




Founded by Tony Herridge in 1975, Dual Pumps Limited has grown from a small garagebased operation into a leading distributor of pressure washers, pumps, and fluid-handling components. Over the past five decades, the company has built a reputation for reliability, innovation, and quality service.
Tony worked as a sales representative for Hypro in the UK and Europe, a role that would prove instrumental in shaping the company’s future. This early experience laid the foundation for lasting business relationships. His work soon led to partnerships with other major brands, including Interpump, Pratissoli, Banjo, Pacer, and Flojet, marking the beginning of a long and successful collaboration that would help define Dual Pumps’ product offering.
products, streamlining the purchasing experience for trade customers.
In 1977, the company opened its first office in Oakham with two employees before expanding to Melton Mowbray in 1982. A major milestone came in 1983 when Dual Pumps became the official UK distributor for Interpump, the world’s leading manufacturer of high-pressure plunger pumps.
Innovation has always been central to Dual Pumps. In 1996, it launched its first product catalogue, later expanding to a 160-page edition in 2001. Today, the company offers a 432-page catalogue and a mobileresponsive B2B website featuring over 10,000
Recognising the need for greater capacity, Dual Pumps moved into a 35,000 sq. ft. facility on the outskirts of Melton Mowbray in 2012, enabling it to meet increasing demand and enhance service offerings. The launch of the Evolution Series EngineDriven Pressure Washers in 2015, featuring over 60 models across ten series, further cemented the company’s reputation for high-performance, durable products tailored to industry needs.
In 2020, Dual Pumps achieved ISO 9001-2015 certification, demonstrating its commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond
As Dual Pumps marks its 50th anniversary, it stands
as a testament to growth, resilience, and dedication to customer satisfaction. The company now employs 44 people, serving over 2,500 customers, from sole traders to international OEMs, and distributing products from more than 90 leading global manufacturers.
From humble beginnings to becoming a trusted partner worldwide, Dual Pumps continues to set the standard for reliability and innovation. With a strong foundation and a vision for the future, it remains committed to delivering high-quality solutions for an ever-evolving industry.
At Dual Pumps, dependability isn’t just a promise –it’s a legacy.
T 01664 567226 info@dualpumps.co.uk www.dualpumps.co.uk
Welcome to our June edition. Explore our hand-picked features on innovative companies across the industry.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dual Pumps Limited as they mark an impressive 50 years in business – a remarkable milestone that reflects their sustained growth, resilience, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. Read more about their journey and achievements on page 2.
We’re proud to feature Acuity Ultrasonics as the sponsor of this issue – a recognised leader in Quality Assurance solutions for the cable manufacturing industry. Turn to page 8 for an in-depth article showcasing the company’s advanced technologies and expertise in non-destructive testing, with a special focus on applications within the high-voltage cable sector.
the Cover
In an era where industrial automation forms the backbone of modern manufacturing, JUMO has established itself as a global leader in sensor and automation solutions. As a trusted system and solution provider, JUMO delivers expert guidance across all levels – from field instrumentation to monitoring and control – seamlessly integrating the key stages of the automation pyramid. With a strong focus on the production and process industries, JUMO’s innovative approach ensures optimised performance, reliability, and efficiency for its clients. Turn to page 11.
Other topics covered: Health & Safety, Oil, Gas & Offshore, Commercial Vehicles, Electronics, Warehouse & Logistics, Test, Measurement & Laboratory, Printing & Labelling, Industrial, Security.
With 75+ years of expertise, JUMO has redefined process control by offering intelligent, adaptable, and high-precision systems designed for critical industries.
ABLE is active across a broad range of industries including oil and gas, power, food, chemical, pharmaceutical, automotive, original equipment manufacturer solutions, renewables, water and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
Got news to share? Email: harrietparfitt@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk BAIT Sales Manager, Harriet Parfitt – 0121 550 7510 harrietparfitt@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
OsecoElfab is one of 197 organisations in the UK to be recognised with a prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise. Announced on 6th May, OsecoElfab has been recognised for its excellence in International Trade.
Oliver Valves Ltd, a global leader in the design and manufacture of highperformance valves for the oil, gas, and hydrogen industries, has been honoured with a King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade.
Focus Label Machinery Limited has been a leader in label printing machines since 1981. With over 40 years of experience, we design, manufacture, and install all types of label printing machines in-house, with training, servicing, spare parts, and consumables provided.
Clearway Group today announces a leadership transition. Phil Doyle, the Group’s new CEO, assumes responsibility for the day-to-day management of the business. Page 5
Editorial, Gina Burton – 07483 931474 – gina@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
Production Manager, Robert Sharp – production@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk Accounts Department, Paul Whitaker – 0121 824 4742 accounts@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
For more information or format requirements, see our Media Pack Unless stated as news, the entire content of this publication is advertorial based. To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 550 7510. Visit www.businessandindustrytoday.co.uk for current issues.
– see them on page 18
Industrial automation experts FANUC UK have announced an agreement with Reeco Automation to incorporate the FANUC CRX range of collaborative robots into the RB series of robot palletisers. As manual loading becomes an increasingly harder role to recruit, Reeco’s automated end-of-line RB Palletiser systems have grown in popularity, particularly among food & beverage producers. By extending the RB portfolio to incorporate FANUC’s CRX 20 and 30 models, both companies are confident that more manufacturers – including SMEs – can now enjoy the efficiency gains, energy wins and cost-saving benefits that automation delivers.
Renowned in the market for being safe, efficient and easy to programme, FANUC’s CRX series of collaborative robots comes with minimal maintenance requirements and extended warranties of up to five years. Reeco will integrate the 20iA
(20kg payload) and 30iA (30kg payload) models into their established RB palletiser range, ensuring their customers can benefit from the superior reliability and enhanced performance that are synonymous with the FANUC brand.
Reeco’s RB Palletiser range offers an automated alternative for manual loading tasks, providing unrivalled functionality and safe operation alongside human activity.
A demo RB Palletiser featuring a FANUC CRX collaborative robot is available now for free proof-ofconcept trials at Reeco’s headquarters in Newtown, mid-Wales. Alternatively, you can see the system in action live on the FANUC Stand (5/F40) at Smart Factory Expo (4th-5th June 2025, NEC Birmingham).
Please visit: www.fanuc.eu/uk/en
Leading third-party logistics provider Kammac, has announced a new partnership with the UK’s number one ultra-premium vodka brand, Au Vodka, to support the company’s ambitious expansion both domestically and internationally.
Au Vodka, known for its premium flavoured vodkas, has seen remarkable success since its founding in 2015, growing annually at over 457%! Driven by a surge in consumer interest in premium spirits during the COVID-19 pandemic and its recent entry into eight U.S states, has seen Au Vodka earn the top spot in the prestigious ‘For Entrepreneurs, By Entrepreneurs’ (FEBE) Growth 100 list.
flexibility in working with scaling brands, and the strong rapport established between the two companies.
anniversary of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
The Transport UK film explains how the company is helping to address SDG 11 – ‘Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.’ The film begins in Liverpool, a city at the heart of transport innovation.
Such significant progress has seen Au Vodka outgrow its warehouse in Swansea, with the business recognising a need for more scalable storage and distribution solutions. Following a review of third-party logistics providers, the brand chose Kammac as its first industry partner, a decision driven by Kammac’s
Through this partnership, Kammac is overseeing a comprehensive range of logistics operations for Au Vodka, managing the transportation and storage of its diverse lineup of flavoured vodkas, premixed cocktails, and slushies. This includes handling full-loads and UPN pallet network loads, as well as managing B2B deliveries directly to retailers.
Visit: www.kammac.com
Transport UK has been confirmed as a commercial partner to be featured in a 2025 campaign for UNESCO World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development. This campaign will recognise the role of science and engineering in sustainable development, and Britain’s unrivalled rail heritage will be showcased in a short film highlighting Transport UK’s innovative sustainable transport solutions which reduce emissions and improve community safety.
The 12-month campaign will launch on World Engineering Day on 4th March 2025, a year marking the 80th anniversary of UNESCO and 10th
Sustainability is a key pillar of Transport UK’s social values charter. The group continues to expand its electrified fleets and sustainability initiatives across its train operating companies and London Bus, in line with – and in some cases ahead of – the Government’s net-zero decarbonisation timelines.
