Manufacturers Monthly February 2022

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Manufacturers’ Monthly Contents

Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy

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Editor’s Note

24 Manufacturing Excellence

36 Team Building

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Comment

29 Cyber security

37 Seals

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News@MM

32 Manufacturing Events

38 Hoses

34 Manufacturing Services

40 What’s New

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We bring colour into view!

MANAGEMENT >> TECHNOLOGY >> SOLUTIONS

FEBRUARY 2022

Compact capacitive level switches with 360° custom-colour status display

While manufacturing has relied upon the people to people bonds that characterise this industry to drive sales and business growth, today, many companies are seeing value in marketing, and not just to other businesses.

Telling the story of manufacturing to a broad audience has the potential to not only change the way the public understands manufacturing, but the

potential to transform business models.

In this issue of Manufacturers’ Monthly, we speak to a manufacturer who believes it is possible to minimise the fear of needles with its latest product.

The fear of needles or sharp objects is one of the oldest fears known to humans and it is one of the reasons that many of $ 480 or do transfusions us refuse to take jabs - procedures that could save us.

256 colours Individually selectable: Measurement in progress Sensor switching Process malfunction

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Comment

SYED SHAH – Managing Editor, Manufacturers’ Monthly

Further strides to manufacturing in 2022

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UTTING a pause on the issues COVID has currently caused, like supply chain issues for high demand products and services for domestic consumption, and the racket-fuelled drama that has gripped the nation over a certain international sporting personality’s vaccination status, let’s look instead at issues to do with bigger ongoing concerns on industrial developments that business can focus on and control, internally.

It has been quite some time since the concept of the Internet of Things (IoT) has been introduced into the traditional manufacturing mainframe and having the skills to manage IoT technologies has been an issue for a while until very recently.

Most local manufacturing conferences in the past decade addresses this “gap”, time and again.

Initially, the thought of having data to measure the deterioration of your existing equipment was just

4 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

something fancy that you saw at a convention centre and not practical.

Then rising costs of production set with cheaper overseas competition for similar products in huge quantities, and before we knew it, local manufacturing was behind the eight ball. We took quite a while in terms of skills to bridge the gaps for upskilling, and it’s still not enough, but we’re on the way.

Today, the IoT for the industrial sector – the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) or Industry 4.0, depending on the organisation you’re from – is highly developed, and the global market for it is large.

Accenture’s report Winning with the Industrial Internet of Things already stated that the IIoT market will be more than US$14.3 trillion ($19.63 trillion) by 2030.

Recently, there has been an increase in the bridging of the “missing link” between universities who offered science, technology,

engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses and manufacturing companies who offer real-life work experience. One such collaboration that happened last year would be the advanced research centre for next generation vehicles that will be established at Deakin Univerity thorough a $13 million Next Generation Simulator project at Waurn Ponds. In this project, there will be partnerships with Ford Australia and Ansible Motion that will ensure locally made vehicle products are commercially viable and internationally competitive. The project will create 15 jobs by 2025, as well as four PhD positions and two internships each year.

In Australia, there is an active drive towards involvement by governments to have training implemented before students get into the workforce. Also, there are programs to reskill workers in the existing workforce for the new,

advanced skills needed in a rapidly changing manufacturing sector.

Whether the person is a fresh graduate or someone that is retrained, as long as he or she is equipped with the adequate skillset where smart manufacturing is concerned (analytics, automation, artificial intelligence, etc.), then a difference can be made on the manufacturing floor.

The collaborations from a few years back between TAFE and industry partners constantly needs updating in terms of training manuals, styles, technology, equipment, etc. The structure for collaborations has drastically improved, and unlike in the past, both sides are now willing to understand the urgency and react to integrate training related to IIoT technologies. But will this bear fruit and steer our manufacturing sector to greater heights in the years to come? That remains to be seen. manmonthly.com.au

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Comment

GEOFF CRITTENDEN – CEO, Weld Australia

Governments must have confidence in Australian manufacturing

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ANUFACTURING is a key contributor to the Australian economy.

According to the Federal Government’s Australian Manufacturing Performance Report, manufacturing contributes $100 billion to the Australian GDP every year, employs around 1 million people, and is responsible for an astounding 26 per cent of all business expenditure on R&D in Australia.

This strength of performance is made by possible by Australia’s worldclass local manufacturers. Australian manufacturers are helping to deliver a strong, resilient economy for all Australians, which is more important than ever in the post-COVID world.

Australian manufacturers deserve to be backed by our governments.

Australian manufacturing is worldclass. We need our governments to recognise that local manufacturers, fabricators, and welders have the capability and capacity to deliver their local asset and infrastructure needs. Government procurement decisions must prioritise Australian manufacturing.

New South Wales Transport Infrastructure Woes Weld Australia is calling on Governments to have confidence in Australian manufacturing in the wake of several faults in New South Wales’ trams and ferries.

All 12 trams that normally run on the Central to Dulwich Hill line were decommissioned in November 2021. Major cracking was found in the trams, which were manufactured in Spain. The trams only came into service in 2014 and are already out of warranty, which means New South Wales taxpayers could be liable to foot the repair bill.

This was quickly followed by the suspension of the Newcastle light rail after a mechanical issue was identified in the trams, which were built by the same Spanish manufacturer behind the Dulwich Hill fleet.

A number of cracks were also 6 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

Weld Australia believes that manufacturers, fabricators and welders must be recognised for their capabilities.

recently discovered in the hull of one Sydney’s new Manly ferries.

An independent report identified several welding defects onboard the Balmoral—one of the Emeraldclass ferries, which were built in Indonesia and China.

A globally competitive industry Australian manufacturing, fabrication and welding companies are globally competitive and more than capable of delivering infrastructure like Sydney’s trams and ferries on time and, more importantly, in accordance with all relevant international Standards.

Over the last few years, the Australian fabrication industry has made enormous progress. In 2018, there were just 15 local companies certified to the international Standard for welding quality. Today, there are over 75 companies certified

by Weld Australia as compliant with the Standard. Several local companies are also certified to the international

Standard for welding rolling stock, while still more have passed the most stringent welding certification available – the German Standard for welding of armoured vehicles.

Working with TAFEs nationally, Weld Australia has helped rejuvenate technical welder training in Australia, so that it is now among the most advanced in the world. Many of our TAFEs boast Advanced Welding Training Centres that feature stateof-the-art augmented reality welding simulators. Here at Weld Australia, we continue to deliver training in accordance with the internationally recognised Standard for Welding Supervisors, Inspectors and Engineers—our enrolment numbers have more than doubled over the last three years.

Given all this, it should come as no surprise that Australia is home to some of the world’s most highquality, high-tech manufacturers, from Bombardier (now known as Alstom) who manufacture trains and trams in Melbourne, through

to Austal who is one of the top ship builders in the world.

Australian Governments have responsibility for ensuring that public assets and infrastructure are safe and reliable. Their procurement policies must take into account the “whole of life cost”. The cheapest upfront cost is not necessarily the cheapest whole of life cost. Nor is it the most reliable and safe for the public.

Australian fabricators are not only trained and certified to the highest international Standards – making them more than capable of manufacturing our assets and infrastructure – but because they are locally based, it is easy for Government engineers to verify their processes and quality.

This type of ongoing verification

by Government engineers is used by the Department of Defence for all defence projects. Similarly, Transport for New South Wales employs this process for every bridge constructed in the state. Every piece of infrastructure is quality checked manmonthly.com.au

Today, there are over 75 companies certified

by Weld Australia as compliant with the international standard for welding quality.

throughout the manufacturing and installation phases. There is no reason why State Governments couldn’t do the same for assets like trams and ferries – they just need to award the contracts to local suppliers.

A global comparison Let’s compare Australia to the rest of the world. Manufacturing makes up about 16 per cent of the workforce in Germany, Japan, and Switzerland.

Canada, whose economy otherwise is similar to ours, has 1.7 million manufacturing workers, compared to our 1 million. In Israel and Sweden, with far smaller populations, advanced manufacturing is thriving.

South Korea—the 5th largest export economy in the world and the 6th most complex economy according to the Economic Complexity Index (ECI)—had a positive trade balance of $124 billion in 2017.

In comparison, Australia lags behind as the 20th largest export economy in the world and, embarrassingly, the 59th most complex economy. In 2017, Australia had a positive trade balance of just $44 billion—just a third of that of South Korea’s.

It is a matter of national pride to buy South Korean-made goods, from trams and ferries, right through to cars and telephones.

Imports and sales of products such as German-made cars and iPhones are some of the lowest manmonthly.com.au

in the world in South Korea.

Why? Because every element of Government and the South Korean people work together to support their local manufacturing industry. There is a real cultural and governmental focus on growing and protecting their local economy and developing their own strengths.

The impact of COVID-19 The Federal Government pledged $320 billion, representing 16.4% of annual GDP, to economic stimulus packages designed to bolster the economy in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

If Australia is ever going to re-pay the $320 billion stimulus package, we need to invest in our economy. To secure the future of Australian manufacturing and re-pay the debt that COVID-19 will leave in its wake, we need determined action from our governments, industry leaders, and the general public to put Australia first. We need to foster a sense of social responsibility.

We need a commitment from our governments to increase levels of local content for all procurement decisions. We need to bring home the manufacture of goods like trams and ferries. There really is no reason for our governments not to onshore this manufacturing work – Australian manufacturers are ready, willing and more than capable.

Manufacturers’ Monthly FEBRUARY 2022 7

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News @MM Up to $10 million available to launch Australian SMEs into space Under round two of the Demonstrator Program as part of the Moon to Mars initiative, Australian small and medium businesses will be able to apply for mission grants between $750,000 and $10 million to help launch their technologies into space.

A total $41 million grant pool will help more Australian space businesses develop the experience they need to compete on the international stage, according to minister for Science and Technology, Melissa Price.

“These investments will position Australian space companies to be able to play a part in future space missions, including NASA’s efforts to go to the Moon and beyond,” Price said.

“The more Australian technology we can help launch into space, the more the global space community stands up and takes notice of our businesses and researchers.”

Supporting Australian companies to develop their space experience is essential for them to break into new markets and

supply chains, Price said.

“Excitingly, the jobs that come from our growing space sector spread across a range of industries and skill sets – from resources, to agriculture, to manufacturing,” she said.

“This is all part of the Morrison government’s plan to grow a globally respected space sector that benefits all Australians, both now and into the future.”

Access to Space is one of seven priority areas under the Australian Civil Space Strategy 2019-2028.

“We know the world wants to do business with Australian space companies, but one of the challenges we face is the relative lack of space heritage that many of their innovative technologies have,” Australian Space Agency head Enrico Palermo said.

“We don’t want to see great Australian ideas or technology remain grounded because of a lack of support.”

Earlier this year, round one of the Demonstrator Program saw 20 projects receive up to $200,000 each for their feasibility studies.

Round Two of the government’s Demonstrator Program will fund Australian SMEs to launch space technologies.

To apply for a mission grant in round two, companies do not have to be a recipient from round one, but will require a feasibility study to support their application.

Companies will also need to contribute at least 25 per cent

of the mission’s costs.

Round two of the program is expected to open to applicants around the first quarter of 2022, with the recent release of the guidelines designed to support companies to prepare.

BOC and Optimal Group to develop Australia’s first bioLNG facility BOC’s micro-LNG plant in Tasmania.

8 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

BOC, a gas and engineering company and subsidiary of Linde plc, has announced a new MoU agreement with Optimal Group to explore the development of Australia’s first bioLNG facility.

The companies will investigate the potential for Optimal Renewable Gas to build a $55 million, 2.4 TJ/ day waste to biogas plant adjacent to BOC’s micro-LNG plant in Westbury, Tasmania.

BOC and its subsidiary Elgas supply LNG to industrial customers in Tasmania. The biogas plant would provide biomethane to BOC’s

micro-LNG plant, which would then be processed into bioLNG and distributed to BOC and Elgas customers in agriculture, food processing and other industries.

BioLNG provides an opportunity for industrial and commercial customers to achieve net zero emissions, while retaining existing plant and equipment. LNG is typically used for thermal processes and off-grid power generation at sites without access to a natural gas pipeline network.

BOC South Pacific director of Strategy and Clean Energy, Vesna manmonthly.com.au

News @MM Olles, said the new agreement was part of BOC and Elgas’s commitment to develop low carbon gas alternatives and provide pathways for customers to decarbonise thermal energy processes.

“BOC and Elgas are investing in new technologies, partnerships and research to progress the development of green hydrogen, green ammonia and biogases across Australia,” Olles said.

“We are committed to working with government, industry and customers to accelerate the transition to net zero emissions and address the key themes outlined in the Australian Renewable Energy Agency’s (ARENA) Bioenergy Roadmap. We believe biogases

will be a key part of Australia’s future energy mix particularly for hard-to-abate sectors.

“We look forward to working with Optimal Group to explore the opportunity for transitioning BOC’s Westbury micro-LNG plant to bioLNG and working together nationally to develop further opportunities to produce biogases.”

Optimal Group has a strong track record delivering biogas projects across Australia with a pipeline of additional projects underway in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.

Optimal Group CEO, Craig Dugan, said a bioLNG plant in Tasmania would benefit industrial customers with many relying on natural gas

or LNG for 70 per cent of their overall energy requirements.

“We are delighted to have reached agreement on this MoU with BOC and Elgas. Our aim is to build 10 grid scale biogas projects with a mix of biogas to grid and biogas to LNG over the next decade,” he said.

“The secret to success in this field will be speed and scale. Our customers are urgently seeking a solution to their thermal energy requirements and biogas offers them a commercially and technically proven alternative while solving Australia’s need to divert putrescible waste from landfill.”

Biogas could help governments address Australia’s growing waste disposal problems while producing

a valuable renewable fuel, according to Optimal Group chair Dr John Hewson.

“Biogas technology is well proven in Europe and North America. Putrescible waste is diverted from landfill, sorted and processed through an Anaerobic Digester to produce biomethane.

The by-products include fertiliser, biomethane and bio carbon dioxide,” Hewson said.

