in production.

After the solution was implemented, the cost benefit was described as a “no brainer” with the results experienced.

The average fine by the HSE in 2021 for Health & Safety prosecutions was £145,000 per case, an increase of 35% from the year before and the customer was keen to find a way of improving their existing system.

If you are looking to simplify a process, improve productivity, automate transfer, reduce risk, eliminate spillage, and waste, whilst also benefiting from the 2021 Budget super deduction, speak to us to see how we can help.

Avoiding Hazardous Manual Handling After discussing our customers existing process, we established they not only wanted to remove the manual handling aspect of this process, but wanted to automate transfer, eliminate risk of injury, and have personnel spend their time on more productive activities rather than be fatigued by mundane tasks.

North Ridge Pumps North Ridge House, 3 Chrysalis Way, Eastwood, Nottingham, NG16 3RY, UK www.northridgepumps.com sales@northridgepumps.com

For further information, please visit www.northridgepumps.com

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PECM Issue 55

We’re pump specialists, so you don’t need to be

Chemical Pumps Engineered for Your Process Optimise performance with specialist support

Industry knowledge and application expertise across dispensing, dosing, full containment, gentle handling, blending and transfer, means whatever the problem, it’s likely we’ve seen it before. So we can help you solve it sooner. ++ Accelerated Accelerated stator stator wear wear ++ Clogging Clogging ++ Changes Changes to to fluid fluid consistency consistency ++ Flow Flow Reduction Reduction ++ Inconsistency Inconsistency in in finished finished product product ++ Inaccurate Inaccurate transfer transfer of of chemicals chemicals ++ Leakage Leakage || Liquid Liquid separation separation ++ Product Product Wastage Wastage ++ Seal Seal wear wear or or failure failure ++ Valve Valve Blockage Blockage or or unintended unintended Opening Opening

We’ve We’ve been been engineering engineering sanitary sanitary pumps pumps for for sectors sectors such such as as distilling, distilling, brewing, brewing, food food manufacturing/processing, manufacturing/processing, and and more, more, for for 20+ 20+ years. years. We We understand understand industryindustryspecific specific processes processes and and know know what what itit takes takes to to optimise optimise performance performance through through betterbettersuited suited pump pump design design -- giving giving you you complete complete peace peace of of mind. mind.

EXPERT GUIDANCE:

Our Our expert expert engineers engineers understand understand your your process process and and guide guide you you through through the the options, options, so so you you can can confidently confidently select select the the most most suitable suitable chemically chemically resistant resistant pump. pump.

Want to optimise performance sooner? Speak to one of our specialists.

+44 (0) 1773 302 660

sales@northridgepumps.com sales@northridgepumps.com || www.northridgepumps.com www.northridgepumps.com

EXAMPLE PRODUCTS: ++ Acids Acids ++ Alkalis Alkalis ++ Coagulants Coagulants ++ Corrosive Corrosive ++ Chemical Chemical Sludge Sludge ++ CO2 CO2 ++ Flammable Flammable ++ Flocculants Flocculants ++ Oxidisers Oxidisers ++ Pyrophoric Pyrophoric ++ Refrigerants Refrigerants ++ Solvents Solvents ++ VOC VOC with with low low NPSH NPSH ++ Water Water Reactives Reactives

EDITOR’S CHOICE

CLIMATE WIZARD SEELEY INTERNATIONAL

Returning to work with an Indoor-Air of confidence Recent years with respect to Covid-19, has undoubtedly provided people around the world with some of the biggest challenges of their lives. Here in the UK, employers are encouraging staff back to their workplaces. Improved cleaning regimes and spacing may form part of an employer’s package of care, but what about their airconditioning systems?

Take this example of a high street retailer, recently visited, that describe themselves as a healthcare setting. They have facilities at the back of their store for customer healthcare. With fully exposed M&E services it was easy to see their heating & cooling is done by traditional refrigerated air-conditioning that fully recirculates the air in the store. With the store being over 30 metres long and the front door being the only fresh air source, it did not seem such a safe healthcare setting. With no mechanical ventilation what is the chance for fresh air getting to the middle, let alone the back of the store? Other commercial & industrial spaces suffer the same problem; newer buildings, offices & education facilities most likely with restricted or no window openings, a problem created by air tightness requirements for building regulations.

During these uncertain times, we would like to share a solution that can help this situation and tick several other boxes in the process.

We proudly present to you Climate Wizard, the award winning in-direct evaporative cooler. Providing 100% fresh air, these robust units are built to the highest specification. The coolers are intended

Providing 100% fresh air, effectively purging the space of pollutants, dust and germs resulting in HIGH IAQ. Combined with other HVAC equipment as either a pre or supplementary cooler, it will enhance any existing system and potentially provide a large percentage of the annual cooling demand.

for applications with no or little recirculation, so effectively purging the space of pollutants, dust and germs. Quoted by many international bodies including CIBSE, ASHRAE, Eurovent & REHVA, the more fresh air and the least re-circulation will provide the most benefits to people in indoor situations, to avoid the risk of catching the virus.

Climate Wizard can work in a variety of situations, making it flexible to apply to new projects or retro-fit. As a cooler on its own it can provide the complete cooling needs of a building, ensuring the occupants experience the most comfortable room conditions and the highest indoor air quality.

Using only water and electricity, Climate Wizard will not have you in a quandary about refrigerant legislation. We cool wisely with water and no synthetic refrigerants or chemicals to harm the environment. Our coolers work simply by drawing hot ambient air over the core, which is an air-to-air heat exchanger consisting of dry and wet channels. Moist air is exhausted and fresh cool dry air is delivered into the space.

Climate Wizards cooling performance can rival that of refrigerated air-conditioning systems and uses up to 80% less energy.

That’s not only great for reducing energy bills, it’s also great for the environment.

So when you consider your companies return to work, think about enthusing your employees with confidence, be a Climate Wizard.

Generate 100% fresh, cool, outside air, at temperatures that rival refrigerated systems, with up to 80% lower energy costs.

The future of cooling For further information, please visit www.seeleyinternational.com

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PECM Issue 55

Cost-effective AIR CONDITIONING for factories and warehouses

Evaporative cooling is the perfect solution when cooling large buldings with high heat loads, to improve thermal comfort and Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Green technology

100% fresh, filtered air

Easy installation

Low running costs Contact us for a free survey, we will suggest the solution that best suits your needs. www.seeleyinternational.com uksales@seeleyinternational.com Tel. 0115 963 5630 World leading evaporative cooling solutions

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Linear Rotary Motors As a leader in the development of high performance linear motors, LinMot have in the last few years pioneered combined Linear and Rotary motors.

These provide independently controlled linear and rotary motions on one shaft with great advantages for Capping, Screwing and Assembly applications.

The growing PR01 Linear Rotary family of motors has now been extended to the new PR02 compact version which is available in 3 size ranges, with extra features such as optional torque and force sensing and built-in mass compensation in case of power-loss using their

unique MagSpring® technology.

Quin Systems, exclusive UK suppliers of LinMot linear motors for over 25 years, can help you match and size this new range to any specific capping or assembly application you have.

Using the Linmot Designer App, your torque, mass and cycle time requirements can be used to calculate the most suitable match.

www.quin.co.uk/linmot

High Speed Capping Caps on bottles need to be applied quickly, accurately and in a repeatable manner with feedback if there are any problems.

On-the-fly process optimisation is achieved by altering specific parameters such as torque, force, speed, and position.

Using the PR02 eliminates the need for compensation springs and couplings and torque clutches.

PRODUCT ASSEMBLY The tightening of screws and assembly of products are required in almost everything that is manufactured. Now though, higher tolerances and greater feedback is needed in a modern production process.

Using the LinMot PR02, high-speed assembly can be achieved while giving feedback on screw thread quality, length and torque accuracy better than 1%.

This level of continuous monitoring of both linear and

The innovative Linmot Linear motor combined with a high stiffness linear guide provide high-speed and energy-efficient performance in a clean design.

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PECM Issue 55

For more information, please contact Quin Systems, the LinMot distributor for UK & Ireland on 0118 977 1077 or sales@quin.co.uk.

www.quin.co.uk/linmot

Direct mounting of the load with absorption of

2

sales@quin.co.uk

rotary axes is a huge step up in control and quality from using more conventional clutch and pneumatic methods combined with simpler motor control.

7+( +20( 2) 9,6&286 3803,1* 62/87,216

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… ᅚHoney ᅚPetroleum Jelly ᅚMascara ᅚSauces ᅚLanolin ᅚLip Gloss ᅚEssences ᅚEye Ointment ᅚMeat Paste ᅚParaffin Wax

T: +44 (0)1746 764311 E: sales@kecol.co.uk W: www.kecol.co.uk

ᅚFace Scrub ᅚTeething Gel ᅚTomato Puree ᅚMedical Adhesives ᅚVeterinary Creams ᅚFruit Paste ᅚToothpaste ᅚMalt ᅚJam ᅚWax

Hall 4.1 Stand C043

EDITOR’S CHOICE

£5.1M REFURB PROJECT PRECISION MICRO

Precision Micro unveils major investment at ‘phoenix’ facility following 2019 fire Two years after a fire broke out at marketleading chemical etching manufacturer Precision Micro’s Birmingham site in Autumn 2019, the company has reached the end of a major £5.1 million refurbishment – which has seen a 10% increase in capacity (with scope for a further expansion), nine new process machines installed and a new Quality Centre of Excellence established.

Crucially, thanks to a well-considered crisis management plan, Precision Micro maintained business continuity throughout – even when the COVID-19 pandemic struck just months after the fire.

FIRE INCIDENT AND CAUSE The challenge began on 24th November 2019, when a fire broke out as the result of an electrical fault. While the fire was contained to only two production areas, ironically these are at the heart of Precision Micro’s core process of photochemical etching.

Using this process, the company produces millions of precision-etched products every year, including safety-critical automotive components through to high-performance parts for the aerospace industry.

soon after the fire goes to show just how committed we are as a business to delivering the very best levels of service to our customers, no matter the circumstances we find ourselves in. By acting so quickly, we were able to maintain production which meant our customers could continue to rely on us, even in the most challenging of times.”

CONTINUITY OF SUPPLY

FUTURE-PROOFING THE BUSINESS

Accordingly, establishing continuity of supply was critical, despite some specialist equipment being damaged in the fire.

Within hours, Precision Micro’s team got hands-on with the recovery effort, identifying what could be salvaged and devising a strategy which would enable them to minimise disruption to customers.

The longer-term site refurbishment began in 2020, as Precision Micro began not only the process of rebuilding damaged areas but taking proactive steps to future-proof the business and further strengthen the service its customers receive.

Central to this was the construction of two industrial annexes just weeks after the fire, into which critical machinery was relocated to keep the business moving and minimise the fire’s impact on customers.

This involved a £5.1 million investment in which Precision Micro reconfigured its processes, to introduce more specialist machinery, increase space in the factory and build-in additional fire mitigation initiatives to de-risk any future repeats of the 2019 incident.

Mick Taylor, Commercial Director of Precision Micro, says: “To be able to get back to some sort of normality so

Elsewhere, the commercial team has been moved into dedicated nearby offices in the iconic Fort Dunlop, freeing up further

space for additional production and stock holding.

THE ADDITIONAL CHALLENGE OF COVID-19 All of this has taken place against the backdrop of COVID-19, with the arrival of lockdown in March 2020 delaying – but not deterring – progress.

“Of course, we had to revise the timeline for our recovery programme, but we were determined not to let the pandemic affect our business when we had already made so many advances in the short space of time since the fire,” confirms Mick Taylor.

“How the team has responded to these challenges – backed by the support of a number of stakeholders including key suppliers – has been incredible. Thinking back to 2019, it was impossible to foresee either of these obstacles, but how our team has pulled together has been nothing short of inspirational. It’s this unbeatable team spirit which reinforces the resilience of Precision Micro, not just to keep the business running smoothly, but to do so in the most challenging of times”.

For further information, please visit www.precisionmicro.com

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PECM Issue 55

EDITOR’S CHOICE

LOCKBOLTS® STAR FASTENERS

Consistent joint performance WHAT ARE THEY AND HOW DO THEY WORK? HuckBolts®, also known as LockBolts are neither a threaded bolt or a rivet, but combine the desirable features of both.

They have been used in many critical joint applications for decades, including widespread usage in demanding highstress, high-vibration environments.

Industries using HuckBolts include heavyduty trucks, commercial vehicles, their chassis and trailers, rail track, crossings, railcar and locomotives, agricultural equipment and implements, aerospace, mining shaker screens and shaft construction, defence vehicles and oilfield equipment – some really challenging environmental conditions.

Often the most vulnerable point on a design is where there is an interface or join between components; the availability of carbon steel, aluminium, and stainlesssteel variations make LockBolts fasteners a viable option for joining a multitude of material. HuckBolts can be effectively used with virtually any metal, and dissimilar metals with dissimilar coefficients of thermal expansion present no problems. Varying material thicknesses in a joint are readily accommodated, and surface finishes are not damaged.

HuckBolts such as C6L® and C50L® have been on the market for many decades and are well known and used. Others such as the Huck BobTail® are less well known but offer significant advantages; up to 10 times the fatigue strength of conventional nuts and bolts, they deliver ultimate strength, installation speed and vibration resistance.

The pintail-less design of the BobTail has been developed to deliver the highest levels of performance and reliability. BobTail LockBolts offer safe, quiet installation technology in an advanced HuckBolt design. There is no waste through break off of the pintail and corrosion performance

Terminology

LOCKBOLT INSTALLATION SEQUENCE

Terminology to form the installed fastener providing is significantly improved by eliminating the a permanent and completely vibration exposed surface resulting from a pintail resistant joint. break-off. BobTail also has a fit-up function where the collar can be pre-fitted over 1. allowing Pin placed into prepared holethe - Collar placed over pin Once installed, fastener will perform the pin using helical grooves, consistently for the lifetime of the joint the fasteners to be positioned without without or retorquing.

2. ToolThis is placed over therequiring fastenerchecking pintail and activated the possibility of collar movement.

Pin final head pulled against material allows projects to be lined-up o before OF MATERIAL o Anvil pushes PREPARATION collar against joint installation.

LOCKBOLT INSTALLATION SEQUENCE

Huck Lockbolt Range - for fric

FOR HUCK LOCKBOLTS AND o Initial clamp generated RECOMMENDED DRILLING PROCEDURE: LockBolts consist of a headed pin and a 3. Tool swages collar, increasing- clamp

HOW DO LOCKBOLTS WORK?

To get a positive, ridged, fatigue-resistant collar that is swaged over locking grooves joint to withstand vibration and reversals in the pin. The pin is made4.with a series Pintail breaks, installation complete of stress good work-piece preparation is of pulling grooves at its tail end. The recommended. The hole should be round installation tool (driven by pneumatic, (drilled, pre-punched or lazered) and within C50L® BobTail® hydraulic or battery power) grips these tolerance of the recommended hole size grooves, pulls the work together, the conical specified by the data sheet. To prevent shaped cavity of the nose assembly is swarf and debris lodging between them, the forced down the collar. This progressively sheets should ideally be clamped together cold forms (swages) it into the grooves while drilling. of the harder pin. The squeezing action reduces the diameter of the collar, 1. Pre-drill – using a drill slightly smaller in increasing its length. turn stretches 1. This Pininplaced into prepared holeto-the Collar placed over pin diameter required hole size. the pin, generating a clamp force over the joint. The pin and swaged combineover the 2. Size-drill – to LockBolt diameter.

2. Toolcollar is placed fastener pintail andhole activated

Huck Lockbolt Range - for friction grip joints

o Pin head pulled against material o Anvil pushes collar against joint o Initial clamp generated

BobTail®

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PECM Issue 55

C50L®

3. Tool swages collar, increasing clamp

Hucktainer®

Magna-Grip®

4. Pintail breaks, installation complete

C6L/C120L®

HOW TO REMOVE LOCKBOLTS

LOCKBOLT INSTALLATION SEQUENCE

Collars can be removed by splitting axially with a chisel, with a nut splitter, or by a collar splitting nose assembly fitted to an appropriate Huck tool.

Where removal is necessary, another HuckBolt fastener of the same diameter may be used as a replacement. It is possible to make several replacements in the same hole and still maintain an interference fit.

Available in a wide range of sizes and grades, LockBolts offer quick and easy installation. When considering the cost of the fasteners with installation and inspection labour, LockBolt fastening systems can provide an overall lower installed cost.

1. Pin placed into prepared hole - Collar placed over pin 2. Tool is placed over the fastener pintail and activated o Pin head pulled against material o Anvil pushes collar against joint o Initial clamp generated 3. Tool swages collar, increasing clamp 4. Pintail breaks, installation complete

Star Fasteners are the UK’s largest Huck fastener and tooling distributor. Together with a hire tool fleet and an approved in-house tool maintenance repair department, an all-encompassing service can be relied upon.

Star Fasteners have a wealth of application and fastener knowledge that can make the impossible, possible. A standard fastener in the Huck range may provide your answer. If not, help with a cost-effective tailor-made solution is made available to all.

For more information on our products and services, potential applications, tips, ideas and product news, follow along on our social media platforms Facebook: @starfastenersuk and @starfasteners LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram.

ction grip joints

Hucktainer®

Magna-Grip®

C6L/C120L®

Huck RangeForce Battery Tool

Huck 2025LB Pneudraulic Tool

Email: sales@starfasteners.co.uk | Tel:+44(0)115 9324 939 Issue 55 PECM

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EDITOR’S CHOICE

SmartZone G5 Security Handle Offers Secure Dual Authentication

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PECM Issue 55

Panduit has launched the SmartZone™ G5 Security Handle for ITE cabinets, which is designed to meet the most rigorous security challenges, both physical and digital, in today’s data centre environments. The multifunctional smart handle offers multiple configurations with and without a keypad to compliment users’ operational requirements.

The integrated keypad version enables dual authentication by allowing for a card swipe and pin-code combination to access the cabinet.

the capability to read both low frequency (125kHz) and high frequency (13.5MHz) cards. The handle has been designed to be current and future compliant with regulations required within this environment and is also GDPR ready, HIPAA ready and PCI-DSS ready to ensure that this design meets data centres and users’ cabinet security needs.

It can support 200 authorised users and features an integral humidity sensor allowing humidity sensing to be optimally placed near the centre of the cabinet.

The G5 Security handle seamlessly mates with most data centre cabinets and has

To learn more, visit www.panduit.com.

Charles Duffy, Plexus

Price breaks starting from 2+ units. Student discount available.

Upload your .stl file for an instant quote.

3DPRINTUK ADDITIVE FOR MANUFACTURE

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Get 20% off your first order Use the discount code PECM2022 at checkout.

Terms & Conditions apply. See our website for more information.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

ROLLING IN THE DEEP 3DPRINTUK

A case study in the use of 3D printing for exacting production applications

By Nick Allen, Managing Director, 3DPRINTUK 3D printed parts are now common-place in end-use applications, but not all are used in as exacting an environment as the ones used by Planet Ocean, based in in Camberley, UK. Planet Ocean is a specialist in the provision of high quality, marine scientific instruments for research, survey, naval and operations support. The company represents some of the world’s foremost manufacturers of oceanographic and marine meteorological equipment covering a wide spectrum of disciplines from radar wave measuring systems, to seabed assessment systems, and autonomous underwater and surface

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PECM Issue 55

vehicles. ecoSUB Robotics — a company spun out of Planet Ocean to engage in the design and manufacture of underwater vehicles — regularly utilises 3DPPRINTUK as a supplier for a number of key 3D printed parts. These 3D printed components have to operate in salt water, in very low temperatures, and under extreme pressure some 2,500m below sea level, while at the same time remaining water-tight and intact.

We recently caught up with Jeremy Sitbon, Chief Robotics Engineer - Marine Robotics Systems at ecoSUB Robotics to find out more about these applications. Sitbon told us, “For sure, the parts that we use in our underwater vehicles have to be strong and robust, and absolutely conform to design intent. 3D printing is preferred

over injection moulding as we find the technology more versatile, and the design freedom allows us to innovate great parts.

Also, our volumes are low (maybe 10 parts per month) so injection moulding would not be economical. Add in the fact that with 3D printing we can customise designs for individual clients, and the choice is clear. We use 3D printing for prototyping and production applications, and transitioned from Additive to 3DPRINTUK as the two companies merged in 2021.

For us, it is vital that the prototype and production parts that we order are competitively priced, high quality, and speedily delivered, and in 3DPRINTUK we find all of this and more. Key to the success of our relationship is the inherent knowledge and experience that resides within the 3DPRINTUK team.

They have a ‘can do’ attitude, and their understanding of Design for AM (DfAM), and the management of the 3D printing process to maximise efficiencies and therefore reduce costs per part are of vital importance to us.”

of both the MJF and SLS services offered by 3DPRINTUK to maximise the benefits of the different polymer powder bed fusion (PBF) processes.

Sitbon continues, “We are constantly on the look-out for the most cost-effective 3D All the 3D printed parts used by ecoSUB printing solution for our underwater vehicles, Robotics for production are trialled in small but we cannot compromise on quality at all. prototype batches and integrated into the There are two different kinds of parts and marine vehicles before production quantities components in the vehicles, external parts are ordered. The reason that cost is so that can be seen, and internal parts that important to the company is that they see cannot. The external parts need to be yellow enormous potential for their underwater for the sake of visibility, and we use SLS for vehicles not just to be used by professionals these as the technology produces whiter parts within the military and oil and gas sectors, than MJF, and in our opinion this makes the but also research scientists gathering addition of a colour that much more definite important information about climate change. and striking. MJF parts are somewhat greyer, Price is key to making this advanced and this makes the processed colour less technology available to a wide user group. vivid. For parts used internally, and which do ecoSUB Robotics is able to take advantage not need to be coloured and do not need

For us, it is vital that the prototype and production parts that we order are competitively priced, high quality, and speedily delivered to be aesthetic, we use MJF parts as they are typically less expensive. So, I guess we have the perception that SLS as a process is more versatile when finishing and dyeing are required, but as we are convinced over time that MJF improves in this respect, we will most likely shift all parts to MJF due to price considerations and the fact that more exacting tolerances can be made repeatably with this 3D printing process meaning improved detailing on parts. It is hugely valuable to us that 3DPRINTUK has both technologies at its fingertips, and has the knowledge and expertise to advise on the best technology for each application.” ecoSUB Robotics see pros and cons with both SLS and MJF, but find that MJF parts seem to have a better finish before postprocessing, and this would be an advantage for external coloured parts which when made via SLS tend to get dirty and look worn over time and under heavy usage.

Sitbon concludes, “The assessment of SLS and MJF will continue, and we are happy to be guided as to which process to use for internal and external applications by the 3DPRINTUK team. Because of the harsh environments that some of our vehicles are used in, integrity of material chosen is everything, and we are amazed by both processes which can withstand intense cold, high pressure, and the corrosive nature of salt water, and still pass rigorous watertightness tests. We will continue to use 3DPRINTUK as we have not found an on-line ordering system that comes close to theirs in terms of ease-of-use, and the team has an enormous depth of knowledge in material selection, DfAM, and print optimisation that benefits us on every level.”

