Industrial Process News Issue 727

IPN INDUSTRIAL PROCESS NEWS

January 2024 – Issue 727 Tel: 0121 550 2086 www.industrialprocessnews.co.uk Search for us on LinkedIn

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Ocean Engineering With 14 years of experience, SubCtech has established its position among leading manufacturers of ocean and subsea technology for industry and science

Pages 28-29

Control Station Page 4

Toptica Photonics AG Page 6

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Able Instruments Page 17

Contents

Editors Notes

This month, we discover the latest solutions for sustainable process optimisation and its uses in process manufacturing.

Control Station is a leading provider of monitoring and tuning solutions with software and solutions that Gina Burton empower manufacturers to enhance production efficiency, Editor drive tangible improvements, and embrace digital gina@industrialprocessnews.co.uk transformation. On page 4, we feature PlantESP™, a Control Loop Performance Monitoring (CLPM) solution from Control Station designed to keep engineers and operators in the loop of any performance changes supported by recommended corrective action points.

We also cover a fantastic piece on cutting-edge technologies for the marine environment and sustainable measuring strategies for the ocean by SubCtech, who are a diverse team of expert mechanical and electrical engineers and software specialists based in Northern Germany. Go to pages 28-29 to check their latest Ocean Monitoring Equipment, Powerpacks, Ocean Power products and more.

IPN INDUSTRIAL PROCESS NEWS

Issue 727

The dawning of condition monitoring and predictive maintenance in the machinery health industry is broken down into bite sized chunks as we delve into the brilliant Machinery Health services provided by CMServices Global Ltd on page 14.

We have a full review of Advanced Engineering 2023 as well as a list of profiles from our Top Exhibitors from the show on pages 15-16. We have also reviewed Interplas 2023 on pages 18-19, and Surface World 2023 on page 22.

Don’t forget to send us your latest Industrial news and updates and email us at: info@industrialprocessnews.co.uk.

Control Station

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PCS Ltd

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BVC/Quirepace

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Cover Story

SubCtech

Award-winning SubCtech (Subsea Technologies for the Marine Environment) is a leading manufacturer of underwater technologies, subsea solutions and ocean monitoring systems

Contacts

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Publication Management Fallon Waldron, Publication Manager T 0121 550 2086 fallonwaldron@industrialprocessnews.co.uk

Accounts Paul Whitaker, Accounts Manager T 0121 709 5534 accounts@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

Production Robert Sharp, Production Manager production@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

Editorial Gina Burton, Editor gina@industrialprocessnews.co.uk

The entire content of this publication is advertorial based. To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 550 2086.

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Industrial Process News is a multi-media digital magazine which circulates directly to 25,000 targeted businesses per issue, and is downloadable from multiple digital news stands and via social media.

Please contact 0121 550 2086 Email info@industrialprocessnews.co.uk www.industrialprocessnews.co.uk For more information on print or format requirements, please see our Media Pack and follow Find us on LinkedIn us on Twitter @ipn_uk

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Process Manufacturing Company of the Month

Control Station: We make sustainable process optimisation easy for you!

Tipperary, deals with the European, Middle East and Africa Markets. With further representatives across Australia and Brazil, the company is in a good position to continue building its international customer base.

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e are delighted in this issue to select Control Station as our celebrated automated solutions for Process Manufacturing Company of the Month.

Control Station is a leading provider of Monitoring and Tuning solutions. Our software and solutions empower manufacturers to enhance production efficiency, drive tangible improvements, and embrace digital transformation.

They have a strong presence in the EMEA region with an office based in Ireland, ready to support the unique needs of this market.

In 1988, Control Station was the brainchild of distinguished Professor Dr. Douglas Cooper from the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Connecticut. Established in 1988, Dr. Douglas Cooper was the driving force in introducing software simulations to the Chemical Engineering curriculum, providing students with a dynamic and intuitive learning experience.

We spoke to Vera Lúcia Fregonezi: EMEA Business Marketing and Sales, Ireland to find out more, “Our existing and prospective manufacturer customers operate continuous and/or batch production processes and our products have been licensed to world-class global manufacturers, resulting in quantifiable improvements to production and driving sustainable annual company productivity.”

“Our proprietary portfolio of products has cost-effective benefits, documented by our diverse range of end-users.

These include oil and gas, mining, chemicals, basic materials, food & beverage, pulp and paper industries, and pharmaceuticals. If you have PIDs in your process you should be using our products to optimise, and sustainably maintain performance.”

“Control Station products are both private-labelled and referenced by major automation solutions companies.”

In 2004, Dennis Nash took over as President and CEO and helped transition the company from a successful University project to a globally-ranked company.

PlantESP™ from Control Station is a Control Loop Performance Monitoring (CLPM) solution that accurately and proactively pinpoints control loop performance issues on a plant-wide basis and then methodically isolates the root cause. Through bespoke alerts, key performance metrics and guidance reports, engineers and operators are kept in the loop of performance changes, with recommended corrective action points.

In 2015: Damien Munroe expanded Control Station’s reach to Europe, establishing the EMEA business to cater to the unique needs of this market. The EMEA Control Station team is characterised by its multicultural and multilingual composition, ensuring a tailored approach to serving diverse customer types.

If you’re looking for state-of-the-art PID tuning software: LOOP-PRO™ is the only software on the market that accurately models changeable ‘real world’ process conditions. Designed to work with open and closed-loop, LOOP-PRO is the definitive software for accurate rapid PID controller tuning for all industrial applications.

Award-winning Control Station is recognised as a true industry-leader in innovative, Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) controller tuning solutions, providing the only product portfolio with tuning NSS conditions capability, irrespective of open or closed loop operationality, across integrating or non-integrating processes.

“The first full commercial license of PlantESP was issued in early 2013, and since that time, the product has been deployed to numerous process manufacturers on six continents.”

“The Company’s first enterprise-wide license agreement was completed in December 2015 with Cargill – the world’s largest privately-held food & beverage manufacturer. Since that time, numerous other enterprise licensing agreements have been executed with leading manufacturers.”

“Loop-Pro is an award-winning software and has been recognised numerous times for the Engineer’s Choice Award as the market’s best PID Controller Tuning Software, as selected by the readers of Control Engineering Magazine.”

“Furthermore, it is the only two-time winner of Chemical Processing Magazine’s Vaaler Award – an award designated by a panel of experts from the process industries.”

“The company is focusing on sustainability and developing Digital Lifecycle Solutions for the control systems manufacturing sector, offering a comprehensive suite of solutions, that include regular monitoring, prioritisation, and proactive resolution of control loop issues that help to reduce variability, increase reliability, and save costs in lost productivity and wasted resources.”