The film created for UNESCO World Engineering Day 2025 has been produced by the SJH Group, in partnership with Transport UK. The video can be viewed here
Please visit: https://www.transport-uk.com
XPO, a leading provider of innovative and sustainable end-to-end logistics solutions across Europe, held its fifth annual UK Female Driver Forum this week. The forum provided a safe space for female drivers to bring matters of concern to the attention of XPO’s senior management and to network.
As in previous years, all XPO Logistics female drivers were invited to attend the forum, which took place at the company’s national distribution centre in Crick, Northamptonshire. This is the second UK Female Driver Forum, which took place in 2024. Since the first one, held in April, XPO Logistics has increased its number of female drivers by 20 in the UK and Ireland and hopes to boost this number even further this year.
The forum covered several topics, including Neurodiversity in the Workplace, which is at the heart of XPO’s workplace equality and diversity
values. It also hosted an interactive session for female drivers to provide operational feedback to help the company best support them.
XPO Logistics is a leading innovative supply chain company in Europe, offering end-to-end logistics solutions that combine full-truckload, less-thantruckload, pallet distribution, last-mile delivery, global freight forwarding, and warehousing services. The company tailors its solutions to the specific needs of its customers in a wide range of industrial and consumer sectors.
For more information, please visit: xpo.com and europe.xpo.com
As an established supplier of rotary and diverter valves for a large range of dry bulk solids processing industries, DMNWESTINGHOUSE is committed to providing futureproof value. This is why we launched the improved PTD plug diverter valve.
The PTD plug diverter valve at a glance The PTD is designed to route powders and pellets in pneumatic conveying systems with minimum degradation. This diverter valve minimises service time, ensuring more uptime and lower costs. This isn’t just servicing – this is efficiency. Every single time.
The PTD plug diverter valve is suitable for a range of dry bulk solids processing industries:
Aquaculture • Animal feed (EV) Batteries • Biomass (Petro) Chemicals • Cosmetics • Dairy Food • Infant formula • Minerals Paint • Pet food • Pharmaceuticals Plastics • Recycling • Rubber
Benefits of the PTD plug diverter valve
These features help your operators work smoother and faster, leading to minimal downtime:
● Easy, two-sided access – service from the most convenient side
● Adhesive-free belly seals
● Quick-connection position sensors
● Easy-release actuator linkage
● Reinforced jacking points
● Minimal service required
Your benefits? The PTD sets a new standard in servicing efficiency, ensuring more uptime and reduced costs.
Conclusion
The PTD plug diverter valve exemplifies DMN-WESTINGHOUSE’s commitment to providing dry bulk processing industries with future-proof value. It slashes servicing time and offers unparallelled ease of use. The PTD provides the fastest way to efficiency.
T +44 (0)1249 818400
https://www.dmnwestinghouse.com
When road tankers are being loaded/unloaded with flammable products the generation and uncontrolled accumulation of electrostatic charge can, if left unchecked, result in the release of electrostatic sparks with energy levels capable of igniting flammable vapours and combustible dusts.
Grounding the road tanker mitigates the risk of static charge accumulation.
An Earth-Rite® II RTR provides site operators with a means of reliably grounding the road tanker.
The Earth-Rite® II RTR static grounding system:
● Patented circuitry detects the road tanker capacitance and that it has a connection to the general mass of the earth (assuming the product is installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s Instruction Manual).
● Continuously monitors the connection to the earth bar to be 10ohms or less.
● Grounding system will return to
non-permissive state if greater that 10ohms resistance is detected
Newson Gale also offers a Breakaway Connector to mitigate the risk of damage during a drive off:
● Mitigates the risk of damage if a vehicle drive-off occurs when the operator fails to remove the clamp.
● Grounding clamp quickly separates from the spiral cable.
● Grounding system remains in place minimising any potential downtime.
● Simple for operators to replace clamp assembly.
Learn more and view the Earth-Rite® II RTR product animation.
Visit: www.newson-gale.co.uk
The 5620 is the very latest MultiJet Fusion (MJF) printer from HP, installed at 76 Additive’s new headquarters in Cambridgeshire, an investment made possible by the huge increase in demand that 76 Additive has experienced in the past 18 months.
Rob Johnson, founder of 76 Additive, says, “We’re all about production of end use parts using industrial 3D printing technology. We step in when our clients require the capacity, surface finish, repeatability and lower costs that their in-house printers cannot achieve. MJF was developed from the very beginning as an end use production technology, our clients are regularly amazed at what is possible.”
Reflecting on the 3D printing industry, Rob says, “Unfortunately the 3D printing industry, particularly the printer manufacturers, has a bad name for overselling itself, which is a shame because it blinds potential customers to the real benefits. Whether our clients are experienced in 3D printing or new to it, they deal directly with technicians and designers that understand the technology and will give them an honest appraisal of whether it is correct for their requirements. We have
clients in industries such as composites, motorsport, energy, medtech and sporting goods which value our speed, quality and value in the supply of their custom enclosures, brackets, shrouds, PCB mounts, cable management and full products.”
With fast changing end customer
requirements and insecurity in the global supply chain 76 Additive is sure that their services have an important part to play.
Contact T 01733 795676 additive@76projects.com www.76additive.com
Acuity Ultrasonics is a leader in Quality Assurance solutions for the cable manufacturing industry.
Established in 2008 by ex-MOD experts, the company developed the technology and later sold its first production machines in 2013. These machines are still in daily use, although superseded by more modern and advanced designs.
Spread across two locations: The Optic Centre in St Asaph, North Wales, and Europa Business Park in Stockport, Acuity Ultrasonics performs deeps scans of high voltage cables that are used to transfer energy long distances over land and under the sea. We spoke to Ian Clark, Director – Acuity Ultrasonics, who explained more:
“Specialising in non-destructive testing for the highvoltage cable industry, we deep-scan cables during the manufacturing process and inspect joints once they have been completed in the factory. As joints are handmade, they can potentially be the weakest point in a long cable. Cables are produced in lengths of up to 20km, meaning joints are essential for any commercial project, where distances of several hundred kilometres are common, and plans for 4,000km are already in place.”
“The HV cable industry is booming globally with the current thrusts of electrification becoming a principal source of energy. Cables are used to connect regions with abundant electricity generation – such as Norway and Canada for hydropower, France for nuclear energy, the North Sea for wind power, and Morocco for wind and solar energy – with areas that have high electricity demand, including the UK, eastern USA, southern Germany, and Ireland.”
manufacturers take every possible precaution to prevent such flaws.”
This is where the company’s expertise truly shines, offering services that set them apart in the industry. By thoroughly visualising the interior of cables and joints and meticulously logging detailed scans, Acuity Ultrasonics can detect even the smallest submillimetre flaws at an early stage. This high-resolution data not only ensures the integrity of the cable but also serves as a verifiable quality record. This documentation can be invaluable to organisations purchasing the cable, providing concrete evidence of its structural reliability and manufacturing precision.
“For efficient transmission, long cables must use direct current (DC) rather than the alternating current (AC) used in national grids. They also operate at high voltages – typically 500,000 volts or more, even more than the 400,000 volts used in the UK’s main grid backbone. These extreme voltages place significant stress on the cable’s insulation, meaning even minor imperfections – such as air bubbles or dirt – can cause degradation and eventual failure. If a cable fails under the sea, repair costs are enormous, and the disruption to supply can be severe. This is why cable
“Detecting flaws early eliminates the need to scrap or rework cables – an especially valuable advantage considering costs can range from £300 to £500 per metre. Our technology provides a detailed cross-sectional view of the cable every quarter of a millimetre along its length, generating terabytes of real-time visualisation of a cable’s interior during manufacturing. Unlike competing methods that rely on external measurements to infer internal conditions or x-ray scans that can miss small flaws, our approach delivers unmatched accuracy. Moreover, factory x-ray inspection requires strict safety precautions and is not attractive as a continuous quality assurance tool, making our solution both safer and more effective,” added Ian.
Acuity Ultrasonics has been researching the internal quality of HV and MV cables since 2009. During this time, many thousands of kilometres of extruded cable have been scanned in factories across Europe, with recovery of cable worth millions by identifying defective lengths to cut out of reels that would otherwise have been wholly scrapped.
as well as to other manufacturing processes where the presence of small flaws is critical such as highpressure plastic piping.
Both the UltraScreen and UltraProfilor platforms offer complete assessment in HV cable production, enabling companies to deliver the highest assured quality of cable manufacturing to their customers.