For further information, please visit www.3dprint-uk.co.uk Issue 55 PECM

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&

CALIBRATION SERVICES

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Established for over 40 years

Aughton hire & calibration services

Project4_Layout 1 13/10/2014 12:19 Page 1

At Aughton Hire, our success can be measured by our wonderful & customers who return regularly to enjoy our fast, friendly service CALIBRATION SERVICES and competitive test equipment rates. Our test and measurement equipment is top of the range, and our staff are experts in all aspects of calibration and repair.

At Aughton Hire, our success can be measured 115 Evans Road, by our wonderful customers who return Venture Point Business Park, regularly to enjoy our fast, friendlyLiverpool, service and L24 9PB competitive test equipment rates. Our test and T: 01928 589600 measurement equipment the range, For all your test equipment requirements contact:is top ofwww.aughtonhire.co.uk and our staff are experts in all aspects of Kathy@aughtonuk.com Roy@aughtonuk.com calibration and repair.

We offer a wide range of the latest test equipment for hire off the shelf, complete with full certification.

Calibration and Repair Service – Instruments calibrated to traceable standards.

We offer a wide range of the latest test equipment for hire off the shelf, complete with full certification. Calibration and Repair Service – Instruments calibrated to traceable standards.

For all your test equipment requirements contact: Kathy@aughtonuk.com or Roy@aughtonuk.com 115 Evans Road, Venture Point Business Park, Liverpool, L24 9PB T: 01928 589600 www.aughtonhire.co.uk

Cutting-edge technology Schuler offers customer-specific cuttingedge technology in all areas of metalforming – from networked presses to press shop planning. In addition to presses, the product portfolio also includes automation, dies, process know-how, and service. Schuler’s Digital Suite brings together solutions for networking metalforming technology and is constantly being developed to further improve productivity and availability.

Customers include automotive manufacturers and suppliers, companies from the forging, household appliance, and electrical industries.

Presses from the Schuler Group mint coins for more than 180 countries.

Schuler was founded in 1839 at its headquarters in Göppingen (Germany) and has around 5,000 employees at production sites in Europe, China, and America, as well as service companies in more than 40 countries.

The company is part of the international technology Group ANDRITZ. www.schulergroup.com

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PECM Issue 55

Laboratory powder/liquid mixer from Silverson Machines

Even in deep tanks, ifm senses levels precisely

Introducing the Silverson FMX5, a laboratory scale version of Silverson’s production scale powder/liquid mixer the Flashmix. The FMX5 operates on the same principle as its larger counterparts and provides an accurate and easy means of predicting the performance of the Flashmix in the laboratory, helping to streamline the scale-up process. The FMX5 has been tested on a wide range of powders, giving comparable results to the production scale Flashmix. These powders include gums (CMC, Guar, Xanthan), Carbopol, Bentonite and many others across a range of industries. The unit is suitable for small scale manufacturing and R&D work and is able to process higher viscosity mixes with a typical batch size of 10 litres.

With the new LW2720 radar level sensor from ifm electronic, accurately measuring the level of liquid media in large tanks and vessels is no longer a problem; this innovative sensor has a measuring accuracy of ± 2 mm at ranges up to 10 m. In addition, it is fully certified for use in hygienic areas, making it an ideal choice for food and pharmaceutical applications, including those that involve CIP and SIP operations.

Contact details: Email: sales@silverson.co.uk Telephone: +44 (0) 1494 786331 Website: www.silverson.co.uk

High Quality Machine Vision and Automation Components Alrad Instruments Limited distribute machine vision and automation components including cameras, smart cameras, linescan and specialist high speed cameras. We provide solutions in all visible and non-visible wavelengths including UV, NIR, SWIR and Longwave Thermal and sensor technology including CMOS, InGaAs and specialist CCD and EMCCD. We also provide lighting, structured light lasers, lenses, acquisition and frame grabbers, analogue to USB converters as well as monitors and specialist machine vision software’. Our products are used for machine vision, automation, scientific, test & instrumentation, agricultural, medical and many more application areas.

Please contact us on +44 (0)1635 30345 or see www.alrad.co.uk for more information.

The ground-breaking LW2720 measures levels using an FMCW radar-based system operating at a frequency of 80 GHz. This provides stable and accurate non-contact measurements that are unaffected by changing pressure, temperature and the presence of steam or condensates. In addition, the 80GHz operating frequency of the sensors provides a very narrow beam angle that gives a reliable level measurement even in applications where agitators, stirrers and scrapers are present. www.ifm.com/uk

A welcome return Southern Manufacturing and Electronics sprang into action in February 2022, returning to the Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre. From the doors opening on Tuesday 08 February, the aisles were packed with enthusiastic visitors and exhibitors, all eager to network and engage in the vibrant live event that sets the benchmark for the industry. Among the exhibitors were specialists in robotics and automation systems, demonstrations of injection moulding, tooling, rework and machining centres; this is just a snapshot of the equipment on show and companies that took part.

Southern Manufacturing is scheduled to take place from 7-9 February 2023 at Farnborough International. Exhibition space is already 60% booked: contact ETES now - there is no time to waste to secure a stand at the biggest manufacturing event in southern England.

Contact Phil Valentine philv@etes.co.uk +44 (0)1784 880890

EDITOR’S CHOICE

SETTING NEW STANDARDS SEEPEX

SEEPEX Wins Order from Thames Water for the Most Intelligent PC Pump in the World

The first order has been received from Thames Water’s Maple Lodge WwTW for SEEPEX’s unique patented SCT AutoAdjust pump technology combined with their Digital Solutions incorporating Pump Technology 4.0. Maple Lodge WwTW will be a showcase, setting new standards for future projects within Thames Water and the water industry.

SEEPEX open hopper BT SCT AutoAdjust

Following the successful delivery by SEEPEX of a project at Thames Water’s Mogden Lane WwTW for a sludge thickening process upgrade, incorporating Digital Solutions and the latest ease of maintenance technology for open hopper pumps, Thames Water approached SEEPEX with a new project with similar synergies at their Maple Lodge WwTW plant.

During consultation, the SEEPEX team carried out a full technical review with the key stakeholders to understand the challenges and objectives with the operation of the drum thickening process and associated pumps.

A comprehensive, commercial and

technical proposal was produced which included the most innovative state-of-the-art progressive cavity pumps in combination with Digital Technology.

The scope of supply includes the delivery and installation of SCT AutoAdjust drum thickener feed, discharge and back mixing progressive cavity pumps together with SEEPEX Digital Solutions - Pump Monitor, Connected Services and controls.

SCT AutoAdjust technology together with monitoring and cloud services enables remote adjustment to restore pump efficiency and, with advanced analytics, the implementation of predictive and forward planned maintenance as well as process optimisation.

For further information, please visit www.seepex.com Issue 55 PECM

39

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Specialist Training for the Storage Tank Industry Live online, classroom or e-learning • • • •

Gain or renew your 5-year Certificates of Competence* Courses based on EEMUA 159 English, Dutch, German and French language options Select from courses throughout 2022, including:

TankAssessor courses* 28 March – 1 April 2022 – in French – classroom – Près de Paris, FR 4-8 April 2022 – in German – classroom – near Hanover, DE 25-29 April 2022 – in English – classroom – near London, UK 13-17 June 2022 – in Dutch – classroom – near Rotterdam, NL

TankInspector courses* 14-17 March 2022 – in English – live online 16-19 May 2022 – in English – classroom – near London, UK

Above ground flat bottomed storage tanks A guide to inspection, maintenance and repair

Publication 159 Edition 5

TankIntro courses 21-23 February 2022 – in English – live online 20-22 June 2022 – in English – classroom – near London, UK Storage Tanks e-learning On-demand – in English and in Dutch

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

Experts in CFD Software and Consultancy

Experts in CFD Software and Consultancy CHAM’s experienced Consultants assist engineers designing and analysing fluid-dynamic systems and equipment across a wide industry range. We offer valuable, and personal,

assistance to those in engineering using variously configured pumps to&transport data fromjetAldas Yapicigases, CHAM’s experienced liquids, and solids suspended in fluid.

Consultants assist engineers (2014) “Investigation of CHAM’s PHOENICS CFD Software simulated jet-pump characteristics for prescribed Effects of Scale and Surface designing and analysing boundary conditions and achieved an impressively close match with experimental data from Aldas & Yapici (2014) “Investigation of Effects of Scale andon Surface Roughnessof on fluid-dynamic systems and Roughness Efficiency Efficiency of Water Jet Pumps Using CFD”, Engineering Applications of Computational Fluid Water Jet Pumps Using CFD”, equipment across a wide Mechanics. industry range.

Engineering Applications The impressively close match validates PHOENICS for this application, and confirms it as a of Computational Fluid valuable aid for optimising liquid-jet pump-design.

We offer valuable, Mechanics.

PHOENICS on the Cloudand (Azure Market Place) offers full CFD modelling capabilities and highperformance computational personal, assistance topower. those in engineering usingcall: variously The impressively closeormatch To learn more, please +44 208 947 7651, email: marketing@cham.co.uk visit: www.cham.co.uk validates PHOENICS for this configured jet pumps to transport gases, liquids, and application, and confirms it as a valuable aid for optimising solids suspended in fluid. liquid-jet pump-design.

CHAM’s PHOENICS CFD Software simulated jet-pump To learn more, please call: +44 208 947 7651, email: characteristics for prescribed boundary conditions and marketing@cham.co.uk or visit: achieved an impressively close match with experimental www.cham.co.uk

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PECM Issue 55

EDITOR’S CHOICE

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PECM Issue 55

EDITOR’S CHOICE

we make ideas come to life

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aesthetic finishes and protective coating We can offer powder coating and hot dip galvanizing solutions to meet your specifications.

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

You could be entitled to R&D Tax Credits The R&D Tax Relief scheme is basically a form of tax relief that may reduce your company or organisation’s Corporation Tax bill. Tax relief can be claimed on a wide range of R&D projects – even those that ultimately proved unsuccessful.

It’s quick and easy to determine if you might be able to make a claim for R&D Tax Relief. But 97% of eligible businesses don’t check or claim – don’t let your business miss out in this way!

www.mcs-corporate.com | charlotte@mcs-corporate.com | +44 (0)1926 512475 Issue 55 PECM

43

™ Fluregiene 200™ provides protection for hygiene conscious parts and surfaces

• Excellent corrosion resistance • Low friction anti-fouling and anti-stick properties

• Permanently applied to metals, alloys and plastics • Built-in antimicrobial technology actively reduces microbes on the surface of the coating.

• Reduces fungal growth and surfaces stay fresh longer

For more information about ™ Fluregiene 200™ call us now on +44 01386 425755 or email info@cwst.co.uk

Easy cleaning of hygiene conscious parts

Protecting your surfaces for longer.

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• Durable and easy to clean/wipe down

Low friction PTFE based coating containing BioCote® antimicrobial technology

Reduces microbial growth

Permanent coating protection

MACH SHOW PREVIEW

Master Abrasives exhibiting at MACH 2022 MACH 2022 is bringing an array of new technologies and machinery, including two machines on Master Abrasives’ stand #540 in Hall 6: the PLUTO-18 by Micromatic Grinding Technologies and the NH-500 by Alex Machine Tools.

PLUTO-18 is a CNC grinder specially designed by Micromatic Grinding Technologies to focus on compactness, high-performance and providing an economical grinding solution. It is best suited to produce highly accurate small components and can perform both plunge and traverse grinding operations.

NH-500 is a surface grinder by Alex Machine Tools which aims preserve precision through the life of the machine, providing superior stability even at extreme ends of working range, especially suited for quick flat grinding. Surface grinding models are available with the option for CNC controls for automatic grinding cycle.

www.master-abrasives.co.uk

Solutions for industry

Abrasives

Power Tools

Machinery

Tel: 01327 703813 sales@master-abrasives.co.uk www.master-abrasives.co.uk

Issue 55 PECM

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MACH SHOW PREVIEW

MACH 2022 MACH 2022

MACH 2022 set to be the most significant gathering of manufacturers in the UK this year MACH 2022, which opens its doors at the NEC in Birmingham between 4-8th April, is set to be the most significant gathering of manufacturers in the UK this year.

Aside from highlighting some of the most important issues facing the manufacturing industry, such as sustainability and the drive to net zero, the exhibition will also feature the largest display of new machinery and manufacturing technologies under one roof in the UK for four years.

The opportunities posed by decarbonisation, the latest developments in advanced manufacturing, reviving the manufacturing economy post-COVID-19 and the capabilities of the unique

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PECM Issue 55

(MTA), which organises the show, believes the growing optimism surrounding the sector will see bumper levels of business transacted during the show. Exhibitors too, are excited at the prospect of showcasing their latest products to an eager array of buyers ready to capitalise on the current financial incentives available to businesses prepared to invest in capital assets. network of companies comprising the UK manufacturing supply chain will all receive special focus during the five-day event.

The arrival of the exhibition could not be timelier for the manufacturing sector. The Manufacturing Technologies Association

James Selka, CEO of the MTA, said: “With the UK economy growing above forecasts for 2021 and the CBI predicting that plans for spending on plant and machinery over the coming twelve months have improved considerably, the timing of MACH 2022 could not be better.

“MACH is the national manufacturing and engineering show, and as a contentled event it brings together the latest advanced engineering and manufacturing technologies in operation. As such, it will be perfect place for manufacturers to come and view the best new machines on the market.”

The CBI’s latest survey, which reflects the MTA’s own data, indicates that plans for spending on plant and machinery over the coming twelve months have improved, with the percentage balance (+26) standing at its highest level since April 1988. There have now been four consecutive double-digit positive balances in a row on this question which is exceptionally rare and represents a stronger recovery than was seen after the global financial crisis.

The arrival of the exhibition could not be timelier for the manufacturing sector.

manufacturing, new automation solutions and connected manufacturing processes, power by the hour and the cost efficiency solutions that will dramatically improve production processes and help shape the industry over the next decade.

Resolving the current challenges to the industry – soaring energy prices, rising labour costs, skills shortages, the escalating price of raw materials, supply chain disruption and the need to effectively tackle the green agenda by seizing the opportunities posed by decarbonisation, will also receive special focus.

Crucially, the improvement has been seen in some of the most important sectors within the manufacturing industry, such as Transport Equipment (automotive and aerospace) and Metal Products sub-sectors.

MACH is the longest-running manufacturing and engineering exhibition in the UK and its distinctive ability to showcase the largest variety of manufacturing technology solutions in the country, makes it unique and therefore, of such critical importance to the industry.

This year’s show will focus on the best of the manufacturing technologies sector - the development of the digital factory, additive Issue 55 PECM

47

There is also a new exhibition, launching for the first time at MACH 2022, which highlights another of the show’s core themes - the opportunities that can be found within the UK supply chain.

Sponsored by Lloyds Bank and the Engineering Industries Association, The Engineering Supply Chain Show is where engineering and manufacturing buyers can go to source world-class suppliers, exclusively in the UK engineering and manufacturing supply chain.

Also debuting at the show this year will be a special Tooling Clinic run by the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC).

The clinic will enable visitors to identify the tooling solutions right for them through open discussion of the manufacturing challenges within their tooling applications, cutting strategies, parameter optimisation, virtual machining and other high value manufacturing methodologies and technologies.

Visitors can make an appointment to the clinic in advance, highlighting their specific challenges or identifying options from the list of discussion topics. Appointments can be booked at www.machexhibition.com/ tooling-clinic AMRC engineers will draw on their experience and expertise, provide presentations on key discussion areas and signpost visitors to the technology exhibitors who can best address their requirements.

Discussion topics include process costing and parameter optimisation, virtual machining for CAM iteration and process optimisation, cutting strategy for thin parts, aluminium, titanium and Inconel

As with previous exhibitions, MACH 2022 will feature a strong seminar programme. best practice, down selection of tooling geometry using virtual machining, use of non-traditional substrates, solutions for aerofoil components - blades, blisks and impellers, focused support for SMEs, tool holding technologies. micro machining, machine tool dynamics and a host of other relevant topics.

As with previous exhibitions, MACH 2022 will feature a strong seminar programme, with sessions spanning the whole spectrum of the manufacturing technologies sector, with speakers focused on delivering intuitive and engaging presentations reflecting the themes of the show.

Delivering the keynote speech is Katherine Bennett CBE, Chief Executive of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult. She will address two of the key themes of the show - the importance of sustainability in manufacturing and the drive to net zero, alongside the importance of the advanced engineering sector. Other sessions will focus on important topics affecting the engineering and manufacturing sectors, including digital manufacturing processes, additive manufacturing, the importance of cyber security, investment advice and skills development.

“MACH is such a fantastic event for both exhibitors and visitors. Showcasing live, digital production systems in one space, it is not to be missed. Hundreds of millions of pounds worth of business is discussed, secured and completed at the exhibition, making it the must-attend event in the UK manufacturing calendar,” added Mr Selka.

“We also strive to provide meaningful engagement points for our visitors and exhibitors alike, so with the focus on future technologies, we also have the High Value Manufacturing Catapult Centre and the Made Smarter programme, both showing what they can offer and how they can assist companies with the transition into the digital future.”

For more details on the exhibition and how to register, visit www.machexhibition.com

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PECM Issue 55

AIR, GAS & ODOUR CONTROL

Breathe easy

with industrial air purification from Zehnder In times where clean air is more important than ever, Zehnder‘s air cleaning solutions are a key factor in protecting your employees and equipent. They complement existing ventilation perfectly and flexibly to remove welding fumes, oil mist, dust, and toxic gases.

Transform your business for the better Industrial air purification has many advantages, such as 3 Healthy and safe employees 3 Reduced cleaning costs (-70 %) 3 Less maintenance (-30 %) 3 Exceed customer expectations 3 Improved product quality

And the best part: Zehnder takes care of all filter changes and maintenance.

3 Next level efficiency

Get in touch to request your personal air cleaning offer.

Ben Simons, Head of Europe West +44 7909 533878

#startwithcleanair

info@zehnder-cleanairsolutions.com • www.zehnder-cleanairsolutions.com

VOC detection technology for University of Nottingham School of Chemistry For the chemists and students who are working hard to make scientific discoveries and improvements for the future, it’s vital that their labs and work areas are safe and free from potentially harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds). ION Science is pleased to have supplied its leading handheld VOC gas detector, the Tiger, to help monitor air quality at the University of Nottingham School of Chemistry GSK Centre for Sustainable Chemistry.

Preventing exposure and ensuring VOC levels do not reach dangerous concentrations in these areas is essential for the safety of those working, and to ensure minimal interference with projects and experiments. There are also other factors to consider, such as shared communal spaces in buildings (like corridors or common rooms) potentially being impacted by high levels of VOCs. Depending on the volume and type of VOC, this could range from mildly annoying to more serious health affects longterm.

In a university, where buildings may have been converted or retrofitted to their current purpose, and therefore lack modern ventilation systems, having additional safeguards in place to monitor air quality and VOC concentrations is essential for safety. The University of Nottingham School

of Chemistry had received some complaints about strong chemical smells in their labs, but the team also wanted to introduce some additional safety measures in the event of ventilation systems being down, accidents, leaks or other potential hazardous incidents.

To accurately evaluate VOC levels and identify the risks or hazards present in the lab, the team wanted to find a handheld device that could monitor VOC concentration and air quality. It needed to be simple in its readouts, reliable, and able to be used in multiple labs, as well as different areas within the lab, such as fume hoods. ION Science’s leading handheld VOC detector, the Tiger, was chosen for fitting all these requirements and more.

As the first VOC detector used by The University of Nottingham School of Chemistry, one of the key factors for purchase was the ease of use for the Tiger, and the extensive technical support offered by ION Science. A spokesperson for the university said: ‘Our building contains a series of chemistry research laboratories where groups work on diverse projects based around green and sustainable chemistry themes; we make catalysts, invent new reactions, new battery technology, and new solar cells.

‘We use a lot of different organic solvents many of which are volatile and require LEVs (local exhaust ventilation) to contain those vapours.

We use the Tiger to check that our vented cupboards, extraction arms, vented enclosures and fume hoods are doing what they are meant to, which is containing those VOCs. ‘The Tiger is very useful in the lab for both routine inspections of air quality and equipment functionality, as well as for use in emergencies when ventilation equipment has gone down. We are extremely pleased with the product and ION Science have been helpful throughout.’

ION Science is pleased to be supporting the science and technology achievements of tomorrow with industry leading VOC detection today.

To find out more about the Tiger or ION Science, please visit: https://bit.ly/3FgZy89

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PECM Issue 55

BOILERS & MAINTENANCE

Lanemark brings heating benefits to small brewery process application A gas process heating system from Lanemark Combustion Engineering is now fully operational at a leading micro-brewery in London, Villages Brewery, with operational efficiency gains.

“We installed a liquid heating TX 25E burner package on a brewing kettle supplied by Bespoke Brewing Solutions, with whom we liaised closely throughout the project,” says Lanemark’s Process Burner Sales Manager, Adrian Cadman. “This provides a capacity of 30 hl – or 18 UK barrels.”

Utilising the existing natural gas supply, the Lanemark installation includes an exhaust fan, damper, digital temperature controls and gas valve train. The burner fires through the external wall of the vessel into a submerged 2½” nb. stainless steel tubular helical coil heat exchanger which optimises heat transfer with minimum space intrusion.

Archie Village, Director at Deptford-based Villages Brewery, highlights the role played by the new installation.

“The facility is central to all our brewing operations, so must perform reliably every time,” he says. “The overall aim of the project has been to facilitate an increase in production output while building on the high quality that is at the heart of our reputation – and the Lanemark system is already

delivering in both respects.”

The burner installation raises the temperature of the liquid from a starting point of 65°C to the optimum process value of 102°C in just 66 minutes. The modulating gas and air control of the system then allows the target temperature to be maintained – of particular note in brewing applications where the need to maintain a ‘rolling boil’ is often vital.

Tel : (024) 7635 2000 | Email : info@lanemark.com | Website : www.lanemark.com

Gas Process Burners Lanemark gas burner systems offer users reliable, high efficiency, process heating solutions.

FD Series Packaged Oven/Dryer Burners Specifically designed for process air heating applications in convection ovens and dryers High turndown/short flame lengths providing accurate process temperature control High efficiency gas + air modulation, gas only modulation and simple high/low control options Heat Input Range: 9 kW – 1550 kW

• • • • FD-C high turndown oven/

FD-E low cost high turndown

dryer air heating burners.

oven/dryer air heating burners.

FD-GA modulating gas + air process air heating burners.

TX Series Gas Fired Process Tank Heating Systems High efficiency (80%+) heating of all types of spray and dip process tanks Compact high efficiency small diameter immersion tube heat exchangers occupying minimum tank space Accurate performance modelling using Lanemark TxCalc design software Heat Input Range: 15 kW (1½") – 1150 kW (8")

• • • •

Midco HMA Series Air Replacement or “Make-Up” Air Heating Burners Direct fired, high efficiency burner systems, for high volume air heating applications such as paint spray booths, ovens and dryers.

Supplied either as Midco burner heads for OEM system integration or as Lanemark DB or FDB complete packaged systems including modulating gas valve trains and controls Wide range of firing rates to suit alternative temperature rise and air velocity system requirements DbCalc system design software

• • •

Midco HMA high efficiency,

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

TX high efficiency small diameter immersion tube tank heating systems.