“Our Control Station’s EMEA Office in Ireland has been experiencing significant growth expanding its team to support the increased focus by manufacturers on sustainable production.”

“Looking to the future, sustainability is at the forefront of our solutions in Software and Service.”

Control Station has an impressive customer base across almost 70 countries worldwide and has earned its place as the industry-leading platform-independent provider of process analytics and optimisation solutions.

“We are dedicated to providing world-class monitoring solutions to not only enhance efficiency but also to align with environmentally conscious practices. Our goal is to provide software that not only optimises processes but also contributes to sustainability efforts by standardising work practices, saving resources, reducing waste, and minimising energy consumption.”

Control Station now licences solutions to over half of the prestigious Fortune 500 manufacturers ranked by largest annual revenues.

“As we evolve, our commitment to providing innovative and eco-friendly solutions remains a key driver in shaping our future,” concluded Vera Lúcia Fregonezi.

In the USA, Control Station is based in Manchester, Connecticut and a second Irish base in Roscrea,

For more information, please see the website below: https://controlstation.com

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We think in solutions, not in products

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uurmond have, for many years, held distribution agreements with the very best gear-pump manufacturers. Maag Pump Systems (now incorporating Witte Pumps), Gather Industrie GmbH, HNPM and additionally Suurmond UK Ltd hold the distribution agreement with Dynisco, a world leading manufacturer of melt sensors and instrumentation.

In 2024, Suurmond group celebrate 50 years in business and Suurmond UK celebrate 20 years. At the end of 2023, Suurmond UK moved into new premisses which will allow us to further improve our service

to customers in the UK. We now have a workshop that allows us to service and repair gear-pumps of any size. We have a larger stocks of emergency spares for Maag Pumps. We also have a lab facility to run melt flow tests using our Dynisco LMI5500 melt flow analyser.

As we move through 2024 and into the future, Suurmond UK plan to further expand to support the future of fluid processing in the fine chemical, pharmaceutical, polymer and extrusion industries.

As these industries recover from the impact of Brexit and COVID, we see great opportunities to work with manufacturing plants in the UK & Ireland to develop better, more efficient processes. #letstalk 01386 423756 info.uk@suurmond.com www.suurmond.com

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Pumps & Valves

Oliver Twinsafe Valves Supplied for MEG Injection Pump Systems O

liver Twinsafe is to supply Double Block and Bleed pipeline valves for use on Monoethylene glycol (MEG) injection pump systems. MEG is a widely used hydrate inhibitor designed to reduce the risk of hydrate formation in pipelines that could cause blockages.

The order includes a batch of 2 1/16” API 6A 5000psi Double Block and Bleed valves in A182 F55 Super Duplex material that have been dynamically tested to meet the requirements of API 6A PSL level 3. In addition, the valve designs were pre-qualified to API 6A PR2 Appendix F, which involves multiple cycle testing at low, ambient and high temperature with zero leakage allowed across the valve seats throughout these cycles.

A number of Oliver instrumentation

valves have also been ordered, taking the total number of valves supplied for this offshore project overall to over 300 with more valves in the pipeline.

For information on how Oliver Twinsafe can provide pipeline valve solutions for your project, telephone: +44 (0)1565 632636 or visit our website at: www.valves.co.uk

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Laser Systems Manufacturer Company of the Month

All wavelengths: 190nm-0.1THz for demanding applications in Photonics I n this issue of Industrial process News, we are delighted to showcase TOPTICA Photonics AG as our Laser Systems Manufacturer Company of the Month.

TOPTICA specialises in developing and manufacturing high-end laser systems for scientific and industrial applications.

The lasers cover all wavelengths for major applications in quantum technologies, BioPhotonics and industrial metrology. The company’s product range includes diode lasers, ultrafast fiber lasers, terahertz systems, and frequency combs, catering to a wide range of research and industrial fields.

Photonics AG is categorised within the specialist industry sector of laser technology and photonics, with a strong focus on precision, quality, and innovation.

TOPTICA’s products provide an ultra-broad laser wavelength coverage: 190nm-0.1THz (corresponding to 3mm). They enable a big variety of demanding applications in quantum optics, spectroscopy, biophotonics, microscopy, test & measurement, as well as materials inspection.”

“Our key market is Quantum Optics & Spectroscopy, where our systems are typically used for demanding applications like laser cooling, trapping, and manipulation of atoms or ions in quantum optics,

TOPTICA DL pro Lasers in the lab of Grupo M.A.I.N. - Universidad de Granada/Department of Nuclear Atomic and Molecular Physics Photo: Irene Poga/Universidad de Granada Established in 1998 by Dr. Wilhelm Kaenders and Dr. Thomas Weber, the original solid academic foundation has allowed the expert growth of innovation in the field of photonics and laser technology over the last two decades.

The headquarters of TOPTICA is located in Gräfelfing, near Munich, Germany. Munich is considered the capital of the Silicon Valley of Germany, located close to a cluster of European bases of leading IT companies, such as Apple, Google and IBM. This strategic location gives TOPTICA a large advantage across the European market and is complemented further by subsidiary companies and sales offices in the USA, Japan, France and China. This truly international presence allows TOPTICA to seamlessly serve its global client base. The TOPTICA Group today has 490 employees, in seven entities with a consolidated group revenue of close to 130 Mio € (141 Mio $).

We caught up with Jan Brubacher: Marketing Manager for a greater insight into this pioneering company, “TOPTICA

TOPTICA Projects develops the SodiumStar system – a high-power ‘guide star’ laser designed for adaptive optics control in ground-based telescopes Credit: ESO/Gregory Lambert

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spectroscopy, or interferometry. TOPTICA is renowned for the widest wavelength coverage of tunable diode lasers on the market, providing high-power lasers even at exotic wavelengths.”

“Moreover, in BioPhotonics & Microscopy, our lasers play an invaluable role in instrumentation for life sciences and medical applications. In fields such as microscopy, flow cytometry, or in medical and pharmaceutical instruments, TOPTICA lasers fulfil the demand for modern photonic sources. TOPTICA’s portfolio includes UV, VIS and NIR laser sources, flexible multi-laser engines and pulsed fiber lasers for time-resolved applications.”

“In addition, with great expertise in optical and electronic control of lasers, TOPTICA provides lasers of lowest noise at highest wavelength stability for Test & Measurement.

They are the perfect instruments for high-precision measurements of semiconductors, optical components, distances or chemical compositions. Frequencies in the terahertz region (0.1THz to 6THz) become accessible with TOPTICA’s integrated solutions, opening up a wealth of novel applications in applied science, non-destructive testing and industrial process control.”