“International certification bodies are beginning to show interest in our technology, particularly because of the data record that we uniquely create,” said Ian.
Our technology is in factories of several global cablemakers. All our clients jealously guard the knowledge of the presence of our technology – hence the title of this piece. Looking ahead, the company is poised for continued growth, with strong interest in collaborating with a larger technology organisation. Acuity remains committed to continuous improvement and to adapting to the changing needs of its customers as they develop products and factories to meet the global demand for HV cables. By staying closely connected with industry partners, the company ensures it remains at the forefront of emerging needs and technological advancements.
For more information, please see below: T 01745 535237 info@acuityultrasonics.com https://www.acuityultrasonics.com
In addition to Ultrascreen (the online monitor), an offline system for manual inspection of cable joints, Ultraprofilor, uses the same technology to 3D-visualise joints in even higher resolution.
These are Acuity’s two main products. This technology can be applied to other aspects of cable making too such as control of the thickness of the lead or copper sheathing,
On 20th and 21st May, NMITE (New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering) hosted a group of 60 academics, recognised as the most outstanding Higher Education (HE) teachers from across the UK, who took part in the Association of National Teaching Fellows Symposium 2025.
The Symposium is run by the Association of National Teaching Fellows, with support from Advance HE, the member-led charity of and for the higher education sector that works with partners across the globe to improve higher education for staff, students and society. At NMITE, the local
host is Professor Gary Wood who is himself a National Teaching Fellow and has been NMITE’s Academic Director since he joined in 2021.
Professor Wood, along with NMITE colleague Emma Lewis (Head of Quality Assurance), facilitated a workshop on the evolving quality assurance landscape in UK higher education, and the increasing scrutiny and regulation of universities. A consortium of HEI partners, led by NMITE, has explored the interaction and relationship between quality assurance and innovation, particularly considering ‘bottom-up,’ academic/practitioner-led innovation. This workshop provided an overview of the findings and support for attendees to consider how they can use the project’s resources and findings to support high-quality innovations to make impact in their own institution and practice.
https://nmite.ac.uk
BPI, a leading asset disposal specialist, has launched an exclusive online auction showcasing a range of high-precision multi-axis CNC machining centres from a renowned precision engineering firm. These high-spec machines are often used in sectors such as aerospace, automotive and energy.
As part of a strategic restructuring to optimise operations and enhance efficiency, the company has partnered with BPI to streamline its asset disposal process. This curated sale includes 10 premium lots, all of which have been meticulously inspected and detailed by BPI specialists to ensure complete transparency and accurate descriptions.
Key auction highlights include:
● 2023 DMG Mori NXH8000
● 2021 DMG Mori NHX5000
● 2023 DN Solutions Doosan VT1100M
● 2018 & 2019 DMG Mori DMU Models
● 2018 & 2017 Mazak VARIAXIS
Each lot is backed by comprehensive specifications, allowing buyers to make informed decisions and enjoy a seamless purchasing experience.
This auction provides a unique opportunity for precision manufacturers to acquire high-quality CNC machining centres at a fraction of the cost of new
equipment. These machines, in excellent working condition, offer incredible value and are poised to enhance operational efficiency, increase productivity, and support long-term business growth.
The auction is hosted on BPI’s secure, user-friendly 24/7 online platform, BPI Auctions, providing global access for businesses to browse, bid, and secure high-end assets with ease and confidence.
To view the online auction and r egister to bid, please visit: https://www.bpiauctions.com/ auctions/#/auctions/f7a8a040-50c64945-9869-8c432e3f6e5a
Nulogy, a leader in collaborative manufacturing and supply chain solutions, has announced the launch of its newest innovation, Nulogy Smart Factory. Designed specifically for optimising performance, availability, and quality on machine-based lines, Smart Factory delivers real-time production visibility to enhance operational efficiency while reducing costs associated with downtime or reduced throughput.
The Smart Factory solution combines bi-directional machine monitoring with automated data capture, enabling manufacturers to address inefficiencies in real-time. Trusted by manufacturers around the world, the solution is recognised for its ability to unlock insights into downtime, bottlenecks, and inefficiencies that impact production throughput and increase costs.
Smart Factory gives manufacturers the power to harness real-time data to improve efficiency and maximise capacity. By using the data to get on the same page every day and be more agile on the plant floor, customers can cut their downtime, increase overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), and implement data-driven workflows and
processes to dramatically improve plant performance.
Nulogy Smart Factory enables manufacturing operations with automated production lines and machinery to gain real-time visibility and monitoring, identifying bottlenecks on the production floor, and eliminating unplanned downtime. Customers can achieve significant gains in profitability by hitting yield goals and ensuring on-time delivery, strengthening their market competitiveness and operational resilience.
To learn more about Nulogy Smart Factory, please visit: www.nulogy.com
An orchestra of possibilities
In an era where industrial automation is the backbone of manufacturing, JUMO stands as a global leader in sensor and automation solutions. With 75+ years of expertise, JUMO has redefined process control by offering intelligent, adaptable, and high-precision systems designed for critical industries such as food & beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical, water treatment, and energy.
At JUMO, our commitment goes beyond components – we deliver end-to-end solutions that optimise efficiency, increase reliability, and drive digital transformation. From the sensor to the cloud, our technology integrates seamlessly to provide real-time data, ensuring smoother operations and enhanced process reliability
Capabilities that drive excellence
As a leading system and solution provider of sensor and automation technology we provide you with expert advice from the field to the monitoring level and effectively combine the stages of the automation pyramid that are relevant for the production and process industry. The requirements of the safety zone are also taken into account. What you get from us:
● Comprehensive process automation: Our scalable solutions cater to industries requiring precise measurement, control, and automation.
● Digital integration: JUMO’s connectivity solutions, including IO-Link, PROFINET, and JUMO Cloud, facilitate real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance.
● Industry-specific expertise: We tailor automation solutions to meet regulatory and process demands in diverse industrial sectors.
● Sustainability & hydrogen technology: With H2ready sensors and process automation for clean energy, we actively support the transition towards a greener future.
Whether enhancing existing systems or designing new, future-ready automation architectures, JUMO provides the technology and expertise to streamline industrial processes.
Featured innovations from JUMO
JUMO meroTRON 104/108/116
Modular one-channel/ two-channel controllers with PLC function
● Customisable device menu for userfriendly integration
into a wide range of applications
● PLC function with programming via ST code including realtime clock as well as with direct access to
● Operation and display
● Planning security through scalable hardware with Plug and Play
● Communication via USB, PROFINET, Ethernet, and RS485 (Modbus master/ slave TCP/RTU)
● Calibration of analog inputs according to CQI-9 and AMS2750
● Large variety as well as large number of analog and digital inputs and outputs
Applications: Industrial furnaces, baking ovens, tempering equipment, and chemical processing
JUMO flowTRANS US W02
Ultrasonic flowmeter
● NEW: Now with pressure measurement cell
● Reduced maintenance costs due to low-wear design without moving parts
● High degree of process reliability through precise measurement
● Metal-free design for use in corrosive media and environments
● Simultaneous measurement of up to 3 measurands (flow, temperature, pressure) at 1 measuring point
● Simple, convenient configuration and operation via Bluetooth using the JUMO smartCONNECT app
● Time and cost savings during configuration as well as the integration in plants and sensor networks through IO-Link
● Connection also possible via analog interfaces and/or pulse output
Applications: Reverse osmosis, desalination of seawater, cooling tower
JUMO DELOS S02
Precision pressure transmitter with switching contacts and display
● Pressure transmitter for liquid and gaseous media
● High degree of process reliability due to maximum accuracy and long-term stability
● Easy configuration via Bluetooth/smartphone app or IO-Link
● Ethernet-based version available
● Direct cloud connection possible
Applications: Pharmaceutical, food processing, and industrial HVAC systems
JUMO variTRON 500 touch
Touch panel with integrated central processing unit for the automation system
● Touch panel and central processing unit in 1 device
● Application creation with CODESYS V3.5 and with Node-RED
● Creation of clear process and plant visualisations as well as user interfaces
● Full connectivity to systems and components thanks to support for numerous fieldbus systems (such as PROFINET IO-Controller and EtherCAT master) as well as modern communication protocols like OPC UA
● Reliable control technology with independent PID controllers including autotuning function
Applications: Large-scale process plants, batch control, and customised automation
JUMO is more than just a technology provider; we are a strategic partner in automation and process control. With a focus on efficiency, connectivity, and sustainability, our solutions help industries achieve greater productivity, compliance, and long-term operational excellence.