Lanemark Combustion Engineering Limited Lanemark House, Whitacre Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 6BW United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 24 7635 2000 Fax: +44 (0) 24 7634 1166 E-mail: info@lanemark.com www.lanemark.com

X4620 Lanemark Ad SDAW.indd 1

•

COMBUSTION ENGINEERING

Issue 55 31/08/2016 PECM

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09:04

SHOW PREVIEW

DRIVING INNOVATION MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING WEEK

Celebrating the best in UK manufacturing and engineering excellence and innovation Manufacturing and Engineering Week brings together a series of events showcasing end-to-end manufacturing and engineering solutions, to encourage conversation, business, knowledge sharing and action.

The UK remains a global force for engineering and manufacturing; driving innovation, leading on the industrial agenda, the green economy, industry 4.0 and being at the forefront of the response to the global pandemic, however in a post-Covid and post-Brexit world, Britain’s standing, and its future, will require engineering and manufacturing to grow and strengthen.

Manufacturing and Engineering Week (M&E Week) covers the entire product lifecycle from design, engineering, manufacturing and maintenance and seeks to celebrate the sector sharing successes and future insight, raising critical discussion and is a destination for professionals to source products and services in order to keep them competitive.

The week will feature digital sessions on Tuesday (7 June 2022), followed by live events on Wednesday & Thursday (8-9 June 2022) with a round up and key takeaways to finish the week on Friday (10 June 2022) The Live events take place at the NEC Birmingham from 8-9 June 2022, including:

MANUFACTURING EXPO www.manufacturingexpo.com Created specifically for manufacturing process and management professionals to keep up to date and discover the technologies and equipment to ensure the efficient running of the manufacturing site. From site management and legislation through to maintenance, materials handling and streamlining, attendees will have the opportunity to attend how to sessions and discover new supplier connections to improve productivity, reduce costs and be more competitive.

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In a post-Covid and postBrexit world, Britain’s standing, and its future, will require engineering and manufacturing to grow and strengthen.

DESIGN ENGINEERING EXPO www.designengineeringexpo.com

For future-thinking design engineers to hear from those who are breaking engineering boundaries. Here, the UK’s design engineering community can connect directly with leading suppliers from design services, electronics, embedded design through to testing and measuring to drive efficiencies and propel the future of design engineering in the UK.

ENGINEERING EXPO www.engineeringexpo.com

Provides the UK’s engineering community with practical advice to streamline and optimise future engineering. From R&D, design, materials through to testing and measurement, attendees will have the opportunity to hear invaluable content and meet suppliers driving the industry forward.

MAINTEC www.maintec.co.uk

Maintec is the longest standing exhibition dedicated to the maintenance, reliability and asset management industry.

Throughout its 40-year history, the event has continued to meet the needs of the maintenance engineer covering industrial, buildings & supply chain maintenance engineering and provides an opportunity to source the very latest technology available on the market.

WHAT’S ON ACROSS ALL 4 COLOCATED LIVE SHOWS: EXHIBITION

Thousands of new products from hundreds of leading brands allowing visitors to see the UK’s leading manufacturing & engineering suppliers in one place.

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INNOVATION ZONE

Manufacturing and Engineering Week (M&E Week) covers the entire product lifecycle from design, engineering, manufacturing and maintenance.

CONFERENCES

High-level keynote presentations, panel discussions and debates covering a range of sectors including Aerospace, Automotive, Food and beverage, Motorsport, Energy & renewables, Pharmaceuticals, Space and FMCG with a particular focus on SME’s and OEM’s strategy.

WORKSHOPS

Supplier case study led presentations delivering practical solutions to immediate design, engineering, manufacturing and maintenance problems.

See live demonstrations and discover the latest technologies that are shaping the future of the industry in this country.

THE GREAT EGG RACE

A live challenge where engineers will compete to build gadgets to carry eggs the furthest possible distance with leaderboard and winners announced onsite.

AUDIT, TAX & ADVISORY CLINIC Run by MHA over both days. Drop in to speak to the experts and get advice on audit, tax & other business issues.

DRINKS RECEPTION

Network and build strategic relationships at the drinks reception open to all attendees at the end of day one.

The events are supported by a leading advisory council and the industry’s key associations and media publications including MAKE UK, Institute of Export & International Trade, Institution of Mechanical Engineers, The Manufacturing Technology Centre, High Value Manufacturing Catapult, Department of Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy and Institution of Engineering Designers

who also bring a wealth of expertise to cover the complete manufacturing and engineering sector.

Visit the event websites for more information.

Free to attend. Register now at https://mandeweek.reg.buzz/pecm

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Propelling the future of design excellence and innovation. engineering

Celebrating the best in UK manufacturing and

Incorporating 4 live co-located events

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Hear inspiring keynotes, exclusive interviews and debates

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Attend CPD accredited workshops

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Source products and services from Britain’s best suppliers

Premier Partners

What’s on during M&E Week

Innovation Zone Sponsor

Keynote Theatre Sponsor

Audit, Tax & Advisory Partner

7 June - Digital Events Preview 8-9 June - Live Events Programme 10 June - Digital Events Review

Find out more at www.mandeweek.co.uk

REGISTER FREE NOW

Palletizing solutions made Easier OnRobot´s long-stroke robotic lift extends and future-proofs palletizing and manufacturing applications. With its durable design that is certified for long, reliable use under all typical manufacturing conditions. The palletizing solution is a Highpayload lift with a minimal deflection that ensures precise positioning, even at high speeds.

The integrated safety features with stopfunctionality for collaborative deployment support a wide range of leading robot brands and sizes.

The Lift 100 can be used in any application where additional vertical reach is needed for the robot arm (e.g., stacking of objects other than palletizing, picking/placing parts on shelves, racks, etc.)

Whether the Lift100 is needed for additional reach, will depend on the specific application requirements: • • • • • •

Robot kinematics and reach Box size Pallet size Gripper Box pattern Robot mounting height and distance relative to the pallet

Integrated vacuum gripper handles slip sheets without changing the gripper or requiring other handling method. Ideal for: •

•

Palletizing application of heavy and/or poor-quality boxes, and boxes that cannot be gripped from the top.

Transferring and Pick & Place heavy and/or large items.

Highly versatile palletizing gripper with wide stroke and customizable arms.

• •

For KLT’s and similar containers with a minimal surface area, it is recommended to make custom arms to grasp the edges.

For open boxes and boxes with limited strength/stiffness of the walls, it is recommended to make custom arms that distributes the pressure at bottom of the box.

Fixtures and sensors for pallets are something that robotic system integrators have traditionally designed and constructed themselves. We provide a cost-effective alternative with an attractive design, that will help save time and speed up deployment. Durable pallet fixture that can withstand hits from stackers and trucks and helps with pallet positioning for more reliable palletizing jobs.

Off-the-shelf fixture saves significant engineering effort and shortens deployment time.

Along with the lift a new gripper 2FGP20 has been released in January. OnRobot´s 2FGP20 is a versatile electric gripper for palletizing heavy cardboard boxes, open boxes, and other containers that cannot be gripped with a vacuum.

ONE SYSTEM, ZERO COMPLEXITY www.onrobot.com

The World’s Leading​ One Stop Shop for ​ Collaborative Applications

2FGP20 & Lift 100

Contact OnRobot to find out more about our palletizing solutions. north-europe@onrobot.com Or visit our Learningsite on Collaborative applications know-how to all learn.onrobot.com/en

CONTROL & AUTOMATION

WebLytics

bringing new revenue opportunities to you Remote Production Monitoring with the use of WebLytics is what OnRobot is offering.

What you should consider when contemplating remote monitoring for your production: • • • • •

The World’s Leading One Stop Shop for Collaborative Applications

Replace manual data collection.

Compile the data in easy to understand and easy to use performance metrics.

Optimize overall productivity.

Increase productivity.

Maximize the output from your automation investment.

For more information visit our site at www.onrobot.com Or contact us at: north-europe@onrobot.com

TF Automation automate manual process for Textile client TF Automation has recently delivered a new machine to long-standing customer, Genesis Patterns, which has automated a timeconsuming and problematic manual process.

Over the last thirty years Genesis Patterns has grown into one of the leading suppliers of sampling products to the flooring industry.

Originally supplying swatches and pattern books, the company has invested in machinery and staff to expand into the shade card sector.

TF Automation has worked with Genesis Patterns for several years designing and building a number of specialist machines to support their expansion and development plans. Genesis had a recent requirement to automate a manual process of taking precut carpet swatch samples from a strip and adhering them to “dec” boards, to create carpet sample books.

TF Automation project engineers worked with the team at Genesis to build a machine that would de-laminate and remove the pre-cut samples from the strip and place in the exact position required on the larger board. This activity is currently carried out by hand and is open to large fluctuations in output and accuracy.

The new machine removes the individual samples from the strip and places accurately in position on the boards, ensuring precision placement and standardisation every time.

The new machine has enabled Genesis to improve productivity of this activity and enable more cards to be completed in a shorter time frame, whilst also ensuring consistency and uniformity.

Tony Hubbert, MD at TF Automation, comments, “We have worked with Genesis for a number of years and were delighted to support them in automating this manual process to improve their efficiencies and ensure standardisation and accuracy.”

www.tfautomation.co.uk Issue 55 PECM

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DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT CRYSTAL DISPLAY SYSTEMS LTD

Crystal Display Systems, the displays specialist, have teamed up with General Touch to supply their range of touchscreen monitors in the UK and other territories Crystal Display Systems is proud to announce that it has agreed a significant distribution agreement with China based General Touch, the touchscreen monitor, curved monitor, and Halo LED edge lit monitor manufacturer. CDS, with its excellent displays’ knowledge, technical support and stockholding facilities will focus on the General Touch range of touchscreen monitors, curved monitors, Halo LED edge lit monitors including sample availability, stockholding and full after sales support directly from its UK Headquarters in the historical UK city of Rochester. CDS has a global footprint and can unfold many opportunities for the General Touch products and the Chinese partner also appreciates this which is why it has partnered directly with the UK based displays specialist and will support CDS and its customers in every way possible.

Mike Leary from General Touch adds “with many years of knowledge, focus and experience in the field of Touch Display Solutions, I am confident that CDS will assist General Touch in generating a solid market presence. Together, we offer a very diverse and competitive range of Touch Display Monitors. With our customer focused approach to offer a good level of flexibility, when it comes to customisation, we aim to provide our customers with the best service and Touch Display options across many markets.”

CDS Managing Director Chris Bartram when asked said “this is a great opportunity for both CDS and General Touch as we feel General Touch has been a sleeping giant with excellent high quality products including form, fit, and function drop-in replacements for many other blue-chip brands and manufacturers at a lower cost. We are excited to now be working directly with General Touch and they are going to support us in every way to grow their market share in the UK and other territories where appropriate including stockholding at the main CDS warehouse.

The CDS engineers have evaluated the

range of touch screen monitors and feel they are excellent, reliable products with high quality after sales service which CDS can take to market and offer our customers and potential customers these high-quality touchscreen products. The wide range gives customers many options and choices which is often not available from other manufacturers which we like and will be focusing on specific market segments. This is an exciting range of products, and you will be seeing more of these as the CDS technical team show many engineers the advantages of these as soon as possible”.

CDS are primarily a European Displays specialist with a growing customer base in North America and will be offering its Gaming and industrial customers some of the latest GT touchscreen products adding real value to their customers and their suppliers’ systems and facilities. CDS will also have a full in-house test and repair facility as well as full technical support and advice to give customers that total confidence in the support network.

CDS will prioritise specific product ranges and solutions to get the required focus and information available which gives CDS customer base a solution for 99% of their applications. All monitors will be available in interactive touch or non-touch versions

but also custom and semi-custom options available upon request. The halo monitors are the latest development which give an amazing WOW factor and an immediate impact with vibrant colours etc. The curved range is also varied with C-Curves and J-Curves available both in portrait and landscape modes.

Managing Director Chris Bartram commented on this latest development, “… we can now offer Gaming and industrial customers some of the best products available including exact dropin replacements for some of the most well-known brands in the market and save those companies money and improve on the quality they had become used to. In Gaming people have been reliant on the usual Korean or big US brands that can be expensive or not as reliable as is required, and CDS can now fill that void with GT to offer the best value and quality to this growing industry. Companies just need to talk to us, and they will be amazed, I genuinely believe that.”

For more information including data sheets and pricing etc. please email CDS at info@ crystal-display.com or call the headquarters on +44 (0) 1634 791 600 but more details can be found at www.crystal-display.com

For further information, please visit www.crystal-display.com

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CONTROL & AUTOMATION

£MULTI-MILLION OPPORTUNITY PROTOLABS

Protolabs joins elite group of suppliers with JOSCAR recognition

The world’s leading digital manufacturer is setting its sights on a £multi-million opportunity after it secured a prestigious supplier accreditation for the aerospace, security, space and defence industries.

Having supported the sector for several years, Protolabs is now officially recognised as a fully compliant and credible supplier to major businesses within the associated industries.

JOSCAR (Joint Supply Chain Accreditation Register) is valued by many of the largest purchasers in the stated industries, such as BAE Systems, NATS, Rolls Royce, Airbus and the MOD. The global accreditation indicates that organisations have successfully gone through an invite only process that demonstrates commitment, reliability, technical ability and capacity, as well as helping purchasers meet the growing and diverse nature of regulatory requirements when it comes to managing third party risk

in the supply chain.

Bjoern Klaas, Vice President and Managing Director of Protolabs Europe, commented: “We are delighted to have achieved JOSCAR accreditation, joining an elite group of global suppliers in the process.

“It is testament to the quality and reliability of our output and our capacity to deliver prototypes and production parts in such a way that is valued by our customers in aerospace, security, space and defence industries.”

He continued: “We take great pride in achieving excellence in this way, whether being at the forefront of innovation or providing a trusted digital manufacturing service to the industrial supply chain.”

Protolabs, which was founded in 1999 and has been established in Europe since 2005, offers world-leading 3D printing, CNC machining and injection moulding services to design engineers.

Klaas went on to add: “We are already a well-established service provider to the aerospace supply chain, but this accreditation, alongside our ISO 9001 quality award, will further cement our reputation in the wider security and defence industries.

“In addition, we recently became one of the first manufacturers in the EMEA region to achieve DNV certification, bringing new levels of assurance relevant to maritime and offshore industries, as well as the broader defence sector and JOSCAR-associated industries.”

Inconel 718, the DNV-certified 3D printed metal, is a high-strength, corrosion-resistant nickel chromium that hardens with age, making it the ideal choice for fabricating complex parts.

It can be used within extreme hot and cold temperature limits and is founded in numerous components in the aerospace, maritime and defence space.

For further information, please visit www.protolabs.co.uk or follow @protolabs_emea on twitter.

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Specialists in Mechanical Motion Transfer Systems and Automation Products

Ballscrews and nuts Leadscrews and nuts Roller screws | Linear guide rails Linear bearings | Robot grippers Servo gearboxes | Rack and pinion Drive systems| Ball transfer units | Couplings

Moore International has extensive CNC machining capabilities which enables sub-contract manufacturing of precision components to customers’ drawings, or by reverse engineering using CAD files and SolidWorks software.

T: 01202 623 393 E: sales@moore-international.com W: www.mooreinternational.co.uk

Authorised Distributor:

CONTROL & AUTOMATION

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT TF AUTOMATION

TF Automation support Really Useful Products with process automation solutions for over 15 years TF Automation was approached by Really Useful Products (RUP) over fifteen years ago to support with automation in the company’s production processes. RUP has expanded and evolved into a fully integrated lean manufacturing business now across two sites in West Yorkshire.

Really Useful Products, design, manufacture, market and distribute their own range of innovative storage solutions including plastic boxes, drawer units, dividing trays, folding boxes and racking.

The TF project design team were tasked with designing a machine to fix two handles and apply a bar code label to RUP’s range of 0.14L boxes. The machine was required to align the handles in the correct way so as to enable the machine to attach a handle to each side the boxes and then apply a bar code label. The machine consists of a bowl feeder into which the moulded handles are added, this then aligns the handles and conveys them into the machine to enable fixing to the boxes, using a rotary to access each side of the box. The boxes then have the bar code automatically applied as they exit the machine to be packed.

This machine fits seamlessly in the production process as the boxes come straight off the moulding machine, along a conveyor and into the box assembly and labelling machine, and out the other end straight on to packing and despatch.

Prior to this the handles were fitted onto the boxes manually which was extremely time consuming and a difficult and awkward job and was very labour intensive. The machine dramatically improved throughput of the finished items to keep up with increasing demand.

We have manufactured and supplied three box assembly and labelling machines to carry out this task and in recent months all three machines have been returned for refurbishment bearing in mind they have been in continuous production for

The TF design team are delighted that the machines are still performing to enable improvements in efficiency for RUP and take pride in the fact that their design and engineering solution is still valid and current several years later. around 15 years. The machines have been stripped down and cleaned and reassembled and have been returned and are now fully reinstalled and working efficiently.

The TF design team are delighted that the machines are still performing to enable improvements in efficiency for RUP and take pride in the fact that their design and engineering solution is still valid and current several years later.

RUP has a number of Engel moulding machines producing the various size of storage boxes and we have worked in a three-way partnership successfully over the years ensuring RUP achieve production efficiencies in a cost-effective way. To support this partnership, TF Automation has designed and supplied “end of arm” tooling, which is attached to the robot arm to take the finished boxes out of the mould machine and convey to packing and despatch. The TF team also designed an in-mould labelling machine for RUP’s rainbow desk tidy to add branding to the box.

TF continues to support RUP with their ongoing continuous improvement program to increase efficiencies in production by providing cost effective process automation solutions.

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

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D DE ES S II G GN N || E EN NG G II N NE EE ER R || M MA AN NU U FF A AC C TT U UR RE E || D DE ES S II G GN N || E EN NG G II N NE EE ER R || M MA AN NU U FF A AC C TT U UR RE E

Supporting a wide range of manufacturing industries from automotive, aerospace and defence to medical, printing and packaging, we design and manufacture process automation solutions focusing on improving output and productivity.

SPECIAL PURPOSE MACHINE MANUFACTURER SERVICES

• • • •

In-house design In-house manufacture Testing & commissioning Programming

C A PA B I L I T I E S • • • • • •

Assembly & Testing Process Automation Robotics & Product Handling Product Marking Manual Workstations Plasma Treatment

AUTOMOTIVE AUTOMOTIVE

AEROSPACE AEROSPACE

DEFENCE DEFENCE

MEDICAL MEDICAL

HEATING HEATING

TEXTILES TEXTILES

PRINTING PRINTING

PACKAGING PACKAGING

FOOD FOOD & & BEVERAGE BEVERAGE

to discuss your next automation project, please get in touch with our design team

T: 01274 308005 E: info@tfautomation.co.uk www.tfautomation.co.uk Hillam Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire BD2 1QN

CONTROL & AUTOMATION

IO-LINK: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW OEM AUTOMATIC

Communication with sensors and actuators

IO-Link is the first interface for communication with sensors and actuators and is an international standard.

So, there is no need to think about whether different components from different manufacturers are compatible.

information. It is also possible to send information directly from sensor level to software.

At OEM Automatic, we are involved in the development of the automation industry, and we want to help you develop and streamline your process. This article explains IO-Link in detail and the products that we offer.

HOW IO-LINK WORKS

LEVEL 3: THE INFORMATION IS PROCESSED / SENT

WHAT IS IO-LINK? In short, IO-Link is an interface that simplifies communication with sensors and actuators.

WHAT MAKES IO-LINK DIFFERENT TO OTHER INTERFACES? IO-Link is different from most similar interfaces as it is standardised internationally, making this their most prominent feature.

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The pyramid below shows how different products can communicate to the same master, which passes this information on to software, which then refines the

The information from level 1 or 2 is used to make calculations regarding efficiency, operating time and future maintenance with the help of software, that compiles the information. From here, you can also control and configure your devices further down the chain.

LEVEL 2: INFORMATION COLLECTED Information is collected with the help of a master. For example, a PLC can be placed in the industry, this means that you do not have to configure your long wiring to the machine level. You can also configure the sensors remotely, so you don’t have to go out to the site to adjust the settings.

LEVEL 1: SENSORS

TEMPERATURE AND REGULATION

Smart sensors in the industry communicate information to level 3 efficiently thanks to IO-Link. The sensors can also be configured remotely, making the products “Smart”.

Smart Sensor CSS 014 is a compact humidity and temperature sensor from STEGO that combines three functions in one: the sensor, interface, and transmitter.

This sensor uses the latest microtechnology and microsystem technology used in intelligent sensors of small sizes.

Compatible with STEGO CONNECT for the integration of analogue devices.

5 ADVANTAGES OF IO-LINK 1. IO-Link allows you to collect information from your sensors and enables you to configure them remotely.

2. During maintenance, it is easy to timeefficiently replace the product with the same settings as the replaced product.

3. You want to avoid unplanned downtime, and once you plan to stop production, you want the opportunity to replace several products at the same time.

4. With the help of IO-Link, you can see the status of your products. In addition, the simplicity of IO-Link means that fewer errors occur when the system is connected.

5. Thanks to the IO-Link interface, all products can collaborate regardless of brand, saving time and resources on integration and translations between different protocols.

IO-LINK AT OEM AUTOMATIC At OEM Automatic, you will find a wide range of different IO-Link products, cutting-edge knowledge in different areas, and a partner who has a great understanding of integration.

PRODUCTS

IO-link allows you to collect information from your sensors and enables you to configure them remotely.

INDUCTIVE SENSORS and want to offer you the best products for you and your process.

KNOWLEDGE In addition to our extensive range of products, we have product managers who possess good competence for their products. Behind our product managers are our manufacturers, who are happy to help in more complex projects.

INTEGRATION We collaborate with partners that add a lot of knowledge and experience with integration, which is about connecting different smart products that can deliver information. You also want to manage this information to benefit your process and configure your products.

WIDE RANGE AND EXPERIENCE

In addition to knowledge, we also have a great interest in developing the industry

Inductive sensors are used for position indication, impulse, or motion sensors for metal objects. The inductive sensor lacks moving parts and is therefore suitable for applications with a high contact frequency.

The switching signal, parameter-diagnostic and communication data are transmitted by using a point-to-point connection. The inductive sensors can be configured in IOLink mode and then used in IO-Link or SIO (Standard IO mode).

ENCODERS An encoder is used to measure speed, position, or movement.

Küblers’ IO-Link products are prepared for IIoT and can be used to sew together a complete system for measuring, for example, angle, speed, and length.

There are many opportunities to streamline your industry with us. Below you see our range of IO-Link products.

PRESSURE & FLOW

PANEL COMPONENTS

Monitoring is an integral part of the process. We have a wide range of flow, temperature, pressure and level monitoring instrumentation with IO-Link and can help you find the products that are best suited for your application and process.

POWER SUPPLIES

OEM Automatic has many different products under one roof and product managers who are professionals within their areas.

SENSORS & SAFETY

A power supply is the heart of every application. Via IO-Link, the power supply communicates the status so that you can plan maintenance, avoid downtime, and perform troubleshooting faster.

FLOW TEMPERATURE, PRESSURE AND LEVEL MONITORING

PROPORTIONAL VALVES By controlling pressure with proportional valves, you can regulate the speed of pistons and the power of pneumatic press tools with IO-Link proportional valves.