“The recent release of ARENA’s Bioenergy Roadmap recognises that biogas will play a significant role in decarbonising our gas grids. Optimal and its partners believe these biogases will create economic growth in the construction and operation of the plants. It is a win-win solution.”

Researchers and businesses preparing to head to the Moon can now test their technologies in a new Brisbane purpose-built facility established by the CSIRO, which provides a Moon-like environment.

At the In-situ Resource Utilisation (ISRU) Facility, researchers can test and evaluate rovers and related equipment that have an initial focus of exploring lunar terrain and resources.

Apollo program astronauts observed first-hand the challenges of working on the Moon. One of those challenges was the fine abrasive dust that covered their spacesuits and instruments. The ISRU Facility includes a sealed dust area to safely handle and manage various types of lunar regolith simulant – fabricated Moon dust – with properties like those on the surface of the Moon.

The facility also incorporates smaller tanks and pits for smallerscale tests and a mission control room to remotely monitor rovers, payloads and related equipment.

It is an excellent addition to the suite of facilities CSIRO manages and will complement CSIRO’s space research and the activities manmonthly.com.au

of the Australian space sector, CSIRO Space Program director Dr Kimberley Clayfield said.

“Our ability to simulate the lunar terrain at this scale is an exciting advancement for the development of space technology in Australia,” Clayfield said.

“This facility is the latest example of our commitment to stimulating innovation, supporting industry and solving the greatest challenges through space science, technology and exploration. We’re looking forward to working with researchers and businesses from across the space sector to test their technology and systems for future space missions.”

Several international space agencies and companies are planning new missions to the Moon’s surface to identify materials that could support further exploration and potentially habitation.

CSIRO ISRU project leader Dr Jonathon Ralston explained how the lunar regolith is both the solution and one of the major challenges facing these robotic missions.

“We know the regolith will contain useful materials like oxygen that could be used for fuel

Image: CSIRO.

New facility tests how technologies will function on the Moon

At the In-situ Resource Utilisation (ISRU) Facility.

or breathable air, however we need to first identify these elements and develop ways of extracting and processing them,” Ralston said.

“The challenge is the Moon dust is powdery, sharp and electrostatically charged so it sticks to everything and has the potential to damage the technology sent to investigate it. Our facility offers technology developers the opportunity to test their equipment closer to home, in a safe environment to find

solutions to this dusty problem.”

The facility is located at CSIRO’s Queensland Centre for Advanced Technologies, home to other testing facilities including the robotics playground where CSIRO’s robotics team trained for their silver-medal performance in the recent DARPA Subterranean Challenge.

“Integration and access to other facilities and equipment on site is another advantage that will benefit future users of our facility,” Ralston said.

Manufacturers’ Monthly FEBRUARY 2022 9

News @MM AW Bell and Riviera Australia share manufacturing Australian Export Award award. The business has developed out of the automotive industry to aerospace and defence,” AW Bell CEO Sam Bell said.

“This accolade is testament to the hard work and commitment by everyone at AW Bell over the years and could not have been made possible without the incredible team we have at AW Bell, our partners, suppliers, customers and from ongoing government support. We are very grateful for the honour.”

Meanwhile, Riviera is an Australian luxury motor yacht builder. Founded in 1980, the company has launched over 5,750 motor yachts over the past 41 years. The yachts currently built by Riviera are internationally acclaimed for their innovative design, superior engineering and performance, and luxurious interiors.

From Riviera’s Gold Coast facility, a team of over 850 people create more than 120 motor yachts every year. The Riviera range spans 39 to 78 feet, with 24 models from six distinct Riviera collections. The long-term, international popularity of Riviera motor yachts is evidenced by more than half of annual production heading to overseas markets each year.

This global reach sees Riviera motor yachts cruising the Mediterranean, Pacific and Caribbean, as well as the Great Lakes and coastal waters of North and South America.

AW Bell, the joint winner of the Manufacturing and Advanced Materials Award at the Australian Export Awards.

Image : AW Bell

The 59th Australian Export Awards, held on 25 November, named two joint winners for the Manufacturing and Advanced Materials Award – AW Bell from Victoria and Riviera Australia from Queensland.

The award was given for outstanding international success in manufacturing, engineering and advanced materials development, including the production of consumer products.

AW Bell, an advanced precision metal parts manufacturer, has a core business in investment and sand casting. Highly vertically integrated, it also offers its customers precision machining, inspection, assembly, engineering, design and manufacturing support, and metallurgical services.

Located in Melbourne, AW Bell provides international companies with an advanced manufacturing alternative with proven quality, delivery and customer service performance throughout its export history. In the past 12 months, AW Bell further matured its global aerospace presence, acquiring new projects with existing customers whilst securing an additional key North American aerospace defence contract. Export regions currently include North America, Germany, New Zealand and China.

“We are very proud to win this

The Australian minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, Dan Tehan, has praised all the businesses involved in the 59th Australian Export Awards for their contribution to supporting jobs, the economy and local communities.

“All 89 finalists should be proud of their businesses; together they have contributed more than $6.2 billion in export earnings to the Australian economy and employ more than 17,700 people,” Tehan said.

“Our government is supporting Australian entrepreneurs and businesspeople to engage with international trade and be innovative and adaptable to succeed.”

In all, the 13 national category award winners included: • Advanced Technologies – DroneShield, NSW • Agribusiness, Food and Beverages –

Monsoon Aquatics, NT • Creative Industries – WildBear Entertainment, ACT • E-commerce – Clean and Pure, WA • Emerging Exporter – Penten, ACT • International Education and Training – Engineering Institute of Technology, WA • International Health – Invetech, VIC • Manufacturing and Advanced Materials – AW Bell, VIC; Riviera Australia, QLD • Minerals, Energy and Related Services – Consep, NSW • Professional Services – CMAX Clinical Research, SA • Regional Exporter – AirPhysio, NSW • Small Business – iBuild Building Solutions, VIC • Sustainability – True South Seafood, TAS

Quantum Terminal opens in Tech Central in NSW The 59th Australian Export Awards, held on 25 November, named two joint winners for the Manufacturing and Advanced Materials Award – AW Bell from Victoria and Riviera Australia from Queensland.

The NSW government has welcomed the first tenants to the new innovation and technology precinct, Tech Central’s Quantum Terminal, which will support 10 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

businesses to scale up and grow.

“With first-class researchers and entrepreneurs eager to collaborate and an innovation precinct ready to support jobs growth, NSW is in pole position to become a global leader in technology,” NSW premier Dominic Perrottet said.

“Tech Central is predicted to bring up to 25,000 jobs to NSW and will be a major player in

accelerating our economic recovery and future-proofing our economy.”

Q-Ctrl, Sydney Quantum Academy and Quantum Brilliance are now in place in Sydney’s first centralised live collaboration space for researchers, developers, engineers and entrepreneurs – all working to advance quantum technology, highperformance computing and

artificial intelligence.

The government is focused on helping businesses expand and enter their next phase of growth at Tech Central, minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney and minister for Trade and Industry, Stuart Ayres said.

“Quantum Terminal along with the rest of Tech Central will form one of the most vibrant innovation manmonthly.com.au

News @MM

manmonthly.com.au

Tech Central’s Quantum Terminal in NSW will support businesses to scale-up.

Image credit: NSW government.

corridors in Australia,” Ayres said.

“Building on the opening of the Quantum Terminal, we’re also investing up to $21 million to prioritise affordable accommodation for scale-ups. From December, businesses can apply for rebates on rental and fit-out costs of up to $600,000 a year through the Tech Central Scaleup Accommodation Rebate.”

The Tech Central Scaleup Hub, located in the heart of the precinct at 477 Pitt Street, will be operated by technology community Stone & Chalk providing 8,000 square metres of affordable and flexible workspace for high-growth technology scale-ups.

NSW minister for Digital and Customer Service, Victor Dominello, unveiled some of the digital tools that will power Tech Central’s innovation ecosystem.

This includes a digital twin, an online interactive tool on the Tech Central website launch, that allows people to explore the precinct and its surrounds – from

businesses to bike lanes and bars.

“This is a modern government with a strong understanding of how to foster and harness technological and digital innovation for the good of our citizens and businesses,” Dominello said.

“The US has one Silicon Valley; NSW is investing in them across the city.”

Stone & Chalk is proud to be

the partner of choice for the NSW government’s growth agenda, according to CEO Michael Bromley.

“Through our second Hub in Sydney, we’ll be able to support domestic and international startups in their transition to becoming scale-ups by providing vital access to the resources and infrastructure required for success,” Bromley said.

The opportunities for innovation

and collaboration across the precinct are unrivalled, Tech Central Industry Advisory Group chair David Thodey said.

“These facilities and support initiatives will help businesses both large and small, driving new opportunities for innovation and collaboration to build a sustainable and enduring worldclass precinct,” he said.

Manufacturers’ Monthly FEBRUARY 2022 11

News @MM InnovationAus Awards recognise climate tech, quantum and space

12 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

Service and minister for Digital Victor Dominello.

“Australia has always been a nation that has punched above its weight when it comes to innovation,” Denholm said. “Our latest generation of talent have excelled in new areas of crucial technologies, such as software as a service for both enterprise and consumer applications, artificial intelligence for medical imaging, food processing, employee safety, cybersecurity, quantum computing and even producing the new generation of WiFi Halo chips.

“These awards celebrate the achievements of some of our country’s best innovators. I hope that these stories of InnovationAus’ award recipients, will be passed along in the houses of Parliament, in the board room, and also at your own kitchen table, with the goal of inspiring the next generation of smart young Australians, to get into tech.”

InnovationAus thanked everybody who supported them to bring the program together, including the Awards for Excellence advisors and judges, and honoured Patrons, Australia’s chief scientist Dr Cathy Foley and business leader David Thodey.

“We are absolutely delighted to bring together the best of the best in the technology sector and celebrate the enormous talent within this truly innovation ecosystem,” InnovationAus editorial director James Riley said.

“Today’s winners and finalists have shown us that if we are ambitious and smart about the way that we do things there are tremendous opportunities in front of us.”

The InnovationAus Awards for Excellence winners include: • Australian Hero Award Winner: Sea Forest Limited and Q-CTRL

Image: InnovationAus

Tasmanian climate change tech company, Sea Forest Limited, took home three trophies at InnovationAus’ inaugural Awards for Excellence on 1 December, including the People’s Choice and Australian Hero that was shared with quantum computing company, Q-CTRL. Gilmour Space Technologies was awarded the eagerly anticipated Space & Remote Automation category.

“Australia is globally recognised for the quality of its research and world-class university sector.

With the focus now turning to commercialisation, these awards bring a lens on the ambition and energy of our entrepreneurs at a critical point in time,” InnovationAus publisher Corrie McLeod said.

“The winners have demonstrated success in key sectors that have been recognised by our government as priorities for our future.

InnovationAus prides itself in shining a bright light on the people and the companies that are building Australia’s future industries.”

The finalists represent the nation’s most innovative and resourceful start-ups and scale-ups, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with giants of industry, McLeod said.

Held at the Overseas Passenger Terminal at The Rocks in Sydney and streamed online, the awards featured a keynote address from Robyn Denholm, the chair of global car and renewable energy company Tesla, as well as chair of the Technology Council of Australia.

With 400 guests at the event and more online, the InnovationAus Awards for Excellence recognised the depth and breadth of talent that Australia produces across a broad swathe of sectors. It also featured ministerial addresses from Australian minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor and shadow minister for Industry and Innovation Ed Husic, as well as NSW minister for Customer

Sea Forest’s Sam Elsom with Squiz chief executive John-Paul Syriatowicz.

Highly-commended finalists: • eSafety Commissioner • UNSW Smart Centre •

People’s Choice Award Winner: Sea Forest Limited Highly-commended finalists are • CSIRO – Coviu • Avertro

• Wildcard Award Winner: Nuheara Highly-commended finalists are • Baraja • Advanced Mobility Analytics • Award for Space & Remote Automation Winner: Gilmour Space Technologies • Award for Advanced Manufacturing Winner: Baraja Highly-commended finalists are • Marinova Pty Ltd • SPEE3D • Award for Cybersecurity Winner: Haventec Highly-commended finalists are • eSafety Commissioner • BRYK Group

• Award for Defence Industry Winner: DroneShield • Award for Energy & Renewables Winner: eleXsys Energy Highly-commended finalists are • Vast Solar • NOJA Power • Award for Food & Agritech Winner: Sea Forest Limited • Award for Medtech & Biotechnology Winner: Murdoch Children’s Research Institute Highly-commended finalists are • CSIRO & Coviu • SleepTite • Award for Mining Equipment, Technology & Services Winner: Presien Highly-commended finalists are • Pitcrew AI • Dash Tools, by BHP • Award for Research Translation Winner: Murdoch Children’s Research Institute Highly-commended finalists are • UNSW SMaRT Centre • Advanced Mobility Analytics manmonthly.com.au

News @MM

Schaeffler, a global automotive and industrial supplier, was awarded the Innovation in Hardware Award for its GraviKart robotic push trolly solution for the manufacturing industry at the International Conference on Social Robotics (ICSR) 2021.

The awards bring together researchers and academics to present their robotic solutions and works to an international multidisciplinary R&D community and representatives from robotics and AI companies to create impactful solutions for the betterment of society.

“We are proud that GraviKart was recognised for its innovation and hardware and systems engineering,” Schaeffler Hub for Advanced Research (SHARE) at NTU director, Boon Siew Han said.

“Winning this award demonstrates our continuous pursuit of developing more intelligent and innovative

solutions to transform the future of work and industry processes.”

Smart functionalities for social manufacturing Designed to infuse functionality with intelligent social behaviours, GraviKart, which features the ability to “listen” and “speak,” is part of Schaeffler’s efforts to reimagine traditional industrial manufacturing robots to support the factory floor workers with their tasks and increase their productivity.

Featuring intuitive user controls and feedback, the GraviKart is an easy-to-use intelligent pushcart that addresses issues that include strenuous pushing and pulling of goods, the presence of blind spots, and difficulty navigating tight spaces.

Built with sensitive haptic and speech recognition technology, the GraviKart understands human

gestures and provides visual cues through its built-in LED lights interactively to maximise efficiency and bring greater collaboration between robots and humans.