TOPTICA has competitive benefits for clients such as the following: TOPTICA’s products offer exceptional precision and reliability, with customisable solutions and dedicated customer support ensuring clients receive products perfectly tailored to their specific requirements.

The stateof-the-art laser systems combine globally-leading

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TOPTICA Board, from left to right: Dr. Wilhelm Kaenders (Founder & President, CTO) and Dr. Thomas Renner (President, CSO) specifications with optimised precision, reliability and longevity. TOPTICA is recognised by the industry for supplying the widest wavelength coverage of lasers, even at so-called ‘exotic wavelengths.’

The product portfolio includes the following: ■ Single mode diode lasers ■ Single frequency lasers ■ Tunable diode lasers ■ Laser rack systems ■ Ps/fs fiber lasers ■ Terahertz systems ■ Fiber lasers and amplifiers ■ Frequency combs ■ Multi-laser engines ■ Frequency combs ■ Multi-laser engines ■ Laser diodes ■ Wavemeters and laser analysis ■ Optical isolators and photonicals The wavelength range is as follows: ■ Diode Lasers 190–4,000nm with frequencyconversion techniques ■ Ultrafast Fiber Lasers 390nm–15,000nm, (3,500nm customised) 5,000–15,000nm, ■ CW Fiber Lasers & Amplifiers 488-1,570nm ■ Single-Mode Diode Lasers 375nm-850nm ■ Single-Frequency Diode Lasers 193-785nm ■ Amplified Diode Lasers 660–1,495nm ■ Frequency-Converted Diode Lasers 190nm-4,000nm ■ Multi-Laser Engines 405nm-640nm ■ Frequency Combs 420–2,000nm ■ Laser Rack Systems 330–1,625 nm ■ Terahertz Systems 0.1-6THz (15THz customised) “We primarily target scientific researchers and industrial professionals who require high-precision laser systems for demanding applications in quantum optics, spectroscopy, biophotonics, microscopy, test & measurement, as well as materials inspection.”

“Looking to the future, TOPTICA is committed to advancing the field of photonics through continuous research and development, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of laser technology,” concludes Jan. For the latest, derailed information about TOPTICA’s new products and services, contact the sales or customer support teams, who can provide comprehensive and customised information.

For more information on TOPTICA, please see the website below: +49 89 85837-0 sales@toptica.com https://www.toptica.com

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Global Hygiene Company of the Month

Meet Tork: First brand in Europe to reduce and compensate carbon emissions for the entire life-cycle of selected hygiene dispensers

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n this issue of Industrial Process News, we are delighted to welcome Tork as our Global Hygiene Company of the Month.

The Tork brand, from globally leading hygiene and health Swedish Powerhouse, Essity offers cutting-edge workplace hygiene solutions. Combining the circular economy, well-being and health together seamlessly, Tork offers a cost-effective range of dispensers, refills and services. Tork is precision-designed for consistent industrial hygiene levels across washrooms, kitchens and dining areas.

Essity is an industry-leading health and hygiene company, with laser focus on the development, production and supply of baby care, feminine care, incontinence pads, consumer tissues and professional hygiene products and solutions, straddling both personal and medical care solutions. One of the leading household brands includes, TENA, a highly regarded brand supporting male and female bladder weakness and incontinence across healthcare settings.

Essity is based in Stockholm, Sweden and was listed on Nasdaq Stockholm, after the spilt from the former SCA Group (founded in 1929.) With illustrious company roots going back to 1849, through the acquisition of the company, Mölnlycke, Essity is a world player in the world of health and hygiene.

With multiple accolades and awards, from Diversity leader by The Financial Times and ranked as one of the 150 most sustainable companies in the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2022, the company is on target to reach net zero greenhouse gases by 2050.

We caught up with Virág Szabó: Regional Industrial Marketing Manager, Essity for a deeper insight, “Essity’s sales are conducted in approximately 150 countries with around 90 manufacturing facilities worldwide.”

“In the UK, Essity operates six manufacturing sites producing products for the UK market including Cushelle toilet roll, Velvet toilet roll, Tork paper products, and Plenty household towel. Employing around 1,000 people, Essity’s manufacturing sites operate a leading apprenticeship programme as well as offering graduate and internship opportunities.”

“We also have offices for sales and marketing functions to support our brands and our customers as well as a number of support functions including HR, IT, customer services, and procurement.”

“Ever since the Tork brand was established in 1968, we’ve been at the forefront of innovations.”

“Today, we offer systems such as the Tork Coreless Toilet Paper, which cuts packaging waste by 98%, and the Tork Xpressnap®, which reduces napkin consumption by at least 25%. In many markets, we also offer high-tech solutions such as Tork Vision Cleaning1, the world’s leading data-driven cleaning solution, and even assist our partners in recycling and circularity through the closed-loop recycling initiative called Tork PaperCircle®.”

Essity’s Tork brand is the first in Europe to reduce and compensate carbon emissions for the entire life cycle of selected soap, toilet paper and hand towel dispensers.

From May 2023, Tork offer 27 existing Tork dispensers in Europe (excluding France) with carbon neutral2 certification. The carbon emissions for these dispensers are reduced and compensated across the entire life cycle – from raw materials to end of life.

“Tork focuses on four segments: Commercial, HoReCa (hospitality), Industry, and Healthcare.”

“Tork is the leading global brand in workplace hygiene, inspiring and supporting you to think ahead, so you’re always ready for business. From rethinking the ultimate guest experience, to reimagining cleaning efficiencies and ways to become more sustainable, Tork is always finding new and better ways to improve your business.”

“The products we offer include, washroom hygiene solutions, front and back of house products for the hospitality industry, and specialist cloths and wipes for manufacturing environments.”

“As well as hygiene consultations, our other services include Tork PaperCircle® – the world’s first paper hand towel recycling service, Tork Vision Cleaning – datadriven cleaning and free interactive online training tools for the healthcare sector.”

“The all-new Tork Natural Colour hand towels and toilet paper are made from 100% recycled fibres. Quality and sustainability are no longer mutually exclusive: our Tork Natural colour Washroom products deliver a great guest experience whilst improving sustainable hygiene management,” added Virág.

In conclusion, Essity is focused on improving peoples’ well-being, with less impact on the planet. With ageing populations and mid-life concerns like bladder weakness, Essity is at the forefront of promoting sustainable health and hygiene products that empower people to lead lives with dignity. The secret to Essity’s success though lies in its internal business cultural approach as Virág outlines, “We wholeheartedly believe that our strength as a team lies within our differences as individuals. Different perspectives, background and experiences lead to better creativity, innovation, and problem solving. Essity UK&ROI has a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Group consisting of employees representing all areas of our business who bring a wealth of different experiences and backgrounds to the group.”