HYGIENIC VALVES We offer a wide range of hygienic valves with IO-Link developed for economic flow control, for example, the biotechnology, brewery, food, and dairy industries. Our range covers some of the different valves you may need in your process.

TURBIDITY SENSOR In food production, media is usually analysed to keep track of, for example, concentrated concentration and turbidity in the process. We offer IO-Link turbidity sensors to measure conductivity and turbidity in liquid media.

For further information, please call 0116 217 9093 or email sales@oem.co.uk Issue 55 PECM

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COMPACT AND VERSATILE SCHMERSAL

PS216-Q200/-Q210 pull-wire switch The Schmersal Group launches a new pull-wire switch that can be used as a signal generator to start machines, open electrically operated guard doors and gates and as a light switch in lift shafts.

Key benefits of the new PS216 switch are its compact dimensions and extreme versatility, enabled thanks to high degrees of protection under EN 60529 and suitable for use in a wide range of temperatures.

Thanks to IP66 degree of protection, the PS216 pull-wire switch is protected against dust and strong water jets and thanks to IP67 degree of protection, is also protected against temporary submersion in water. The switch can be used in ambient temperatures ranging from -30°C to +80°C.

Another practical benefit is that the PS216 operates according to the ‘start/stop principle’ in that it remains switched on after initial actuation and subsequent release. Only when the switch is actuated and released a second time is the latch released and the switch switched off.

The PS216 pull-wire switch comes in two versions – the Q200 has a holding force of 45 N and is suitable for wire lengths of up to 50 m, while the Q210 has a holding force of 70 N and can be used with wires stretching up to 100 m. Pulling on the pull wire actuates the switch function in the pull-wire switch.

Other distinctive features of the PS216 include cable entry via M20 or M12 connector and six different NC/NO contact variants.

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

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AZM150 SOLENOID INTERLOCK: SLIMLINE DESIGN WITH 360 ROTATING HEAD AND 1400 NEWTON CLAMPING FORCE O O

The The AZM150 AZM150 solenoid solenoid interlock interlock can can be be combined combined with with three three different different actuators actuators for for different different installation installation situations: situations: aa straight straight actuator actuator for for sliding sliding doors, doors, an an angled angled actuator actuator for for large large revolving revolving doors doors and and aa movable movable actuator actuator for for smaller smaller revolving revolving doors. doors. One One of of the the plus plus points points of of the the interlock interlock is is the the rotating rotating actuator actuator head head which which can can be be locked locked simply simply by by putting putting the the lid lid on on rather rather than than aa screw screw fitting. fitting. The The rotating rotating actuator actuator head head has has two two feeder feeder slots slots to to enable enable aa range range of of installation installation positions positions and and approach approach options. options. This This makes makes the the interlock interlock really really flexible flexible to to use. use.

The The AZM150 AZM150 is is an an electromechanical electromechanical design design which which can can be be combined combined with with high high safety safety standards. standards. The The interlock interlock comes comes with with aa low low coding coding level level as as standard standard but but is is also also available available with with an an optional optional high high coding coding level. level. The The benefit benefit for for users: users: In In accordance accordance with with ISO ISO 14119, 14119, aa higher higher coding coding requires requires fewer fewer measures measures to to prevent prevent the the bypassing bypassing of of locking locking mechanisms, mechanisms, such such as as fitting fitting out out of of range range or or in in aa concealed concealed position. position. Schmersal Schmersal is is the the only only manufacturer manufacturer which which can can offer offer electromechanical electromechanical safety safety switches switches and and solenoid solenoid interlocks interlocks with with high high coding coding levels. levels.

Scan Scan the the QR QR code code to to see see the the AZM150 AZM150 in in action action or or visit visit our our website website for for more more information. information.

SCHMERSAL SCHMERSAL || Enigma Enigma Business Business Park Park Malvern, Malvern, Worcestershire, Worcestershire, WR14 WR14 1GL 1GL

www.schmersal.co.uk www.schmersal.co.uk uksupport@schmersal.com uksupport@schmersal.com

CONTROL & AUTOMATION

2022 – THE YEAR OF AUTOMATION GUIDANCE AUTOMATION

Dr Paul Rivers, CEO of Guidance Automation, looks back at lessons learned and outlines his predictions for 2022 and beyond partly at home. This has created further problems for employers as workers can now consider remote opportunities further afield, making the employee market even more challenging. The addition of strict social distancing guidelines has also caused its own considerable issues to include a 2m separation between employees, zoning of areas, increased sanitation facilities, staggered and complex shift and break patterns, an increase in personal equipment and extra break areas, entrances and exits.

Everyone is fed up of hearing about the pandemic and the catastrophic impact it has had on the world. But the fact is, although statistics confirm Covid-19 is waning, the rise of new variants including Omicron means the virus is still very much present and working its way through the population, continuing to leave its destruction behind it.

This, combined with the effects of Brexit, have dragged UK businesses into unknown territory in a ‘sink or swim’ style scenario.

Many businesses have folded, thousands of jobs have been lost, but there is an upside to this – many have managed to ride the wave and come out the other side with a stronger, more resilient business model that will drive them forward despite uncertain times.

One industry that has benefitted from this adversity is the automation industry, with Covid-19 driving companies to accelerate their plans to incorporate intralogistics automation and robotics into their business in a bid to protect themselves from further disruption.

So, what have we learned from our experiences of 2021 and how can we use this foresight to drive us into a new, futureproofed era in automation? Here Dr Paul Rivers, CEO of Guidance Automation, looks back at lessons learned and outlines his predictions for 2022 and beyond.

This year we have seen intralogistics automation and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) become fairly commonplace, whether through choice or necessity as awareness of its benefits have grown. In our 2021 research to explore the importance of intralogistics automation within companies that have a warehouse, fulfilment, production or distribution operation, we found that 25% of companies we surveyed said the pandemic had accelerated their plans to deploy automation with three quarters planning to invest in the next 12 months. Last year saw a steady adoption of automation pace, however, this was not due to increased demand – but actually in response to the operational challenges businesses have been facing. These include staff shortages, social distancing

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The pandemic has seen many businesses transitioning to a more flexible, remote working model with employees being given the opportunity to work partly at home. requirements, delivery issues as well as material and equipment shortages.

Air and sea freight were the first to feel the effects of Covid-19 due to the enforcement of strict travel restrictions; this was then exacerbated by the lack of HGV drivers able to deliver goods and of course vital manufacturing components have also been in short supply due to factories shutting down or working at reduced output.

Further, the pandemic has seen many businesses transitioning to a more flexible, remote working model with employees being given the opportunity to work

It’s a minefield of requirements and hurdles to overcome and part of the reason why so many logistics and manufacturing businesses in particular have embraced automation last year. However, the results of our survey prove automation has benefitted workers too and has helped shift their often negative perspective to a more positive outlook that has helped businesses make change more quickly and successfully.

Just over half (54%) of businesses believe automation has had a positive impact on warehouse and manufacturing plant employees including less repetitive and strenuous manual work (49%), offering workers the chance to upskill (39%) and by reducing the reliance on physical picking activity, flexibility within the business is increased providing relief for overworked staff (40%).

It’s clear that we have learned much during the past 12 months. 2021 was a year of change, struggle and innovation with UK businesses becoming less risk-averse, more technologically savvy and better equipped to survive the uncertainties of this year. So, what does 2022 hold for these industries?

UK businesses are reaching a more comfortable position where there is some knowledge of the added requirements and challenges of running a business during and after a pandemic. This means they are able to make clearer decisions with confidence.

The manufacturing and logistics landscape has changed irrevocably and businesses must adapt accordingly to ensure they keep pace with industry and their competitors.

Here are five reasons why global automation will shape business moving forward:

MOVING UP THE BUSINESS AGENDA

These Cobots have superior enabling technologies such as machine intelligence, increased performance capabilities and superior mobility and we will hear more and more about these moving into next year as word spreads of the business improvements they, in partnership with human workers can offer.

Our industry survey found that 73% of those surveyed believed automation to be business-critical moving forward.

Automation is beginning to reach the board room table, reaching the C-suite who are now embracing automation having realised its potential for driving their business forward. In their Predictions 2022 blog, Forrester summarises it in a nutshell, predicting that those fully embracing automation –will ‘obliterate – not merely beat – the competition’.

INCREASED DEMAND FOR COMMERCIAL PREMISES

CREATION OF A GLOBAL AUTOMATION PLATFORM In recognition of this new, elevated positioning, Automation technology providers whether in the RPA, BPA or AI space are vying to create a unified, enterprise-wide platform that combines technology, robot and human data and processes taking the global, industrial automation market to the next level. This is not surprising, considering its market value - according to Statista, the automation industry is estimated to be worth $207bn by 2022 with the UK taking a $2bn share of this.

LEADING THE WAY WITH AMRS IN 2022 The logistics industry in particular, has been predicted to be the fastest growing sector for Automated Mobile Robots (AMRs) and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) in 2022. Common drivers for this are rising costs and the acute labour shortage - there are 2.5 million logistics roles in the UK, many of which remain unfilled. Wages are therefore driven up and accompanied by the need for flexible manufacturing in line with market conditions. Research by Interact Analysis shows that robotics and software products accounted for 51% of all new product launches in 2021 with piece picking robots predicted to have an annual growth

rate of 90% by 2025. This is not surprising considering the continued pressure on supply chains to guarantee next-day or same-day delivery in response to a sharp shift towards e-commerce over the past 18 months.

ADDRESSING THE WORK FORCE DEFICIT The worker shortage we are currently enduring will be here for a while yet, with many industry critics believing it will actually get worse before it improves. Serviceled roles and manual roles including warehouse jobs will be harder to fill due to their physically intensive nature and lower wage, therefore more and more companies will invest in automation to address this.

At least 35% of service companies will introduce physical robot workers, altering the manual worker landscape forever.

This advanced hybrid workforce model will get the best out of the human and the robot relationship, using resources more efficiently, speeding up workflow while reducing human error. The most advanced robot workers – referred to as ‘Cobots’, that is, collaborative robots, work in partnership with humans, often within a shared space.

Although the home-working model will continue as a successful format to operate within, many industries including manufacturing and logistics require employees to work from a central location.

This will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on workspace design with future layouts being considerably different from those pre-pandemic formats. This in turn, will inevitably impact on demand for commercial premises and drive up prices in future years. The jury is still out on what this new format will look like but undoubtedly it will continue to evolve over the next five years as we learn to work within a changeable environment.

CONCLUSION It’s clear that 2022 will be a year of significant innovation with automation rising to the top of the business agenda. We are undoubtedly entering a new era, one that is irreversible - we are set on a path of automation to not only protect ourselves from continued adversity but because it makes sound business sense for the future.

There are still many hurdles ahead but if we can negotiate these, businesses can be confident they can endure another pandemic with structure and defence.

But what of those that are reticent to join the journey towards automation? Well, if Forrester is right, they will fall behind while those adopting these advancements will soar.

For further information, please visit www.guidanceautomation.com Issue 55 PECM

69

CONTROL & AUTOMATION

THE RISE OF THE MACHINES JC AUTOMATION LTD

Industrial Automation in Post-Covid World The early 20s will be remembered for the COVID-19 pandemic, but folded into that simple statement are all sorts of lessnoticed, world-changing consequences.

Not least of these was that a recordbreaking number of assembly line robots were purchased in 2021. According to the official resources, orders were up 37% compared to the same period the year before, an increase of almost 30,000 units worth $1.48 billion.

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

Online sales have driven up demand, but human workers have been in short supply.

The result is that all industries are now racing to automate.

2022, Enter the JAKA Zu Cobot range.

See www.JAKA.com for the full product range.

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

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

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

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

A typical camera for 2D sensing the Cobot whenever contact made with humans. Additional sensing and camera systems can also be added to enhance this further.

8 CRUCIAL FACTS ABOUT JAKA ZU • Ease of programming on detachable tablet / lap top computer with Zu App. • High flexibility / accuracy and load capacity.

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

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

• Integrated camera systems for part location / recognition.

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

• Online training available in easily understood video files.

• CE certified.

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

The JAKA Zu7 with controller

+

SAFETY FIRST JAKA has always been especially proud of its state-of-the-art safety features which protect the workers essential to global supply chains. On the JAKA Zu models, force sensors can automatically stop Email: jaka@jc-automation.com | Web: www.JAKA.com

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PECM Issue 55

Features Include:        

PLC Web Browser OPC UA Server WebView In Excess of 300 Communication Drivers Event Bar Chart Database Server SQL Query Energy Demand Display/Setting

sales@lamonde.com www.lamonde.com +44 (0)20 3026 2670

Lamonde Automation Limited Quality Products: Expert Advice

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

POWER RELIABILITY POWER CONTINUITY

The role of power continuity in your business Many business owners and managers don’t even know they have a power continuity problem. To start, you must be able to identify all the root causes and then take action to prevent power failures BEFORE they occur.

POWER CONTINUITY ELIMINATES THE IMPACT TO YOUR BUSINESS. The importance of power reliability was demonstrated when a power disruption affected large areas of the UK in August when millions were without electricity and even trains were stranded.

NO Break power protection solutions that were already installed by Power Continuity responded instantaneously keeping businesses and their associated infrastructure LIVE throughout the crisis. That cemented the role of PowerContinuity in their business contingency planning.

STATE-OF-THE-ART DIGITAL CONTINUITY Every building is a complex mixture of various circuits, each one with its own power quality requirements and restore timeframe operations.

Power control infrastructure monitoring of management systems, all accessible via SNMP BMS protocols. You can see ‘real time’ the digital continuity within our uninterruptible power solutions all backed up by diesel generators.

No requirement to restore power, because we covering you 24/7.

The ‘state of the art’ digital controls are monitoring the incoming power, every millisecond. Scrutinising the harmonics analysing the sign waves for any disparity that would require alert an active power continuity response to engage the emergency NO Break power protection system.

WHAT’S THE IMPACT OF POWER FAILURE TO YOUR BUSINESS? Can’t get the goods out or in?

No warehouse control?

Loading doors won’t open/close?

RIF system gone down?

Production plant stopped mid cycle?

Sterilisation breached?

Servers down as their UPS runs out battery power?

That’s just the beginning of the protracted nightmare to keep afloat.

The next crucial step is limiting the collateral damage to your client base.

Customers want everything now and they have no interest in your problematic issues.

Excuses won’t cut it.

The financial impact to your business will keep hitting the bottom line for years.

WHY THINK ABOUT POWER CONTINUITY NOW? Reactive Power management systems can highlight the risks.

Now you know the risks the next step is to fix them before they bite back.

Backup power options we design are bespoke to each site.

Eliminate ‘brownouts’, (when sudden power causes disruption, ‘glitches’ as power drops out for milliseconds), as well as ‘power cuts’ that last for hours, by installing both UPS and automatic generator emergency power systems.

As part of a free site survey, we’ll provide best power solution for your requirements.

Power Continuity support you throughout the project and ensure correct integration into your facility, production lines, critical communications systems, and data streams.

Emergency Power Solutions are best discussed in depth, face to face.

A site assessment to review your power continuity plan and how it functions with your business continuity strategy, is by far the best approach to serious interrelated power protection solutions that are available 24/7.

Power Continuity today means you’re in Business tomorrow and forever.

BESPOKE POWER SYSTEMS Completely bespoke solutions as well as to continually improve the noise reduction, our

Backup power options that we design are bespoke to each site. Still after installation, regular maintenance is required to ensure 100% efficiency to keep the current solution a valuable of power continuity, site wide.

Eliminate ‘brownouts’, (when sudden power causes disruption, ‘glitches’ as power drops out for milliseconds), as well as ‘power cuts’ that last for hours, by installed both UPS and automatic generator emergency power systems.

ADVANTAGES OF CONTAINER DIESEL GENERATOR SETS Each container is bespoke built.

They are weatherproof, low noise levels and better still you can walk inside to service the generator. Every diesel generator container has its own built in fuel tank, which makes the whole system transportable.

So why choose an industrial containerised diesel generator?

• • • • • • • • • • •

Fully self-contained Weather Proof Solid built quality Ideal for remote sites and harsh weather conditions Easy to relocate Retains performance for up to 30 years Able to service in any weather conditions Walk Inside ability Extra sound reduction in comparison to a canopied generator Secure and lockable Flexible solution

Power Continuity Industrial Container Generator supplier 25 years of technical ability and reputation providing and installing automatic power protection solutions across the UK, we are Power Continuity Ltd. We design and build the whole diesel generator container solution from the ground up and then install the whole operational system. Buy or Long-Term Rental.

Whatever your Power Continuity requirement we’re here to help 24/7 PowerContinuity ltd 0845 055 8455 (24 hours)

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

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ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

MAJOR INVESTMENT CLARK CABLE

Clarke Cable Invests to Expand Production Major investment at the Cheshire factory of Clarke Cable, the UK’s leading manufacturer of cable assemblies and ‘plug and play’ interconnect systems, will significantly expand production capacity, as the company enters its 50th year of operations on the back of an impressive period of growth.

The investment builds upon the company’s philosophy of continuous improvement and development, coming on the back of the recent acquisition of the wire harness manufacturing business of Stacey (Europe) Ltd, which has hugely diversified Clarke’s product offering and strengthened ties with OEM’s, distributors and retailers in the automotive and renewable energy industries especially.

SUSTAINABLE GROWTH The arrival of two new 30 tonne injection moulding machines, a new compressor system and super-efficient industrial chiller set-up, three further cable cutting and winding machines, plus a raft of new electrical test equipment, all forms part of a makeover plan that will boost the number of production lines available in simultaneous operation at the Congleton site, reduce lead-times and allow for greater flexibility and efficiencies, all designed for a better service and increased support for customers.

With year-on-year final quarter growth of 68% in 2021, and January 2022 already being Clarke’s most successful trading month to date, the expansion hasn’t been limited to technology, with new roles being created across the business to ensure that growth continues in a sustainable manner.

Recent hiring and internal promotions have seen a new Operations Manager, Production & Quality Supervisor, Production Team Leaders, and Sales & Marketing Administrators all now in post for 2022.

components designed for use in even the most extreme environments and terrains.

With the site now holding a total of 25 top-spec injection moulders to produce Clarke’s market leading y- and tri-splitters, connectors, grommets, plugs, and custom over-moulds, expect Clarke Cable to remain the go-to manufacturer for British made bespoke, industry standard, and specialistapplication cable assemblies for the foreseeable future.

OVER-MOULD EXPERTISE

KEY SUPPLIER

Clarke Cable are experts in component over-moulding, offering innovative solutions to increase the durability, reliability, and overall lifetime of cable connectors and

Clarke Cable products find use in an almost limitless range of industries and applications, wherever the need for electrical power or data connectivity

arises. With an extensive list of approvals, as well as internationally recognised quality management systems and product specifications, Clarke Cable acts as a single source supplier to the global manufacturing market. As a key supplier of antimicrobial cable and critical device connections to the NHS, and a major supplier of site lighting solutions to the MOD, Clarke’s production site remained open and active throughout the pandemic to support those frontline services most in need. The company is a committed member of Made in Britain and is proud to be playing its part in the rejuvenation of the UK manufacturing industry. With 50 years of knowledge, experience and quality service behind them, Clarke Cable continue to go from strength to strength.

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

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PECM Issue 55

Clarke Cable

1972 - 2022

Your concept, our creativity.

THE UK’S EXPERTS IN POWER AND CONNECTIVITY 50 years of high quality design, maufacturing and testing of specialist cable assemblies, moulded plugs, connectors, splitters & wire harnesses

Clarke Cable is a single source supplier for all your global cabling and connector requirements Plug and play lighting, video and sound systems for the Events Industry

Power distribution systems for all industries

Reconfiguration for global markets

Bespoke wire harness assemblies for the Manufacturing & Automotive Industries

• INDUSTRY STANDARD CABLE ASSEMBLIES • BESPOKE SPECIALIST CABLE ASSEMBLIES • BATTERY CABLE & CONNECTOR SOLUTIONS • CONTROL PANELS & DISTRIBUTION BOXES • MOULDED PLUGS, SPLITTERS & CONNECTORS

Power cable and internal wiring solutions for Electrical Appliance Manufacturers

Antimicrobial elastic spiral cable assemblies for the Medical & Catering Industries

Market leaders in cable splitting technology

• ATTRACTIVE PRICING, SHORT LEAD TIMES, LOW MOQs • DESIGN, PROTOTYPING, MANUFACTURING & TESTING SERVICES • HIGH QUALITY UK MADE PRODUCTS • DESIGN STUDIO & TOOL ROOM FOR BESPOKE PRODUCTS • 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE & EXPERTISE

PROUD SUPPLIER TO THE AND MANY INDUSTRY LEADERS MEDICAL

RENEWABLE ENERGY

TUNNELING

MANUFACTURING

EVENTS

MILITARY

HVAC

INDUSTRIAL CATERING

CONSTRUCTION

WATER TREATMENT

AUTOMOTIVE

AUDIO

QUALITY GUARANTEED

tel: +44 (0)1260 272132

email: sales@clarkecable.co.uk

web: clarkecable.co.uk

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

A complete detection and warning system The BTD-200 Lightning Warning System is a complete detection and warning system which has been developed from the Biral range of professional, aviation grade lightning detection systems.

It reliably detects the local presence of all forms of lightning out to a range of 35km (22 miles) from the sensor.

Designed to be installed and set up by nonspecialist contractors, it comes complete with a power supply for the detector and the essential PC application – Lightning Works – for monitoring and warning of approaching thunderstorms.

Tel No: +44 1275 847787 Email: enquiries@biral.com Main website: www.biral.com Dedicated BTD-200 microsite: www.lightningearlywarning.com

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PECM Issue 55

Mechanical Two Position Sensor Cyntech are happy to announce the new Microprecision mechanical position detection sensor. This series of mechanical sensors is designed to detect two positions within one single product. The distance between the two positions can be customized to the user’s application between 0.3mm and 1.5mm. The fixed NC and NO contacts activate with no measurable hysteresis.

Repeatability is better than 5 µm and depending on cable selection, the operational temperature can go from -40°C up to 130°C. The cable termination can be supplied with a M12 connector.

This unique patented switching mechanism is designed for low voltage applications up to 30 VDC. It is self contained and can easily be inserted in multiple forms and shapes of housings. The IP67 rated standard housing sizes are M8 and M12 with a pin or ball plunger. www.cyntech.co.uk

Lightning & Surge Protection Solutions SPD Ltd and our partners have been solving problems in Lightning & Surge Protection for over 50 years. Our devices are European designed and manufactured, state of the art products, which exceed the requirements of the latest standards. With over 3000 products in our range, we are the markets Surge Protection specialists, with a device to suit every installation.

We carry out many seminars with consultants and specialist training organisations as well as attending exhibitions and conferences both in the UK and overseas, where our knowledge is renowned. We also hold regular contractor training sessions online, some of which are live webinar sessions, where you can ask our Technical Director any questions, and some are on-demand, so can be accessed at a time to suit yourself.

If you have any questions at all please give us a call on 01484 851 747 or email info@surgedevices.co.uk.