Discover how JUMO can transform your automation strategy. Visit our website for more information or contact our expert team at the below details for tailored solutions.
Contact T +44 (0)1279 635533 info.uk@jumo.net https://www.jumo.co.uk
In 1985, Don Burnham and Mike Shortall founded ABLE Instruments and Controls, on a former WWII Spitfire base. Don, a physicist, and Mike, an engineer, established the firm as a distributor of third-party measurement devices. They identified an opportunity to supply customers with the required technology, delivering long-term instrumentation and control solutions.
“ABLE Instruments & Controls was founded to fill the void created by the rigid supply nature of instrumentation manufacturers and the lack of engineering and support capability exhibited by traditional representative organisations. The experience of the company founders whilst working within both types of organisation and, more importantly, the frustration of customers when searching for a solution to their measurement requirement, directly lead to the formation of the company in 1985.” David Quelch, Business Development and Marketing Manager explains.
ABLE is active across a broad range of industries including oil and gas, power, food, chemical, pharmaceutical, automotive, original equipment manufacturer solutions, renewables, water and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Whatever the requirement, the fundamental ethos of ABLE remains the same. The ABLE framework is based on vision, evolution, and foundation. The company vision is to adapt or create relevant instruments with innovative designs or custom systems with the client able to access a skilled engineering and support system in place for the lifetime of the product. ABLE has grown from a concept into a global leader in instrument measurement, shifting away from conventional supply methodology.
The development of the e-commerce brand is an example of this new methodology, as ABLE continues to grow into additional markets whilst
retaining its core values. In 2020, ABLE became the premier e-commerce distributor for Bartec, experts in providing safety solutions and products that prevent explosions. In 2023 ABLE were responsible for 95% of the Bartec’s field comms equipment range which includes ATEX cameras, mobile phones, and tablets.
ABLE’s Research and Development team has spent the past seven to eight years designing the FlareMaster, an advanced flare metering system with a modular configuration that has been deployed in multiple offshore installations. It features a dual redundancy and a supervisory system to enhance the performance of ultrasonic flare gas meters. It also determines the composition of the flare gas to assist in accurate reporting of Green House Gases. The FlareMaster is effective in reducing the uncertainty budget of the gas density, and for one operator this has led to a major improvement in emissions reporting and therefore contributed to Tier III compliance.
ABLE’s instrumentation is in use at Mogden Sewage Treatment Works. This facility services an area of 55 hectares with approximately 2.1 million users. ABLE was engaged as part of a £140 million project by Thames Water to upgrade the site's Jerome Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S) Analysers. ABLE upgraded all 15 analyser systems to the current generation of Model J605 and housed each in thermostatically sealed environmental enclosures.
Since the upgrade, the J605 has improved accuracy in critical nuisance odour monitoring, plus automatic sampling and regeneration functionality that assist in longer term periods of unattended monitoring. The J605 has been employed by a variety of water treatment and waste management companies, as well as regulatory authorities including the Environment Agency, the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, and Natural Resources Wales.
In further developments, ABLE are Magnetrol’s partner for exclusive distribution and support in the UK and Ireland. Magnetrol’s name is synonymous with an extensive range of innovative level and flow instrumentation and a highly respected name in the Oil and Gas industry. Magnetrol, like ABLE, has a strong ethos to deliver excellent service and with a competitive pricing structure that complements ABLE’s own, this partnership has a strong foundation for long-term success.
The ABLE range includes the Micronics UX5000 ATEX Zone 1 Ultrasonic Clamp-On Flow Meter and offers precise flow measurement without needing process downtime. Certified for Zones 1 and 2, it has an Intrinsically Safe measurement system with wet-calibrated transducers for reliable accuracy. The UX5000 features a separate display (DCSIU) and measurement unit (RMU) for flexible installation. This flow meter is ideal for harsh applications in industries like chemicals, water, and oil and being used to measure liquid hydrocarbon flow in oil processing and various chemical industry measurements.
Going forward, Dave explains what the future will hold. “ABLE are suppliers of a wide diversity of both cutting edge and traditional instrumentation to the process and research industries. We move into our 5th decade of operation as an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), having obtained all the shares from the previous shareholder and thereby securing the independence and succession of ownership of the business.”
“We continue to remain faithful to the philosophy on which the company was founded, to supply solutions and not just products. ABLE has forged long term relationships with some of the strongest brands in the world of process control and analytical measurement and developed our own solutions to some of the more difficult measurements across the oil & gas, petrochemical, chemical, utilities, food and pharmaceutical sectors.”
For more information, please see below: T +44 (0)118 931 1188 info@able.co.uk www.able.co.uk 247able.com
Gill Instruments, a leading designer and manufacturer of meteorological measurement equipment, has been honoured with a King’s Award for Enterprise, recognising the company’s achievement in international trade. Now in its 59th year, the King’s Award is the UK’s most prestigious business accolade. With 199 recipients in 2025, Gill Instruments’ recognition highlights its outstanding growth over the past three years.
Founded in 1985 in Lymington, on the edge of the New Forest, Gill Instruments began as an innovative engineering company specialising in ultrasonic airflow measurement. Today, it supplies advanced ultrasonic wind sensors and weather stations to customers in more than 73 countries. Its technology supports sectors including manufacturing, marine, meteorology, power and energy, and transport.
Alan Brooke, CEO of Gill Instruments, said, “We are extremely honoured to receive the King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade for Outstanding Short-Term Growth. This recognition, which comes as we mark 40 years in business, is a testament to our team’s dedication and our commitment to delivering high-quality solutions worldwide. We have grown from a family business into a global organisation, but our core values have remained unchanged. This award will serve as both a proud milestone and continued source of inspiration as we move forward.”
T +44 (0)1590 613500 contact.gi@gill.group https://gillinstruments.com
AMETEK Land, a world-leading manufacturer of highly accurate infrared pyrometers, scanners, and thermal imagers, is addressing the increasing risk of fires and explosions in battery storage facilities with its advanced fixed thermal imaging solution.
The LWIR-640 thermal image provides continuous, real-time monitoring of battery installations. By capturing detailed thermal images of battery modules and racks, the LWIR-640 identifies abnormal heat distributions, hot spots and temperature differentials indicative of potential issues.
Thermal runaway, a self-accelerating and uncontrollable rise in temperature that could lead to fires or explosions, is a potential threat in lithium-ion batteries. It can be triggered by overcharging, physical damage, overheating or shortcircuiting but with early detection and intervention the risks are reduced.
James Cross, Head of Industry Management at AMETEK Land said, “With the growing prevalence and energy density of lithium-ion batteries, safety concerns are paramount. Our latest innovation, the LWIR-640 smart radiometric thermal
imager offers an advanced solution for the early detection and prevention of thermal runaway in battery storage systems.”
AMETEK Land’s LWIR-640 thermal imager has been designed and developed by experts over 20 years, resulting in a highly accurate continuous monitoring solution for battery storage. Available in multiple models with a full temperature measurement range of -20 to 1,000°C, the LWIR-640 provides versatile solutions that meet the diverse needs of battery storage facilities.
For more information download the application note at: AMETEK Land.
Please visit: https://www.ametek-land.com
Engage Consulting, a leader in UK energy market consultancy services and its consortium partners SMS plc (SMS) and Netherlands Measurement Institute (NMi), are pleased to confirm the start of laboratory testing of interoperable Demand Side Response (IDSR) solutions submitted by projects participating in the IDSR Programme. This is a sub programme of the Flexibility Innovation Programme funded by the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero as part of the Net Zero Innovation Portfolio (NZIP).
and 1879. The key purpose of these standards is to achieve interoperable DSR solutions.
Unlocking the domestic demand side response market is a key enabler in our transition to a secure, flexible energy system in support of the UK Government’s ambition to reach Net Zero by 2050, and our laboratory testing project will play a crucial role in realising this.
The scope of our project includes both conformance and performance testing of Energy Smart Appliances (ESAs) against Publicly Available Standards (PAS) 1878
Launched in September 2022, the project has two phases. The first phase included the design and development of the test schemes over a 10-month period. The second phase, initiated last summer, included setting up the laboratory and executing the laboratory testing.