For more information, please see the Essity and Tork websites below: www.essity.com www.tork.co.uk https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/ tork-a-global-professional-hygiene-brand References

1) Tork Vision Cleaning was formerly known as Tork EasyCube® 2) Reduced with certified renewable electricity and compensated with climate projects

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Health & Safety

Navigating the challenges and benefits of lone working

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n an ever-evolving professional landscape, the concept of lone working has become increasingly prevalent. Lone working refers to situations where individuals operate independently without direct supervision or immediate colleagues.

This is common across various industries, ranging from hybrid working to field service workers, engineers, or the list is endless. While lone working offers flexibility and autonomy, it also presents unique challenges that necessitate careful consideration.

One of the primary advantages of lone working is the flexibility it affords individuals.

Whether working from home, a co-working space, or in the field, lone workers have the freedom to structure their schedules according to their preferences. This autonomy can enhance productivity and job satisfaction, as individuals tailor their work environments to maximise efficiency. Additionally, lone working often promotes a sense of self-reliance, fostering the development of problem-solving skills and resourcefulness.

However, the autonomy associated with lone working can also pose challenges, particularly in terms of isolation and communication. Loneliness can have adverse effects on mental well-being, potentially leading to decreased motivation and a sense of disconnection from the broader work community. To mitigate this, it is crucial for lone workers and their employers to establish effective communication channels. Regular check-ins, virtual meetings, and collaborative platforms can help bridge the

gap and maintain a sense of connection among remote or isolated workers.

Safety is another critical consideration for lone workers, especially those operating in challenging environments. Whether working in the field, conducting home visits, or managing late-night shifts, lone workers may face unique safety risks. Employers must prioritise the implementation of safety protocols, training programs, and technological solutions to ensure the well-being of their lone workers. This may include providing personal safety devices, implementing GPS tracking systems, and conducting regular risk assessments.

At LONEALERT, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive lone worker solution, supported by our team of dedicated professionals. We provide a diverse range of device options that cater to various lone working roles and risk levels.

These devices seamlessly integrate with our cutting-edge lone working management platform – The OWL Portal. This system not only delivers real-time information and detailed reports for lone worker auditing but also enables direct alarm linkage to our Alarm Receiving Centre, or your on-site security, nearby staff, or a combination of all three.

If you want to discuss your lone working requirements in more detail, please contact us on: 0121 501 2288 sales@lonealert.co.uk www.lonealert.co.uk

Ensuring safety in Industry expert Casella hazardous environments: launches enhanced High ATEX Safety Showers Flow Air Sampling Pump I

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n industries where flammable gases, vapours, and dusts are present, ensuring the safety of employees is of paramount importance. The European Union’s ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU, aim to regulate equipment used in potentially explosive atmospheres, requiring companies to implement safety measures that mitigate the risk of ignition and protect personnel.

sbestos-related diseases take the lives of 20 tradespeople every week. Despite being banned in the UK, research has found that extensive asbestos remediation work is still needed on more than 100,000 UK buildings, posing a threat to anyone who disturbs the dangerous material.

All chemical manufacturing facilities that handle or specialise in the production of volatile chemicals should adhere to ATEX regulations to protect employees from potential hazards. One of the key aspects of ATEX compliance is the provision of safety equipment, including safety showers and eye wash stations.

and effective decontamination in case of chemical exposure.

The challenge and solution Compliance with ATEX Regulations: The company needs to comply with ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU, which requires the implementation of safety measures to prevent explosions in areas with potentially explosive atmospheres.

This includes providing ATEX-compliant safety showers.

The solution Get peace of mind knowing that safety showers from Aqua Safety Showers will be manufactured from corrosion resistant materials and come with a two-year warranty, further promoting a safety-conscious workplace culture.

Employee Safety: The safety of employees is a top priority. You need to ensure rapid

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Equipment Selection: Choosing the right ATEX-compliant equipment is essential. You must evaluate the specific requirements of your facility, including location, potential hazard levels, and the number of showers needed.

Contact 01942 318096 sales@aqua-safety.com www.aqua-safety.com

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Global occupational hygiene and workplace hazard monitoring expert Casella has launched an enhanced version of its Vortex3 high flow pump, designed to simplify asbestos and air sampling.

Continuing to fulfil its mission to improve health in the workplace and community with life-changing monitoring technology, the upgraded Vortex3 offers an 8-hour runtime at 8L/min and 4 hours at 12L/min with a typical filter, ensuring continuous performance. With a flow accuracy better than +/-5%, the Vortex3 ensures consultants, contractors and specialists have confidence in results.

Using Casella’s patent-pending, interlocking design, the Vortex3 has an ergonomically comfortable handle and weighs just 2.37kg, allowing users to carry multiple units in one hand with ease.

The Vortex3 has an IP65 rating, providing protection from dust and water ingress.

Casella’s ergonomic design has ensured the high flow pump’s smooth body finish is free from small crevices that could hold fine airborne asbestos fibres, allowing for safer decontamination and cleaning.

Available in two versions, the Vortex3 Pro model is compatible with Casella’s innovative Airwave App and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling users to remotely start, pause or stop a measurement run, monitor battery life and memory capacity and check measurement progress direct from a mobile device.

Contact +44 (0)1234 844100 www.casellasolutions.com

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Palletisation Company of the Month

Beat the new plastic tax: Reduce plastic and lower costs with Lock N Pop pallet stabilisation

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n this issue of Industrial Process News, we are delighted to select Gransden UK as our Palletisation Company of the Month.

Gransden UK is the sole UK and Ireland distributor of the Lock N Pop pallet stabilisation systems, primarily known for reducing plastic pallet wrap and enhancing pallet stabilisation. The Eastern-based company has been supplying the Lock N Pop solution to customers across the industrial and food and beverage applications for over twenty-five years.

Originally known as Lock N Pop UK Ltd the company has had various names, from Green Adhesives to Gransden Packaging Line Products Ltd in 2010 and then to Gransden UK Ltd in 2023. Throughout all the name changes, a core team from the early days remain alongside some longstanding service engineers, showing consistency of long-term staff at the heart of all operations.

We spoke to Director Duncan Potter for more insight into this industry-leading company, “We specialise in the Lock N Pop technology, as the exclusive supplier across UK/Ireland. This is a water-based cohesive used for pallet stabilisation, applied on the production line prior to goods palletisation. We provide everything: machines, cohesive and full-service support, with service engineers stationed around the country.”

“Gransden UK works in the process machinery industry, on production lines in the food and beverage sectors.

Our technology is used in the automatic palletisation area of these type of plants.”