W02h/0

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

Hospital Air Disinfection System uses Lascar’s PanelPilotACE Display Compromised air quality in hospitals can increase the severity of infections in patients and negatively impact staff. According to significant research articles, over 35% of infections can be transmitted through the air. These types of infections can leave particles suspended in the air for extended periods of time.

Scientific Air Management, created the S400 to reduce these transmissions in critical areas. The S400 is a mobile air disinfection unit designed to remove airborne contaminants, pathogens, and odours of all types. The device utilizes Lascar Electronics’ SGD 43-A programmable TFT panel meter, chosen primarily for its programmable interface and ease of use.

displays the HEPA filter runtime to ease maintenance and ensure efficient operation.

Lascar recently designed and manufactured a PCB that eases the assembly process and greatly speeds up the production time of the completed assembly. Lascar proudly helped Scientific Air Management meet the high demand for S400 devices, supplying them to hospitals during the Covid-19 crisis.

The free configuration software supplied with the panel meter enabled Scientific Air Management to design and create a multi-page user interface.

The design utilized two PWM outputs to control fan speed and illumination of the UV bulbs. The SGD 43-A also

www.lascarelectronics.com | sales@lascar.co.uk | 01794884567

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Issue 55 PECM

77

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

Assured control look for the sign of quality

World Leader in Cam Switches From the smallest to the largest at Kraus & Naimer you’ll find high-quality switches of any type and dimension. The broad product range offers the most technically suitable solution for almost every application.

Thanks to our exceptionally high manufacturing autonomy and to our innovative modular system we can configure both standard and custom-made switches: • high customer-oriented approach • more than 400 switch types • in-house manufacturing

The C-series for instance, represents the classic cam switch offering a solution for most cam switch applications.

This series have easily accessible captive terminal screws – even when the switch is already mounted. In particular, this compact cam switch (far left in the picture) is a CA4: it is designed for low currents and fits perfectly into small spaces.

Want to discover more?

Then visit our website:

www.krausnaimer.com

krausnaimer.com 100% confidence that you’re making the right choice with the help of our skilled technical team if needed.

Next Day Delivery on most products.

T: 01635 26 26 26

e: sales-uk@krausnaimer.com

distributed by

Signalling Solutions for process control automation

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PECM Issue 55

#morethanbrightideas sirena.it

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

A TRUE WARRANTY JASIC

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

team of technicians in our JASIC Technology Centre.

• We have the facility to test products extensively on load banks and can validate machines to certification requirements.

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

EQUIPMENT QUALITY WE ARE SERIOUS ABOUT PRODUCT QUALITY. SOUND PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY IS WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM JASIC PRODUCTS • The manufacturer has invested millions of dollars into cutting edge integrated test laboratories on site – JASIC undergoes 42 individual tests to meet high quality standard.

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

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

BE VIGILANT WHEN PURCHASING EQUIPMENT WITH EXTENDED WARRANTY

UNPARALLELED AFTER SALES SUPPORT

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

NO OTHER DISTRIBUTOR CAN MATCH US ON THE LEVEL OF SERVICE FACILITY INVESTMENT MADE IN THE UK • Wilkinson have 50 years’ experience in servicing welding equipment. Our state of the art service workshop facility and our 16 strong after sales service team offer the most recognised technical support in the welding industry.

All equipment is fully supported by Wilkinson Star trained technicians.

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

WITH JASIC 5 MEANS 5

CUSTOMER CONFIDENCE CARE IS OUR BYWORD AND YOUR PRODUCTIVITY IS OUR PRIORITY • We provide a dedicated technical support line which you can call for any technical support queries

No extensions. No additional costs…… just 60 rolling months of product peace of mind ALL YOU NEED TO DO IS REGISTER YOUR PURCHASE AT JASIC.CO.UK FOR 5 YEARS PEACE OF MIND – IT’S REALLY THAT SIMPLE

• If on site support is needed we provide this through our highly trained technicians who cover the country • We can also interchange power sources to keep you up and running

For further information, please visit www.jasic.co.uk Issue 55 PECM

79

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

STATE-OF-THE-ART HQ FILTERMIST

Filtermist moves Kerstar production to Telford as part of new expansion plans One of the UK’s leading manufacturers of industrial vacuum cleaners has relocated production to Filtermist International Limited’s state-of-the-art HQ in Telford.

Kerstar, which sells the hugely popular Type H and Atex rated models, was purchased by the oil mist and filtration specialist in 2019 and, following an extensive lean manufacturing project, has taken the decision to centralise operations to Shropshire in a bid to deliver increased efficiencies to customers.

It has also appointed a dedicated product manager to help it maximise the new brand refresh and make the most of opportunities with its network of approved UK resellers and distributors throughout Europe, India, Singapore and Australasia.

“We originally instigated the Lean project at Kerstar to help us identify potential improvements in how the team in Northampton was working. With the help of MCPG Management Consultants it quickly became clear that being located across multiple sites was causing various challenges for production,” explained James Stansfield, CEO at Filtermist.

“Consolidating all of our manufacturing operations in one location allows us to have better sight of production at all times. It also enables us to share expertise and resources amongst our teams and gives us better control on the quality of our products.”

He continued: “We are fortunate in that we have two sites at Telford - one for manufacturing, and one for assembly and dispatch. The majority of Kerstar production is assembly and testing so we re-designed the floorspace to accommodate a new line specifically for its products and invested in new high-level racking to ensure we have enough storage for components.

“With the help of MCPG, we devised a comprehensive 14-month project plan to ensure the move went as smoothly as possible.”

Consolidating all of our manufacturing operations in one location allows us to have better sight of production at all times.

Work began in October 2020 with the intention of ramping up to full production in Telford by December 2021, an objective that has been successfully achieved.

This included documenting all procedures to support knowledge transfer from the existing Kerstar staff to new team members.

Ben Kimpton, the new Product Manager at Kerstar, added his support: “Having successfully completed the transition form Northampton to Telford, we are now in a position to really start building our presence in new markets.

“We will be exhibiting at the Interclean show in Amsterdam in May and are looking forward to finally being able to meet our existing European distributors face-to-face as the pandemic has so far prevented us from being able to do this.”

Find out more about Kerstar, including details of UK and global distributors by visiting www.kerstar.com or call the Filtermist team on 01952 290500 to discuss your industrial vacuum cleaning requirements.

For further information, please visit www.filtermist.com | www.kerstar.com

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PECM Issue 55

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

A modern solution to modern business constraints

bio-cleanseal® Sealing System for Clean Rooms

AutoStore is a global provider of the fastest, most flexible and densest automated storage system per square foot. It harnesses the power of warehouse robots for 24/7 order fulfilment within a cubic layout so dense that it can actually quadruple storage capacity and unlock the true potential of storage floorspace.

The new bio-cleanseal® product line from liquitec ensures the sealing of pipe systems in controlled clean room environments. The system is based on a smooth stainless steel sealing element with an elastomer mono seal for the penetration of pipes between controlled environments. The system is designed for use under various conditions and can also withstand problematic environmental conditions. For example, it is chemical-resistant and Atex-compliant. The installation of the sealing element for pipe penetrations and the orientation of the penetration is very flexible.

The sealing element can be attached to ceilings, walls or floors and compensates a slope of the pipe segment of up to 5 °.

The sealing system is designed to completely dampen vibrations and also acts as a noise reducer. It also has smooth surfaces, a hygienic design and is manufactured in accordance with regulations and GMP guidelines.

With a 99.6% uptime and best-in-class energy consumption, AutoStore is the modern solution to modern business constraints, all while keeping things simple with only 5 components; Bins, Robots, Ports, the Grid, and the AutoStore Controller.

AutoStore is designed for easy system expansion. Grow your capacity gradually without shutting down operations or experiencing downtime, so you are expanding your operation in line with actual business growth. jon.brewin@autostoresystem.com www.autostoresystem.com

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www.liquitech.co.uk

A new sales brochure presents the Cistermiser infrared urinal control valve EcoCooling provides an effective large space cooling alternative to refrigeration, at just 10% of the operating costs and 60% of the capital spend. The eco-friendly direct evaporative cooling and ventilation solutions enable you to maintain internal temperatures below 25°C all year round.

Whether you’re looking for blanket cooling or spot cooling for workstations and production lines, EcoCooling’s systems are versatile and can be tailored to meet your specific requirements. With over 3000 installations worldwide, EcoCooling is an experienced UK manufacturer with solutions for a range of applications including warehouses, factories, gyms and large retail units.

EcoCooling Ltd 01284 810 586 sales@ecocooling.co.uk www.ecocooling.co.uk

FLUID HANDLING

Fast, Bespoke Engineering Design and Manufacturing from Rotaflow

Fluid Carrying

When time is of the utmost importance, many businesses from a wide range of industries, domestic and internationally, turn to Rotaflow.

We solve engineering problems where fluids need to be transferred across rotating surfaces, without leakage. These designs can be retrofitted to resolve a problem or commonly they embody very unique needs (high/ low pressures, temperature, hygienic, etc) depending on the area of industry. We specialise in taking bespoke requirements and being able to design a solution that will fit budget and design needs. We also have tried and tested designs that can be “tweaked” for specific design.

Our approach to design and manufacture, plus our control of timelines due to tight process management means jobs that can drag on for months in other

Flexibility companies can take a matter of weeks when you use Rotaflow.

In recent times this ability has assisted many companies to not lose much in the way of downtime, and still get quality bespoke design.

Articulated Torsion Pipework In Hoses Rotating Cylinders

Swivel joints allow pipework to pressure 1/4” to 40” and beyond.

Vacuum to over 20,000psi.

Stock and bespoke production.

Unique bearing/seal design for longer life.

ISO 9001 CE marked where applicable.

Attached photo shows 5 x 2” style 2 316L SS swivels ready to be despatched to Norway for use in oil-well drilling.

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

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

www.rotaflow.com

Swivel Joints

Tel:

Bingswood Trading Estate Whaley Bridge | High Peak | SK23 7LY | UK

+44(0)1663 735003

E-mail:

New C-PVC pressure pipe range BESPOKE CONVEYOR SYSTEMS FOR: Food Beverage Medical and Pharmaceutical Packaging Industries

01753 548801 WWW.UPMCONVEYORS.COM SALES@UPM.CO.UK

epco Pipe Systems are specialists in supplying comprehensive pressure pipe systems for both Industrial and Commercial applications, available from our UK stockholding in Leeds.

We are proud to announce the arrival of our new C-PVC range including Pipe, Fittings, Valves and Accessories. Thanks to its high temperature resistance, reaching up to 80°C, C-PVC has excellent chemical resistance and is suitable in applications such as metal surface treatment, chemical processing, pulp and

paper production and the food and drinks sector.

Manufactured in Europe to DIN 8079/80 & DIN 8063 under the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management system, C-PVC enhances our current range of ABS & U-PVC, offering an ideal and more cost-effective alternative for legacy materials such as steel. sales@epco-plastics.com Tel: 0113 249 1155

www.epco-plastics.com

Issue 55 PECM

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FLUID HANDLING

MODERNISATION PROJECT SEEPEX

SEEPEX SAI Technology enables Veolia’s sludge cake handling system upgrade at Osberstown STF The modernisation project for Osberstown STF managed by Veolia involved the upgrade from a very energy intensive thermal drying plant to advanced anaerobic digestion using their Exelys™ thermal hydrolysis process. The scope of supply also included a new dewatering plant with three belt presses and three sludge cake pumps to transfer the dewatered sludge into the THP feed silos.

COMPACT, ENERGY-EFFICIENT AND FLEXIBLE SYSTEM FOR COMPLEX PROCESS The upgrade project presented an immediate challenge: how to fit the new THP and dewatering plant into the

restricted space of the existing building. The compact design of Veolia’s Exelys™ process significantly reduced the installation space required for the THP. However, due to the space restraints, using a conventional multi-stage pumping system required to transfer 18-27% DS sludge cake through a total of 50m including vertical pipework with long-radius 90° bends would not be possible.

The dewatered sludge handling system needed to have the operational flexibility to accommodate a fully automated 24/7 operation with one, two or all three presses in operation at the same time, discharging

into either of the two existing sludge cake silos through common discharge pipework.

LOW ENERGY AND LOW DISCHARGE PRESSURE SOLUTION FOR SLUDGE CAKE TRANSFER Having worked together on many projects over the years, Veolia engaged with SEEPEX to explore how to install a sludge cake handling system within the reduced footprint.

Upon consultation, SEEPEX’s Smart Air Injection (SAI) was selected: a highly efficient system involving a progressive cavity pump and pneumatic dense phase conveying technology, able to transport 16-40% DS dewatered sludge with a significantly lower operating pressure requirement.

SAI technology is an energy efficient solution for long distance pumping, proven to significantly reduce operational and total investment costs

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…I would have to say that the SAI installation has fundamentally changed how I would approach sludge cake transfer design / plant layout in future.

Alan Whitty, Principal Mechanical Engineer at Veolia

SEEPEX supplied and commissioned three sludge cake pumps with 2.5m custommade hoppers to suit the dimensions of the dewatered belt presses, the associated BLI pumps as well as the SAI controls.

The compact SAI system offered considerable savings by allowing the new plant to be installed within the existing sludge dryer building. By using dense phase conveying, Veolia was able to lower the discharge pressure from 16-18 bar to 3-4 bar, enabling smaller cake pumps compared to the 4-stage pumps otherwise required for a conventional system.

The robust SAI system requires nearly 50% lower power compared to conventional pumping with subsequent energy cost savings. SAI has proven to have the operational flexibility required by the process and enables the pipework to be emptied when idle, eliminating the risk of cake line blockages; it is easy to operate and extremely reliable.

SEEPEX open hopper pumps sit under the belt presses.

SEEPEX’s engineered solution using SAI technology and their proven cake pumping expertise have enabled Veolia to upgrade their sludge cake handling system which feeds their THP process at Osberstown STF.

For further information, please visit www.seepex.com Issue 55 PECM

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GEARS, DRIVES & MOTORS

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

Preformed Windings are a high-quality supplier of high voltage diamond with customers including ABB, Siemens and GE who say: “Preformed Windings have supplied many sets of high voltage coils to GE Renewables over the years. The quality of product and service is exceptional, and they are a trusted partner in our supply chain. We enjoy collaborative and cutting-edge research and development with Preformed Windings, which positions both organisations as thought leaders in the hydro industry.

Their products offer significant benefits such as very low partial discharge and a long service life”

coilshop@preformedwindings.com | www.preformedwindings.com

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 ◊ Blacking Drilling & Tapping ◊ Marking 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 www.CrossMorse.com

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PECM Issue 55

Custom Solutions for Electric Motors Around the Clock, Against the Clock!

Whenever existing mechanical and electrical interfaces are key coupled with fast delivery Motors up to 15 MW and 13.8 kV • • • • •

Low voltage slip-ring and squirrel cage motors up to 3,000 kW Medium voltage slip-ring and squirrel cage motors up to 15,000 kW Direct current motors up to 2,000 kW Frequency converter-proof drives In-house load test facility up to 13.800 V, 2.300 kVA, 120 Hz

More than 20.000 motors available from stock!

Customized special designs • • • •

Custom designs for special applications and operating conditions Optimized motor design for higher efficiency Mechanically and electrically interchangeable motors Commissioning worldwide

24/7 emergency service

MENZEL Great Britain Ltd. | UK Branch Office 27 Hunt Drive | Melton Mowbray | Leicestershire LE13 1PB Martin Rooney | Tel.: +44 1664 500 844 | Mobil: +44 7957 618046 martin.rooney@menzelgb.co.uk MENZEL Elektromotoren GmbH | German Headquarters Neues Ufer 19-25 | D–10553 Berlin | Germany Tel.: +49-30-349922-0 | Fax: +49-30-349922-999

Certified Management System

info@menzel-motors.com www.menzel-motors.com

Member

HEALTH & SAFETY

ISOLATION SYSTEMS REMBE

Explosion isolation should not be missing in a safety concept Explosion isolation is absolutely essential for comprehensive explosion protection. Without isolation, an explosion safety concept is not only incomplete, but is also a waste of money for operators as: In almost every production facility, individual plant components are interconnected by means of pipelines. The purpose of explosion isolation is to seal these pipelines in the event of an explosion to prevent the propagation of pressure and flames, thereby protecting the adjacent plant components.

Precompression and flame jet ignition increase the severity of the explosion in the connected vessels. This leads to secondary explosions that can cause even more catastrophic damage.

Isolation systems prevent an explosion from propagating, thereby reducing the effects of the explosion to a minimum. Adjacent system components are optimally protected.

A distinction is made between active and passive isolation systems: Active systems use sensors or detectors to detect an explosion as it occurs by registering the rising pressure or flames as they form and activate the associated isolation device, e.g. a quench valve.

Due to their structural design, passive isolation systems react purely mechanically to a propagation or loss of pressure. The latter also applies to explosion isolation flap valve. They are kept open during normal mode by means of the currents present in the pipeline. In the event of an explosion, the valve closes due to the propagating pressure front, effectively preventing the further propagation of pressure and flames.

EXPLOSION ISOLATION USING QUENCH VALVES: EXKOP SYSTEM The EXKOP system offers safe, economical and simple isolation of explosions, sparks and flames. By closing within milliseconds, quench valves protect interconnected system parts. In the event of an explosion, the EXKOP control system receives a trigger signal.

The entire system is fail-safe thanks to an integrated pressure accumulator and a selfmonitoring control system. After triggering, the quench valves are ready for use again at the touch of a button. Plant downtimes can thus be reduced to a minimum. The compact design from DN 80 to DN 600 enables flexible integration into your production process.

Alongside the stated features, the non-return valve Q-Flap RX allows for high KSt values, flexible installation distances and the highest strengths.

Fig. 2: Explosion isolation flap valve Q-Flap RX Fig. 1: Quench valves open and closed

EXPLOSION ISOLATION DUE TO SLIDE VALVES The slide valves RSV and REDEX Slide enable silos, mills and extraction systems to be safely isolated and are also available for challenging CIP, dust or gas applications. Both slide valves are suitable for abrasive media.

Explosions are reliably detected by pressure and/or infrared detectors installed in the plants to be protected and a signal is sent to the slide valve. This activates one or more gas generators, which close the slide valves. Flames and pressure waves are thus unable to propagate.

EXPLOSION ISOLATION FLAP VALVE Q-FLAP RX - ISOLATION OF RAW GAS LINES TO FILTERS AND DUST COLLECTORS The explosion isolation flap valve Q-Flap RX is offered in three different designs. The nominal widths from DN 140 to DN 710 have an inspection flap, while the largest nominal widths (up to DN 1000) have a modular structure to make maintenance as easy as possible. The Q-Flap RX is suitable, among other things, for the aspiration lines of filtering dust collectors and the suction lines of mills.

EXPLOSION ISOLATION WITH CHEMICAL BARRIERS The explosion isolation system Q-Bic registers the emerging explosion and extinguishes the developing explosion flames within milliseconds by applying the extinguishing powder. The extinguishing powder is optimally distributed in the pipeline via a nozzle system and guarantees reliable isolation. The chemical barrier is particularly well-suited to applications in elevators and spray dryers.

CONCLUSION Explosion isolation systems form part of the measures for explosion protection and are a must in every safety concept for process engineering plants such as silos, mills, filters and conveyors.

The experts from Fig. 3: Explosion REMBE GmbH isolation system Q-Bic Safety & Control will be happy to help you to select the “right” measures at any time.

For further information, please visit www.rembe.de

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T +49 2961 7405-0 hello@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

HEALTH & SAFETY

MANUFACTURING EXCELLENCE TELEDYNE GAS AND FLAME DETECTION

In-house manufacturing excellence drives quality at Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection Industry-certified processes, stringent quality control, dedicated workforce skills and the latest production technologies underpin manufacturing excellence at Teledyne Gas & Flame Detection. Comprising the Teledyne Oldham Simtronics, Teledyne Gas Measurement Instruments and Teledyne Detcon brands, the company’s meticulously designed and controlled production operations help impart its core product attribute: safety. Robust and quality-centric manufacturing processes ensure that products perform their designated function, be it site protection, area monitoring or personal protection, in a failsafe manner. At three highly-specified manufacturing sites in France, the UK and the US, Teledyne produces a market-wide range of gas and flame detection solutions to meet the requirements of customers across all industry sectors.

Product quality and reliability equate to customer trust. But delivering these attributes relies on robust manufacturing processes.

At Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection, production operations leverage the experience of a history in manufacturing that dates back more than a century. Of course, locations and facilities have changed over the years, but production capacity today is a global concern that embraces Teledyne Oldham Simtronics (Arras, France), Teledyne Gas Measurement Instruments (Renfrew, UK) and Teledyne Detcon (Cypress, US), with each facility supported by expert staff and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

MADE IN ARRAS The Arras headquarters and manufacturing plant of Teledyne Oldham Simtronics is located in the Hauts-de-France region.

Market leader in France for gas detection, the brand is also strong across Europe, CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) countries, Africa and Asia.

Covering an area of 5,552 m2, the Teledyne Oldham Simtronics’ plant includes 3,379 m2 of workshop and warehouse space.

Manufacturing class-leading products since 1948, the factory’s track record of production

excellence centres on its accreditations, which include ISO9001 for quality, ISO14001 for environmental management and ISO45001 for health and safety. The plant benefits from an advanced in-house manufacturing engineering team that creates the software, tools and machines required by production.

With over 100 highly capable employees on site, some 75,000 gas and flame detectors and controllers are ‘Made in Arras’ every year.

Each one provides customers with highly capable and dependable performance to ensure complete protection.

UK MANUFACTURER Teledyne Gas Measurement Instruments is the number one supplier of gas leak detectors to the UK natural gas distributor sector, and a key player in the industrial portable gas detection market with over 300,000 high-quality instruments delivered.

Ideal for use in challenging industries such as gas utilities, chemical, shipping, brewing, construction, defence, nuclear, petrochemical, papermaking, refining and telecoms Teledyne Gas Measurement Instruments is also prominent across Europe and North America. Producing trustworthy, proficient products is key to building further on the brand’s established reputation for providing customers with assured protection.

The company’s production facility is located in Renfrew, near Glasgow, where its portable gas detection and measurement devices have been manufactured in the UK since 1947.

Spanning 2,230 m2, the site boasts ISO9001, ISO14001 and ISO45001 accreditations.

Additionally, Teledyne Gas Measurement Instruments is an active member of many global gas associations, including the Institution of Gas Engineers & Managers (UK), the American Gas Association (USA) and the Canadian Gas Association. The company was also a founding member of the Council for Gas Detection and Environmental Monitoring (CoGDEM) in Europe. There are around 80 knowledgeable employees at Renfrew including 35 fully cross-trained assembly operators. In particular, the site is notable for its high-end production technologies.

US MANUFACTURER Teledyne Detcon has its 2,929 m2 headquarters in Cypress, near Houston, from where it manufactures over 15,000 industryleading fixed gas detectors, control systems and analysers every year. The advanced site is ISO9001-certified and carries accreditations to IECEx and Intertek.

Extremely proud of its ‘manufactured in the US’ heritage, which extends back to 1983, the brand is well known in North America, the Middle East, CIS countries and Asia. With 32 expert employees, Teledyne Detcon also has extensive experience in cell manufacturing and wireless technology.