Contact www.engage-consulting.co.uk
In a significant move to streamline mechanical testing and enhance material insights, Airbus, the global aerospace leader, is collaborating with Plastometrex to support the standardisation of PIP (Profilometrybased Indentation Plastometry) – the innovative mechanical testing technique developed and commercialised by the Cambridge-based technology provider.
Traditional tensile testing requires test pieces that conform to precise dimensions, which adds significant expense to testing workflows, can limit the speed of a project, and can prohibit testing in various circumstances, including where samples are small or irregularly shaped.
Comparatively, PIP sample preparation is simpler, the test operation is more straightforward, and the entire process can be completed in just a few minutes, from start to finish. Also, it can test specimens directly and at a fine scale, which unlocks the testing of small or irregularly shaped pieces and enables the extraction of more data, delivering
deeper insights into material behaviour. For example, 160 PIP tests can be fitted onto a standard ASTM E8 tensile coupon, unlocking information about material homogeneity that would be obscured by the single stress-strain curve obtained when tensile testing this part. Through PIP, Airbus will therefore not only accelerate testing workflows but also enable the generation of richer data, supporting innovation and advancing the highest levels of safety in aerospace engineering.
Please visit: www.plastometrex.com
Changes to the Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate announced today by the government ‘don't go far enough’ to resolve fleet issues with electric vans.
Peter Golding, managing director at the fleet software specialist (pictured), said the government would almost certainly have to make further revisions in the future to create momentum behind van electrification.
“The fundamental issues that fleets tell us they are facing when it comes to electric van adoption are that the available vehicles are too expensive, don’t have adequate capacity for their needs, and lack sufficient range.”
incentives for adoption from the government or more capable vehicle designs.
Building stronger, more effective relationships with fleet customers is the aim of a new one-day course for motor manufacturers designed to provide insight into current fleet manager thinking.
The ‘Fleet Mindset Masterclass’ has been developed by industry body, the Association of Fleet Professionals, in partnership with automotive sales, technology and marketing specialists ROI Automotive, who partner with 39 leading automotive brands.
“The moves that the government has made today don’t go far enough towards tackling these core problems. In creating a situation where diesel and hybrid vans can stay on sale until 2035, they’re potentially just giving fleet operators an excuse to continue using ICE vehicles and ignore the issue for a few more years.”
There were only really two potential solutions to this problem – either
“We are likely to see electric vans become more suitable for fleet use over time and almost every month, we see incremental improvements to range and payloads, while prices are becoming more attainable. However, whether this is happening at a pace sufficient to overcome operator objections to these vehicles is very much open to question.”
More details can be found at: www.fleetcheck.co.uk
The target audience for the course includes manufacturer corporate sales executives, sales managers and account managers who are looking to deepen their understanding of fleet and the complex range of challenges their fleet customers face.
Paul Hollick, chair at the AFP (pictured), said, “For us, the introduction of this training is a win-win. It combines the insight that ROI Automotive provides into the approach of manufacturers with the AFP’s awareness of current fleet manager concerns. It's very much a bridge between the two bodies and their areas of expertise, sharing knowledge to the benefit of all involved.”
“The result is a course that provides manufacturers with an enhanced understanding of what fleet managers are aiming to achieve in 2025 and beyond, and the pressures, complexities and challenges they face. This should in turn lead to those fleet managers receiving a higher level of service through greater understanding of their developing needs.”
More details about the Fleet Mindset Masterclass are available by emailing: administration@theafp.co.uk or calling: 07598 686500.
North Shields business Elfab Ltd (trading as OsecoElfab) has been honoured with a King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade 2025.
OsecoElfab is one of 197 organisations in the UK to be recognised with a prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise. Announced on 6th May, OsecoElfab has been recognised for its excellence in International Trade. The company has achieved outstanding growth in overseas sales over the last three years, alongside growth in total turnover and net profits.
From its UK facility in North Shields the company manufactures industrial pressure safety devices,
including bursting discs, explosion vents, and burst sensors.
Managing Director Steve Gallo said, “We are honoured to receive the King’s Award for International Trade, which is a testament to the
The construction phase of Warringtonfire’s flagship fire resistance testing facility is now complete, with the preparations for the state-of-theart laboratory now on the final stretch before it officially opened in January 2025.
It is just three months until Warringtonfire, part of the Element Materials Technology group, launched its $30m fire resistance testing laboratory. Located at Birchwood Park in Warrington, the 101,000 sq. ft. site was handed over from principal contractors Tilbury Douglas to the testing, inspection and certification (TIC) leaders on 16th September 2024, six weeks ahead of schedule.
During this final phase, Warringtonfire’s team will be focusing on UKAS validation and accreditation for its five furnaces and operations. This process is expected to be completed by the end of November, ensuring that the laboratory is ready to accept test specimens when it opens its doors.
Meanwhile, Warringtonfire’s fire resistance testing team will gradually transition from its Holmesfield Road laboratory as they prepare for the launch. As part of the expansion, 50 new jobs have already been filled, including all maintenance engineers and technical officer positions. The maintenance engineers now form a newly created team of highly skilled experts from diverse backgrounds, ensuring smooth, safe, and reliable operations.
For more about Warringtonfire’s Birchwood Park laboratory, please visit: https://www.warringtonfire. com/about-warringtonfire/warringtonsite-relocation-and-expansion
hard work and dedication of our team. We have responded to global economic challenges with a strategy for geographic expansion, and a focus on delivering innovative solutions and exceptional customer service.”
The King’s Awards for Enterprise, previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, are the most prestigious awards for UK business. They recognise outstanding achievements in the fields of Innovation, International Trade, Sustainable Development, and Promoting Opportunity (Through Social Mobility).
T +44 (0)191 293 1234 https://www.osecoelfab.com
In today’s day and age, when lone workers sound the alarm for help, swift support is essential. Therefore, knowing exactly where that individual is can help a business’s response team locate them as quickly as possible, saving crucial time in an emergency.
Unfortunately, though, many lone worker solutions run off of GPS or GNSS location technology. And while these are effective when detailing a user’s location accurately on a mapping service, like Google Maps, they don’t always work well indoors. This is mainly because the signal to the satellite can be blocked by the floors or ceiling above and the lack of building granularity provided by the mapping service. As a result, the location provided can be the last-known position outside the premises, or a fix inside, which often lacks sufficient detail to be any use to a response team.
Therefore, more dependable technology is required, and businesses should be considering other location methods to fully enhance the safety of their teams when working indoors. Chris Potts, Marketing Director at ANT Telecom
EGGER UK, a leading international manufacturer of wood-based materials, has selected A-SAFE as its preferred supplier of workplace safety barriers at its Barony and Hexham manufacturing facilities.
Under this new agreement, A-SAFE will become the primary provider of safety solutions for EGGER UK, supporting the company’s long-term commitment to employee safety and operational excellence. The partnership ensures the delivery of highperformance, standardised protection across its UK operations – for both its people and equipment.
“Employee safety is our highest priority,” said James Conn, Technical Purchasing Specialist at EGGER
UK. “A-SAFE are the market leaders in our eyes, especially given our bespoke requirements. A recent visit to their facilities reaffirmed that their products and approach are the right fit for our business.”
“Our safety infrastructure has significantly advanced thanks to A-SAFE,” continued Conn. “We now have complete confidence that pedestrians and machinery are effectively segregated and protected, especially with all A-SAFE products meeting the rigorous PAS 13 standard.”
PAS 13, developed by the British Standards Institution (BSI) sets the industry standard for workplace safety barriers, through strict testing and
(pictured), discusses the options available with the aim of helping enhance the safety of lone workers whilst they are working indoors.
Equipping the work environment with Beacons
One way to ensure the safety of lone workers when they are indoors is to strategically place Beacons throughout the site to serve as location markers.
These are effective tools due to the fact that whenever a worker walks past a beacon it automatically updates their handset with its position.
Please visit: www.anttelecom.co.uk
compliance measures. A-SAFE was instrumental in shaping the standard, contributing as part of the committee of experts behind its development.
For further information, please visit: www.asafe.com
Oliver Valves Ltd, a global leader in the design and manufacture of high-performance valves for the oil, gas, and hydrogen industries, has been honoured with a King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade. This recognition highlights the company’s commitment to pioneering British engineering, quality craftsmanship, and exceptional service spanning over 45 years.