“We are always interested in talking to customers using robotic or automatic layer palletisation at the end of production processes. Our solution works well with boxes, shrink wrap packs or sacks. We specialise in all products but have seen a real increase in the last eighteen months from customers palletising bagged products, often animal feed, chemical or industrial products such as cement bags.”

With the UK Government’s 2050 net-zero targets and a greater push towards the circular economy, all eyes are on sustainable best practices. With this in mind, Lock N Pop is seen as the sustainable solution of choice across the industry for the following reasons: ■ Lock N Pop reduces the need for plastic pallet wrap ■ Cost-effective under the new UK Plastic Tax (Plastic Packaging Tax PPT): introduced in April 2022 ■ The definitive environmentally-friendly solution: cold, water-based and plastic-free ■ Contains no hazardous, heated components or plastic consumables.

The Lock N Pop pallet stabilisation solution simply saves money, by removing the costs associated with palletised goods moving or collapsing in transit to end-customers.

The primary focus on streamlined production process efficiency and the end transit journey to high street shelf, distribution centre or even across international waters or airspace has been paramount and has afforded Lock N Pop goldstandard industry recognition.

In the current global recession, budgets are tight, yet demand is high and with the focus on sustainability, Lock N Pop offers the triple solution: cost-effective, transit safety and the greener choice.

But how does it work? Lock N Pop pallet stabilisation uses a cold, water based cohesive, that is carefully applied inline to the cases, bags, shrink-wrap trays etc. immediately before palletisation. The cohesive has high shear strength characteristics which binds the products together, resulting in a stable pallet. However, the additional bonus is that the cohesive combines this high shear strength with a low tensile strength, meaning that the items can easily be separated. So, stable in transit but easy to separate at distribution centres and end users.

Lock N Pop is widely regarded as the ‘Invisible cohesive,’ – the ability to leave products unmarked is fast becoming paramount, as more and more customers need to be able to place products straight from pallet to shelf in retail ready packaging. As the requirement increases for higher levels of printed artwork on outer case packaging the ability to palletise and transport securely without damaging the presentation of the product is becoming a bigger requirement of food and beverage manufacturers.

“Looking to the future, we are investing in our sales and service staff to take advantage of the growing requirement of companies to move away from plastic based consumables and find a lower cost, environmentally positive solution for pallet stabilisation.”

“We are on a mission to convert the industry to our sustainable, water based, low-cost solution. Lock N Pop is the definitive sustainable choice for pallet stabilisation,” concludes Duncan.

For more information, contact Gransden UK Ltd: 01728 726621 07516 683314 locknpop@gransden.org www.locknpop.co.uk

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Ribbon cores are typically held in place using core grips for other products on the market which can make loading and removing depleted ribbons quite hard – A good deal of pressure is required to fit and to remove depleted ribbons from other ribbon change cassettes on the market. We’ve made this effortless in our Elite coders…you simply turn the core holder on the ribbon cassette which retracts the core grips entirely so your depleted ribbon core just slides off and you can slide on your new ribbon with ease – no pressure required!

Then rotate the core holder in the opposite direction to re-instate the core grips that hold the ribbon securely before replacing the ribbon cassette.

All DK Coding Solutions coders come complete with FREE ProMark Windowsbased template design software. You’ll be able to produce label templates and replicate

We also manufacture thermal transfer ribbons for use not only in our own coders but for use in all well-known Thermal Transfer Coders, Desktop and Industrial Printers on the market.

If you need help in identifying the best ribbon grade for your application, we can help, and have many sizes in stock at great prices, for next day delivery!

Reduce your stock value in spare parts with common parts that fit either left-handed or right-handed coders…

It’s common to see multiple coders across various production lines in different handing’s, resulting in you having to carry numerous spare parts for both left and right-handed coders. This can tie up considerable revenue in spare parts alone. All DK Coding Solution coders irrespective of handing use common spare parts, so gone are the days where you need to carry stock of spare parts for both left and right-handed coders…

With DK Coding Solutions one part will fit both, saving you a small fortune on spare parts!

More affordable, slot-in replacements for Markem, Videojet as well as other TTO manufacturer coders, a TTO from DK Coding Solutions will pay for itself quickly and improve efficiency, and is backed by superb after-sales service for total peace of mind.

If it’s time to upgrade or to replace aging equipment, give us a call: 01527 523242 info@dkcodingsolutions.com www.dkcodingsolutions.com

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Print & Packaging

Adhesives & glue guns

A new concept in creating labelling and signs in-house W ith the SMS-R1 – you can now produce technical labels in-house in all sizes and shapes – because equipment has curves and recesses – in highly durable materials and in any quantity you need – in minutes.

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dCo UK is one of the largest manufactures of shaped hotmelt adhesives and water-based adhesives for use in packaging and product assembly markets for over 21 years, from its Head Office and manufacturing facility in Liphook Hampshire with additional distribution facilities based in Leeds UK and a network of approved distributors based throughout the UK. As well as supplying adhesives for all requirements, AdCo supplies a wide range of specialist applicators – from ProFlex industrial, heavy duty and professional glue guns to total melt, cartridge and bulk systems, we also manufacture and supply UF resins, PVA Adhesives, PU Adhesives, Tapes and much more As part of our commitment to

offer our customers the correct solution for their needs AdCo are continually investing in research and development along with new state of the art manufacturing equipment to ensure we continue to meet the ever changing needs of all types of industry.

Thanks to our unrivalled knowledge of adhesives and application techniques, our highly skilled technicians can offer a ‘find and supply’ service to all our customers.

With a combined industry experience of over 120 years, our technicians can ensure that any bonding problem can be solved quickly and efficiently.

For manufacturing, health and safety even part of product labelling can now be produced on-demand, fully customised in shape, quantity and in colour.

Complete with all the necessary technical and safety pictograms, the SMS-R1 can ensure all your equipment meets current Health and Safety norms and has clear and concise operating information, maintenance information and service information.

Anything from a small component label up to highly visible labels with 95mm high text is possible from just one system.

Our large range of materials include high strength adhesives, high visibility, temperature resistant, chemical resistant and metalized polyesters – ideal for serial plates.

Keeping equipment clearly labelled avoids damage, accidents and reduces maintenance.

Seeing is believing.

Rebo have distribution in the UK and in Europe.

Please email us at: info@rebosystems.com.

Visit: www.rebosystems.com or call us on: +31 (0)35 601 6941.

Contact 01428 751755 enquiries@adco.co.uk www.adco.co.uk

The complete service – Best in Class Sustainable CCL and Henkel from single machines to Packaging: win AWA Award for sustainable turnkey projects sleeve technology A

n innovation showcased

by Baumer and Enterprise are machines that can handle wraparound cartons for 24 and 12 cans in a wraparound carton with corrugated board. In addition, we can now handle kraft board material to produce an FEC or fully enclosed fridge pack carton!