PROVEN DESIGN (AND MANUFACTURING Each Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection manufacturing site houses its own customer service, technical support, engineering and R&D functions, all staffed by personnel with considerable industry experience and long service within the business. These employees nurture established professional relationships with customers, adding value with their knowhow and market awareness. Furthermore, throughout the Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection business, inherent flexibility means the team can react accordingly to customer requirements as they evolve.

Offering one of the most extensive gas and flame detection portfolio on the market, Teledyne has in-country approvals and certifications for most products. A proven range of accomplished and convincing measurement, detection and wireless technologies, alongside the unrivalled skills and innovation of employees, ensures Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection can meet the safety and protection requirements of all applications. The company’s rugged yet reliable and precise gas and flame detection products offer fast response times, durability and intrinsically safe instrumentation.

With excellence in manufacturing at the heart of its customer offer, Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection will continue providing products that support and protect workforces, assets, operations and the environment.

For more information, visit www.TeledyneGFD.com or contact gasandflamedetection@teledyne.com

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In-house manufacturing excellence drives quality at Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection

Te l e d y n e D e t c o n h a s i t s 2,929m2 headquarters in Cypress, near Houston, from where it manufactures over 15,000 industry leading fixed gas detectors, control systems and analysers every year.

Covering an area of 5,552m2, the Teledyne Oldham Simtronics’ plant includes 3,379m 2 of workshop and warehouse space.

w w w. Te l e d y n e G F D . c o m

Teledyne Gas Measurement Instruments is the number one supplier of gas leak detectors to the UK natural gas distributor sector with over 300,000 high-quality instruments delivered.

gasandflamedetection@teledyne.com

Which consumer-product relies most heavily on precision engineering?

The first product to come to mind should be daysoft daily-disposable contact lenses Let me explain; daysoft relies on the skilful application of the most advanced manufacturing processes in the world to produce millions of identical contact lenses, time after time. Our unique process produces lenses at half the

cost whilst only using half the plastic compared to any other daily-disposable contact lens manufacturer.

All this has been made possible by the development of a unique process

of manufacture based on incredibly advanced precision engineering where the lens is made entirely inside a concave mould of exceptionally high precision.

INPAC TECHNOLOGY The mould precision relies on the absolute accuracy of metal formers which have been cut to give outstanding accuracy and a ‘mirror’ finish using diamond tipped tools in air-bearing lathes to eliminate all polishing.

The highest level of precision is not just to ensure the lenses provide great vision but so that they sit comfortably and safely on the human eye making …

every day a comfortable daysoft day Kind regards Ron Hamilton CBE, Engineer, Contact Lens Inventor and Daysoft Founder

© Fergus H Yard 2021.

Used with permission.

DAYSOFT.COM DAILY-DISPOSABLE CONTACT LENSES FOR A GREENER WORLD

comfortable, affordable, daily-disposables

Shipped direct to your door by the daysoft Team who made them for half the price using half the plastic and a fraction of the water used by other manufacturers and for just:

£4.99

per box 32 contact lenses

Data on file showing successful replacement of all major daily-disposable brand covering 700 million daysoft lenses sold into over 90 countries

DAYSOFT.COM

HEALTH & SAFETY

DSEAR 3 DAY - Risk Assessment Training Course (15th - 17th March) Our “Three Day” DSEAR course is aimed at those who responsible for conducting DSEAR assessments, but are not necessarily fully confident with the process. They may work in a flammable environment, inaddition to being responsible for managing the area, day to day.

The course content: • Legal foundations • How sources of danger arise.

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

• The fundamentals on the origin of Explosions, Deflagrations and Fires • Risks resulting from improper storage or handling of these substances • The meaning of the danger triangle and pentagon.

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

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

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

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

sales@dsc-ltd.co.uk www.dsc-ltd.co.uk

MTM Products MTM Products have been established for over 40 years and are a leading manufacturer and supplier of industrial graphics products including self-adhesive labels, metal nameplates, graphic overlays, engraved labels and vinyl cut decals.

We have the knowledge and experience to advise you on the optimum graphics solution for your application, taking account of operating environment. We supply to many sectors including industrial machinery, electrical, automotive, rail, construction,

medical and audio equipment.

We offer excellent quality and service at competitive prices.

MTM are certificated to ISO9001 and ISO14001. Our products comply with the current RoHS and REACH requirements MTM – the industrial graphics specialists Let us share our expertise to make your life easier

Contact us at sales@ mtmproducts.co.uk or www.mtmproducts.co.uk www.dsc-ltd.co.uk

HEALTH & SAFETY

GreCon CAN HELP YOU! GreCon

Helping industries return to a new normal GreCon makes people and places safer and enables the ‘smart factory’ as the leading provider of innovative industrial fire prevention and process measurement solutions.

GreCon Limited is located just outside of Newcastle upon Tyne and is a member of the Fagus-GreCon Group. With a wealth of experience as a global market leader, GreCon demonstrates a strong understanding of customer needs and provides turnkey solutions for a wide variety of industries, including wood manufacturing, recycling, biomass, pharmaceutical, food, hygiene and more.

FIRE PREVENTION TO ENABLE UNINTERRUPTED PRODUCTION GreCon’s fire prevention technology protects industrial premises, processes and people, detecting and extinguishing ignition sources in mechanical and pneumatic conveying systems, filters, dryers, silos and other production areas, making workplaces safer and enabling uninterrupted production.

FIRE PREVENTION OR FIRE PROTECTION? The adage, ‘prevention is better than cure’ rings true. GreCon believes that early detection of ignition sources is critically important. Once a fire starts, the results can be catastrophic. When companies are unaware of GreCon’s technologies, they rely on more conventional fire protection systems, which do not always provide the best defence.

Customers are particularly interested in the DLD 1/9, a highly sensitive spark, ember and hot particle detector for protection against fire and explosion in industrial processes. Intelligent Detection Technology IDT® provides optimal detection performance for all ignition sources in any environment and enables the detector to distinguish between dangerous sparks and harmless ambient light.

ENABLING THE SMART FACTORY A comprehensive range of industrial process measurement solutions equips the ‘smart factory’, helping customers improve product quality in their production processes, using proven German engineering to reduce raw material and energy costs, ultimately maximising operational efficiency. As businesses see a high demand for products, we are pleased to participate in many process improvement and optimisation discussions.

WE’RE EXCITED THAT SALES VISITS ARE BACK ON THE AGENDA! We were delighted to welcome Joshua McAree and Oscar Little to sales roles during 2021 under the sales leadership of Tom Burniston. Joshua has a BSc in Aeronautical Engineering, and Oscar holds a first-class honours degree in Mechanical Engineering. They are excited by the prospect of helping our customers improve

their processes and increase the safety of their operations.

30TH ANNIVERSARY FOR GRECON LIMITED We are preparing to mark our 30th anniversary (in April), a key business milestone. This event will confirm our excellent track record and commitment to the UK & Ireland market and position as a market leader.

Managing Director Jonathan Hamill commented, “We’re available for exploratory discussions and happy to conduct no-obligation surveys. Utilising our know-how, we believe we can play a vital role in helping industry tackle the current challenge, to emerge from the pandemic stronger and more resilient.”

CALL GRECON TODAY Today customers all over the world rely on GreCon. Please get in touch with us and discuss how we can help:

Email: sales@grecon.co.uk | T: 0191 414 7200 | www.grecon.co.uk Issue 55 PECM

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EDITOR’S CHOICE

£1M INVESTMENT BPL ENGINEERING GROUP

BPL Engineering Group turns up the volume with £1m Worcester Presses investment

From left, Matt Adams (BPL Engineering Group) and Russell Hartill (Worcester Presses)

A £1m investment in a new press line is helping one of the UK’s leading sheet metalwork specialists diversify into larger projects and volumes.

BPL Engineering Group (BPL) has strengthened its strategic partnership with Worcester Presses by installing a 600-tonne Yeh Chiun hydraulic press - one of the largest it has ever commissioned.

The decision, which follows the resounding success of the 300t H-Frame press purchased four years ago, gives the Kings Norton-based firm access to a machine that offers an increased bed size (2500mmx1500mm), crucial for going after stampings destined for the automotive, aerospace, rail and other sectors.

Worcester Presses has also installed remote monitoring in addition to its industry-leading maintenance and service package, helping minimise downtime by providing swift and efficient diagnostics.

faith BPL Engineering Group has put in its capabilities.

“The 600-tonne Yeh Chiun is some press, delivering massive power, superb accuracy and repeatable quality, ideal for the type of work BPL Engineering Group specialise in and new projects it is starting to diversify into.

“Our expertise lies in supplying stampings and assemblies to OEMs like Jaguar Land Rover, Lotus and Aston Martin, ranging from prototype projects to production volumes,” explained Matt Adams, Operations Director at BPL Engineering Group.

“This complete service has seen sales increase rapidly past £6m and this latest collaboration with Worcester Presses gives us additional capacity and a larger world class press to take on different types of work.”

He continued: “The machine, which was installed as part of a three-month factory reconfiguration project, allows us to target larger stampings in various material grades, including aluminium, mild streel, structural steel, stainless steel, brass and copper.”

Worcester Presses has experienced similar demand for its expertise, utilising its track record for developing long-term relationships with manufacturing subcontractors across the UK.

Employing 14 people at its Crescent Park Industrial Estate site in Dudley, the company has seen sales for its range of hydraulic/ mechanical presses and ancillary equipment rise by more than 50% since lockdown eased.

A large part of this growth has come from the firm’s ability to ‘bespoke’ its standard equipment range to suit customer need and offering complete packages in a matter of months from initial order, not to mention its expansive spares and repairs service.

Russell Hartill, Managing Director of Worcester Presses, was delighted with the

“Matt and his team had already seen the performance of the 300-tonne first-hand and recognised the potential a much larger press could give them, approaching our engineers to look at how we could tailor the machine to match specific requirements.

“This was all done in a matter of months and then we supported a major factory re-organisation to accommodate the new press, all whilst keeping the company supplying its domestic and international customer base.”

BPL Engineering Group has invested heavily in its 25,000 sq ft facility on Catesby Park, offering customers access to toolmaking, press work, 5-axis laser cutting, fabrication, robotic welding, assembly and inspection services.

For further information, please visit www.birminghamprototypes.co.uk or www.worcesterpresses.co.uk

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There are a million reasons to choose Aeroquip Dynamax EC881.

Well, actually, one million + eight.

$ Reduced Cost

Reduced Weight

Better Flexibility

Higher Pressure Rating

Higher Operating Temp

More Impulse Life

Higher Abrasion Resistance

Over 50% More Flexible

1 MILLION qualified cycles

Outperforms the typical EN857 2SC specifications in addition to providing a range of other benefits, most notably, working near spiral hose pressures. EC881 shines in applications such as agriculture, oil & gas, and mining by reducing cost, decreasing downtime, and increasing fuel efficiency. Find out more at DanfossPowerSource.com For sales and service contact Carlton Hydraulics Tel: 01709 378 999 Email: info@carlton-hydraulics.co.uk Address: Carlton Hydraulics Limited Chesterton Road, Eastwood Trading Estate, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S65 1SU

www.carlton-hydraulics.co.uk

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

For further information, please visit www.threadtools.com

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PECM Issue 55

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 +44(0)1527 520 580 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!

MACHINING & MACHINERY

PROUDLY CELEBRATING 50 YEARS NEWARC

The golden history of British manufacturing The landscape of British manufacturing has changed phenomenally over the last 50 years – in ways that few could have foreseen. Gone are the days when welders were given a glass of milk to counteract the negative effects of inhaling welding fume, tinted goggles have been replaced with full face shields, and some aspects of the craft have even become completely automated.

The 1970s was the decade that saw the introduction of inverter-based technology - a giant leap forward in the designs of semi-conductor technology - which led to transformers becoming smaller, lighter, and more efficient. This in turn allowed welding machines to be more portable and cost effective. As the topography of the industrial world has evolved, Newarc has evolved alongside it, offering welding solutions built to withstand the everchanging challenges around us.

A lot might have changed in the 50 years since Newarc opened their doors in the North of England, but the quality and core British values behind their welding machines hasn’t. These are qualities that Newarc is proud to have been able to share with patrons all over the world to construct bridges, pipes, offshore jackets, vessels and even a flagpole for the Eurovision contest in Baku, Azerbaijan!

Their robust design, high duty cycles and ease of use mean that you needn’t replace your Newarc machine every few years, its technology and durability will see you through the decades, just like the brand itself has.

Newarc is proud to be the leading UK manufacturer of welding equipment and is delighted to be a recent member of the Made in Britain organisation which supports and actively promotes British manufacturing. Every machine carries the Made in Britain mark which represents a standard of quality and unity for the British manufacturing sector within the UK and around the world.

In January 2021 we moved into new premises, future-fit for our research and development and manufacturing requirements Newarc’s R&D team have a

A lot might have changed in the 50 years since Newarc opened their doors in the North of England, but the quality and core British values behind their welding machines hasn’t. wealth of knowledge and are continuously working to further enhance existing models but also bringing to market new models to complement the current range. As an SME manufacturer the production facility is highly flexible and can offer bespoke designs to meet customers’ specific needs. Within the new premises there are now newly installed welding bays giving Newarc the capability to offer a wide range of welder training courses and to conduct onsite demonstrations to potential customers.

Newarc will be proudly celebrating the last 50 years of British history by unveiling their brand-new design at MACH this year.

The classic orange and blue skins are being shed in favour of a chic new grey and navy - and to endorse their British heritage, a new patriotic logo will appear on the side panel of every machine. After an outstanding half a century, Newarc is well set to affirm their place globally within the welding sector for many years to come.

0191 295 0111 | sales@newarc.co.uk | www.newarc.co.uk

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BETTER Trusted for over 50 years

IF THE QUEEN WAS A WELDER SHE’D PROBABLY USE Why… because Newarc are an agile company with the ability to offer bespoke solutions; their machines are robust and designed for ease of operation and maintenance. Newarc have an on hand direct support network of experienced technicians to channel any product questions.

Newarc offer rapid service and repair if and when required and always have product availability as the machines are designed and hand built in Great Britain.

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0191 295 0111 • sales@newarc.co.uk • www.newarc.co.uk

MACHINING & MACHINERY

DEEP-HOLE DRILLING UNISIG

Deep-Hole drilling automation is more than part load/unload | Technical Articles

By Anthony Fettig – Unisig Deep Hole Drilling Systems For deep-hole drilling, part-handling might be the most visible automation element, but it’s not necessarily the most impactful .

Often, it’s internal process automation that yields the most significant results even with a manually loaded drilling machine.

When it comes to automating deep-hole drilling, there are challenges unique to the process itself . These include fixturing complexities — where maintaining alignment requires elements such as guide bushings and tool supports not present in a conventional lathe or milling machine — and part attributes such as length and weight.

Long parts mean a long drilling cycle time, and maintaining production rates often requires multi-spindle, deep-hole drilling systems. Unfortunately, stopping a two- or four-spindle machine means two or four spindles sit idle until the parts are loaded and unloaded . So, in these instances, the more parts in the machine at one time, the more automation can actually inhibit cycle time while the machine is running.

Solving this problem in multi-spindle machines requires internal automation to achieve the objectives of lean manufacturing and one-piece flow . Inmachine loaders singulate processes so that even within a small four-piece batch you maintain one-piece flow. The operator or automation device puts in a part and takes a part out, and the machine does a bit of maneuvering inside to sequence those four parts in such a way as to minimize spindle downtime while maintaining upstream and downstream processes for one-piece flow . For instance, parts could be loaded onto a smart conveyor, indexed, and lifted into chucks for the drilling cycle before robotic unloading on the out-feed side so that there are no bottlenecks to a steady production flow.

Tool life management is another form of internal automation. Getting feedback to

Increase your mold manufacturing versatility using the power of gundrilling with the leaders in deep hole drilling, UNISIG. Offering complete solutions for everything from simple to complex mold components, UNISIG machines help moldmakers improve efficiency, throughput and precision with outstanding part-processing versatility at an exceptional value.

TAKE YOUR MOLDMAKING OPERATIONS As the process builds, highly standardized FURTHER WITH UNISIG TODAY. options for robot-ready machines such

as an automatic door, workpiece-present sensors and programmable workpiece fixturing makes it easier to add a robot at a later date. These robot-ready Find out more at www.UNISIG.com machines also create efficiencies before they’re fully automated. Even with manual loading, the automatic doors and programmable clamping make the process more efficient. the machine enables the deep-hole drilling process to adapt or halt, if necessary, In UNISIG’s experience, an embedded before tools and parts are damaged . reamer tool changer enables manufacturers to manage significant throughput increases, even with an Tool life management is built into a operator. With this technology, operators machine’s control, and the machine can maintain the pace of production senses torque thrust and coolant. Chip loading the machine, while eliminating the condition is usually the first indicator of task of inserting reaming tools for each wear, which would otherwise require cycle. This allows the operator to redirect an operator present to detect, so the efforts towards tasks such as additional machine actually monitors the process quality checks and off-machine setups. and can predict tools starting to wear and identify when they need to be changed .

A tool life management system also xan UNISIG is also exhibiting at the AMB show count distances drilled and the number of in Stuttgart, Germany 13. - 17. 09. 2022. cycles, then prompt a tool change at the Further information on all machines of appropriate time. the UNI series and the complete UNISIG machine program is available at: That kind of in-machine automation www.unisig.com or follow the company on smooths the path for external automation.

LinkedIn and Twitter (@UNISIG).

For further information, please visit www.unisig.com

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UNISIG.COM

UNISIG TAKES YOUR GUNDRILLING PRODUCTION FURTHER

Gundrilling and BTA deep hole drilling for highly productive shops.

Whether your shop needs on-center or off-center holes, specialized job shop work or fully automated production, UNISIG has a deep hole drilling solution with the accuracy and performance you need.

Take your shop’s production further - learn more at UNISIG.COM.

Machines • Tools • Automation UNISIG machines, engineered and manufactured in the USA

MACHINING & MACHINERY

ROCOL ULTRACUT 370EP ROCOL

Abbey Cuts Fluid Costs With ROCOL Like many subcontract companies, Abbey Tool and Gauge Ltd was started by a husband-and-wife couple out of a small shed near Kelso Abbey – hence the name.

The ethos of the subcontracting company since it opened its doors in 1970, has been to buy the best equipment and machine tools possible. In its 50 years, this has seen the company invest in numerous NakamuraTome, Doosan and DMG MORI machines with a spend of more than £6m in the last 5 years on five through to 9-axis machines for one-hit machining.

Under the management of secondgeneration brothers Iain and Alistair Reid, the subcontract company has expanded its portfolio, now working in the oil and gas, nuclear, automation and medical industries. The ISO:9001 and ISO:14001 certified manufacturer has a programme of continuous improvement that not only encompasses machine tools, but also complementary technology. This is why Abbey Tool and Gauge Ltd has invested in cutting fluid from ROCOL. Taking up the reasoning behind switching its fluid provider, Abbey Tool and Gauge Ltd Director, Mr Iain Reid says: “At first, we were a little sceptical when ROCOL came in to see us because they said they could run our oil consumption at 2% - and we were running at somewhere

Since implementing the ROCOL Ultracut 370EP, the benefits have cascaded throughout the business. between 6 and 8%. Alistair and I thought long and hard about it, and we filled two machines with the product. We ran the two machines for six weeks - and we were delighted.”

“This change is good for the environment as it is only running at 2%. It will be good financially for our business long term, as there will be a big saving, which we are monitoring at the moment. Thirdly, the backup and support we have had from the ROCOL team have been absolutely phenomenal.”

Since implementing the ROCOL Ultracut 370EP, the benefits have cascaded throughout the business. Alluding to machining performance, Iain continues: “We have had some really good feedback from

David Mylet from ROCOL with Abbey Tool Director Iain Reid

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the guys on the shop floor. We were initially concerned as we machine a lot of super duplex and we thought that the ROCOL Ultracut 370EP wasn’t going to do the business there - but it most certainly has. It has also been a huge success on materials like Inconel, 625, 718 and many others.”

The Roxburghshire facility in Scotland is home to more than 30 machines and despite the volume of machine tools, the facility is completely odour free. As Iain says: “It’s quite incredible because the odour disappeared almost immediately. We do manage the coolant very well and a ROCOL engineer comes in every couple of weeks and tells us where we are with regards to our coolant management. So, the fluid is managed to a very high standard.”

Whilst the cutting fluid is managed both internally and at intervals by ROCOL engineers, the fact that ROCOL Ultracut 370EP is free from bactericide, silicone, chlorine, formaldehyde, nitrites and any animal-derived materials prolongs fluid life and performance. Additionally, ROCOL Ultracut 370EP is compatible with hard and soft water, it is tolerant to tramp oil and is low-foaming and it also demonstrates exceptional residual corrosion protection.

Trying to quantify savings since instigating the change of cutting fluid supplier to ROCOL, Iain continues: “I think the savings could be anything from £20,000 to £40,000, but as we have not been using the ROCOL fluid for a full 12-month period, we cannot give an exact calculation at present.”

Referring to the impact ROCOL has made on tool life and performance. Iain continues: “With regards to the cutting tools and looking at our historical usage, we would estimate that we have already saved between 10 and 12% on our cutting tool costs and this is massive in our game. We always try to minimise the tip changes, and in some cases, we slow the machines down to eradicate the tip changes. We find it is better to run the machines for eight hours at slower speeds and then change the inserts at the changeover shift, rather than change the tips three times per shift by running faster.

We get a higher volume of parts by running like that and the ROCOL coolant helps us in extending the life of our tips hugely.”

A small selection of the machines at Abbey Tool in Scotland The improvement to tool life and machining performance can largely be accredited to the extremely high-pressure additives that provide medium to heavy-duty machining capabilities with excellent surface finishes on a very wide range of ferrous and nonferrous materials and aluminium alloys. Furthermore, the high performing semi-synthetic fluid enables the customer to rationalise one fluid for both machining and grinding operations.

Commenting upon the changeover from the previous fluid supplier to ROCOL and

As part of the Ultracare support package all parameters of fluid care are monitored

its Ultracut 370EP, Iain says: “There were no issues whatsoever in changing the fluid over.

However, with so many machines on site, it was quite a lot of work and this meant we had to do the changeover over an extended period of time. One of the things I would recommend, is that you completely clear everything out of the machine and clean through the system. This was hard work for the guys, but it’s critical that you completely clear out the machine.”

existing product and the product that we proposed. The team at Abbey Tool and Gauge were a little sceptical at first about the projected savings, but we started on just one machine, we trialled ROCOL Ultracut 370EP and essentially we reduced the fluid usage, which obviously includes the financial spend. The fluid is also reducing the carbon footprint through buying less oil and having less waste.”

As a manufacturer that has opted for the ROCOL Ultracare package of support, the team at Abbey Tool and Gauge Ltd have nothing but praise for the service. “Alastair and I will receive a report probably around four hours after the ROCOL engineer has visited. This report gives us a detailed state of every machine and this gives us peace of mind as a company, and also for our employees.”

Alluding to the properties of ROCOL Ultracut 370EP, Ian Fenney continues: “All fluids will cut to a certain degree, but finding the right one for the customer, especially in a subcontract shop like this - there will always be a multitude of materials and machines.

With Ultracut 370EP, we have something that ticks every box. At Abbey Tool and Gauge, they are both cutting and grinding with the same fluid on everything from cast-iron right through to Inconel.”