Creating tomorrow’s technologies through collaboration The GraviKart initiative is part of Schaeffler’s SHARE program, which comprises a global research network with leading universities worldwide.

Focused on applied research in strategically important topics, the SHARE program’s on-campus concept provides a structured approach for a fast and thorough transfer of research output into the industry.

“At Schaeffler, we see robotics as a prominent area of growth in supporting the needs of everyday living and in spearheading the Industry 4.0 revolution,” Boon said.

“By combining our unique

Image: Schaeffler

GraviKart solution awarded for Innovation in Hardware in robotics

GraviKart provides listening, speaking and visual recognition capabilities for effective communication between employees and robots. expertise in industrial components and systems engineering and cooperating with our educational partners in the region, we look to advance the development of intelligent solutions to pave the way for manufacturing industries for the future.”

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Transforming industry through advanced manufacturing

News @MM Four Trailblazer Universities to build commercialisation capacity The federal government’s new $242.7 million Trailblazer Universities initiative will establish four new research and industry hubs that will lead Australia’s breakthroughs in critical national manufacturing priorities.

Universities and industry will work together to develop technologies, products and businesses to solve Australia’s challenges. Each hub will focus on national priority areas from the Modern Manufacturing Strategy – defence, space, resources technology, food and beverage, clean energy and medical products.

“We’re putting our best minds to the task,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said. “We’re focusing our researchers and business leaders on Australia’s national priorities to help secure our economic recovery.

“The Trailblazer Universities will be a platform for our best researchers to find business partners, invest in entrepreneurs and achieve extraordinary results for the country.”

The universities will need to demonstrate their commercialisation readiness, such as having strong links with industry partners including cofunding commitments, Intellectual Property arrangements, promotion pathways for academics who focus on commercialisation activities (rather than pure research), and a governance arrangement chaired by an industry leader.

The four universities, selected through a competitive process, will receive up to $50 million over four years to build their commercialisation capacity and $8 million in CSIRO specialist support through their proven Test Labs.

The federal government will partner with universities who have shown drive and interest and are willing to lead the charge, minister for Education and Youth Alan Tudge said.

“Globally, our universities punch above their weight on pure basic research but lag in transforming 14 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

research into breakthrough ideas, products and new businesses,” Tudge said.

“We want our universities to play a bigger role in our economy, working hand-in-glove with Australian businesses to develop the next generation of great Australian products and companies. I am calling for expressions of interest from universities that are hungry to take research and convert it into commercial opportunities.”

The fund will support select universities to become innovation trailblazers, including at least one regional university.

“Universities that know their communities and understand the connection between research and innovation will be the winners under this scheme,” minister for Regionalisation, Regional Communications and Regional Education Bridget McKenzie said.

“Our regional institutions already generate ground-breaking solutions to real-world problems, particularly in areas of agriculture and mining.

This fund is a great opportunity to establish closer connections between universities and the innovation potential in their region.

“I particularly encourage our regionally based campuses to consider this opportunity, as many already have positive, ongoing relationships with industry.”

The new fund will drive research excellence and real-world impacts to accelerate Australia’s innovation agenda, minister for Defence Industry and Science and Technology Melissa Price said.

“The government will be looking to tap into universities that align their research with the national manufacturing priority areas: defence, space, food and beverage, medical products, recycling and clean energy, and resources and critical minerals technology,” Price said.

“This is an exciting opportunity for our universities to develop research

Four universities will be chosen under the government’s Trailblazer Universities initiative to solve important Australian challenges. and technology that goes on to improve the lives of all Australians.”

The recommendations of the taskforce have been informed by a rigorous consultation process, according to the government’s Research Commercialisation Taskforce chair and Siemens Australia CEO, Jeff Connolly.

“This is the first in a series of complementary measures that will contribute to an environment that focuses university research activity towards the goal of commercialisation and national economic benefit,” Connolly said.

Successful universities will also be supported through a stronger partnership with the CSIRO and access CSIRO Test Lab equipment, enabling researchers to work with some of our best applied scientists to prototype and test new technologies at scale.

This is the first initiative of the federal government’s research commercialisation agenda, with further announcements to be made in coming weeks.

Universities are invited to submit an initial expression of interest which will be used to shortlist applicants.

For more information, click here.

About the Trailblazer Universities program Applications from universities and industry partners will be assessed against three criteria: 1. Commercialisation readiness, including the adoption of innovative Intellectual Property arrangements, and clear promotion

pathways for academics engaged in commercialisation activity to reward research entrepreneurs; 2. Research capability to support a National Manufacturing Priority, including research translation and commercialisation capabilities to become a world-leading centre in a priority area; 3. Industry alignment, including collaborative partnerships with industry and co-funding from business partners, greater workforce mobility between businesses and universities, and offering courses in priority areas that are endorsed by industry.

Applications will be assessed under a two-stage process: 1. An expression of interest (November 2021 – January 2022); 2. A more detailed business case for shortlisted applicants (January – March 2022).

Successful university-industry partnerships will receive $50 million over 4 years, which can be invested in: • Recruiting and supporting leading research staff to engage in breakthrough research commercialisation activities; • Training staff to build greater commercialisation capability; • Research infrastructure and other facilities to support commercialisation outcomes; • Developing new courses to address skills gaps in priority areas; • Engaging in new partnerships with industry, including opportunities for staff mobility. manmonthly.com.au

News @MM Sydney Manufacturing Hub launches at the heart of “Industry 5.0” (i.e. additive manufacturing) and advanced manufacturing – often for the first time.

The Hub provides capabilities for design, topological optimisation, the 3D printing of metals, ceramics and polymers, as well as postprocessing heat treatment, advanced characterisation and more. It will pave the way for new technology in industries like aerospace, autonomous vehicles, biomedical, defence, maritime and robotics.

The University has continued to demonstrate its capability as a R&D leader in the region by working closely with both the public and private sector, University of Sydney vice-chancellor Professor Mark Scott said.

“The Sydney Manufacturing Hub, situated in Darlington at the very heart of ‘Tech Central’ is a key demonstrator for what’s ultimately possible when government, industry and higher education work together on high-

Image: Bill Green/University of Sydney

The $25 million Sydney Manufacturing Hub, located in the Engineering precinct of the University of Sydney’s Darlington campus, has been launched to drive innovation and foster industrial output in the heart of Tech Central.

The facility is a new manufacturing-focused research facility that will work alongside industry to deliver cutting-edge R&D in additive manufacturing and materials processing. It is a foundational node for complementary facilities that support the NSW government’s projects at Western Sydney Aerotropolis and Western Sydney parklands.

The Sydney Manufacturing Hub is geared to enable conceptto-production demonstration capabilities, including advanced preand post-processing of materials for faculty, students, small and mediumsized companies, and if needed, larger companies to experience and leverage metal 3D printing

The launch of the Sydney Manufacturing Hub with Stuart Ayres. impact technologies,” Scott said.

“This is evidenced not only through the establishment of this new research facility, but also via our collaborative projects in Greater Sydney, particularly the Western Sydney Parklands and Aerotropolis.”

Speaking at the launch, minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney and minister for Trade and Industry Stuart Ayres said:

“The concept of modern and additive manufacturing, rather than deductive manufacturing, is completely changing the opportunities that are available to Australians.”

The Sydney Manufacturing Hub will drive NSW’s “Industry 5.0” revolution.

“Advanced manufacturing is making the previously impossible possible. Key industries will benefit

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News @MM from these technologies through the reduction of material waste, simplified supply chains, and an independent capacity to create materials, components and even whole machines – all of which weren’t possible using traditional manufacturing,” University of Sydney Core Research Facilities director Professor Simon Ringer said.

“Using these technologies, we could soon see Australian designed and built space rocket engines, hypersonic vehicles, satellites, ecoactive building and construction and fast tracking of the electrification revolution in propulsion. It will even be transformative for areas like health – our team have recently leveraged additive manufacturing in the production of custom orthopaedic implants to help with patient-specific needs.”

According to Ringer, we are witnessing a dramatic disruption in how materials are made, which is

driving research breakthroughs.

“On one hand, we are looking at the periodic table with fresh eyes – additive manufacturing lets us combine elements to make new materials with entirely new combinations of properties at scale,” he said.

“On the other hand, additive and advanced manufacturing has made manufacturing more accessible, with digital workflows making it easier for local companies to enter competitive global markets.”

The research facility places Sydney at the centre of a new skills-based development and puts the gears in motion for the state’s advanced “Industry 5.0” output.

The facility will provide specialised consulting, fabrication activation and training to its industrial partners, providing both guided and autonomous access to the facilities for the purposes of testing, research and fabrication.

One partner is a pioneer in additive manufacturing technology, General Electric subsidiary GE Additive. They entered into a strategic five-year agreement with the university in 2020 to advance Australia’s manufacturing capability.

The University of Sydney and GE Additive are collaborating on R&D topics around materials, with experimental work performed at the new facility.

Accommodating metal printing technologies from GE Additive, the Hub will serve as a technology demonstration centre for GE Additive across Australia and New Zealand and host workshops, training and collaboration sessions for industry.

Small to medium enterprises account for the majority of advanced manufacturing operators in Australia and are a priority for collaboration with the Hub, GE Australia country leader Sam Maresh said.

“The Sydney Manufacturing Hub is now open for business and ready to engage with industry across NSW, particularly SMEs where there is significant opportunity for new highskilled jobs,” Maresh said.

“This facility will support the collaboration of industry and researchers and is set to become a commercialisation hub for new products and innovations across a range of advanced manufacturing industries. NSW is positioning itself at the centre of additive manufacturing capability and research within the AsiaPacific region and the Sydney Manufacturing Hub is a significant step towards achieving that ambition.

“We are delighted to partner with the university on this project and can see the value of the new facility as an industrial incubator, underpinning rapid advances in manufacturing and developing worldleading skills for Australian SMEs.”

Applications open for Supply Chain Resilience funding The federal government is investing more than $33 million to shore up Australia’s supply chains, including backing Australia’s only local manufacturing site for critical intravenous (IV) medical fluids.

Under Round one of the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative, a key part of the government’s $1.5 billion Modern Manufacturing Strategy, 27 projects will share in funding, with Round two now open for applications.

Companies funded in Round one include Baxter Healthcare, which will receive up to $2 million to support the manufacture of more than 50 million units of life-saving IV medicines used in the ICU, emergency rooms, operating theatres and oncology wards around the country.

Strike Energy will also receive up to $2 million to establish a large-scale facility using natural gas and green hydrogen to locally produce urea for agricultural fertiliser, replacing imports and securing local jobs in WA. 16 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

These grants will improve Australia’s access to critical products – medicines and agricultural production chemicals – including in times of crisis.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has showed us the importance of resilient supply chains and manufacturing capability within Australia – especially for critical products,” minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said.

“Whether it be to ensure we have life-saving medicines, or that our farmers have the agricultural production chemicals they need to keep producing food for Australians, we want to secure our capabilities to make what we need.”

According to Taylor, this is why the government is investing in projects to support manufacturing of these critical products and in the areas of semi-conductors and water treatment chemicals under Round two.

“These projects, with the

Round Two of the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative will fund 27 projects under the federal government’s Modern Manufacturing Strategy.

government’s support, will grow Australian manufacturing, build capability and support and create crucial jobs in Australia,” he said.

Successful companies under Round one will receive matched grants of between $50,000 and $2 million across medicines and agricultural production chemicals, which were identified as sectors of focus in the Sovereign

Manufacturing Capability Plan.

The Round two grants will cover eligible projects in the areas of semi-conductors and water treatment chemicals, identified during a second tranche of analysis. This support builds on existing strong collaboration with the telecommunications sector to ensure resilience to sustain critical operations in that area. manmonthly.com.au

News @MM BAE Systems welcomes new $80 million F-35 AVSS contract

BAE Systems Australia will work with the RAAF to deliver aircraft availability and capability requirements.

BAE Systems Australia has welcomed the announcement of a new F-35 Air Vehicle Support Services (AVSS) contract to establish sovereign maintenance and supply chain support for the Australian fleet at RAAF Bases Williamtown in NSW and Tindal in zthe NT. “We are delighted to build on our contribution to the global F-35 program with this additional support for the RAAF,” BAE Systems Australia managing director Defence Delivery Andrew Gresham said.

“We will be leveraging our years of experience in fast jet sustainment working side by side with the RAAF to deliver aircraft availability and capability requirements.”

Maintaining and sustaining the global F-35 capability will create around 360 new direct jobs at BAE Systems Australia over the next 10 years and develop a specialist supply chain across Australia of more than 70 SMEs by 2025.

BAE Systems has provided fast jet maintenance and upgrades to RAAF

aircraft from its Williamtown facility for almost three decades and employs nearly 460 people in the precinct.

The new AVSS contract will employ 46 BAE Systems Australia staff, providing direct, on-the-ground support to RAAF personnel sustaining the F-35. The company will have around 130 people working to support F-35 aircraft maintenance by the end of the year, having also recruited 25 former Jetstar technicians during the downturn in commercial aviation caused by COVID-19.

As a key partner and integral part of the industry team with Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems delivers up to 15 per cent of each fifth-generation aircraft globally. This includes the advanced manufacture of the aft fuselage, empennage and crucial components from BAE Systems’ facilities in the UK and Australia, and advanced electronic warfare capability from their US business. Parts of the vertical tail, corrosion prognostics and avionics are manufactured by BAE Systems in South Australia.

mAP grants to support Victoria mRNA manufacturing and R&D The Victorian government has announced the largest dedicated mRNA research grant program ever seen in Australia, the $21 million mRNA Victoria Activation Program (mAP), to help grow research, development and manufacturing capabilities around the vaccine. mAP grants will provide support to grow the RNA ecosystem, including support for clinical research and projects to develop enabling technology such as artificial intelligence, nextmanmonthly.com.au

generation manufacturing, safety testing and alternative vaccine delivery methods.

“Victoria leads the way in this crucial field and we want to see more bold ideas that can create breakthroughs across the health spectrum,” Victorian minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford said.