The King’s Awards for Enterprise, previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, were renamed in 2023 to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II by recognising outstanding UK businesses. The Award programme, now in its 59th year, is the most prestigious business award in the country, with Oliver Valves able to use the esteemed King’s Awards Emblem for the next five years.
Founded in 1979, Oliver Valves Ltd operates from its headquarters in Knutsford, Cheshire, providing critical
flow control solutions to some of the world’s largest energy projects. The company’s innovation, quality, and reliability have cemented its reputation as a key player in the global energy sector.
Dr Michael Oliver OBE DL, Chairman of Oliver Valves, said, “We are incredibly honoured to receive the King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade. This recognition is a testament to the skill, dedication, and innovation of our team here in Cheshire. Following Oliver Valvetek twice being awarded the Queen’s Awards for International Trade in 2012 and 2022. We have built a lasting legacy of British engineering excellence. This award celebrates how far we’ve come and reinforces our continued commitment to delivering exceptional solutions to clients around the world.”
Oliver Valves Ltd now looks forward to a formal presentation of the award by the Lord-Lieutenant of
Cheshire and attending a Royal Reception at Windsor Castle later this year.
Please contact Joe Cooper, Marketing Manager, T 01565 632636 jcooper@valves.co.uk www.valves.co.uk
British engineering firm strengthens Middle East presence following King’s Award for International Trade
Oliver Valves and Oliver Twinsafe Limited, part of the Oliver Valves Group, have entered into an exclusive agency agreement with Abdul Rahman Ali Al Turki Company (ATCO), one of Saudi Arabia’s most established and respected industrial trading groups.
The agreement was signed during an official ceremony at ATCO’s headquarters in Dammam, attended by senior representatives from both
companies. ATCO was represented by Chairman Ziad Abdulrahman Ali Al Turki and Director Adnan M. Iqbal. From Oliver Valves Group, Managing Director Trevor Spencer, General Manager of the Middle East Anurag Srivastava, and Business Development Manager Mohammed Aleemullah were in attendance.
This partnership comes at a significant time for Oliver Valves, following the company’s
recent recognition with the King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade – one of the highest honours for UK businesses.
Trevor Spencer, Managing Director of Oliver Valves, commented, “This agreement marks a major step forward for Oliver Valves in the Middle East. We are proud to partner with ATCO, a company with a longstanding reputation for quality and integrity. Together, we are well positioned to deliver Britishengineered solutions to support the Kingdom’s industrial growth and energy sector development.”
The exclusive agency agreement enhances Oliver Valves Group’s strategic positioning in Saudi Arabia, enabling greater responsiveness to local customer needs and aligning with the company’s long-term international growth strategy.
Contact Joe Cooper, Marketing Manager, jcooper@valves.co.uk www.valves.co.uk
Anglia is the recent recipient of Deep Sea Electronics’ Supplier Excellence in Sustainability award, which is presented to companies for outstanding commitment to sustainable operating practices.
Deep Sea Electronics are one of the world’s leading manufacturers of generator controllers, auto transfer switch controllers, battery chargers and vehicle and off-highway controllers.
Anglia has tackled the environmental challenge using a wide range of effective strategies and projects. The company has introduced new, recyclable and – where possible – biodegradable packaging, which is sourced sustainably and promoted to be recycled. As well as smart building practices at Anglia’s offices and distribution centre, AI is also employed to reduce shipment miles and CO2 footprint.
Another significant development made by Anglia, at the beginning of 2024,
was the expansion of the Anglia Live eCommerce platform to Europe. The company now offers a rapid one- or two-day delivery service for UK and European customers via its UK distribution centre. Shipping goods from the UK is more sustainable, producing seven times less CO2 versus shipping the same goods from the US to Europe. To complement their sustainability program, Anglia are also continually introducing new ways to promote a circular economy with their customers.
Further information can be found at: www.anglia.com
Powell Electronics, the supplier of connectors and more for highrel applications including defence, aerospace and industrial, has signed an agreement to become an authorised distributor for ITT Cannon in Europe. Tracing a history dating back well over 100 years and including the invention of the rack-and-panel and D-sub connectors to the latest miniaturised products, ITT Cannon provides innovative interconnect solutions for customers in a wide range of markets, including commercial aviation, defence, energy, industrial, medical, oil & gas, transportation, and space.
expertise, in particular in the aerospace and defence sectors, will help drive sales of ITT Cannon’s renowned harsh environment connectors for critical applications.”
Explains Gary Evans, CEO Powell Europe, “We are delighted to add the ITT Cannon product portfolio. Several of Powell’s European personnel, including myself, have worked for ITT Cannon in the past, so we have an in-depth knowledge of the product range and capabilities which we can employ to help engineers design in the right connector.”
Ellen McMillan, Vice President and General Manager Europe, ITT Connect & Control Technologies comments, “We are excited to partner with Powell in Europe as their thorough market and applications
For further information about Powell, please visit: www.powell.com
For project design or procurement support, please contact: europe@powell.com.
SIGA Electronics, part of EG Magnetics Group, showcased its comprehensive power electronics portfolio at Southern Manufacturing and Electronics 2025. It took place at Farnborough International Exhibition Centre on 4th-6th February 2025, it is the UK’s largest annual industrial showcase for new technology in machinery, production equipment, electronic production and assembly, tooling and components.
SIGA Electronics is part of the EG Magnetics Group, which comprises six manufacturing specialists who supply custom magnetic components for worldwide use. With over 1,100 employees and manufacturing operations in five countries, the EG Magnetics division supplies markets including oil and gas, healthcare, aerospace, military, agriculture and electronic vehicle charging.
This is the first time all six EG Magnetics companies attended the event together.
Visitors to Stand C70 had access to the complete product range from EG Magnetics Group members SIGA Electronics, AGW, Avon Magnetics, ETAL, Talema and GST. The Group’s expanded portfolio supports the design of efficient power architectures for a diverse range of applications, including portable electronics, mains-powered systems, renewable energy solutions, and electric vehicles. Furthermore, South of England-based Avon Magnetics holds aerospace standard AS9100 and Talema has UL accreditation for supplying current and toroidal transformers.
Please visit: https://sigatransformers.co.uk
Focus Label Machinery Limited has been a leader in label printing machines since 1981. With over 40 years of experience, we design, manufacture, and install all types of label printing machines in-house, with training, servicing, spare parts, and consumables provided. Our range includes inline label printing machines, digital inkjet and toner printing machines, heat transfer printing machines, silk screen printing machines, rewinding machines and finishing equipment.
The AccurioLabel 230 digital toner press from Konica Minolta is available in the UK, through Focus Label Machinery – an Accredited Industrial Print Partner of Konica Minolta. This cutting-edge technology also perfectly complements the Focus Reflex range of digital print finishing systems. For digitally printed web, the Reflex 330 Digital Finishing System provides a fully comprehensive off-line finishing solution. The Reflex 330 re-register system is extremely accurate – even at speeds well over 100 metres per minute and includes the option for semi-rotary or full rotary converting for roll-to-roll or roll-to-sheet formats. The versatile d-Flex digital hybrid press incorporates the latest HiQ 1,800dpi highspeed, full-colour Konica
Minolta inkjet technology (CMYK + W), which has been cleverly integrated into the existing Reflex servo press with in-line UV or LED flexo print heads, die-cutting, slitting and rewinding. High quality variable images can be overprinted in perfect register with UV or LED flexo ink, then converted & rewound – in a single pass with speeds up to 70 metres per minute.
The latest e-Flex twin servo flexo press with automated pre-register functions can be specified with multiple drying options, including UV, LED, infra-red and chill rollers. The dual servo system provides single touch set ups, with minimal waste for conventional printing and can be combined with a digital module for variable data, text & images.
The touchscreen HMI operator controls provide a fully programmable digital platform, plus storage of job details for future retrieval and are said to make the e-Flex, the most effective, affordable servo-driven flexo/digital combination press in the marketplace today.
The e-Flex incorporates top-loading print cylinders and quick-change print cartridges to reduce downtime and set-up wastage. A choice of ultraefficient interstation drying systems enables much higher press speeds. The short web-path allows for a compact design, whilst still maintaining good accessibility for the operator and plenty of space for optional equipment. A rail system is available for overhead press options, including delam/relam, rotary cold foil transfer, silk screen, turn-bar, and multi-layer re-register laminating.