This can be 4, 6’s, 8’s or 12’s too and means the marketing department or budding entrepreneur has almost no limits! Even in a limited space. Machines speeds start at 20 packs per minute and can be up to 65-70 packs per minute.

Ask about the new Rouge machine – the complete plastic free solution designed to reduce the use of raw material and lowering pollution.

Baumer manufacturer shrink wrappers up to 200 cycles per minute and wraparound cartonners for 75 per minute as well as combined cartonner/ shrink wrappers etc.

We also had audio-visual displays of recent Enterprise canning and bottling projects including four sizes of canning line: 3,000cph, 6,000cph, 12,000cph and 25,000cph canning lines. A popular size

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is the compact plug and play 24 valve rotary can filler rated at 12,000 cans per hour and complete with flow meter volumetric filling for very accurate fill with reduced product losses. Features include static can and electro pneumatic valve controls to allow very flexible setting of parameters for different products.

The range includes can fillers up to 80,000 cans per hour.

■ Four sizes of bottling line: 1,500bph, 6,000bph, 9,000bph and 24,000bph.

Complete with conveyors, pasteurisers, labellers, depalletisers and packaging.

Not the size you need? Talk to us and we will design the line to suit.

Whatever your requirements, please visit: www.enterprisetondelli.co.uk

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■ Henkel uses innovative EcoFloat® sleeve technology to improve the recycling of PET bottle bodies ■ Technology enables easier separation of sleeve and bottle body in the recycling process ■ CCL and Henkel were awarded for environmental contribution of new packaging design.

density polyolefin sleeve, is designed for easy sorting and recycling.”

CCL Label, a world leader in specialty label, security and packaging solutions, and Henkel announced today that they have won the AWA (Alexander Watson Associates) Award for their Best in Class Sustainable Design for Henkel’s Vernel brand fabric softener bottle.

AWA stated, “The design was applauded for emphasising recyclability and adhering to EPBP guidelines. The container, constructed from 100% recycled PET bottle materials and a low-

To improve the recyclability of the PET bottle bodies of its fabric softeners in Europe, Henkel partnered with CCL who has developed a new generation of floatable polyolefin material for shrink sleeves called EcoFloat®. This lowdensity material can be separated from PET bottle components during the sink-float separation process at recycling facilities. While the heavier bottle material sinks to the bottom of the water baths, the lightweight sleeve material floats to the top, even with full printed designs. This enables a clean separation of the PET and the label material, which is necessary to gain high-quality PET recyclate. www.ccllabel.com www.henkel.com

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Introducing the new SMS R1 desktop ‘colour and cut’ sign and labelling system Contact 035 6016941, email info@rebosystems.com or visit www.rebosystems.com

Global Provider of Innovative Services in Machinery Health Company of the Month

The dawning of condition monitoring and predictive maintenance in the machinery health industry

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n this issue of Industrial Process News, we are delighted to select CMServices Global Ltd as our Global Provider of Innovative Services in Machinery Health Company of the Month.

The machinery health industry is at the heart of many applications today, down to the monitoring of each bearing and pump rotation. From shipping containers, cruise liners, to manufacturing and the automotive sectors, the smooth running of machinery is the chief concern of engineers. The annual scheduling of manual maintenance checks has been the modus operandi for decades but is no longer seen as the most efficient system.

What happens during the rest of the year between inspections, if the filters get blocked and cause pump cavitation? An untimely pump overhaul is expensive, costing thousands, especially when it was only the filters that needed changing in the first place.

CMServices Global is a leading consultancy, offering AI condition monitoring to diverse sectors from marine and offshore, automotive, manufacturing, food and beverage, postal sorting through to chemical, oil and gas.

Condition monitoring involves the real-time tracking of machine functionality but with the added bonus of predictive maintenance and remote diagnostics across a whole system. AI brings automated processing to the table and with that, a superior result-driven accuracy. Predictive maintenance analyses senor data previously installed on equipment to determine when maintenance is needed. AI can analyse huge chunks of data in real-time and identify patterns proactively, before a problem arises, such as pump cavitation. This allows on-site engineers to schedule checks and repairs before a more costly machine failure or malfunction occurs, later down the line.

We spoke to Director: Simon Edmondson for more insight, “Our software has been precision-designed to ascertain faults, using strategic comparison to known fault signatures. The cause of the problem can be quickly sourced, saving unnecessary downtime and

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costly repairs.

Through continuous AI monitoring, anomalies can be spotted before further catastrophe strikes, through the smart analysis of sensor data and the comparison to standard historical data.”

“Traditionally, service engineers respond to faults manually but our computer-generated system spots the fault before it materialises at the early stage. This early detection system can essentially save companies thousands in downtime and repairs.”

“For some companies, asset optimisation allows them to really hone in on energy usage or machine productivity.”

“We are confident in the accuracy of our Maintenance in Balance (MiB) software service. Just in the marine industry alone, the annual lifecycle costs of operating one ship amounts to £60M and a third of the annual budget is spent on repair and maintenance, to keep ships buoyant and operational. Yet studies show that a staggering 60% of all maintenance is actually unnecessary and can in fact cause more issues going forward. As a total 80% of unplanned maintenance is not age-related and circumvents inspects and service, there has been growing demand for an AI-driven, continuous, accurate and automated condition monitoring and maintenance platform to be designed and implemented.”

“MiB creates a bespoke integrated software platform for prescriptive maintenance monitoring on machinery and all systems, which results in a real-time ‘helicopter view’ of the set-up, from each vessel.”

Maintenance in Balance (MiB) ingeniously combines Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to supply diagnostic support for assets, through condition monitoring techniques that identify anomalies and provide further diagnostic guidance. The MiB asset condition assessment software provides a cutting-edge, integrated platform for foresighted ship machinery maintenance. MiB drastically reduces inspection and maintenance costs, up to £500 thousand per ship across the year, with predictive fault monitoring and can decrease ship downtime from 7 to 1.5 days. What’s more, MiB helps shipping vessels meet compliant

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Simon Edmondson, Director at CMServices (Global) Ltd holding Award seaworthy regulations, giving quality assurance.

MiB has the added benefits of supplying an extra level of real-time prescriptive maintenance outputs, based on accurate condition and systems performance data and provides next-level operational performance across safety, regulatory, environmental and business areas.