“We’re serious about developing our mRNA manufacturing capacity and doing it quickly, because we

know it will change lives and save lives.”

The Program is part of the state government’s $50 million commitment to mRNA Victoria, which is preparing the ground for large-scale mRNA manufacturing.

This will secure the supply of vaccines for future pandemics and provide advances in treatment for conditions like heart disease, cancer and rare genetic disorders.

The Victorian government has invested $5 million to support the

development of the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences’ COVID-19 vaccine candidate and clinical trial – the vaccine for the trial has been manufactured in Boronia in an Australian mRNA landmark revealed last week. They have also announced the mRNA Victoria Research Acceleration Fund, offering grants of up to $500,000 to support early-stage research projects.

The government earlier this year supported a number Manufacturers’ Monthly FEBRUARY 2022 17

News @MM The largest dedicated mRNA research grant program in Australia will supply $21 million to grow capabilities around the vaccine.

of proposals from Victorian industry and consortia as part of the Commonwealth’s Approach to Market (ATM) on mRNA manufacturing capability.

The recent decision by global synthetic biology leader Ginkgo Bioworks to establish a Melbourne base further underscores Victoria’s national leadership in mRNA. mAP will support Victorian businesses, universities and medical research institutes developing new technologies and therapies to produce better health outcomes,

with the grants open to projects from early-stage research through to commercialisation.

To address gender inequities in medical research, applications from female researchers and projects that include at least 50 per cent women and early to mid-career researchers will receive extra weighting in the competitive assessment process.

The mAP grants will take place over two rounds, with initial applications opening on Friday 10 December and closing on 19 January.

NT manufacturer to produce Australian-first amphibious aircraft

Amphibian Aircraft Holdings will be the first to manufacture and export the Albatross G-111T in Australia.

Amphibian Aircraft Holdings Pty Ltd (AAH) in the Northern Territory will become Australia’s first manufacturer and exporter of the Albatross G-111T, an amphibious aircraft which can take off and touch down from land, snow, ice and water.

“Australia has never had an FAA transport category aircraft manufacturer and nothing of this scale has come to Australia; so, it’s a great opportunity not only for AAH, but for the supply chain that will grow around our business,” AAH 18 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

chair Khoa Hoang said.

“Over 90 per cent of our current sales enquiries has come from overseas, so it will bring much needed export dollars for Australia.”

The Albatross has a long and distinguished history but has not been commercially manufactured since the 1960s. It is a highlyregarded aircraft and evidence through market studies have demonstrated that there is a strong demand for it to fill an identified gap in the global aviation market.

“The Albatross currently holds a

monopoly in its class being the only FAA transport category amphibian aircraft for 28 passengers. More than this, the Albatross has unmatched pedigree with battle proven capabilities in search and rescue, coastal surveillance, narcotics enforcement, medevac, humanitarian assistance, cargo, utility, defence and many more roles,” Hoang said.

“With the new technologies that Amphibian Aerospace industries will be developing in new variants of the G-111T Albatross, we are

confident that a formidable aircraft will be relevant for many decades to come.”

The NT government is investing $10 million into AAH to build upgraded versions of the Albatross amphibious aircraft in Darwin.

This includes an agreement between AAH and global engine manufacturers, Pratt & Whitney Canada. The investment will be made on a matched basis with private equity, through the government’s Local Jobs Fund.

“AAH has chosen Darwin manmonthly.com.au

News @MM Airport as their Australian base to manufacture a new version of the Albatross Aircraft, and this decision will put Darwin on the map and provide long term economic benefits and diverse job opportunities,” Airport Development Group (ADG) CEO Tony Edmondstone said.

“ADG will be working closely with AAH to develop an aircraft production campus within the Darwin Airport business precinct, with a staged construction plan expected to be formulated in 2022.”

Once established in the NT,

AAH will generate extensive value to the NT economy, with the company forecasting annual revenue of over $100 million by the end of the decade.

This will be an opportunity to build a new industry together with its associated supply chain and create flow-on benefits for jobs, education and the economy in the NT. AAH is developing a buy local policy to support local industry that meet the aerospace industry certification and quality

requirements on a cost competitive basis. The strategic aim of the business is to develop a fully local workforce, with the advanced manufacturing centre creating and sustaining new jobs which will provide long term, highly skilled career pathways.

“This is a big deal for the Territory and for Australia – we will be building amphibious aircraft that will be exported to the rest of the world by the end of the decade,” NT chief minister Michael Gunner said.

“This exciting venture will create

hundreds of jobs and upskilling opportunities for Territorians, while also injecting millions into our economy. The Territory is taking off, and this is just the beginning.”

Around 300 direct jobs will be created within AAH during production. This includes increasing long term and sustainable Aboriginal employment through targeted training and workshops.

AAH plans to have the modified aircraft CASA certified within 18 months, with production commencing in 2025.

Titomic acquires European cold spray company, Dycomet Titomic has acquired a Netherlandsbased cold spray technology company, Dycomet, which has a portfolio of R&D services via an in-house laboratory, software development and the provision of servicing, spare parts and consumables for its systems.

Dycomet has offered low and medium pressure cold spray technology solutions to various industries since 2006. In 2016, Dycomet also added high pressure cold spray solutions to their portfolio, which will provide Titomic’s European customers with local support and capability.

“The acquisition of Dycomet is a significant step in Titomic’s strategic pathway to being a global company.

We are excited to welcome Dycomet onboard and look forward to working with Klaas and his team on the many exciting opportunities that this acquisition presents,” Titomic chief executive Herbert Koeck said.

“While Titomic focuses on highpressure applications, Dycomet services the soft-end low and medium-pressure market. With our complementary machinery and product portfolio, the combined expertise now available to the company will further accelerate the company’s growth into new markets and provide current customers with a broader product offering.”

Dycomet’s clients include household brands such as Rollsmanmonthly.com.au

Titomic has acquired Dycomet, a European company, which will form the base of Titomic Europe.

Royce, Mercedes, Airbus, Siemens, VW and several leading universities.

Dycomet is well aligned with Titomic’s strategic approach, in targeting markets such as the aviation and automotive industry.

Dycomet founder and chief executive, Klaas Rozema, will step into the new role of general manager of Titomic Europe. Klaas brings a wealth of experience in cold spray technology, having spent the past 13 years building Dycomet to now hold a leading position in the European market.

“I am delighted that Dycomet has been acquired by a new owner who

understands our industry. Titomic is an excellent complementary fit with our current product set and expertise and can support the next phase of growth, offering a wealth of opportunities for our team,” Dycomet chief executive Klaas Rozema said.

“I will continue to lead the business in Europe, and I look forward to working with Herbert to bring the two companies together and ensure the synergies between the two businesses are fully harnessed.”

The transaction will provide Titomic with a base in Europe, giving it exceptional global access together with its Australian headquarters and

Titomic USA. The acquisition will be immediately revenue accretive for Titomic with a healthy pipeline of customer orders in Europe.

Several synergies that will be immediately realised between the businesses include additions to Titomic’s comprehensive product portfolio, wider product offers to current customers, use of complementary machinery sets from both sides, Titomic’s ability to service and maintain additional industry machinery in Europe and providing technical and sales functions for the company in the region.

Manufacturers’ Monthly FEBRUARY 2022 19

ManufacturerFocus NeedleCalm improves needle patient experience Lauren Barber, CEO of NeedleCalm, tells Manufacturers’ Monthly how she set about developing and commercialising an Australian made medical technology that could drastically reduce the discomfort in patients who experience severe anxiety during needle procedures.

NeedleCalm’s Needle Desensitising Device is used to improve the patient experience for those with severe anxiety during needle procedures, such as immunisation.

L

AUREN Barber has been a registered nurse for around 12 years, originally trained at the Sydney Adventist Hospital in Wahroonga, NSW. Upon studying cosmetic dermatology and beginning work for a dermatologist in Sydney, she received a needlestick injury during a procedure on a young patient, which required surgery.

This was the catalyst for the development of a medical device that could reduce the discomfort associated with needles.

“I started thinking about a lot of the patients that I looked after in the

20 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

past and noticed a strong correlation between healthcare avoidance and chronic comorbidities that they had,” Barber said. “These patients have often had a poor experience when they were younger with needle procedures that can range from being held down and restrained, having lumbar puncture, watching siblings go through lots of procedures or having type one diabetic parents inject insulin. In my mind, there was a strong view that something needed to be done that was quick and easy for clinicians to use.”

Headquartered in Melbourne, the

medical device company NeedleCalm Pty Ltd was set up in 2016 with the intention to develop and commercialise a technology to treat patients that experienced needlerelated fear and anxiety.

A clinical trial was conducted with an early 3D printing prototype and Barber joined a medical start up incubator program with a nine-month intensive course. Following the research and development stage and receiving funding from the federal government’s Industry Growth Centres Initiative (MTPConnect) and NSW government’s Minimum Viable

Product Grant program, NeedleCalm enlisted a local manufacturing company called PMG Engineering to begin production of its first product, which was released onto the Australian market in March 2021.

Needle Desensitising Device The company’s signature product, the Needle Desensitising Device, is a Class One Medical Device approved by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which is disposable but retains a long shelf life. It is designed to be used in over 60 per cent of Australia’s manmonthly.com.au

Manufacturer Focus NeedleCalm CEO, Lauren Barber.

NeedleCalm provides a larger sensation for the brain to focus on rather than the sharp sensation of the needle. We tell people to place it between the pain and the brain. It’s a similar process to when you bang yourself on the table or stub your toe and you give it a rub – it interrupts the messaging that goes through the brain. needle procedures carried out each year, including injections, immunisations, venepuncture, and intra venous catheterisations.

The concept behind the device is known as gate control theory, which modulates the perception of pain. By stimulating the skin near the site, the flow of pain signals to the brain are blocked. The key is administering the Needle Desensitising Device in quick succession to ensure the patient registers a cooling, pressurised sensation instead of the needle.

“NeedleCalm provides a larger sensation for the brain to focus on rather than the sharp sensation of the needle,” Barber said. “We tell people to place it between the pain and the brain. It’s a similar process to when you bang yourself on the table or stub your toe and you give it a rub – it interrupts the messaging that goes through the brain.”

During the research and development stage, gate control theory was originally implemented in the NeedleCalm product through an all-natural liquid that produced a sensation similar to the pain relief product, Deep Heat rub. The liquid was inserted into a small capsule and once the product was applied to the patient, the pressure would break the capsule and distribute the liquid to the area.

However, Barber found that this design was not feasible.

“When I looked into the manufacturing process to make this, it was just a huge headache regarding the back end, with the tooling that would have been required,” she said.

“Another barrier we faced when manmonthly.com.au

we started testing it on a couple of quite young people, they were getting more distressed about the heat sensation staying on the skin instead of the needle. It was just something that we couldn’t deactivate, like the effects of Tiger Balm or Dencorub where you can’t get it off quickly.”

This led to the final product, which harnessed a cooling effect rather than heated.

“We started looking at a more cooling aspect of NeedleCalm and put it in the fridge, put it in the freezer, experimented with different layers and different thicknesses,” Barber said. “After that, we found the materials and appropriate tooling to get the final version of NeedleCalm ready for large scale manufacturing.”

As undertaken by PMG Engineering, the manufacturing process for the final version of the Needle Desensitising Device – while not automated – is quite simple.

“It’s all done by hand and PMG Engineering already had all the tooling in their factory. It’s an injection moulded kind of process,” Barber said. “There’s two layers: first, they make the inner layer and then the over mould, and they can do that quite quickly. Then it’s all put together by hand with the tape and then heat is sealed in the little packet and then packed. The whole process needed to be simple.”

Target market During its first year in the medical technology market, Barber has found that NeedleCalm has most benefitted teenagers between 14 and 19 years of age. However, there have been many

adults and people from all walks of life who have expressed interest in using the product.

“It’s so variable; I’d say teenagers are definitely a big patient cohort, although I’ve had a surprising number of adults and older gentleman get in touch to use NeedleCalm,” Barber said. “In saying that, most people who are over 65 years old have already had so much exposure to different procedures and operations and there’s really no benefit for them and they find a needle procedure to be tolerable.

“But when dealing with issues like dementia and Alzheimer’s, you do often get a heightened sensitivity for pain, and they usually need to have anti-coagulation injections in hospital; in that case it’s beneficial

for them. Even people who have tattoos, who you wouldn’t guess would have a needle phobia – I’ve done a bit of research into that recently and it’s a different type of pain for them. That whole process is more of a kind of therapy for them.”

As there are many main procedures where the NeedleCalm device can be applied, it can even be used alongside highly sterilised procedures such as epidurals for women in labour.

Case studies There have been several successful cases where NeedleCalm has been able to facilitate procedures for people with severe needle phobias.

One 23-year-old female suffered from such a phobia and exhibited Manufacturers’ Monthly FEBRUARY 2022 21

Manufacturer Focus Needle phobia can range in severity, but it gets to the point where some people can’t even look at a needle or can’t even book an appointment to go and see a GP. I think there’s a lot of relief for them that NeedleCalm can help get them through the process. Just knowing that NeedleCalm’s making such a huge difference for these patients and having the clinicians really excited about it and seeing how well it works in practice. adverse responses including anxiety, fainting, sweating, nausea, and physical resistance. This had a negative impact on her general health as she was not able to receive regular blood tests to monitor health conditions and had not received several immunisations.

“This girl was just suffering – a common theme with a lot of our patients recently is that they’ve lost their job or been asked to stay on annual leave because they can’t get the COVID vaccinations,” Barber said. “We had a few discussions with her and sometimes with her parents.

The decision is usually made by the patient to make the next step of going to get their procedure done and their GPs are well aware of their problem. But with patients like her, it just takes a little bit of time for them to kind of wrap their head around it, see the product, and then we’ll train the nurse or doctor to use it.”

With NeedleCalm’s help, the patient attended her GP for a vaccination in October 2021 and a registered nurse administered the device during the procedure, in which she reported feeling no pain.

Since then, she has been able to have further vaccinations and blood tests with the device’s aid. She now provides guidance to other patients as part of a support group.

Another 19-year-old patient had not received any immunisations since she was 6 years old.