T +44 (0)1949 836223 admin@focuslabel.com www.focuslabel.com
We get asked questions by our customers every day, regarding best practice when it comes to looking after and maintaining your battery. In this blog we look at regular, Standard Lead Acid Batteries and common questions we have answered regarding these products.
Batteries are an essential part of Leisure Vehicles, yet they’re often misunderstood. Whether you’re maintaining a leisure battery for a Motorhome, Caravan or Van Conversion, proper care and maintenance is key to performance and longevity.
We’ve collated the answers from a BBL Battery Expert to tackle some of ‘real world’ battery questions we have received this spring.
1) Should the Green Ball (A state of charge indicator on most Standard Lead Acid Leisure Batteries) Be visible at all times?
Yes – if your battery is fully charged, the green ball should be visible through the clear circular window on top. This is a simple charge indicator, often called a ‘magic eye.’ However, the ball can sometimes stick in place. If you don’t see it, gently rocking or tipping the battery may help realign it within the electrolyte.
2) Does the Green Ball mean the battery needs water?
Not at all. The colour of the indicator reveals the state of charge of the battery: ● Green: Charged and electrolyte level is fine.
White: Electrolyte level is low and needs topping up.
Battery is discharged and needs charging.
It’s important to note that this indicator only reflects the condition of one of the battery’s six cells – it’s not a full diagnostic tool.
3) What are the Six Crossed Circles on top of the battery?
Those are the plugs/tops giving access to each of the battery’s six individual cells.
4) How do you open them?
They’re threaded and unscrew counterclockwise. Many people use a wide, flat tool –even a 50p coin - to avoid damaging the cross pattern in the plastic.
5) Does topping up the battery improve its longevity?
Regular checks are a good habit, but Calcium batteries (like most modern leadacid types) don’t usually need frequent topping up unless under heavy use or being overcharged. A monthly check for the first few months is smart. If levels are consistently good, you can reduce checks to every couple of months.
6) What happens if the battery isn’t topped up?
This is important. Electrolyte must always cover the battery plates by at least 1-2 inches. If it drops too low:
● The battery can become permanently damaged.
● Performance drops significantly.
● Explosion risk increases: A low electrolyte level mixed with internal hydrogen gas and a spark can cause a dangerous, though flameless, explosion.
7) Should I remove the caps when charging?
Not necessary. The battery is designed to vent gases internally. However, if you feel more comfortable, you can loosen the caps slightly – just don’t remove them completely.
8) How often will I need to top it up?
Some batteries may go their whole lives without needing a top-up, while others may require it once or twice a year. Usage patterns and ambient temperature play a big role here.
9) Should I ever drain and refill the battery?
Absolutely not. Draining the battery removes vital active materials. Refilling with acid or even a freshwater mix can throw off the delicate chemical balance and cause internal damage. You won’t be restoring the battery – you’ll be destroying it.
Final tips
● If you’re topping up often, across all cells, get the system checked for overcharging.
● If it’s just one cell repeatedly, check for leaks or a dead cell.
● Store batteries in a cool, dry place, and never let voltage drop below 12.4V for extended periods.
Taking care of your battery doesn’t need to be complicated – just a few minutes of maintenance each month can save you from costly replacements and potential hazards down the line.
If you are not confident carrying out care and maintenance on your battery then please do contact the Battery Experts at BBL Batteries who will be more than happy to help or advise!
For further information or if you have any questions relating to your own specific battery, application or usage, call us today on: 0808 168 0635 or visit: www.bblbatteries.co.uk
Clearway Group today announces a leadership transition. Phil Doyle, the Group’s new CEO, assumes responsibility for the day-to-day management of the business, succeeding Peter Eglinton, Group Executive Chairman, who has successfully led the organisation through a significant period of growth and transformation over the past two years.
Phil joins Clearway with more than 20 years of senior leadership experience in the security and safety industry. His previous roles include Vice President at Bosch Security Systems, Regional Director at AXIS Communications, and most recently, Chief Business Officer at BauWatch. Phil’s deep industry expertise and commercial acumen will play a crucial role in driving the Group’s continued growth across its core markets.
Clearway has had an exciting two years, marked by acquisitions, entry into new markets and strategic customer success. This has included further development in the UK and France plus expansion
into Germany and Austria, extending its customer base to include national and international clients, accessing new sectors and realising a significant expansion of its security solution offerings throughout Europe.
Commenting on the appointment, Jonathan Brod, Managing Partner at Next Wave Partners said, “We are immensely grateful to Peter for his outstanding leadership and the positive impact he has made at Clearway. We are excited to welcome Phil, whose track record, coupled with his strategic vision align perfectly with our ambitions for the continued growth of the Clearway Group. We are excited to see what future successes Phil and the management team will deliver as they continue to expand into new areas.”
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the working world as we knew it, among many other parts of life, changed forever. The pandemic fast tracked the urgent need for remote working technologies across the globe in order to ensure business continuity and productivity for many organisations.
Further, since the UK’s first lockdown in March 2020, work culture and practices have changed. Remote, flexible and hybrid working remain popular – so much so that British law has put in place the option for employees to legally request flexible working from their first day at work.
Alongside this cyber threats rise globally – all while many employees work remotely, and drive productivity and collaboration across many organisations. So, what are the challenges that firms face? How can they set up a secure remote workforce? Caitlin Watkins, Marketing Manager, Zeus Cloud explains.
Hybrid equals happy and productive –but also needs cyber security
For some organisations there is a debate around whether remote working and hybrid working yields results, and if it is really that productive. Part of the answer to this question lies in research by International Workplace Group (IWG). It points out that hybrid working –a mixture of office and home or remote working – enables employees to feel less burnout than they would normally feel if they spend their entire working week at the office.
Contact T 0333 358 0193
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ zeuscloud
This change marks a significant milestone in Clearway’s evolution, as it continues to deliver best in class security solutions across the UK and Europe. Under Phil’s leadership, the Group will embark on the next phase of its exciting strategic growth.
Having spent time with the experienced management team in recent months, Phil added, “I’m really looking forward to what we can do next. The Group has grown significantly during the last two years under Peter’s stewardship, and I am looking forward to the challenge to continue that great work, supported by the entire Clearway team.”
To find out more, please visit: www.clearway.co.uk
Altnets, a leading provider of telecoms solutions, is delighted to announce a strategic partnership with iLOQ, a global leader in smart access management solutions. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Altnets as it introduces innovative, secure, and efficient technologies to its portfolio, delivering measurable value to Internet Service Providers (ISPs).
By integrating iLOQ’s cutting-edge, selfpowered digital locking solutions into its offerings, Altnets aims to transform how telecom operators manage access to critical infrastructure. These advanced solutions are designed to enhance security, streamline operations, and meet the evolving demands of fibre broadband networks, providing smarter, more efficient tools for the modern telecoms industry.
This collaboration is poised to transform the telecommunications industry by streamlining infrastructure builds and addressing common frustrations associated with conventional locking systems. Physical keys are no longer fit for purpose in the fast-paced telecoms industry as they are prone to being lost, stolen, or copied, creating potential security risks. Managing
keys also requires engineers to spend valuable time collecting them from offices before travelling to remote sites, resulting in higher operational costs and inefficiencies.
iLOQ’s digital locking solutions include encrypted, smartphone-enabled access control. This cutting-edge technology allows access rights to be assigned and managed remotely via a secure cloudbased platform, removing the need for physical keys entirely.
Explore how iLOQ’s cutting-edge locking technology is redefining access management here, or discover Altnets’ bespoke telecoms solutions and how they’re shaping the future of connectivity here.
Visit: www.altnets.co.uk
Blu Wireless, a leader in advanced mmWave connectivity solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Anthony Murray as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. His appointment marks a significant milestone as the company enters a new phase of international growth, with a strong commercial focus on its core markets – Defence and High-Speed Transport.
Anthony is a seasoned technology executive with more than 20 years of leadership experience in high-growth, innovation-driven companies. Most recently, he served as CEO of McLaren Applied, where he oversaw the company’s strategic focus on key technology and products supplied into markets across motorsport, automotive and public transport before he sold the
business out from McLaren Group. Prior to that, Anthony held senior leadership roles at Qualcomm Technologies International, where he spearheaded business and product development strategies across a broad range of consumer and IoT market segments.