CMServices Global is the brainchild of Simon, who after a career in the Royal Navy and subsequent petroleum industry saw first-hand the importance of accurate, efficient marine maintenance. The company was established in 2016, when CMServices was asked to consult and then join a government-funded grant programme in 2019, highlighting the importance of AI in the shipping business. Simon quickly realised that the same type of programme could be replicated across many different industries, offering an ingenious way to offer condition monitoring.

“We work on a global scale, across Europe, USA, Asia and Australia, supporting many on and offshore companies.”

“CMServices Engineers are maritime professionals, with expertise in vibration/IR technology but we are looking to extend our services further to the other sectors like manufacturing and the renewable energy sector, namely wind turbines.”

“It is impossible to analyse wind-turbines in real-time, due to the fluctuating nature of gearboxes, generators, bearings, through to the speed of the rotating blades.

Our state-of-the-art AI-system will demonstrate condition monitoring and predictive maintenance, allowing wind farms across the UK to save money and time on repairs,” concluded Simon.

For more information on MiB and other services, please see the website below: https://cmservicesglobal.com

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Advanced Engineering 2023 review

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his year saw the 14th edition of the popular Advanced Engineering Expo, from November 1st-2nd at the NEC, Birmingham.

It is the largest annual convention for the engineering and manufacturing community, which in November saw 8,943 attendees attending the two-day event from diverse sectors such as: aerospace, automotive, construction, composites, defence, marine, medical, rail, space and sports and leisure. With the latest innovations from right across the sector, the expo is always a dynamic hub and this year was no exception.

Over 400 exhibitors attended Advanced Engineering, alongside an additional 202 stalls in the co-located show: Lab Innovation, which attracted 13,000 professionals. High-profile visitors this year included: Rolls-Royce, IBM, McLaren, NHS, Bosch, Siemens, Shell and Airbus.

Results from the 2023 exhibitor survey showed that 96% recommended the event and 85% planned on returning for Advanced Engineering 2024. Organisers of Advanced Engineering have a database of over

Review – Top Exhibitors

70,000 listed companies and with an annual website reach of over 400,000 annual views, this is the definitive hot ticket in town, for showcasing new products and prolonged digital exposure.

The exhibitors this year came from a wide, distinguished spectrum, including: additive manufacturing, advanced metals, composites engineering, digitisation and automation, electrification and sustainable fuel technology, electronics engineering, machines and precision tools, materials innovation, product design and engineering, surface treatment and finishing and test and quality control. Notably this year were new, first-time sectors including: motorsport, marine, construction, sport and rail.

The Composites Zone, in conjunction with Composites UK was a magnet for high-quality footfall, attracting leading professionals from across the composites sector. The Meet the Buyer programme, organised by ADS was highly successful, with 90 brands engaged in 105 supplier engagements across the defence and aerospace applications.

The main stage had high-calibre keynote speakers such as Richard Noble OBE (previous holder of the land speed record and innovator at ThrustWSH) and Stephen Phipson: CBE (Chief Executive of Make UK). There were dynamic panel discussions around ‘women in manufacturing,’ chaired by Dr Megan Ronayne: Head of Industrial Technologies and Manufacturing experts at Innovate UK KTN. Leading industry experts gave thought-provoking talks on topics such as digitisation and the growing skills gap, across the remaining four forums:

automotive, aerospace, advanced materials and technologies and composites.

The net promoter score increased this year, demonstrating the range of high-quality exhibitors and footfall. Exhibitors and visitors commented on how successful this year’s show was, with quality networking, sales, potential sales and enquiries, with many exhibitors rushed off their feet.

With 80% of exhibitor space already sold for 2024, get your skates on for a stand at this awe-inspiring, innovative hub.

This is our pick of the best exhibitors from last year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Blue Think UK, Brady Corp & PCS Ltd (Pro Composite Solutions).

Further details can be found on this page and the next.

Save the date: Advanced Engineering 2024 30th-31st October 2024: NEC, Birmingham https://www.advancedengineeringuk.com

CEL Components and UK partner PCS Ltd: Lead the way in high-quality specialist sandwich panels and honeycomb composites

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EL Components, a pioneer manufacturer in the field of sandwich panels and honeycombs, has been setting industry standards since being founded in 1992 in Italy. Specialising in tailormade solutions, CEL Components offers a diverse range of core materials and outer skins, providing unparalleled adaptability for various applications.

Having recently returned from the Advanced Engineering show, where in collaboration with PCS Ltd.’s UK Team and one of CEL’s Director’s exhibited, they remain confident in the modernity and relevance of their technology and business model.

CEL provides the ability to select core and outer skin materials independently, offering customers a customisable solution for their specific needs. The company’s extensive material options, including aluminium, polypropylene, Nomex, plywood, foams, polycarbonate, PMI Foam and more, making CEL’s Panels versatile and adaptive for use across a spectrum of sectors.

From shipbuilding and pharmaceutical interiors to automotive interiors and external ventilated facades, CEL Components stands out as a reliable provider of composite solutions. Their commitment to quality is underlined by an impressive array of certifications.

Noteworthy among these are the COMPOCEL AL A2/ FR achieving A2s1d0 fire reaction classification as per UNI EN 13501-1, receiving IMO MED Mod B and D for the shipbuilding sector, along with HL3 for R1, R2, R10 in accordance with UNI EN 45545-2 for the rail industry.

Outstanding results achieved with CEL’s aluminium honeycomb with A1 fire certification providing another incombustible solution according to IMO MED

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regulation. Additional certified panels (for shipbuilding and rail industry) are Alustep F and FN. In the UK PCS Ltd. support CEL Components to serve a wide array of industries, including Automotive and Transport, Marine and Shipbuilding, Precision and Modular Engineering, Pharmaceutical Interiors, and Marble and Mineral support. This broad reach underscores the company’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that cater to diverse needs, with dedicated local service and on the ground tech support.

CEL Components continues to innovate and uphold its reputation as a leader in the field, delivering highquality, made-to-order solutions that meet the evolving demands of industries worldwide.

For any UK enquiries, please contact: info@procompositesolutions.com, call our office number on: +44 (0)330 1757507 or visit: https://www.procompositesolutions.com/ cel-components-2

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Review – Top Exhibitors

How to make a major leap in workplace efficiency?

BlueThink pioneers in product innovation with multi-disciplinary expertise

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omplete RFID solutions that can be adapted to customer needs down to the last detail, now make RFID technology accessible to a wide range of businesses, even in environments that are considered challenging for most labels and readers.

Bring your workplace to the next level of efficiency and productivity with reliable RFID! With RFID labels, assets can be given unique, digital identities that enable you to identify and locate them all at once, from a distance, in real time, without needing line of sight.

Considerable efficiency gains can be generated in any industry with the complete RFID solution from Brady.