22 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

The NeedleCalm device is manufactured by local business PMG Engineering in Melbourne.

was a different person beforehand,” Barber said. “She was really down, kind of apathetic, I’d say possibly a little bit depressed. Then she was just on a complete high afterwards, smiling and telling everyone what had happened, and everyone was so proud of her.”

Examples of how NeedleCalm has had a positive impact on improving patient experience has been one of the biggest highlights for Barber throughout the process of producing the Needle Desensitising Device.

“It’s been a tough journey and I’ve learned a lot throughout the process,” she said. “I think speaking to patients, explaining to them how NeedleCalm works and getting them in for treatment has been the biggest gift following the launch.

“Needle phobia can range in severity, but it gets to the point where some people can’t even look at a needle or can’t even book an appointment to go and see a GP. I think there’s a lot of relief for them that NeedleCalm can help get them through the process. Just knowing that NeedleCalm’s making such a huge difference for these patients and having the clinicians really excited about it and seeing how well it works in practice.”

Good Design Award winner

“She was 19 at the time when we helped her, and we helped her with her COVID vaccination,” Barber said. “She just did so well. It was such a great thing for her because she met these nurses that were so experienced and they do a lot of vaccinations day-in, day-out and she felt comfortable enough to have her vaccination using NeedleCalm.

The patient’s positive experience supplied her with the confidence to book her next appointment for the second COVID vaccination and subsequent catch-up vaccinations.

“She changed as soon as she went back out into the waiting room, she

In October 2021, NeedleCalm won a prestigious international Good Design Award in the Product Design Category that recognised the Needle Desensitising Device’s outstanding design and innovation.

The Good Design Awards jury commented: “Given about one in 10 people are afraid of needles, this is a positive approach to overcoming a common problem. The discreet

aesthetics of the device and its similarity to a sticky plaster may assist in uptake; and the technique of activating alternate pain receptor pathways is clever too.”

More recently, NeedleCalm was awarded a judge commendation at the Consumer Healthcare Products (CHP) Australia 2021 Diamond Awards for Outstanding and Innovative New Consumer Healthcare Product.

The company has also been recognised as a finalist in various other awards for its innovative concepts, such as the Local Business Awards and Medtronic Eureka Pitch in 2020, and the MTAA Women in Med Tech in 2019.

The future of NeedleCalm Barber is also aiming to release three new products by the end of 2022, to further enhance the patient experience. NeedleCalm also has exciting plans to launch internationally.

“I’ve got my next two products 80 per cent ready to go, which are more aimed at children,” she said. “And then we have a third product which we will need a bit more income for and the necessary manufacturing tools. We’re also going overseas into the US and the UK next!”

There are also plans for more in-depth research around how NeedleCalm works in different parts of the body and into how it can be used alongside procedures which require port-a-caths. With a vast range of needle procedures that are performed each year, both in Australia and worldwide, there are many avenues that NeedleCalm could take as a business in the future.

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Manufacturing Excellence Unbreakable: The smart screen of the future The University of Queensland is conducting research that could enable the manufacture of unbreakable smart screens.

Dr Jingwei Hou, an ARC Future Fellow and senior lecturer at the School of Chemical Engineering, the University of Queensland speaks with Alexandra Cooper about the invention of a new process that could inform the manufacture of unbreakable device screens.

W

HEN a consumer lifts a brand-new smart phone from its packaging for the first time, there is often a moment of appreciation for the technology that lies in the palm of their hand which possibly displays the most care they will show the device throughout its life span. In that moment, the device seems perfect in its manufacture.

But how perfect is the screen, really?

According to a 2017 study by the comparison website Finder, more than 1,300 smart phones are lost or destroyed per day in Australia.

Cracked and shattered screens

24 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

are the most common method of damage, costing over $755 million to repair or replace.

“Liquid-phase sintering of lead halide perovskites and metalorganic framework glasses,” a report published in Science in October 2021, has potentially signalled the end of cracked device screens through a new discovery in perovskite nanocrystal technology.

Perovskite is a mineral that takes the form of a calcium titanium oxide crystal. The nanocrystals, lead-halide perovskites, are able to harvest sunlight and convert it into renewable electricity.

The report was authored by a global team of researchers led by the University of Queensland.

Manufacturers’ Monthly found out how it all began from an ARC Future Fellow and senior lecturer from the School of Chemical Engineering, Dr Jingwei Hou. Hou’s main research focuses on the physical properties of microporous materials and then translating them into useful devices for membrane separation, optics, energy storage and catalysis.

“When I first came to the University of Queensland, the research centre had just published the world record for the perovskite

solar panels,” Hou said. “I asked the chief investigator why they wouldn’t bring the new technology to the market; they said the material is really good, but there are some problems with stability.”

These stability issues manifested as a sensitivity to temperature, water, oxygen, air, and light. Even water vapour in the air would kill the devices in a matter of minutes.

This was how Hou realised that his previous post-doctoral research at the University of Cambridge on hybrid glass translated to perovskite technology.

“It was quite a happy accident that manmonthly.com.au

when I was at Cambridge, we actually developed a new generation of glass material called a hybrid glass that has a lot of interesting properties,” he said. “I tried to put them together to see whether the perovskite could be stabilised – and the result was really, really good.

“It not only stabilised the perovskite, but also made the perovskite somewhere between 100 to 1,000 times more efficient. We also discovered that putting the perovskite with metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) glass actually made the glass stronger and more durable.

This advanced us further towards the unbreakable glass domain.”

For around 20 years, MOFs have been defined by materials scientists as porous, crystalline materials that can trap compounds in their molecular cavities. However, in 2015 Hou’s collaborators at Cambridge also found non-crystalline MOFs in liquid and glass states. The researchers uncovered what occurs at the molecular level when some metal-organic frameworks are heated to a melting point and then cooled to produce a glass-like state.

They later reported around 10 MOFs that can be melted into a liquid and turned into this state.

According to these research, on heating this kind of metal-organic framework its metal ions and organic ligands begin wobbling within the crystals as the material melts.

This disrupts the normally ordered structure of the MOF’s crystalline form, breaking the connections between bonds while some portions of the extended structure remain in place to create a glass state. Further molecular fragmentation occurs once a MOF reaches a liquid state, however some of its internal structure keeps an element of connectivity.

As the University of Queensland team discovered, adding chemicals to the material to create glass altered its physical properties – hence the development of a stronger and more durable glass once the MOFs were melded with the perovskite crystals.

The report, “A New Dimension for Coordination Polymers and Metal–Organic Frameworks: Towards Functional Glasses and Liquids,” was published in Angewandte manmonthly.com.au

Image: University of Queensland.

Manufacturing Excellence

Dr Jingwei Hou (centre) with his research collaborators.

Chemie International Edition by a Kyoto University materials scientist, Professor Satoshi Horike, and colleagues.

The report stated: “Liquid and glass MOFs could provide a new state of material that demonstrates porosity, ion conductivity and optical properties such as luminescence. They also show promise for heat storage, in energy devices and for gas permeation.

Hybrid materials incorporating glass or liquid MOFs with other materials, such as organic polymers, metal particles or metal ions could be used as strong adhesives in energy devices or in catalytic reactions.

“Scientists should revisit the huge library available for crystalline MOFs from the viewpoint of phase change to liquid and/or glass. Doing so could lead to the design of new functional materials.”

Indeed, this has led to the design of new materials such as the University of Queensland’s composite glass. In turn, this will not only enable the manufacture of glass screens with superior durability, but also deliver crystal clear image quality.

“At present, QLED or quantum dot light-emitting diode screens are considered the top performer for image display and performance,” Hou

said. “This research will enable us to improve on the nanocrystal technology by offering stunning picture quality and strength.”

The perovskite process The University of Queensland team of chemical engineers and material scientists developed a process to wrap or bind the nanocrystals in a porous glass. The glass was responsible for stabilising the materials, enhancing their efficiency, and inhibiting the toxic lead ions from leaching out of the materials.

Hou likens the process of producing the composite glass to that of baking chocolate chip cookies in a remarkably simple and fast method.

“Basically, we have the perovskite nanocrystals which are the chocolate chips, and then we blend it with the MOFs glass which is the cookie dough,” he said. “After we forge them into certain shapes – small cookie shapes – we heat them at over 270°C for 30 minutes and we’ve got the product. Very simple and very quick.”

This chocolate chip cookie structure is part of the reason why the composite glass is so effective and durable, when compared to the structure within a current smart phone. Conversely, this is a

sandwich structure, Hou said.

“Our current mobile phones display a sandwich structure – it has a bottom layer, which is a blue light emitter, and a red phosphor and green phosphor layered structure on top of that,” he said. “If you have multiple layers, that causes a lot of problems in the interface. But if we transform that into something more like the chocolate chip cookie type of structure, that means it is both easier to make and much more durable.”

The composite glass is produced using an anti-synthetic family of material, including minerals ores such as zinc and lead. This will create a multitude of opportunities for the process to be used in the local manufacture of relevant smart devices, as Australia has one of the largest reserves in the world of those two minerals.

“That’s a great opportunity to use our own mineral ores, rather than selling them at a very low price, if we can process them locally into a really high-end, cutting-edge technology,” Hou said. “We now have a patent registered in Australia through the University of Queensland, and we are looking for some local as well as international collaborators to bring this technology to the next step.”

Manufacturers’ Monthly FEBRUARY 2022 25

Manufacturing Excellence The high-strength composite glasses are made using MOFs glass and perovskite nanocrystals.

Image: University of Queensland.

It was quite a happy accident that when I was at Cambridge, we actually developed a new generation of glass material called a hybrid glass that has a lot of interesting properties.

I tried to put them together to see whether the perovskite could be stabilised – and the result was really, really good.

A scalable technology The whole perovskite nanocrystal technology is scalable and uses materials that are mostly in a solid state, which means an excessive amount of solvent is not required.

Using less solvent reduces production costs and minimises the impact on the external environment. It also minimises waste, according to Hou. “All of our materials are made from raw material, then directly transformed into the real product without generating any extra waste, as you don’t need additional material for reaction. So, it’s really good from a manufacturing perspective,” he said.

As mentioned earlier, the 26 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

University of Queensland team had to overcome some stability problems to create the new, more efficient perovskite material. Previously, the technology was produced under delicate conditions which would not have been suitable for large scale manufacturing.

“The solar panel our centre made for the world record had to be fabricated within a totally bone-dry environment, without any humidity and preferably without any oxygen or water as well,” Hou said. “That made scaling up really difficult, because you can’t really have a workshop or manufacturing site without oxygen.”

The solution was a final treatment that was applied at the end of the process.

“Because we have the final open treatment step, that step will get rid of all the moisture and all the oxygen and all the defects that the solar panels have,” Hou said. “That will make the technology really easy to scale up, as it just needs a final treatment in nitrogen or argon.”

Future applications Other than smart mobile phone displays, there is potential for the perovskite nanocrystal technology to be commercialised for applications such as solar panels, wearable devices, computer screens, lighting, televisions, x-rays, and digital cameras.

“We can transfer the technology very easily to solar panels. We could also make solar panels more flexible, potentially becoming a kind of wearable solar panel device that you can put on your T-shirt,” Hou said.

“They can be used for LED materials for lighting, the films for digital cameras or even x-rays; so, when you do a bone scan, you will need a much lower dose of the x-ray beam

to create a very large picture. This would both increase the resolution and reduce the exposure to the x-ray’s radiation levels as well.”

Hou said that these are only a few of the different applications his research team at the University of Queensland have envisioned for the new perovskite process – the technology could cover a range of sectors within the Australian manufacturing industry.

“We are looking at mining companies, from where we’re trying to directly convert the raw materials from the mining site to really high value products,” he said. “We are also actively working with a medical professional to further develop more detailed medical imaging; I think there is a lot of potential there.”

The only question that remains is what the future could look like with unbreakable screens adorning consumers’ smart devices and appliances?

“The whole process we have made – from the raw materials all the way to the final product – is 100 per cent compatible with the manufacturing industry,” Hou said.

“It’s a huge opportunity.” manmonthly.com.au

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Cyber Security Facilitating cyber security with ARM Hub ARM Hub COO, Samuel Jesuadian, and the University of Queensland chair and director of Cyber Security, Professor Ryan Ko, tells Manufacturers’ Monthly about their new formal partnership that aims to grow manufacturers’ knowledge of cyber security.

The University of Queensland’s Agile Security Operations Centre (ASOC) can run simulations of cyber attacks to train ARM Hub’s partners in how to mitigate cyber security risks.

A

S the manufacturing industry becomes more digitised, the urgency for an increase in harnessing cyber security is revealed. Digital technologies such as this can aid greatly in enhancing productivity and business growth. The Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing Hub (ARM Hub), which focuses on accelerating industry’s digital transformation, forms working partnerships with academic institutions to solve key challenges such as this for industry.

One of these formal partnerships was recently established with the University of Queensland. Professor Ryan Ko, the chair and director of Cyber Security at the university, is well renowned in the cyber security space. His research in cyber security is internationally recognised, focusing on returning control of data to its users.

Ko has received multiple conference Best Paper Awards that resulted in several technology transfers for companies like HP, open-source contributions and spin-offs. More recently, he has been researching information integrity and cyber autonomy in critical infrastructure sectors – including manufacturing.

manmonthly.com.au

“I feel that the manufacturing industry has only recently sensed the urgency of the cyber security problem due to the fact that there are more ransomware attacks,” Ko said. “But before that happens, most of the time many businesses don’t see it as something that will happen to them.”

Bondi Labs Through the University of Queensland partnership, Ko is currently helping ARM Hub educate industry partners who are on the verge of digital

transformation on how to deal with cyber security threats and create a more agile working environment.

“As a result of this partnership, UQ researchers can be actively engaged with ARM Hub members and bring their renowned expertise to solve industry problems,” ARM Hub COO, Samuel Jesuadian, explained. “This also provided an opportunity for UQ to bring one of their industry partners in cyber security to co-locate and showcase capabilities.

“Bondi Labs, who are already

working with Ryan’s team, will be the very first initiative as part of this membership. They will co-locate with ARM Hub and showcase some simulations and other capabilities that come with it.”