Earlier in his career, Anthony spent over 14 years at Cambridge Silicon Radio (CSR), rising to the position of Senior Vice President before its acquisition by Qualcomm in 2015.
As Blu Wireless continues to expand its global footprint, the company invites new partners to join its growing ecosystem of innovators by contacting: info@bluwireless.com to learn more.
Visit: www.bluwireless.com
Genespire, a biotechnology company developing off-the-shelf gene therapies for pediatric patients affected by genetic diseases, today announces the appointment of Karen Aiach-Pignet as Chief Executive Officer following Dr. Julia Berretta, the former CEO, stepping down.
Karen has an outstanding track-record in gene therapy applied to genetic neurodegenerative diseases having founded and led Lysogene, a global leader in the field. During her tenure, she pioneered the development of an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector for patients with the rare neurodegenerative condition Sanfilippo Type A, initiated and executed an international Phase 3 gene therapy clinical trial, and raised funds via partnering
deals and by listing the company on the Euronext Stock Exchange.
Karen joins Genespire as the company progresses lead candidate, GENE202, for the treatment of methylmalonic acidemia (MMA) into clinical development. MMA is a devastating genetic disorder impairing the metabolism of certain amino acids and fats. Onset occurs in early infancy, is associated with significant mortality and morbidity, and there are currently no disease-modifying treatments available. Genespire’s technology has the potential to help treat many other genetic diseases with a one-time, off-the-shelf treatment, for both adult and pediatric patients.
Find out more about
Eddisons has expanded its plant and machinery division with the appointment of new director Antony Reed to the firm’s growing asset sales operation across the UK.
Antony joins Leeds-headquartered Eddisons from industrial auctions group Surplex, where he led its British outfit. He also worked previously for industrial machinery specialist Apex Auctions as well as in industrial metalwork and engineering sales.
In his new role he joins Eddisons’ UK-wide plant, machinery and machine tools sales team, who in 2024 sold some 18,000 separate business assets lots, realising over £6.5m in sales. Items going under the hammer range from commercial vehicles and industrial plant and machinery to catering equipment and gaming platforms.
“Economic and environmental factors are fuelling the growth in demand right now to both buy and sell assets,” said Antony. “High interest rates, energy costs and rising rents are spurring businesses to look to surplus equipment as a straightforward way to generate much-needed cash.”
Eddisons’ network of asset sales specialists, who handle the entire asset sales process from valuation to auction to delivery, is located across the firm’s 30 offices nationwide.
Visit: www.eddisons.com
Hire Association Europe & Event Hire Association (HAE EHA) has announced the appointment of a new commercial director to support its continued growth in its 50th year of operation and continue to champion the hire sector. Neil Bravery will take up the position alongside his role as the Association’s president, following a three-year stint as the Association’s chair.
Bravery was managing director at SHC Hire for 11 years, acquiring the business though a management buyout. In his time at SHC, Bravery more than doubled the number of depots to 10 following the acquisition of Hartley Hire in 2021, expanding the business beyond Yorkshire into the Lake District and Lancashire.
With 34 years’ experience in the hire sector, Bravery has also held senior roles with national and independent tool and plant hire companies.
HAE EHA is a Birmingham-based industry-leading trade association for the plant, tool, equipment and event hire sectors with membership representing businesses from new start-ups to some of Europe’s largest hire companies. It has over 700 member companies based in the UK, Europe and across other parts of the world.
Commenting on his appointment, Neil Bravery said, “I am honoured to take on the role of commercial director for HAE EHA and can’t wait to get stuck in. I have worked with the Association for many years and the work that it does to support the sector is truly invaluable. Our morethan-700 members are the heartbeat of the sector which holds up all of Britain’s major industries, from events and hospitality to infrastructure and construction.”
Please visit: www.hae.org.uk
The Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS), a cornerstone of the UK’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. Since its inception in 1994, the EIS has played a pivotal role in nurturing innovation and fostering economic growth. Alongside its sister scheme, the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS), it has facilitated over £30 billion in private investment into 53,000 start-ups across the nation.
The EIS Association (EISA), representing more than 400 entrepreneurs, investors and advisers from across the EIS community, marks this significant milestone with reflections on the scheme’s enduring impact on the UK economy and society. The EISA will also be bringing together key
Often, the appeal of investing in a franchise comes from the opportunities to capitalise on a market within an industry that prospects don’t necessarily have experience in. Starting a business in this way doesn’t deny their chances of success, but they need to be proactive in what they do to ensure they are not only providing a quality service or product to their customers but, above all else, running a compliant and ethical business.
Knowing the rules and regulations associated within the field in which they operate is a given for a franchisor. Successful franchises do more than just keep up with industry trends; they anticipate them and position the franchise network to be at the forefront of innovation – perfecting their preparation to stay ahead of the curve. But what role do franchisees play in keeping their own franchise above board?
Here, Senior Early Years Quality Manager at Monkey Puzzle, Jess McCarthy, talks through the importance of franchisors knowing their sector guidelines, what franchisees should do to ensure they’re compliant within their own operations and what Monkey Puzzle does to help their franchisees run an ethical and safe business.
Why is it crucial that franchisors are in the know? For franchisors, staying abreast of industry guidelines is critical. Franchisees rely heavily on being well informed about rules and regulations they have to adhere to – providing information on this simply acts as a roadmap for franchisees so they can deliver a quality service. Not only this, but navigating relevant requirements is essential for minimising the risk of legal consequences.
For more information on franchise investment opportunities with Monkey Puzzle Day Nurseries, please visit: https://monkeypuzzlenurseryfranchise.com
representatives from across the ecosystem to celebrate at an event in September.
The success stories borne out of EIS investment serve as compelling testaments to the scheme’s efficacy in fostering entrepreneurship and fuelling growth. Notable start-ups that have flourished with the backing of SEIS or EIS investment include household names such as Revolut, Monzo, Gousto, Curve, Deliveroo, Just Eat, Bloom & Wild, Trinny London, and Homethings. These companies, among many others, have not only transformed their respective industries but have also created thousands of jobs and contributed significantly to the UK’s economic landscape.
For more information, please visit: https://eisa.org.uk
Paysend, a leading cross border money transfer platform, is delighted to announce its inclusion in the prestigious FT1000 List for the second year in a row.
The FT1000 is an annual ranking that identifies Europe’s fastestgrowing companies based on their compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in revenue over a specific period.
The Listing is a testament to Paysend’s remarkable growth trajectory and resilience in the competitive financial industry, highlighting Paysend as one of Europe's leading success stories.
Paysend’s rise has been driven by a strategic vision that created partnerships, financed its growth, deepened
access to its markets, and applied innovative technology to leverage both access and opportunity. Paysend raised an impressive $65m last year in an investment round following a strategic partnership with Mastercard through which Paysend enhanced cross-border payments for SMEs via its Open Payments Network (OPN).
With a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) among Europe’s fastest-growing businesses, Paysend has recorded sustained success and acclaim. This achievement is a testament to Paysend’s strategic vision, customer-centric approach, cutting-edge technology, and commitment to simplifying and optimising the money transfer experience.
For more information, please visit: https://paysend.com
Forth Valley commercial landlord and business support specialist, Ceteris Scotland Ltd, has expanded its property portfolio by acquiring the Falkirk Business Hub.
The £2m acquisition from previous owners, Tartan Commercial, expands Ceteris’ footprint into the Falkirk area for the first time. Ceteris already owns and operates 20 business parks across 9 sites in Clackmannanshire and Stirling, providing high-quality serviced, co-working and virtual offices and industrial units to 190 businesses that employ approximately 1,400 employees with a combined turnover of £100m a year.
The Falkirk Business Hub will add over 40 tenant companies with around 150 staff to Ceteris. Situated in the centre of Falkirk, the former Falkirk General Post Office building is a local landmark and was completely refurbished in 2013. The four-storey building now provides quality serviced offices, co-working space, conference and meeting rooms as well as virtual office services. The site also includes an award-winning café and a fitness and wellness centre.
Ceteris CEO, Josie Saunders, together with her fellow directors, has driven the acquisition of Falkirk Business
Hub as part of an ambitious new corporate strategy. Josie knows the area well having previously worked as Head of Corporate Affairs for Scottish Canals during the development of the world-famous Kelpies and Helix Park attraction in Falkirk.
Please visit: www.ceteris.co.uk or www.falkirkbusinesshub.co.uk