Providing insight from a ROCOL perspective, Ian Fenney from ROCOL says: “The process has run really smoothly and we have changed the fluid in all of the machines.

We cleaned the machines out and started afresh. Whether we follow this complete clean-out process or not depends upon the fluid we are providing, but in this instance, there were key differences between the

Concluding upon the Ultracare service package, Ian Fenney continues: “On this particular account, we supported the fluid changeover and we cleaned out a selection of machines and the Abbey Tool and Gauge team then took over and finished the project.

Thereafter, we come in every fortnight and we are checking the machines to ensure all the machines are HSE compliant.”

For further information, please visit www.rocol.com Issue 55 PECM

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MACHINING AND MACHINERY

THE X ROLLER CHAIN 3

DONGHUA

New roller chain lasts three times longer With claims that their new X3 Roller Chain lasts three times longer than similar competitor chain, Donghua Limited shares their latest innovation.

X3 is a new high performance Roller Chain which forms part of the Donghua Chain Group’s Premium range. It is aimed at sectors that use high demand drives such as Timber, Waste & Recycling and Mining & Quarrying.

The new chain is designed and manufactured by the Hangzhou Donghua Chain Group on a purpose-built production line which uses new production techniques and new surface treatments.

Bob Wellsbury, managing director at Donghua Limited, has been at the helm of the UK subsidiary of the world-wide chain manufacturer since 2009. Our head office in Wolverhampton boasts a busy sales office, a 25,000 sq ft warehouse, testing laboratory and technical workshop for bespoke chain and attachment chain. He explains why X3 chain is so unique.

“Our Roller Chain is categorised into three ranges: Standard, Solution and Premium.

We launched a new Solution chain in 2021 called EXL Chain which has proved popular with our distribution market, and this year we launch the first chain in our Premium range – X3.”

New technologies make higher precision stamping possible, maximising the quality of the X3 Chain.

“The X3 Chain is designed with a unique pin coating, optimised plate geometry and high precision stamping.

Together, these elements deliver unique performance, offering end-users a firstclass chain and unbeatable value for money.”

New technologies make higher precision stamping possible, maximising the quality of the X3 Chain. The high plate load limit is ensured by selecting high performance

material and subjecting it to isothermal heat treatment, using calibrated pin and bushing holes, and having an improved press fit between the pins and plates to guarantee maximum fatigue strength.

The use of new hardening technologies and special anti-friction coating technology on the pin surface minimises the friction coefficient between the pin and the bushing, resulting in extreme wear resistance.

The X3 Chain has been tested against similar competitor chain and has a longer service life, higher fatigue resistance and greater precision.

The new X3 Chain is available in sizes in 06B to 24B ex-stock from Donghua Limited and is distributed to our growing UK network of Approved Product Partners and Stockists.

For more information about X3 Chain email: sales@donghua.co.uk or call 01902 866 200.

To find your nearest stockist of X3 Chain visit: https://www.donghua.co.uk/locate-a-supplier

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6

1

2

A PREMIUM CHAIN SOLUTION FOR HIGH DEMAND DRIVES

3 4 5

1

Optimised plate shape

2

Calibrated pin and bushing holes

3

High press fit to guarantee maximum fatigue strength

4

Special heat treatment and surface-coated pins give exceptional wear life

5

Seamless bushings & rollers throughout

6

High performance pre-lubrication

A new Chain for the UK market offering a premium solution with three times the performance for wear resistance, fatigue resistance and high speed performance of comparable Roller Chain.

Designed with unique pin coating, optimised plate geometry and high precision stamping, the X³ Roller Chain delivers significantly reduced maintenance downtime and longer service life.

Available from Approved Product Partners and Stockists.

Tel: 01902 866200

DOWNLOAD THE NEW X³ CATALOGUE

donghua.co.uk/X3-chain

Donghua Limited Sidings Close Wednesfield Way Wolverhampton West Midlands WV11 3DR

Tube

MACHINING & MACHINERY

EHRT FLEXPUNCH HV WOODING

FlexPunch machine arrives as HV Wooding completes £1.5m investment push One of Kent’s fastest growing precision engineering specialists has completed a £1.5m investment drive with the installation of a new EHRT FlexPunch machine.

HV Wooding, which employs over 100 people at its Range Road Industrial Estate factory in Hythe, has taken delivery of the new technology, which comes equipped with three CNC controlled axes that virtually guarantee perfect accuracy on production parts destined for electrical switchgear, data centres, electric vehicles, and energy markets.

The latest cell represents a £400,000 spend and offers an immediate 40% increase in ‘punching’ capacity, which will enable greater flexibility and faster lead times.

It follows a concerted investment programme that has seen the acquisition of a high-speed Bruderer BSTA 25H press, Xpert 80 Bystronic and a Trumpf TruLaser 3030 that can produce thin gauge laminations and busbars for use in electric cars, lorries, buses and commercial vehicles.

Matt Lacey, Sales & Marketing Manager at HV Wooding, commented: “Since the pandemic has eased and we’ve got back to a more normal trading environment, we have seen monthly sales increases of between 15% - 25%.

“This is being driven by our ability to take on complex projects from prototyping through to volume production, taking in multiple manufacturing methods, including wire erosion, laser cutting, presswork and tooling, assembly and electroplating.”

taking on more projects that utilise its accuracy, repeatable quality and speed.”

HV Wooding, which has enjoyed strong export growth over recent years, is also investing in the skills of its workforce to help it meet the surge in demand from within the UK and overseas.

A new Buyer and a Systems Development Engineer are the latest recruits, and they will soon be followed by six more staff spanning a range of positions from Production Manager, Production Supervisor and Technical Team Planner to Process and Project Engineer and two Quality Inspectors.

He went on to add: “These capabilities make us a very attractive proposition for companies involved in developing new components for electrification and we wanted to cement this position with the £1.5m investment in four different, but complementary technologies.

This will give the company the strength in depth it needs to push the boundaries of its manufacturing activities, including its involvement in a Faraday Battery Challenge project to develop a new powder coating process for the insulation of Busbars destined for electric vehicles, energy storage and battery applications.

“Our quality team has been really pleased with the parts produced on the new FlexPunch and we’re looking forward to

Supported by Innovate UK, the initiative has involved HV Wooding engineers working with materials and engineering researchers

from the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (Nuclear AMRC) and the University of Sheffield to improve the quality of the busbars it can produce.

Matt continued: “Current fluidised bed and spraying coating methods are not effective for insulation coating of conductive materials. An aspect of this innovation is to design and upgrade the fluidised tank with new dipping mechanism features, and nozzles to blow off excessive powders.

“We will also optimise the spraying facility for manufacturing high quality insulated busbars with complex geometries required by various battery OEMs. By semi-automating the process we can also reduce operator risk and further minimise the product failure rate, which can be as high as 25%.”

He concluded: “The project will produce best practice testing methods for manufacturing quality assurance. These new standard testing specifications and methods will benefit customers, manufacturers and trade associations by improving the efficiency of design, manufacturing and procurement in the battery manufacturing supply chain.”

For further information, please visit www.hvwooding.co.uk or follow @hvwooding on twitter

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MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

Bring your designs to life Boxford are a long established manufacturing equipment brand, who supply professional, affordable and reliable laser cutting, engraving and CNC machines to a range of industries. The Boxford team are looking forward to being part of the MACH 2022 show at NEC, Birmingham from 4th – 5th April and will be providing live demonstrations using a selection of their laser cutting, engraving and marking equipment. Included in their comprehensive display will be a BFL2010 2KW fibre metal cutting laser, a BFM110 30W fibre marking laser and a compact C02 laser complete with integrated 4K camera for design positioning, image tracing and live monitoring.

Boxford’s range of machines are capable of cutting and engraving a whole host of materials, including metals, wood, plastics, paper, card, foam, rubber and more. Their friendly team of experts will be on hand to answer any of your questions on the day!

Email: info@boxford.co.uk Tel: 01422 324 810 www.boxford.co.uk

Air Turbine Tools®, Spindles and Motors you don’t sacrifice power to get speed!

At 25,000 RPM to 90,000 RPM and Power to 1.4 HP we reduce cycle time 6x – 10x on any CNC machine, Lathe, Robotic or Automated Application. Operate 24/7 with no duty cycle and no control system or maintenance.

Light powerful Air Turbine Hand Tools® end hand-arm stress with the lowest vibration of any tool. Just 90 PSI required with no lubrication.

1225 Broken Sound Parkway NW Suite D Boca Raton, Florida 33487 Tel: 561-994-0500 Email: ask@airturbinetools.com www.airturbinetools.com

Konecranes relaunches belt hoists for clean environments Lifting equipment specialist, Konecranes, has upgraded and relaunched its popular range of belt hoists. The models feature lubrication-free polyester lifting belts, making them suitable for operation in environments where hygiene is a critical factor. The hoists are ideal solutions for food and pharmaceutical industries, as well as electronic and electrical assembly applications, or any workplace where cleanliness is a critical factor. The belts are also resistant to acids, bases, mineral salts, solvents and oil. The range includes 13 models with SWLs from 500 kg to 2000 kg. Depending on SWL, belt hoists are offered with lifting speeds from 5/0.8 m/min to 20/3.3 m/min, using a two-speed contactor control. The variable lifting speeds, facilitate slow movement for accurate load positioning, with high-speed lifting for operational efficiency. The low headroom design and small C-dimension, together with compact hoist size, maximise available workspace providing a height of lift of up to 9 m. www.konecranes.co.uk

Advances in Surface Finishing Large Components and 3D Printed Metal Parts Featuring on the Fintek stand 19-26, at Mach 2022, is the automation of the surface finishing of larger components and new electrochemical processes for the removal of support structures and finishing of internal and external surfaces of additively manufactured parts.

“There have been major advances in surface finishing for traditionally engineered parts and metal 3D printed components. From OTEC Präzisionsfinish we have the new SF-HP that automates high-energy stream finishing of workpieces up to 650mm diameter and 650mm long, weighing up to 200kg. From RENA Technologies, we have the Hirtisation® process that solves one of additive manufacturing’s major hinderances – the cost effective and efficient removal of support structures, residues and the smoothing of difficult internal surfaces,” said MD, Jonathan Dean.

Stand 19-26, Mach 2022 www.fintek.co.uk Issue 55 PECM

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MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

with PoE network connection

DOG - Oscillation Flowmeter For dry or wet gases

Doepke Smart RCM – Monitor those earth leakage currents

Flowmeter Solutions for High-Speed Batch Dosing

Introducing the all-new DOG-4/-6 Oscillation Flow Meter from Kobold, designed for the accurate measurement of gases. The DOG-4 is ideally placed to measure dry gases. When needing to optimise the condensate drain for applications involving wet gases i.e., biogas, the all-new DOG-6 with its special sensor construction and inclined measuring head is the ideal solution.

Continuous monitoring of residual currents gives real time visibility of the system status.

For processes requiring high-speed batch dosing, ultrasonic flow meters, such as Titan’s Atrato® flow meter, provide an easy-to-clean system with no moving parts. However, with all electronic flow devices, there is a trade-off between response time and affordability.

Titan Enterprises’ white paper reports on an investigation into the use of electronic flow meters in high-speed batching processes, typically seen within the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. The aim of the investigative trials was to determine the optimum results for high-speed (at sub three second) batching using an electronic flow meter that can be achieved with an accuracy higher than ±0.5%. Titan worked with their ultrasonic device, the Atrato®, to achieve a cost-effective solution for high accuracy, rapid batch control.

Typical Applications • Compressed Air • Hydrogen • Natural Gas • Biogas • Fermentation Gas • Nitrogen • Carbon Dioxide • Oxygen • Methane Gas

The DCTR B-X Hz PoE is a type-B residual current monitor for use in systems containing VSD, VFD and other inverter based products.

Installation is quick and simple with just one connection via a PoE port, for basic functionality.

The DCTR Manager software enables adjustment of the monitoring settings and customised display of the system’s residual current status for single or multiple units.

Constant monitoring of residual currents via a smart DCTR provides information about the system’s leakage current status, enabling maintenance activity to stop unplanned shutdowns.

For further info visit www.doepke.de/en or email sales@doepke.co.uk

To access the full technical paper, visit Titan’s website: www.flowmeters.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)1935 812790 Email: sales@flowmeters.co.uk

New pressure gauges MAN SC/ LC - from Kobold

One tool – everything under control

Solutions for your lab from Spectronic CamSpec Ltd

Introducing the latest version of the electronic digital pressure gauge; MAN-SC for battery powered applications, and MAN-LC for 24Vdc power with IO-link.

The PLC-ANALYZER pro 6 is the widely appreciated solution for logic analysis, failure diagnosis and data recording on PLC controllers (SIMATIC S7, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi, Schneider, OMRON, CoDeSys, OPC UA and others).

Do you carry out research, development, or quality control of your products? Spectronic CamSpec provides analytical equipment suited for every laboratory, allowing users to quantitively measure individual characteristics of their products. Spectronic CamSpec offers excellent after sales support and instrument maintenance contracts, carried out by qualified technical engineers. This is available for the Spectronic CamSpec instrument range and many competitors’ instruments.

Contact Spectronic CamSpec to see if they service your existing equipment.

Need help with an application?

Talk to the Kobold Team on 01623 427701 or email info.uk@kobold.com

• Alpha-numeric 14-segment reflective LCdisplay screen, full 5-digit display, and digit height of 16mm • Electronic screen module with 90° incremental rotation; for side mounted or inverted installations • Adjustable gauge head position • Capacitive touchpads access • kPa, MPa, bar, mbar, psi, kN, N, torr, inWC, mmWC, inHg, USR Measuring units • Password protected peak memory, and reset function • 9V Lithium battery with 22,500 hours (2.5 years).

• A zero (tare) for calibration • Optional rubber protective case cover • Measuring ranges from -1…0...+1600 Bar www.koboldnews.co.uk

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Up to 16 million variables from 250 signal sources can be recorded simultaneously.

Every PC connected for PLC programming can be used for recoding process data without modification. Video data can be recorded synchronously with the PLC process data.

Symbol files or PLC programming projects (e.g. TIA) can be loaded directly by PLCANALYZER pro 6 making all settings and variables immediately available for easy drag’n’drop selection. With this unique tool you have always everything around your PLC installations under control. >>> Wanted: Reseller for UK <<< www.autem.de

Instrument range includes: • Spectronic’s own brand of CamSpec spectrophotometers • FTIR spectrometers • Flame photometers • Texture analysers and Tenderometers • Mercury analysers • Electrochemistry equipment • Wide range of accessories and consumables E: sales@spectronic.co.uk | T: +44 (0) 113 286 4536 www.spectronic-camspec.co.uk

POSITIVE MATERIAL IDENTIFICATION

THE THERMO SCIENTIFIC NITON XL2 PLUS FAST, ACCURATE, VERSATILE XRF

The Niton XL2 Plus is perfect for verification of metals and alloys in manufacturing as well as quality assurance testing for positive material identification. o Rapid real time results with high accuracy. Nondestructive analysis. o Compact, ergonomic and rugged design for real-world industrial environments. o Wider alloy coverage and lower limits of detection allow operators to scan a broader range of incoming or installed materials more quickly. o A dedicated UK based service centre and loan fleet will keep you running smoothly with full ISO 9001 accreditation.

CALL: 01256 397 860 Email: SALES@nitonuk.co.uk WEB: www.nitonuk.co.uk

RECENT FEEDBACK: “The whole service was carried out professionally, and arrangements for loan equipment to cover us over the service period was very professional brilliant. Thank you.

David” Crane Chem Pharma Energy

SCAN THIS QR CODE NOW: FOR THE FULL XL2 SPECIFICATION.

PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES

LASER DIODES FRANKFURT LASER COMPANY

High-quality, cost-effective laser modules beam has a sharp rectangular shape with homogenous power distribution along the line. The housing is electrically isolated and keeps the protection class IP65 (IP67 optional) conditions. TTL modulation up to 1MHz and analogue modulation up to 100kHz are optionally available. The power stability is <1% over 24 hours.

COMPACT LASER DIODE LINE MODULES HSML-E WITH ULTRA-THIN LINES

The new HSML-E is a series of laser diode line modules which are very compact and deliver an ultra-thin line. Laser head and laser driver are separated which allows a very compact size of the laser head of just Ø12.6mm x 44mm. The laser driver is 200mm away from the laser head with dimensions of Ø12.6mm x 40mm and can be operated at 24V. The beam line can be focussed to e.g. a thickness of just 10µm at 40mm distance. Standard fan angles are 10° - 90°. The wavelength range is from 405nm to 1060nm with output powers up to 50mW. The power stability is typically <±5% over 8 hours at an operating temperature range from 10°C to 50°C. As an option these modules are offered with potentiometer for power adjustment, external TTL modulation up to 1MHz and analogue modulation up to 100kHz. The housing is electrically isolated and satisfies the protection class IP67 which makes these modules ideal for the use in industrial applications with harsh environmental conditions. The major applications are machine vision, scanning, profiling and laser triangulation.

Applications include, but are not limited to, roof tile alignment, railway conditions control, steel parts production, subsea robotics, traffic control, long distance pointer in defense applications.

LASER DIODE MODULES WITH SINGLE MODE FIBER OUTPUT

The new series ML1xxFC are laser diode modules with a single mode fiber output. The wavelength range is from 405nm to 2500nm. The power out of the SM fiber can be up to 100mW. The operating temperature range is from -10°C to +50°C. With dimensions of 12.6mm to 15mm in diameter and 40mm in length (without connector) they are very compact. As an option these modules are offered with potentiometer for power adjustment, external TTL modulation up to 1MHz and analogue modulation up to 100kHz.

HIGH POWER LINE LASER DIODE MODULES

The ML2540-Series laser modules deliver high output power up to 2W and are ideal for the use in industrial applications with harsh environmental conditions. The offered wavelengths range is from 405nm to 1060nm. Apart from round and line beam, other beam shapes like grids, circles or line and dot arrays are available. The line

LASER LINE MODULES WITH EASY FOCUS ADJUSTMENT

It is eminently necessary in machine vision, especially in 3D vision systems, to have a laser illumination source that delivers uniform and stable line beam. FLC offers line laser diode modules from the HAML-F series for those applications. They are very compact, reliable and the focus can easily be adjusted by rotating the upper www.frlaserco.com | sales@frlaserco.com

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part by hand. Additionally it fulfills the IP67 requirements, which make it the right product for the use in harsh environmental conditions at production facilities. The wavelength range is from 405nm to 1060nm and the output power can be up to 200mW. N:\Documents\T-Online Documents\ SHOWS\VISION\VISION 2018\ Pressebooklet\HAML-Modul-17-2w 1.jpg NEW HIGH POWER LASER ILLUMINATORS

Frankfurt Laser Company now offers a new series of highpower laser illuminators based on high quality VCSEL chips and excellent optic design. With an optical output power of up to 25W it is possible to achieve an illumination range of more than 5000m. The illuminators of the FLTT series have a large dynamic beam angle zooming range and match the field view angle of most standard cameras. The customer can choose between RS232, RS422; RS485 and TTL interface and they are compatible with major lens and cameras, integrated with the protocols of Pelco D. It is easy for users to implement the illuminators in their systems. Simultaneously, position can be pre-set via serial port, and users can call the instruction to operate conveniently in use. Due to uniform power intensity of the beam, users can obtain high quality videos and easily recognize gestures.

Applications • Security Surveillance • Automobile Night Vision (ADAS) • Machine Vision • Gesture Recognition • Display Applications • Medical Applications • Military Applications • Port Terminal Monitoring • Border and Coastal Defense Monitoring • Forest Fire Monitoring • Commanding Height Monitoring • Highway Monitoring

Line Laser Modules for Machine Vision and

Laser Triangulation HAML-F Uniform Line Laser Diode Module Wavelength: 405nm – 1060nm Output power: 100mW – 200mW Line uniformity: up to +/- 10% Industrial protection: IP67 Easy manual focus adjustment

ML2540 High Power Line Laser Modules Wavelength: 405nm – 1060nm Output power: 0.5W – 2.0W Temperature stabilized Industrial protection: IP67 Market smallest footprint: 130mm x 40mm x 25mm

HSML-E Ultra-thin Uniform Line Laser Diode Module Wavelength: 405nm – 1060nm Output power: up to 50mW Line width: 10 μm Line uniformity: up to +/- 10% Industrial protection: IP67 Separate electronic driver to use in limited space devices

See technical details on

frlaserco.com

See us at Hall 10 Booth 10E90 Oct 05 – 07, 2021 Stuttgart, Germany

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

BOM V12 produces the BoM : tree-view 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

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

If the Sale item is Make To Order (MTO) then the Works Order Processing routine kicks in

Stock Finished item is booked into Stock

v12 is suitable for Batch Manufacturing, Make to Stock, make to Order, Kanban & service works

v12 knows where it is; it covers multiple sock locations and stock with Sub Contractors

Stock values from v12 update Sage50 Nominal Ledger

Stock values per client defined categories can be up dated to Sage50 Nominal at client defined times

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

SEND IT Stock Stock records updated, Despatch note raised; Certificates of conformity produced

Sales Invoice raised & Sage 50 updated for

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

“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

Nominal Codes, Sales Ledger & VAT

For more information on Sapman v12 please visit our website at Sapmanv12.co.uk.

Email us on info@sapmanv12.co.uk or please telephone us on: 0333 456 12 12.

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SOFTWARE & SYSTEMS

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 £95-£20 per month (depending on user numbers) with no minimum contract obligation. Additional users can be added as required and, indeed, reduced.

and Sage200, and we still have some clients on Sage Line 100 yet to upgrade.

A key market for us is Sage users.

Sapphire Manufacturing Systems Ltd. The developer of Sapman v12 has been an Authorised Sage Developer for over 20 years. So most of our users run on Sage50

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.

One of the great advantages of Sapman v12 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

STOP PRESS Problem Sage announce both Sage50 Manufacturing and Sage200 Manufacturing are End Of Life Solution Sapmanv12 More Features – Less Cost – Sage Developer Fully Supported – Continuous Development Sapmanv12.co.uk COME AND MEET US AT SUBCON, NEC, BIRMINGHAM: 7-9 JUNE 2022 Issue 55 PECM

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INNOVATIVE DIGITISATION SAB BROCKSKES

High Flexible Industrial Ethernet Cables Flexibility, efficiency and digitisation. This is industry 4.0 – the current subject of German manufacturing industry. Due to the complete linking and communication on all levels of the production process considerable amelioration with regard to productivity and flexibility may result.

Today it is not quite clear how industry 4.0 in fully automated production will look like. Nevertheless, it is sure that a reliable transmission of increasing data volumes due to the steadily growing linking and communication of machine parts even under the most difficult conditions have to be ensured. As a consequence cables especially for machine construction, robotics or railway techniques are subject to extreme torsional stress and very high temperatures. These cables get in contact with different chemicals, oils or detergents.

Also the subject of longevity with respect to industry 4.0 in industrial sectors are of basic importance.

70 years after its foundation, SAB Bröckskes presents itself highly innovative as answer to the mega trends of digitisation and industry 4.0 . The company presents a range of new industrial Ethernet cables 6, 6A, 7 and 7A that are not only extremely robust but also ensure a quick and efficient data transmission.