Bondi Labs is an Australian computer software company that develops intelligent visual technologies to enhance and augment a workforce’s capabilities. They design and build products that address global challenges in supply chain and logistics, food processing, biosecurity

Bondi Labs visits the ARM Hub learning factory.

Manufacturers’ Monthly FEBRUARY 2022 29

Cyber Security The University of Queensland’s energy test lab, where businesses can collaborate to improve their cyber posture through ARM Hub.

I feel that the manufacturing industry has only recently sensed the urgency of the cyber security problem due to the fact that there are more ransomware attacks.

But before that happens, most of the time many businesses don’t see it as something that will happen to them. inspection and workplace safety.

Bondi Labs’ latest product is Elixar, which is a pair of smart glasses that enable remote and augmented auditing in AgriFood supply chains.

“What Bondi Labs do is they allow auditors to go into food processing and meat processing plants with the smart glasses,” Ko said. “The smart glasses basically show a live feed at different plants, where the regulators and other auditors are in other locations in Australia or across the world.

“This technology has proved to be really good during COVID times and for reducing carbon footprints and travel costs. But at the same time, this whole thing hinges on the integrity of the data and trust of the system.”

This is where Ko comes in, as his research has always been centred on provenance and ensuring information has a high integrity.

“My application in this scenario of remote auditing in a manufacturing situation is to answer this question: how can I make sure that a video, for example, that I’m looking at right now is truly from this device, at this 30 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

location, at this time?” he said.

“If you can prove the integrity of that, then the whole auditing process is trusted. After that, the accreditation process can be sped up and it’s more efficient. In this way, we can solve a lot of doubts about whether the video is true or genuine. And all of these things will be showcased in the ARM Hub premises.”

Remote attestation To prove the authenticity of the information accessed from the hardware chip within a device, a mathematical equation known as remote attestation is used to identify the chip’s “root of trust.”

“Through that root of trust, whenever the information is passed on through the Internet to the other remote auditor, the information actually contains a digital signature called a ‘chain of trust,’ and you can prove that it came from this device,” Ko said.

Remote attestation can be used in applications such as Zoom calls, forensics, food manufacturing,

mining equipment, electronics manufacturing, law enforcement equipment, or auditing in dangerous environments such as nuclear plants.

The University of Queensland and Bondi Labs’ new challenge is to establish a virtual root of trust in environments that do not use hardware.

“In cloud computing, for example, we have a lot of virtual machines.

One physical machine can create thousands of virtual machines in Amazon or Microsoft Azure Cloud,” Ko said. “Each of these presents itself as a real computer, but they’re actually virtual. The challenge is, when we virtualise these devices, how do we prove that it is indeed a virtual device?”

ARM Hub is well positioned to translate this research across multiple sectors within the manufacturing landscape, Jesuadian said.

“We look at manufacturing capabilities across all sectors, and remote auditing could easily be applicable in the future of medical device manufacturing, for example,” he said. “If there is a way to validate the device or the camera system that is actually taking footage of the production, remote auditing can play a key role in the future of smart manufacturing.”

Protecting your business According to Ko, manufacturers need to address several issues to protect their businesses: that cyber security is an overall business continuity problem, rather than an IT problem, and that a supply chain

certification process can cut at least 80 per cent of the risks introduced by suppliers or clients.

“The executive leadership of the organisation has to take ownership of the cyber security problem and start to think about policies that view cyber security as a business risk,” Ko said.

“Based on the policies, it then dictates the investment budget, procurement of technology and other processes.

“Sometimes there are still risks introduced by your suppliers or your clients. The point is, how do you procure raw materials in a cyber secure way? Is there a way that you can effectively say, ‘Hey look, you are now currently at level one; I want you to be at level three because you handle a lot of my customer data.’”

To remedy this, ARM Hub and its various university partners have created programs to educate manufacturers on robotics, automation, artificial intelligence and Industry 4.0. In partnership with the University of Queensland, the next program will centre on cyber security education for industry.

“An awareness or Cyber literacy program is on our plate to offer for industry next year,” Jesuadian said. “I think it will help industry to understand the necessity of cyber security measures and show them the pathways to implement in their businesses.

“We’re very excited to be partnered with the University of Queensland – this opens up more opportunities for industry to engage with us through a collaborative approach.” manmonthly.com.au

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

The region’s largest international civil and defence maritime exposition, incorporating the Royal Australian Navy’s Sea Power Conference and the International Maritime Conference.

In 2019 this internationally renowned event attracted:

657 participating exhibitor companies from 22 nations

21,241 attendances across three days

182 industry, government, defence and scientic delegations from 48 nations

48 major conferences, symposia and forums

indopacificexpo.com.au For further information contact the INDO PACIFIC 2022 Sales Team - T: + 61 (0) 3 5282 0500 E: expo@amda.com.au

Manufacturing Events Defence combines with industry INDO PACIFIC 2022 will take place at Sydney’s International Convention Centre on 10-12 May, hosting key players from Defence, government and industry under one roof.

F

OR three days in May 2022 Sydney’s International Convention Centre will host the largest single gathering of maritime defence, government and industry key players in the region, as part of the INDO PACIFIC 2022 International Maritime Exposition.

INDO PACIFIC 2022 will combine high level defence and industry conferences, including the Royal Australian Navy’s Sea Power Conference and industry’s IMC 2022 International Maritime Conference, with an industry exhibition that in its previous “PACIFIC 2019” iteration featured more than 650 participating exhibitor companies. It will include formal business-to-business and business-to-government networking systems, programs highlighting and rewarding Australian innovation, and events aimed at assisting Australia’s exports.

INDO PACIFIC 2022 is the latest iteration of the event formerly known as PACIFIC. Renowned as one of the world’s most successful biennial international maritime expositions over 11 events and more than two decades, PACIFIC was renamed INDO PACIFIC in 2020 to more closely align with Australia’s regional stance.

The Royal Australian Navy’s Sea Power Conference will return at this year’s event.

32 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

Defence manufacturing is coming to Australia in May.

The 2019 event featured 48 major conferences and symposia, attracting more than 650 participating exhibitor companies from around the world and more than 21,000 attendances across three days, including 182 civil and military delegations from 48 nations.

INDO PACIFIC 2022 will once again feature the Royal Australian Navy’s Sea Power Conference, this year exploring the broad theme ‘The

Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain in the 21st Century - A Commonality of Purpose’ and will focus on Australia and the Indo Pacific, Grey Zone operations at sea and the Maritime Ecosystem (industry, technology and education).

The wider Sea Power Conference program will also include the KingHall History Conference and Navy Enlisted Leadership Conference.

Naval conferences will share the venue with commercial and civil forums staged by prime contractors and organisations such as the Australian Association for Uncrewed Systems, Maritime Industry Australia Limited, Engineers Australia, The Royal Institution of Naval Architects and The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology.

Presentations will span the use of unmanned vehicles in the maritime domain, increasing environmental regulation for shipping, maritime safety, commercial shipbuilding and sustainment, new technologies, and the role of digitisation in vessel management and operation.

They will also focus on the strategies, technologies and industry

capability that will play a critical role in the Royal Australian Navy’s programs to acquire or introduce a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines, nine Hunter-class frigates and 12 Arafura-class offshore patrol vessels. Upgrades to existing platforms will include an enhanced long-range strike capability, along with associated electronics and communications systems, sensors and munitions.

As a magnet for industry, INDO PACIFIC 2022 will also feature symposia and presentations from enabling organisations and government agencies, industry associations and global supply chain prime contractors seeking suppliers.

For small business, INDO PACIFIC 2022 is a major opportunity to engage with prime contractors.

The event will honour Australian companies innovating in the maritime space, with the INDO PACIFIC Innovation Awards and encourage new players through the Innovation Pitchfest.

The mission of the INDO PACIFIC 2022 International Maritime Exposition is to provide manmonthly.com.au

Manufacturing Events and defence leaders, researchers and academia from Australia, the IndoPacific region and around the world.

“INDO PACIFIC 2022 will come at a critical time in Australia’s maritime history as our commercial shipping industry regenerates in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Royal Australian Navy responds to dynamic regional issues. It will illustrate key elements of the unprecedented investment in Australia’s maritime defence capabilities announced as part of the 2020 Force Structure Plan, including the regeneration and expansion of Australian Defence Force maritime fleet through the naval shipbuilding enterprise.

“Our civil maritime industry is facing great challenges in the face of economic and environmental issues, and once again INDO PACIFIC will provide an ideal platform to discuss these challenges, and the great steps the industry is taking with new technologies and

INDO PACIFIC 2022 will feature key speakers from Defence.

Image courtesy of Defence

a promotional platform and forum for constructive engagement within the Australian and international industry, defence and civil maritime communities. The event is presented with strong support from the Australian Government through the Department of Defence and particularly the Royal Australian Navy, with the New South Wales Government as a key sponsor.

“Since the inaugural PACIFIC International Maritime Exposition in 2000, the 11 biennial PACIFIC events held to date have seen PACIFIC (now INDO PACIFIC) firmly established as an essential hub for topical discussion of issues affecting naval and commercial maritime strategy, industry and technology,” said Ian Honnery, CEO of INDO PACIFIC organiser AMDA Foundation Limited.

“INDO PACIFIC has become a key platform for engagement between naval defence and commercial maritime industries, government

debate which is fundamental to devising and executing effective strategy for both the civil and defence maritime community.”

systems to deal with them.

“Underpinning both communities is the broad and varied network of industries designing, building and maintaining the vessels, equipment and services that will deliver the required capability for decades to come.

“There is no better time to bring these communities together, to encourage the engagement and

The INDO PACIFIC 2022 International Maritime Exposition will take place at Sydney’s International Convention Centre, Darling Harbour, from 10-12 May 2022. www.indopacificexpo.com.au

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Manufacturing Services Managing projects with trade expertise Owners David Gillespie and Graeme Gilliland from G&G Engineering.

From humble beginnings, G&G Engineering has grown into a fully integrated business offering the full gamut of engineering services. Manufacturers’ Monthly speaks with Syd Tusen from G&G Engineering about how a steadfast commitment to quality has driven the company’s expansion.

I

N 1973, two cousins from Melton decided to start an engineering workshop out of their backyard garage. David Gillespie and Graeme Gilliland – a skilled boilermaker and fitter – wanted to build something of their own.

Syd Tusen, general manager, said the business began with general engineering and fabrication work for the local community in Melton.

“Graeme and David grew operations through word of mouth,” Syd said. “The quality of their design, engineering and finished product has always been high, with an attitude of just saying ‘Yes’ and working around clients’ specific requests.”

This momentum in the local community led to G&G becoming one of the biggest manufacturers of Carnival and Amusement rides in Australia between 1976 and 1985.

The pair then secured the

34 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

maintenance contract on the (then) Taubmans Paint site in Sunshine in 1986 (now Akzo Nobel Pty Limited).

The contract involved the installation, service, repairs, and manufacturing of various machinery/components to service the company’s paint, resin, and powder manufacturing needs.

After almost 40 years, G&G remains the preferred engineering supplier for Akzo Nobel.

Syd marvels at the dedication and hard work of the company’s founders in growing a business without the luxury of starting infrastructure. Both are still involved in the business today.

“They were working in a garage, but it was more like a tin shed,” he said. “After several years, they bought a vacant block four doors down from the workshop. They would work hard during the day producing the revenue they needed and then developed the

building at night. We’re in the same building today – it just shows the dedication and skill they have.”

Today G&G offers a diverse range of services, including road and bridge works, (a VicRoads/D.O.T. prequalified provider) building/ construction, structural steel, mining, agribusiness, general engineering, project management, and equipment installation.

Syd said the business can essentially be broken down into roads and bridges, specialised maintenance in the manufacturing environment, and specialised custom-made projects.

Our client base covers work with Transurban, VicRoads, various water instrumentalities, Akzo Nobel and many more well-known companies.

The business places an emphasis on having experienced and knowledgeable team members in all areas – be it design, fabrication,

installation, or maintenance.

“Our experience with project management means having the best people with trade-based knowledge – highly skilled boilermakers, welders, fitters and turners, drafters and other support staff.” Syd noted.

“That mentality has come from Dave and Graeme being trades people. We approach projects with a simple philosophy – the client tells us what they want, we come up with the design, manufacture, install, and service it. They have also been very innovative in terms of finding a solution that works. This was true back then, and is still the same today.”

Quality for the customer from start to finish “Open lines of communication are integral to maintaining client relationships” Syd said. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, G&G relied manmonthly.com.au

Manufacturing Services Our experience with project management means having the best people with tradebased knowledge – highly skilled boilermakers, welders, fitters and turners, drafters and other support staff. on its relationships to overcome project delays and all the issues that arose from that.

“We have been very good at retaining all of our clients, and although there has been a stalling effect on work, we have always had enough work to keep the doors open,” he said.

“The concept of customer service is a given at G&G. We don’t talk about it because we deliver it”.

Syd references G&G’s work on the Eureka Tower - SkyDeck – having just recently renewed a part

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of the glass floor – to demonstrate how the company continues to service projects long after the initial completion.

One of G&G’s specialised projects is the equipment Melbourne Zoo uses to feed its tigers.

“Zoo staff tie a piece of meat to a cable strung between two towers and then run it out so the tiger has to jump up to the grab the meat, actually catching it’s dinner,” Syd said.

“We were involved from the start in the design, manufacture,

installation, commissioning and training the zoo staff in its use. All of this was on the back of the work we’ve done for them over the years.”

Navigating through challenges and forging ahead Because of the volatility of the industry over the pandemic, G&G’s management team embarked on acquiring a business to add to its portfolio of services. Syd said the acquisition of a national company, Bollards Direct has provided G&G with another revenue stream.

“We have and are growing the national distributorship. The bollards are wholly manufactured here in Melton and we channel them through the distributors in every state. That said, G&G Engineering is predominantly Victoriabased,” he added.

“We expanded the range of bollards so we can not only provide a product that is in great demand, but

adds another service which fits Road and Bridges, Special Projects and our Maintenance Business.”

The Future 2022 will be a year of further expansion, according to Syd. “Leveraging off its track record as a quality engineering business, G&G is providing a broader range of services and products that are useful not only to our existing clients, but to future clients as well.”

G&G Engineering is very strong on directional management and is currently looking to acquire another business, to expand further into other areas aligned with our current business model and strategic plan. This will strengthen our base, allowing us to provide more diverse and interesting work to our very skilled workforce. After all, they are team that delivers the work, to continue what David and Graeme had started.

Manufacturers’ Monthly FEBRUARY 2022 35

Team Building When it comes to team building, invest in the right things Moddex, a manufacturer of barrier systems for large-scale infrastructure and nonresidential construction projects, tells Manufacturers’ Monthly about its recent team building initiative “Walk a Mile.”

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OR people centric, culture driven organisations, it can be easy to overlook the simple ideas and tackle the big projects instead. And as we know, sometimes the big initiatives don’t end up flying as well as you’d hoped.

In this recent experience, I feel we proved that the best team building exercises don’t necessarily cost money, and don’t involve any bling or wow factor.

During a recent one-on-one catch up with one of our leadership team, a thought was aired – “It would be great if our people could have a better understanding of each other’s roles, and just what goes into each other’s work every day.”

This was noted and got me thinking on how this could be

36 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

achieved practically with so many of the team working big days and at full capacity, with five different office locations across ANZ. In discussing the idea further with our executive team, the possibilities and power of creating an initiative around this concept dawned on us.

And so the Moddex Walk a Mile initiative was born, the name coming from the age-old quote from early American history, “You can’t understand someone until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes.”

So the initiative was introduced during a Monthly All Team Huddle, and was quickly followed up with a Memo and invitation to participate.

The Memo is shared below.

“Walk a Mile” in progress, with Shelley from procurement hosting Ron and Sam from project sales.

Initially, team take up was cautious. However there were soon fifteen of the team keen to learn about someone else’s role.

As we expected, some roles had multiple requests for the Walk A Mile experience so we batched these and let the host set up the meeting time and format for the session.

This all happened, and very quickly the sessions were in motion both face-to-face and via Zoom. The feedback came in quickly: “I can’t believe how much is involved in managing procurement and overseas shipping! Never had any idea just how much planning goes into it, and how much you must be in touch with the schedules on a daily basis.”

“I thought my work was high pressure, but seeing what our project managers are dealing with every day was a massive eye opener.”

“I’ve got some ideas on how to change my process to help out design… I reckon we can save them going looking for information a lot more.”

The flow-on effects from this initiative are yet to be fully seen within the company, however I think any business leader would agree that this will have a powerful impact on the cohesion and connectedness between departments, and help us to get things done

more efficiently as a whole.

Under the same initiative, our managing director Alvin Rowland got out on the factory floor and walked a mile in the assembly team’s shoes.

This had a great impact on the team, and also gave him a taste of what the factory floor is working with each day. Several great suggestions for improvement resulted from this.

On the flip of this, one of our warehouse team members, Dave, asked to walk a mile in the managing director’s shoes! Our managing director was glad to oblige, and some significant insights were gleaned on what it takes to steer an organisation in these times.

And so the journey continues, with the next batch of requests to walk a mile now coming in from across the team.

By sharing this experience, I would hope it inspires someone else to give simple ideas and initiatives such as this one a go.

The lesson in it for us is that a gym, table tennis table or a free lunch don’t improve a company’s culture in their own right – it takes making time for people to connect with people meaningfully, and investing in giving the team space and time to learn about their peers’ roles and daily challenges is bound to have a strong return. manmonthly.com.au

Seals Bottling boldly: Unsealing the history of a Tasmanian winery Seal Innovations provides Josef Chromy Wines with a custom actuating seal solution that exponentially increased their bottling machine’s performance.

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OME to Australia’s first sparkling wine and worldrenowned for producing some of the best cool-climate wines in the world, Tasmania plays host to several lush wine touring trails. Nestled at the heart of the Tamar Valley Wine Trail is Josef Chromy Wines. The lavish estate boasts 61 hectares of well-kept vines and pasture, but the vineyard is not without a storied history that is notably inspiring.

After fleeing his war-torn Czech village in 1950 as a penniless 19-year-old, Josef Chromy spent months crossing borders dotted by minefields and soldiers, before finally immigrating to Tasmania. For 40 years, he worked as a butcher building the leading Tasmanian brand, Blue Ribbon Meat, until 1993, when Blue Ribbon was listed on the Australian Stock Exchange and Joe used the returns to begin investing in the Tasmanian wine industry. In lieu of retirement, he founded Josef Chromy Wines in 2007 — at the age of 76.

Josef Chromy’s unique, individual wine-making style has made its mark on the Australian wine industry.

“Our winemaking style is founded on producing wines that show a true ‘sense of place’ and celebrate the individual characteristics of each vintage,” says Tony Cudmore. “To ensure the integrity and delicate characteristics of the fruit, our grapes are vinified by employing state-ofthe-art technology for traditional winemaking techniques.”

Enter BSC’s Luke Gee, who highlights the importance of excellent fluid transfer systems for the production and processing of wine. “The bottling process is the defining moment for a grape harvest that will determine the quality of the wine out of the bottle,” says Luke. “Tony Cudmore oversees the bottling and packaging of the

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wines for sale at Josef Chromy, and he has been a customer of ours for a while,” says Luke.

Recently, Luke noticed that Tony Cudmore had been frequenting the branch to stock up on one particular size of seal, so he decided to investigate Tony’s application further.

As it turned out, the seals on the bottling machine at Josef Chromy were routinely breaking.

“The seals needed to be replaced after around 20,000 actuations which was not reasonable for what would be expected from one of these machines,” says Tony. “The distributor was only able to supply the same rotary seal from the OEM.” Upon closer inspection, Luke discovered that the standard rotary seals supplied by the OEM of the bottling machine were prematurely failing because they were not designed for an actuating shaft.

Tony had accepted this as a cost of doing business, however Luke was determined to find a better solution and rang up Raj Jadow at Seal Innovations, one of Motion Asia Pacific’s businesses. Raj requested a sample mechanism for the sealing application and Luke gathered one and sent it to Seal Innovations engineering team for inspection.

Raj sent back a custom actuating seal solution that was appropriate for the shaft application and constructed from food‑grade material.

Luke and Tony ran a test and the bottling machine’s performance increased exponentially.

“You would never expect to see such a significant return on investment from a simple seal replacement,” says Tony. “But the new seals have meant that the consistency of the fill height in our bottles has improved considerably, and we have been able to reduce the time spent removing and replacing

Josef Chromy’s unique, individual wine-making style has made its mark on the Australian wine industry.

Working hand in hand, the vineyard team and winery team plan for balance of fruit flavour, natural acidity, tannin, structure and texture. the seals to an acceptable level, bringing our maintenance costs down considerably, and saving on the cost of replacement seals.”

“The new seal has currently been operational on our bottling machine for around 78,000 actuations, with zero failures so far. That’s quite a leap from 20,000 actuations,” enthuses Tony.

“Winemakers can rely on our technologically advanced sealing solutions that are attuned to their specific needs as a business and can prevent unnecessary downtime that could have a negative impact on the final product,” says Raj Jadow. “At Seal Innovations, I am part of an expert team of product managers and engineers who work closely with OEMs and our customers to produce sealing solutions that are customised for applications.”

“Our sealing solutions can stand up to high-pressure demands, temperature fluctuations, dirt, moisture, corrosive greases and fuels,” enthuses Raj, adding that, “Over

the last 50 years, Seal Innovations has partnered with some of the top producers and manufacturers in the country to design, develop, and manufacture a wide range of sealing products for the food and beverage industry.”

For Tony and the team at Josef Chromy Wines, it is the careful attention to detail from vine to glass that is paramount to optimising the quality of their wine and giving their vintage wines a point of difference.

“Working hand in hand, the vineyard team and winery team plan for balance of fruit flavour, natural acidity, tannin, structure and texture.

Every effort is made in the vineyard so that minimal intervention is required in the winery,” says Tony.

“When we work with great suppliers and distributors who enable us to take a more hands-free approach to the processing and bottling stages, this ultimately allows the subtle and delicate flavours of our cool climate grapes to be expressed to their full potential.”

Manufacturers’ Monthly FEBRUARY 2022 37

Hoses Growing with the industrial hose flow Becoming part of Motion Australia’s business portfolio has grown Advanced Industrial Products’ unique customer service benefits and product offering.

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INCE its inception in 1995, Advanced Industrial Products (AIP) has steadily expanded to become one of Australia’s largest national suppliers of industrial hoses, valves, fittings, and associated products.

According to Paul Wood, business development manager at AIP, the company’s success can be largely attributed to its commitment to customer service, together with a comprehensive range of high-quality flow control products – a range that is ever-increasing through new partnerships and the AIP team’s genuine enthusiasm for seeking out the best and most innovative products.

The range of AIP’s products and its depth of expertise might seem daunting to those unschooled in the field, yet Paul has an easy phrase that encapsulates AIP’s fundamental service: “Simply put, we supply a hose, anything that goes on a hose and anything that gets attached to a hose.”

It’s an appealingly unpretentious description, and indicative of an underlying culture steadily nurtured over the past 25-plus years, with a clear objective in mind.

Although an impressively sizeable company today, the AIP ethos and values remain the same as when the company began. Paul says this is one of the reasons AIP has retained its staff.

“Take our external sales team,” Paul says. “Of the 14 staff we have on the road, I think only two of them have been with AIP for fewer than ten years. The experience ratio is roughly the same for our internal team as well.”

He adds that many of AIP’s staff boast years of experience stretching back well before the founding of the company itself. “Lots of our people have years and years of experience – 30-plus years in many cases, and even up to 40 years.”

“We certainly do well at hanging

38 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

onto our staff, which is obviously a big positive for our customers,” he says.

“They know they’re dealing with the same people. We make a concerted effort to have our customers deal with a new person each day, and soon enough they have established rapport with all of us. Whether the contacts are internal or external, this consistency breeds a familiarity that makes our customers feel very comfortable.”

Broad range, flexible service While it retains its customer-focused ethos and a small business mentality, the AIP of 2021 is able to provide unique customer service benefits that are the special province of a larger supplier in the national market. This is due to AIP becoming part of Motion Australia’s business portfolio.

“The range of products we can offer our customers now is very impressive, and getting more so by the day,” Paul says. “Our customers can come to us and buy everything hoserelated they need. Instead of having to shop around and go to four or five different vendors, they can consolidate all their orders, and buy at least a large majority of the products they need from one place – AIP.” AIP’s Head Office is in Darra, Queensland, and boasts a 3100m2 warehouse with an additional 1000m2 warehouse in neighbouring Richlands.

There are branch locations in Sydney, Melbourne, and Mackay. However, through Motion Australia businesses CBC and BSC, AIP has a distribution network that stretches across Australia. “We can get stock to you wherever you need it,” Paul says.

The products AIP stocks would constitute a near inexhaustible list.

The company is renowned for its capabilities in assembling industrial hoses to precise, client-tailored specifications. But it also aims to offer everything that any hose-user could possibly need.

Advanced Industrial Products’ industrial hoses.

“We’ve got our own swaging and crimping machines, for instance, which are very important for the mining sector,” Paul notes. “With our hoses we do different sizes, flange patterns and all the associated components for hose assemblies. Mining companies like to deal with AIP because they will approach us with a specification and we will pull it all together for them – fluidity requirements, different lengths they might need, what fittings they want, just to name a few.”

AIP is not a manufacturer of products, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a true creator.

Paul says that “flexibility” is a key concept that informs all aspects of AIP’s business model.

“Our flexibility in diverse sourcing, our flexibility in distribution, our flexibility in assembling hoses to individual specification – these are simply different reflections of an underlying attitude geared towards problem solving and innovation,” he says.

It is in the domain of hose assembly that AIP truly sets itself apart from its competitors. All the individual qualities present throughout the organisation – depth of experience, broad network of business relationships, vast product procurement capacity in quality and quantity, customer service, dedication to problem solving and matching client specifications with components and assembly requirements.

“All day long, all they do is

hose assemblies,” Paul says.

“Customers approach us with specific requirements, and we use our inhouse expertise and unparalleled component access to assemble the exact hose they need for the job.”

With mining companies among AIP’s largest patrons, rigorous quality and safety testing is a must, given the dangerous environments in which hoses are often deployed, he notes.

“Our customers have the option of us conducting testing under conditions appropriate to the hose’s real-life use,” Paul says. “When hose is assembled, we’ll set it to a pressure in line with its real-world working pressure, and for well-defined periods of time. Once tested, a test plate is attached to the hose with the required information on the actual hose.

This testing capability is obviously important for those hoses deployed in high-pressure environments – where risk mitigation and worker safety are paramount concerns. The testing protocol also provides invaluable information to the customer and can serve as a reference point in the rare event that there is a failure.

“It’s a starting point for a reciprocal exchange of information that – in the long run – is to the benefit of AIP and builds trust with our customers. If a hose isn’t working as it should be, we want to know why,” concludes Paul. “Our attitude is always to keep learning, keep improving – the better to serve our customers.” manmonthly.com.au

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Brought to you by

ICP Electronics Australia presents ICP DAS’ tGW-722 tiny modbus/ TCP to RTU/ASCII Gateway with PoE and 2-port RS-232 ICP Australia is proud to introduce ICP DAS’s tGW-722, which is a Modbus TCP to RTU/ASCII gateway that enables a Modbus/TCP host to communicate with serial Modbus RTU/ASCII devices through an Ethernet network. It eliminates the cable length limitation of legacy serial communication devices.

The module can be used to create a pair-connection application (as well as serialbridge or serial-tunnel application), and can then route data over TCP/IP between two serial Modbus RTU/ASCII devices, which is useful when connecting mainframe computers, servers, or other serial devices that use Modbus RTU/ASCII protocols and do not themselves have Ethernet capability.

Furthermore, tGW-722 module features a powerful 32-bit MCU to enable efficient handling of network traffic and also has a built-in web server that provides an intuitive web management interface that allows users to modify the configuration of the module, including the DHCP/Static IP, the gateway/mask settings and the serial port settings.