SAB is not only a cable manufacturer but also offers support in automation technique for example in the range of new communication systems for drive technology. Herewith, the individual requirements of the customer and the longterm experience of SAB as manufacturer of highly flexible cables are combined in new products . The quick and flexible production of sample lengths is no problem at all.

The cable manufacturer focus on two Industrial Gigabit Ethernet cables that have been especially developed for the increasing data transfer in automation technique. Besides the world innovation CATLine CAT 7A RT, a CAT 7 A cable for robot application, SAB Bröckskes is also going to present a cable chain cable with UL/ CSA approval – the CATLine CAT 7 A S.

INDUSTRIAL ETHERNET CABLES AND WIRES CATEGORY 6A AND 7A: CATLINE CAT 7 A RT – for robot application Gigabit Ethernet cable with UL/ CSA The cable CATLine CT 7 A RT for robot application is suitable for rough industrial conditions in automation technique for example at high temperatures, pollution by oil and aggressive chemicals.

CATLINE CAT 7A S – FOR CABLE CHAIN APPLICATION GIGABIT ETHERNET CABLE WITH UL/ CSA

The cable chain cable CATLine CAT 7A S is suitable for rough industrial conditions in cable chains for example at high temperatures, pollution by oil and aggressive chemicals.

CATLINE CAT 6A HT – TEMPERATURE RESISTANT The temperature resistant cable CATLine CAT 6A HT is suitable for rough industrial conditions at temperatures up to fixed: -90°C/+ 180°C flexible: -55°C/ + 180°C.

CATLINE CAT 7A DR REELING CAT 7A GIGABIT ETHERNET CABLE

Our reeling CATLine CAT 7A cables have been developed for different applications whenever a considerable data volume must be transferred safely. They are for example used in stage technique of theaters, signal transmission and mobile trash rake cleaning or in high rack storage technique.

CATLINE CAT 7A R - RAIL CAT 7A

CATLine CAT 7A R acc. to DIN EN 45545-2, is especially appropriate for rail applications. The cable fulfills the requirements on no flame propagation of DIN EN 60332-3-25 + DIN EN 50305 section 9.1.1 + 9.1.2 and is flame retardant and self-extinguishing acc. to DIN EN 60332-1-2

SPECIAL SOLUTIONS FOR SPECIAL APPLICATIONS The production possibilities of SAB range from basic types and standard dimensions to special cables according to the individual requirements of our customers.

New productions are already possible for small quantities – especially interesting for small and pilot productions.

Cable manufacturer – SAB Bröckskes is a worldwide leading manufacturer of cables and wires, cable harnessing and temperature measuring technique. More than 60 years of experience in cable manufacturing as well as in temperature measuring technique have made out of a one man business a company with almost 500 staff members.

The strength of SAB Bröckskes is not only the manufacturing of standard cables but also the construction of special items.

Every year SAB manufactures more than 1500 special cables on customer´s request.

For further information, please visit www.sab-cable.com

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SOFTWARE & SYSTEMS

Find us on stand 19-627 in the Measurement & Inspection Zone at MACH 2022

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

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7-9 JUNE 2022

NEC, BIRMINGHAM

15

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50

35

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Over 200 world-class exhibitors 3 days of cutting-edge conference sessions from industry thought-leaders Countless networking opportunities

AND SO MUCH MORE!

INTERESTED IN EXHIBITING?

Book your stand before the 28th February 2022 to take advantage of the early bird discount.

Get in touch with Jason.dante@markallengroup.com for more information.

WWW.SUBCONSHOW.CO.UK JOIN THE CONVERSATION

@SubconShow #SubconShow

SWITCHES & SENSORS

A COMPLETE SOLUTION PROCESS SENSING TECHNOLOGIES

Measuring oxygen in metal additive manufacturing Metal additive manufacturing, also known as metal 3D printing, has become a widely adopted manufacturing process, particularly with the increased use and possibilities of metal powders. Businesses are turning to this technology due to the many benefits 3D printing provides in creating metal parts.

These benefits include faster turnaround times and increased flexibility to create complex structures, frequently resulting in significant cost reductions. To ensure the additive manufacturing system is running efficiently and delivers optimal quality, manufacturers use a number of sensors and monitoring instruments on their machines.

Process Sensing Technologies (PST) can provide a complete solution for quality, safety and efficiency in additive manufacturing with a range of analyzers and sensors for precision measurement and monitoring, designed to be integrated into AM machine manufacturers’ control and safety systems. Using zirconia sensor and solid-state technology, PST can also offer a range of oxygen analyzers that have been

It is critical that the quality of the end product is not impaired by the presence of oxygen during the metal 3D printing process. specifically developed for harsh process applications and are designed to comply with the requirements of IEC 61508 (SIL 2) for the fail-safe oxygen measurement on inert gas blanketing applications.

PST provides oxygen monitoring equipment for the production of specialised parts used in highly demanding end-user markets such as aerospace, medical, defence and

transport. Having the ability to measure oxygen is important in detecting changes in the 3D printing chamber environment. The atmosphere within the printing chamber must remain stable. Small changes in oxygen content can negatively impact the properties of metals, particularly titanium and aluminum.

It is critical that the quality of the end product is not impaired by the presence of oxygen during the metal 3D printing process.

Reducing the chances of oxidization of the metal during the build process is essential as this can lead to a build failure, stress test failure or also a density test failure due to low quality standards.

In addition to the risk of oxidization, moisture contamination is also recognised as a potential quality issue that affects the integrity of the product. Traditional metallurgical process – such as sintering – require dry, inert atmospheres to ensure strength and reliability. This is also the case in metal additive manufacturing.

For more information, please visit www.processsensing.com/am

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TOOLS

FUTURE PROOFING DESOUTTER

Manufacturing is truly facing new realities As the world emerges from the global pandemic, and we approach quarter two of 2022, Desoutter looks at what’s on the horizon for Manufacturing. With projects and solutions in place for customers around the world, Desoutter is uniquely placed to offer insight into the latest trends expected to boom.

GOING GREEN

Around the world we’re seeing the beginning of a green revolution, as we battle to minimise our negative impact on the climate. Manufacturing has an important role to play in the reduction of its adverse ecological footprint and the ongoing drive towards sustainability and carbon emission reduction. In addition, consumers’ buying

power has shifted as they now actively source ethically and environmentally-driven companies. It is more important now than ever to analyse shortcomings and fix them.

And there’s more! Speak to us about how you can find energy gains specifically for your business.

Three tips to help your company’s sustainability efforts:

Automated analytics tools will increasingly grow as manufacturing continues to move towards proactive data analysis.

• Transmit data digitally between systems rather than printing labels.

• Analyse deviation data to prevent the need for in-station rework, and its associated energy use.

• Avoid the engineering tendency to significantly over-spec new equipment which can reduce unnecessary higher energy consumption.

PREDICTIVE ANALYTICS

The use of data analysis as part of the Industry 4.0 model of smart-manufacturing has firmly cemented itself as the cornerstone of modern industry. Whilst the generation of traceability reports and OEE stats will have utility well into the future, there is a significant trend towards the use of predictive analytics over historical data analysis.

The concept of ‘predictive maintenance’ for equipment and machinery is an old one, but by utilising the increasingly abundant product and machine data, it’s now possible to predict far more than when to service manufacturing tools. Predictive analytics can help identify important characteristics such as the lifespan of a product and where production improvements can be made including TAKT time savings, and reduction in assembly deviations.

If this movement is something you’re interested to know more about, please get in touch with us!

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LOCALISED MANUFACTURING

In stark contrast to the now ever-present Gigafactories, Microfactories allow goods to be manufactured closer to their point of use.

Over the course of the last decade we’ve seen a vast shift towards larger and more centralised entities, be that in the emergence of Gigafactories fuelled by globalisation, or the creation of huge data-centres owned by a small number of companies handling a majority of web traffic. After the events of the global pandemic, this narrative has started to shift, paving the way for a less centralised, and therefore more agile and resilient way of working.

Outside of industry, this shift can be seen in the transition from centralised towards point-of-use energy solutions,

closely to where the goods will ultimately be used.

Automated analytics tools will increasingly grow as manufacturing continues to move towards proactive data analysis. such as domestic solar and heat pump technologies. This shift allows for these technologies to scale more easily than if fed from a central source. This methodology is starting to find its place in industry with more manufacturers starting to move away from a dependence on a small number of very large facilities, in favour of a higher number of smaller facilities located more

Whilst the verdict is still out on the relative infrastructure costs of each methodology, there are clear advantages to the point-ofuse ethos in its ability to scale more quickly and easily, as well as also eliminating the cost and waste associated with changing or scaling anything large and centralised.

Did you know, Desoutter has helped UK manufacturers create their factories of the future!

These trends are happening now. Planning for, or at least thinking about new and smarter ways of working to accommodate these shifts is crucial for business longevity.

We’d like to share ideas on how your business and its operations can achieve its short and long-term goals.

For further information, please visit www.desouttertools.com Issue 55 PECM

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TRAINING & RECRUITMENT

OPPORTUNITY TO UPSKILL THE BLACK COUNTRY & MARCHES IOT

£500,000 advanced skills boost for West Midlands manufacturers Hundreds of workers across the West Midlands are being given the opportunity to upskill thanks to a new initiative by The Black Country & Marches Institute of Technology (IoT).

Companies can now access specialist training for members of staff aged 19+ on one of three Level 4 technical courses in Automated Machining, Robotics and Quality Assurance.

The £500,000 In-Work Skills pilot, which will be delivered at the Marches spoke of the IOT at In-Comm Training in Telford, is free of charge and can be completed part-time and in modules giving both staff and employers complete flexibility.

Topics have been chosen to reflect the changing needs of industry as they look

to take advantage of new opportunities in advanced manufacturing and greener technologies, including the march towards electrification.

“Brexit and Covid has placed a lot of financial pressure on businesses and, in some cases, training budgets have been cut, meaning employees and bosses are missing out on vital skills development,” commented Bekki Phillips, Chief Operating Officer at In-Comm Training.

“The In-Work Skills pilot has been designed to bridge this gap and will give manufacturers access to high quality Level 4 technical courses at no cost to them.

“They will be delivered by our industry trainers, with content developed in conjunction with technical partners, such

In-Comm Training’s new Technical Academy in Telford

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as the Engineering Technology Group and Bauromat. Furthermore, employers will also have a big say in shaping the focus, so it gives them exactly the skills they need to become more competitive and to win new business.”

All courses are Level 4, enabling individuals to access a higher level of training and will be delivered one day per week over a three-month period, beginning the second week of January.

Individuals will have to complete assignment-based examinations to ensure they have the necessary knowledge and understanding of the specialist topics, including modern machining methods, key principles of six sigma and robot cell design.

Eligibility is simply manufacturers based in the West Midlands, employees must be aged 19+ and the company needs to have a strong desire to upskill their workforce.

Bekki went on to add: “This is a great opportunity for individuals to learn new skills that will futureproof their career and potentially support future promotion opportunities.

“The blended learning, a mixture of face-toface training and online supervision, means it is really flexible and it is rare that such a high-level programme can be completed without too much time taken away from the day job.”

ABOUT THE BLACK COUNTRY & MARCHES IOT The Black Country & Marches Institute of Technology is a new approach to delivering today’s technical education for tomorrow’s careers.

A vibrant learning environment has been created that leverages the capabilities of academia, employers and higher education, all geared towards providing high quality training opportunities with clear pathways to skilled jobs in automotive, advanced

engineering, aerospace, construction, medical and renewables.

This is a great opportunity for individuals to learn new skills that will futureproof their career and potentially support future promotion opportunities.

The IOT will help hundreds of local firms address recruitment and skills shortages, as well as giving thousands of individuals the chance to gain new ‘in-demand’ skills for modern industry.

It taps into the expertise of Dudley College of Technology, University of Wolverhampton, University of Worcester, Avensys and In-Comm Training for the Marches spoke of the Institute.

For further information or to book a course, please email sales@in-comm.co.uk Issue 55 PECM

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LATEST NEWS FROM NIS NIS

NIS expansion puts it on track to support the rail sector’s 120,000 recruitment push A Wolverhampton-based training provider is ramping up activities to help the rail sector meet an anticipated 120,000 shortfall in staff.

National Infrastructure Solutions (NIS), launched by former youth international footballer and Royal Marine Commando Davie Carns in 2018, is looking to support hundreds of local workers to retrain and upskill to take advantage of a ‘once in generation’ opportunity for the West Midlands.

The company, which is already working with huge industry employers such as Rhomberg

Sersa and Amey Rail on industry-specific courses, is also the lead partner at the City of Wolverhampton College’s (CoWC) new rail training centre at its Wellington Road Campus in Bilston.

The facility is equipped with installation and maintenance equipment to support courses on conventional, high speed and light rail lines.

It is also the first in the UK to offer training on slab track systems that are used in the construction of high-speed rail lines, such as HS2, directly adjacent to a conventional

Candice, one of the trainees being supported by the National Infrastructure Solutions

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rail track for training purposes.

This demonstrates NIS and CoWC’s commitment to creating both opportunity and choice for learners as they take their first steps into the rail industry.

“Our region has a major employment opportunity with billions of pounds going into rail infrastructure projects planned for or passing through our area,” explained Davie, who initially started work in the sector as a trackman, often working weekends and nights while undertaking resettlement from the military.

Davie Carns (left) at the official opening of the new rail training centre “Brexit is restricting the flow of European workers, meaning we are in a desperate rush to train people so they can enter employment in the sector and, equally importantly, upskill those already in the industry into more advanced roles to create sustainable careers for all.”

He continued: “What we have been doing over the last two years is listening to employers to develop a series of onsite and virtual courses that will equip individuals with core practical rail skills and qualifications covering leadership and management, health and safety and behavioural qualifications.

“Our partnership with the City of Wolverhampton College is also important and the facilities we have there are unrivalled in the UK. This gives us the opportunity to train people in a safe environment on the type of equipment and technology they’ll be working on once they are trackside.”

Demand for NIS’ services has increased by 300% over the last twelve months and the

who want to upskill and develop their knowledge further.

Our partnership with the City of Wolverhampton College is also important and the facilities we have there are unrivalled in the UK firm has responded by trebling its full-time workforce, sourcing local talent that is representative of the city it calls home.

It has so far trained 300 individuals so far, with 70% of participants going on to find sustained employment.

Courses are available for both newcomers to the sector who want to gain the skills employers are looking for, and those already working in the rail industry

NIS will also run free rail training courses for people who are registered as unemployed through a sector-based work academy programme (SWAP). The six-week scheme will offer pre-employment training, on-site work experience and a guaranteed job interview with an industry employer looking to recruit new staff.

“With my background, it’s no surprise that one of our big passions is supporting former members of the Armed Forces to retrain for a career in rail and this is something we’re looking to develop with the launch of our ‘Back on Track’ programme shortly,” added Davie.

“Our senior management team has agreed to donate 2.5% of our profits to local charities and we want to continue working with fantastic organisations like Reach and Unite to ensure that everyone who wants a career in rail has the opportunity to gain the skills they need to be given a chance in the sector.”

For further information, please visit www.nisgroup.co.uk or follow national-infrastructure-solutions-nis on LinkedIn. Issue 55 PECM

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Online Health & Safety and HR Compliance training made simple iHASCO help over 10,000 UK businesses just like yours with their workplace training needs, covering the fundamentals such as core health and safety, HR, compliance, wellbeing and also soft skills. Along with dedicated courses for the manufacturing sector we are confident that we can help you too in keeping your staff safe, happy and productive all year round.

Some of our most popular online training courses include: Fire Awareness, PPE, Noise Awareness, General Workshop Safety and Electrical Safety.

Our course library of over 140 high-quality, video-based eLearning courses are approved or accredited by the likes of IOSH, IIRSM, RoSPA and CPD and available in over 30 languages. Gain instant access to our entire online library to trial our engaging courses that your staff will love at www.ihasco.co.uk/try 01344 867088 hello@ihasco.co.uk

Pro-Reliability Solutions Pro-Reliability Solutions help and support manufacturing companies who are looking to improve the way they perform and deliver maintenance from an engineering and operations perspective.

We have selected some best in class elements that can support an organisations journey of Reliability. We have named these elements ‘Reliability Focus™’.

We deliver value to our clients by providing training, mentoring and facilitation services within the Reliability Focus™ elements.

Please feel free to give us a call and we would be happy to discuss any questions you may have regards any of the elements of Reliability Focus™ See www.Pro-reliabilitysolutions.com or contact info@pro-reliabilitysolutions.com for more information

The MTC – training the next generation of engineering technicians

The Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre (AMTC), on the Manufacturing Technology Centre campus at Ansty Park in Coventry, is trebling the number of apprentices it trains.

The industry-leading centre, sponsored by Lloyds Bank, is to provide training for 300 high quality apprentices a year by 2020.

AMTC apprentices are trained though a mix of traditional skills complimented with modules of advanced manufacturing and are exactly what manufacturing industry is looking for to fill the high-tech jobs of the future. AMTC apprenticeships have the advantage of not being company or sector-specific, so the result is a fully-rounded apprentice capable of filling the most demanding of manufacturing and engineering positions. The apprentices are fully tutored in work behaviours and engineering basics, but are also exposed to the latest manufacturing technology. https://the-amtc.co.uk

Helping you and your business achieve long term sustainable reliability Pro-Reliability Solutions Limited (PRS) is a leading provider of asset management, maintenance and reliability engineering consulting and training services, who help and support companies to reach their potential by improving the way they perform and deliver reliability and maintenance from an engineering and organizational perspective.

Offered as a single program, or as individual modules based on customer needs, ReliabilityFocus™ provides a comprehensive framework for asset reliability improvement and the development of a strong reliability culture, releasing hidden plant profit and driving other benefits such as:

Setting out to find ways to harness the power and potential of reliability to industry, Pro-Reliability Solutions has developed a framework for achieving reliability success.

This framework is called ReliabilityFocus™.

ReliabilityFocus™ Maturity Self-Assessment: Where are you now versus where you need to be?

• Improved safety performance • Increased operational performance • Increased maintenance effectiveness • Proactive risk mitigation and elimination of unplanned events • Greater teamwork and motivation

If you are an existing plant, a new facility or still in the design phase and looking to evaluate or start your reliability improvement journey, Pro-Reliability Solutions offers a facilitated reliability maturity self-assessment to help companies understand reliability maturity within their organisations. This collaborative exercise aids in exposing gaps and provides companies with a deep insight that helps them to move forward, or indeed take those first few steps.

Facilitated by an expert Reliability Coach, the assessment output will consist of a comprehensive report identifying the ‘Gap to Potential’ and recommendations targeted for continuous improvement.

With offices in the U.K., Ireland and the U.A.E., Pro-Reliability Solutions can support your team and your asset management program to deliver optimum plant performance that will lead to direct results for the operation both in terms of cost and risk reduction and would be happy to discuss your needs and requirements at any time.

E: info@pro-reliabilitysolutions.com | W: www.pro-reliabilitysolutions.com | T: +44 1484 941068

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PECM Issue 55

VALVES & FLOW CONTROL

GEMÜ eSy Electric Valve Range – A Better Alternative!

Flotronic pumps Ltd Founded in 1981 in West Sussex, Flotronic Pumps is a world-leading manufacturer of air operated double diaphragm pumps (AODP).

With the invention of our ground-breaking ‘One Nut’ pump design, Flotronic have revolutionised the application of diaphragm pumps throughout the industry.

Over the last 30 years our ‘One Nut’ double diaphragm pump has proven its success in an incredibly diverse range of international industries including but not limited to pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, cosmetics, personal and household care and chemical manufacturing.

Our global customer base can rely on our expertise in delivering the highest quality products as well as our abilities to provide engineering excellence, thus enabling them to achieve their competitive edge.

For more information please contact: +44 (0)1444 881871 or email salesteam@flotronicpumps.com

Myron L Company 900 Series™ Monitor/Controllers The innovative 900 Series Monitor/Controllers include everything you need to simplify water quality management and chemical dosing in industrial operations in one compact userintuitive instrument.

Monitor 7 critical water quality parameters simultaneously from easily configured inputs: 2 Conductivity/Resistivity/TDS/Salinity; 1 pre-amplified pH/ORP; 1 BNC pH/ORP; 1 0/4-20 mA; 1 RTD Temperature; and 1 Flow/Pulse. % Rejection is available as a derived value.

Outputs include up to 3 relays; 2 remote alarms; 1 0/4-20 mA; 1 0-10 VDC; and 1 RS-485 ASCII Serial Output.

Flow Switch input can disable all relay outputs when triggered by loss of flow.

Relays output to any user-supplied control equipment requiring up to 250V each and can trigger on any input parameter. www.myronl.com

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PECM Issue 55

Thinking of switching from a compressed air system to an energy-efficient alternative? GEMÜ offers an extensive range of electric valves for a wide variety of applications.

Electric valves are known for their cost-efficiency and increased performance, as well as reduced risk of contamination.

The GEMÜ R629 eSyLite is a low-cost diaphragm valve for simple and cost-sensitive applications. Alternatively, GEMÜ eSyStep valves are designed for standard open/closed and simple control applications, featuring a compact spindle actuator with step motor and can be mounted with electrical position indicators/travel sensors.

For complex open/closed and control applications, GEMÜ eSyDrive valves are more suitable. Designed on the basis of the hollow shaft principle in conjunction with technology that does not use brushes/ sensors, the eSyDrive actuator sets new standards in terms of service life, compactness, actuating speed and energy-efficiency. Available as diaphragm, globe and diaphragm globe valves, the eSy range offers an ideal solution for every budget and function segment.

For more information, please click here.

Youtube video: Motorized Valve – GEMÜ eSyDrive Functions: https://youtu.be/ug-F1C7i5Lc

Variable Temperature NMR Spectrometer for Materials Studies of Liquids & Solids Designed by a British company active in the NMR field for decades, this highly compact time-domain NMR relaxation spectrometer provides physical information on liquid and solid materials in the lab and in the field, at a very competitive cost close to typical non-NMR instrumentation. Thermo-electric elements precisely control temperature from -35C to +80C, with additional gas-assist available down to -80C. Variable temperature NMR Relaxation is a vital quantitative technique for material science, particularly for studying polymers and porous materials. This enables the measurement of crystalline/amorphous component masses and qualities which are variously described as mobility, dynamics, stiffness, viscosity or rigidity. In addition, poresize distributions can be measured from subnanometer to over 1 micron. +44 (0) 7805 437 241 https://nmrspectrometer.lab-tools.com/

Cloud-based Intelligent Asset Management system from Rotork Rotork’s Intelligent Asset Management is a cloud-based system for intelligent actuators and the flow control equipment they operate.

The system of advanced analytics improves the reliability and availability of key assets (such as valves) for industries that use flow control processes. Failure of key equipment on any plant can result in unplanned downtime, poor performance, reduced output yields and reputational damage.

Intelligent Asset Management uses the information downloaded from the data logs recorded within intelligent actuators. The robust, safe and secure online platform has a simple user interface that can run on all operating systems. Summary views and colour coded maps simplify complex analytics into easy to understand visuals. The key areas of information that are taken from data loggers and uploaded to the system are torque, temperature, vibration and event log information. www.rotork.com/en

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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