Lastly, the module contains a dual watchdog, including a CPU watchdog (for hardware functions) and a host watchdog (for software functions). The CPU watchdog automatically resets the CPU if the built-in firmware is operating abnormally, while the host watchdog automatically resets the CPU if there is no communication between the module and the host (PC or PLC) for a predefined period of time (system timeout). The dual watchdog is an important feature that ensures the module operates continuously, even in harsh environments.

Key Features: • Supports Modbus TCP/UDP Master and Slave • Supports Modbus RTU/ASCII Aster and Slave • Max. TCP Connections (masters) per Serial Port: 32 • Read-Cache Ensures Faster Modbus TCP/UDP Response • Supports UDP Responder for Device Discovery (UDP Search) • Static IP or DHCP Network Configuration • Easy Firmware Update via the Ethernet (BOOTP, TFTP) • Tiny Web Server for Configuration (HTTP)

• Contains a 32-bit MCU that Efficiently Handles Network Traffic • 10/100 Base-TX Ethernet, RJ-45 x 1 (Auto-negotiating, auto MDI/MDIX, LED Indicators) • Includes Redundant Power Inputs: PoE (IEEE 802.3af, Class 1) and DC Jack Allows Automatic RS-485 Direction Control • Terminal Block Connector for Easy Wiring • Tiny Form-Factor and Low Power Consumption • RoHS Compliant & No Halogen • Cost-Effective Modbus Gateway Company: ICP Electronics Australia Phone: 02 9457 6011 Web: icp-australia.com.au

Energy and data combined in new igus hybrid cable for SEW motors New highly flexible chainflex cable saves 40 per cent space in the e-chain and ensures reliable energy and data transmission.

Small, compact and fast: these are the demands on the new generations of motors. To this end, more and more drive manufacturers are turning to hybrid technology to save space. Therefore, Treotham offers the new expanded igus range of hybrid cables with a new cable especially for SEW motors with the MOVILINK DDI interface. Users in the material handling industry, for example, can rely on a durable cable specifically developed for e-chain applications.

Hybrid cables for drive technology are characterised by their ability to combine energy and data transmission in one cable. The result: the number of cables required is halved. In the case of the new SEW motors with MOVILINK DDI interface, the drive manufacturer relies on a coaxial element for the data transmission of motor information. In order to be able to safely supply the compact motors with energy and data while they are in

40 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

motion, Treotham provides a newly developed igus hybrid cable.

“The challenge with cables with coaxial elements is that they quickly become susceptible to faults at high dynamics. That is why we have made it our task to develop a durable and flexible cable that also functions reliably in motion,” says Andreas Muckes, head of Product Management chainflex cables at igus GmbH. To this end, the motion cable specialist can draw on its more than 20 years of expertise in the field of coaxial cables for highly dynamic applications. For the new hybrid cable CF280.UL.H207.D, four energy cores have now been combined with one coaxial core and two control pairs. By merging two cables into one, users can save 40 per cent space in the energy chain.

At the same time, the weight that has to be driven by the system is reduced, which means that less energy is consumed. The new cable with PUR outer jacket can be used for applications with a bending factor of up

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What’sNew to 15xd and is therefore suitable for a wide range of industries: from machine tools and material handling to the automotive industry.

28 cables for hybrid technology With 28 different cable types for motors from Siemens, Beckhoff, SEW and Bosch Rexroth, Treotham has the largest portfolio of igus hybrid cables for the energy chain from stock. With the expansion of the CF280 series, igus is following the ongoing trend of hybrid technology.

Treotham also offers the CF280 cable series with a PVC outer jacket as CF220. In this way, additional costs can be reduced in the hybrid cable segment. The chainflex cables can be purchased harnessed or by the metre.

As with all igus cables, they ensure a guarantee of up to 36 months on the new SEW hybrid cable.

The new igus hybrid cables are available from Treotham Automation.

Company: Treotham Automation Phone: 1300 65 75 64 Web: www.treotham.com.au

Rugged industrial HMI panel computers with Intel 8th generation processors

The ARCHMI-921B Series features include: • 12” to 32” TFT-LCD Resistive/Projected Capacitive Touch • Intel 8th Gen. Core i3/i5 Processor Support • Up to 32GB 2400MHz DDR4 memory • IP66 Certified Flat Front Panel • Fanless Aluminium Die-Casting Chassis • Easily Accessible Hard Drive Enclosure • DC 9~36V Wide-Ranging Power Input Interworld Electronics has released the ARCHMI-921B Series of rugged industrial All-In-One computers from Aplex Technology. The ARCHMI-921B Series are housed in a fanless silver aluminium case that provides IP-66 front panel protection. The ARCHMI-921B Series LCD panels are available with a manmonthly.com.au

Resistive or Projected Capacitive Touch Screens, making them ideal for operator panel and HMI control applications. The ARCHMI-921B Series feature powerful 8th Generation energy efficient Intel Core i3-8145UE or i5-8365UE processors with up to 32GB of DDR4 2400Mhz memory. An internal M.2 M Key slot is provided operating system and data storage. Rear I/O connections include: one COM port, four USB 2.0 ports, two Gigabit Ethernet ports, a DP port and audio line out. An internal Mini-PCIe Slot allows full size Mini-PCIe cards to be installed.

An internal nano SIM card holder is also included. An internal expansion slot allows the following I/O expansion cards to be installed.

Available expansion cards include: • TB-528C1U2 1x COM port, 2x USB 2.0 ports, 1x mini PCIe slot • TB-528C2 2x COM ports (RS-232) • TB-528C2I 2x COM ports (RS-422/485 Isolated) • TB-528C2ME1 2x COM ports, 1x mini PCIe slot • TB-528CAN2 2x CANbus ports • TB-528E1U2 1x LAN, 2x USB 2.0 ports • TB-528U4 4x USB 2.0 ports • TB-528U4ME1 4x USB 2.0 ports, 1x mini-PCIe slot, 1x SIM slot The ARCHMI-921B Series Panel PCs can be panel or VESA mounted, allowing the system to be ergonomically positioned for operator convenience.

The ARCHMI-921B requires a 9~36 VDC power source and can operate in temperatures ranging from 0~50°C A wide range of screen sizes are available including: 12.1”, 15”, 17” and 19” 3:4 ratio LCDs as well as 15.6”, 18.5”, 21.5” and 32” 16:9 ratio Full HD LCDs. Both standard 300 cd/m3 and optional 1000 cd/ m3 high brightness panels are also available. With such a wide range of display options, choosing the best screen size, resolution and brightness for your application is easy.

Company: Interworld Electronics Phone: 03 9593 7555 Web: www.ieci.com.au/products/product_list Manufacturers’ Monthly FEBRUARY 2022 41

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Beamex introduces the Beamex ePG electrical pressure generator – a unique approach to portable automatic pressure calibration Beamex has expanded their successful PG pump family with the Beamex ePG, a revolutionary new electrical pressure pump for industrial pressure calibration applications.

The Beamex ePG continues the company’s mission to provide better ways to calibrate for the industry, based on over 40 years’ experience of providing solutions for pressure calibration.

The Beamex ePG is a robust, portable battery-operated pressure pump that enables easy and quick pressure generation from near vacuum up to 20 bar (300 psi). With a field- replaceable, long-lasting battery pack, users can perform a large number of pressure calibrations on a single charge.

The Beamex ePG can be used together with any existing pressure calibrator, meaning users do not need to buy a new calibrator but can simply replace their manual hand pump with the ePG. It is very intuitive to use, with coarse and fine adjustment buttons to easily generate the required pressure. The Beamex ePG can also be serviced by the user to simplify maintenance.

When the Beamex ePG is used together with the Beamex MC6 family of calibrators, it enables fully automatic pressure calibration where the MC6 calibrator automatically controls the ePG. This optional feature will be available in the near future with a firmware update to the Beamex ePG. “Calibrations in the process industry are often performed in the field, and typically a manual hand pump is used for pressure generation. But a manual hand pump is laborious to use, especially if you need to do several calibrations or pump

a higher pressure,” says Antti Mäkynen, product manager at Beamex. “Based on requests from our customers for easier pressure calibrations, we developed a new technology that enabled the creation of the Beamex ePG.”

Company: AMS Instrumentation & Calibration Phone: 03 9017 8225 Web: www.ams-ic.com.au

Laird Connectivity Sentrius BT610 I/O Sensor, now at Mouser, Turns wired sensors wireless Mouser Electronics, Inc., the authorised global distributor with the newest semiconductors and electronic components, is now stocking the Sentrius BT610 I/O sensor from Laird Connectivity. The new Bluetooth® 5 sensor platform turns wired sensors into IP67-rated, battery-operated wireless nodes that provide robust and secure messaging in applications such as cold chain, HVAC monitoring, single/threephase induction motor AC current sensing, or tank level monitoring.

Laird Connectivity’s Sentrius BT610 I/O sensor, now in stock at Mouser Electronics, is powered by the Laird Connectivity BL654 Bluetooth module, enabling the sensor to deliver full Bluetooth 5 capabilities, including LE Coded PHY. At a hardware level, the BT610 supports virtually any industry-standard external sensor through a wide range of interface options, such as general-purpose analog inputs, digital input/output to I²C, SPI, and UART, or in combination with a sensor cable assembly.

The many configuration choices enable users to read and report sensor data up into the cloud and configure alarm events through the associated Android or iOS mobile app. Users can choose to use either the Nordic nRF Connect SDK or Zephyr RTOS to develop custom applications and address their own requirements or use the ready-to-deploy application software that comes onboard the BT610. The BT610 is fully certified for FCC, ISED, EU, RCM, and MIC, and is Bluetooth SIG listed.

With a rugged IP67 enclosure including a pressure vent, a high-gain internal antenna with IPEX locking connector, and long-range Bluetooth 5 connectivity (LE Coded PHY), the BT610 is an ideal sensor solution for harsh Internet of Things (IoT) environments where reliable wireless connectivity is 42 FEBRUARY 2022 Manufacturers’ Monthly

essential to keeping systems online and operational.

Mouser also offers the Laird Connectivity Sentrius IG60-BL654 + BT610 IoT Starter Kits. The kits contain a Sentrius IG60-BL654 wireless IoT gateway with global power supplies, three Sentrius BT610 I/O sensors, three thermistor cable assemblies, mobile apps for configuration, and Laird Connectivity’s free AWS-based IoT monitoring evaluation platform. Users can gather data from the BT610 sensors, collect the information with the IG60-BL654 gateway, and send it to the cloud via AWS IoT Greengrass.

Company: Mouser Electronics Phone: (852) 3756 4700 Web: www.mouser.com/new/laird-connectivity manmonthly.com.au

What’sNew New entrant to Sydney Security Shutter Market makes an impact.

The Australian Trellis Door Company’s (ATDC) new Series 2 security shutter is proving very successful in the Sydney commercial market.

This solidly engineered aluminium extruded shutter is proving both reliable and effective in delivering a secure lock up solution to commercial, hospitality, retail and even industrial applications. Capable of spanning a maximum width of 5500mm in one section without the need for any unwieldly or unsightly mullions.

The photograph shows a recent installation completed for KFC at Sans Souci, NSW. The top 400mm of the shutter has perforated mesh to permit ventilation. Project managers for this installation were Sydney based Aspect Design and Development.

Company: The Australian Trellis Door Company Phone: 1800 657 435 Web: www.trellisdoors.com.au/profuct/commercial-security/roller-shutters

Abrasion resistant acrylic sheet - DONCHAMP SurfaceGuard – ideal for the framing industry Allplastics Engineering has responded to numerous requests from a wide range of industries such as picture framers; exhibition designers; retailers; glazing projects and many others for an acrylic that has an abrasion resistant surface.

As most users are aware while acrylic has a wonderful range of applications and advantages, it can be susceptible to scratching in heavy traffic situations or due to constant cleaning/rubbing. With stocks available in 3mm and 4.5mm thick – DONCHAMP SurfaceGuard S1 hard coated sheets have coating on only one side which allows screen or digital printing on the other side. This also allows fabricated displays to be glued to surfaces making it exceptionally convenient for advertisement and other display purposes.

The combination of functionality and visual attraction makes DONCHAMP SurfaceGuard panels an excellent choice for high traffic glazing and signage applications. The transparency of the panels, coupled with the high surface hardness, increased chemical resistance, plus reducing paint adhesion, enables DONCHAMP SurfaceGuard to be used in numerous applications. DONCHAMP SurfaceGuard has approximately 11 times the break resistance of glass and weighs considerably less than glass, making transportation easier and safer. The panels are easy to clean with a high resistance to commercial cleaning solutions.

Advantages: • 5-year manufacturer’s limited UV warranty; • Excellent abrasion/mar resistance (pencil hardness 6H); • Increased chemical and paint resistance on coated surfaces; • Strength/mechanical properties; • Easy to clean and maintain; • Superior optical properties; • High Rigidity; • Good UV stability; • Light weight; and • Gluing possible on an uncoated surface.

Applications • Picture framing; • Electronic components (displays);

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• • • • • • • • • • •

Poker machine / gaming displays; Furniture industry – back painted/protection layer enabling gloss appearance; White goods – Refrigeration parts; Signage – Way-finding interior signage/directory displays; Map protection; ATM surrounds; Machine guards; Double glazing; Permanent sneeze screens/anti jump counter screens; Balustrades; and Museums and galleries display.

Available sizes • 2440mm x 1220mm; and • Other sizes available on request.

Thickness • 3mm and 4.5mm; and • Other thicknesses available upon request.

Company: Allplastics Engineering Phone: (02) 8038 2000 Web: www.allplastics.com.au

Manufacturers’ Monthly FEBRUARY 2022 43

We bring colour into view!

Compact capacitive level switches with 360° custom-colour status display

256 colours Individually selectable: Measurement in progress Sensor switching Process malfunction

15 cm

Compact design

Hygienic adapter system

Adjustment via smartphone

Approvals: - FDA Food & Drug Administration - EHEDG & 3A Hygienic - EG1935/2004

From

$ 480

VEGAPOINT 24 G½"

www.vega.com/vegapoint