Locate, identify, track and trace multiple assets at once from a 15m distance without ever having to lay eyes on them or cover your entire

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workplace with well-placed fixed RFID readers to maximally accelerate asset tracking. Quickly guide employees to the assets they need in the most optimal order, fully automate inventories and check any outgoing cargo for completeness in seconds.

Discover more & Download the free RFID Guide from Brady’s websites. +44 (0)1295 228288 csuk@bradycorp.com www.brady.co.uk

lueThink, a leading product innovation consultancy based in the UK and Italy, presents its unique approach to driving innovation across diverse industries. The company’s multidisciplinary team of experts seamlessly combines design thinking, technology scouting, engineering, AI, sustainability and prototyping to deliver groundbreaking solutions for its clients.

BlueThink’s comprehensive approach to innovation encompasses the following key areas: ■ Concept Design: BlueThink’s expert designers collaborate with clients to conceptualise and refine product ideas, ensuring they align with market needs and business objectives.

■ Technology Scouting: BlueThink’s team of technology experts identifies and evaluates emerging

technologies that can enhance product capabilities and differentiate them in the marketplace.

■ Engineering Expertise: BlueThink’s engineers bring expertise in mechanical, electronic, and materials engineering to translate concepts into functional prototypes using an agile approach and ensure product manufacturability.

■ AI Capabilities: BlueThink’s team bridge the gap between a product and its digital twin, implementing AI where necessary to improve product development and deployment.

■ Sustainability: BlueThink’s environmental team delivers innovation for products and processes to reduce environmental footprint and drive towards a circular economy. +44 (0)1926 293685 info@bluethink.co.uk www.bluethink.co.uk

Training & Development

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Test, Measurement & Laboratory

Hamamatsu Photonics releases new version of its software for Mini-Spectrometers H

amamatsu Photonics is thrilled to introduce TOKUSPEC 1.3.0, an improved version of the software tool exclusively crafted for its mini-spectrometers.

TOKUSPEC offers seamless device control, streamlined data acquisition, advanced data processing, data correction capabilities, and versatile data export options in multiple formats. Remarkably intuitive, the software automatically detects connected devices, enabling concurrent operation across numerous units.

This upgraded version will now also include added support for the latest spectrometers like the ultra-high

dynamic range OPAL-Luxe, the TM series C10082CAH, and devices that require manual configuration steps (e.g. IP address, COM Port, etc.). It also includes an upgrade to the .NET Framework 4.8 and an improved speed and memory consumption for XLSX export.

As a testament to Hamamatsu’s dedication to industrial partnerships and scientific progress, TOKUSPEC is offered at no additional cost.

Contact Hamamatsu to learn more about this upgrade. marcom@hamamatsu.eu www.hamamatsu.com

QED Environmental Systems announces new Geotech GEM PRO Portable Landfill Gas Analyser Q

ED Environmental Systems, Inc., a leading manufacturer of innovative environmental products announces the new Geotech® GEM® PRO gas extraction manager, the first portable gas analyser to feature seven user configurable module bays. This allows the user flexibility to quickly change which gases they are monitoring at any one time within +/-0.3-0.5%.

The new GEM system features a modular design, improved battery life, a large touch screen interface and support for legacy accessories. The GEM gas extraction manager works with GAMSoft™ proprietary software that improves performance and results.

Empowered by i-Q modular technology, the Geotech GEM instrument gas cells, pressure sensors and filters are user-replaceable in the field. The instrument can be maintained or expanded in the field far quicker than returning to QED for maintenance or service. Replacement

cells come with a certificate of calibration, maintaining compliance in between yearly inspection and service.

The Affinity™ wireless communications module provides support for legacy accessories, including temperature sensors, relative humidity sensors or anemometers, reducing component inventory and improving efficiency.

For more information on the Geotech GEM PRO portable landfill gas analyser, please go to: https://www.qedenv.com/ qed-geotech-gem-pro +44 (0)333 800 0088 sales@qedenv.co.uk

The new Ecom Smart-Ex 03 DZ1 – Smarter than a smart phone

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ncompassing the power of 5G and WiFi 6 in an Intrinsically Safe Zone 1 package, the Ecom’s new SmartEX 03 DZ1 is setting new standards for the hazardous area asset management market.

Underpinned by the global reputation of Pepper+Fuchs as a pioneer in the development of intrinsically safe devices for mobile computing and industrial communication, the Smart-EX-03 is laying

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the foundations for future orientated digitalisation.

This new generation smartphone opens up completely new possibilities and increases the safety, efficiency, and transparency of operations in both conventional and IIoT applications.

Today, skilled industrial workers play pivotal roles in critical sectors such as energy, manufacturing, and chemicals.

The fusion of digital technology and IoT heralds a new era for them, enabling a connected workforce. Our mobile worker concept leverages mobile devices, asset tracking, analytics, and wearables to

enhance their efficiency and safety. The launch of the new hazardous area-rated 5G smartphone Smart-Ex 03 takes mobile workers to a new level for flexible deployment in public and private networks of mobile network providers or the companies themselves.

We’d welcome a call on: +44 (0)1189 311188 or an email to: info@able.co.uk.

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Review – Top Exhibitors

THE event for the UK plastics industry

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nterplas has been the must-attend event for product designers, engineers, manufacturers and buyers looking to find the latest plastics technology and materials for over 75 years. As the UK’s leading plastics exhibition and conference, Interplas 2023 couldn’t have happened at a better time as a change in the plastics industry is ever so imminent and vital right now.

The show welcomed a wide range of key buyers from global companies such as Jaguar Land Rover, Rolls Royce, Boots, Samsung, and many more all looking to discover the very latest plastics technology and materials.

Over 500 exhibitors and over 12,000 attendees were at the show making it the perfect environment for brands to do business with lots of new and potential customers as well as to learn from other professionals in the UK manufacturing industry.

Interplas 2023 offered brands the unique opportunity to make invaluable connections that in turn lead to many exciting new projects and partnerships. Many brands came away from the 2023 show feeling invigorated, inspired and encouraged for what the future of the industry holds.

Interplas 2023 conference hosted a fantastic line up of industry respected speakers including: Lilian Agyemang-Yeboah – Life Science Applications Engineer of Entegris; Mark Amphlett – Director of MOULDERS CONSULTING LTD; Sally Beken – UK Circular Plastics network Manager of Innovate UK/UK Circular Plastics Network; Eric Bayle – Business Development Director, EMEA of Plastic Bank; Tony Austin – European Technical Director of Rosti Group; Derek Atkinson – VP Sales and Business Development of TotalEnergies Corbion; Justin Anstey – Automotive Manager of Resinex UK Limited; Alan Arthur – CEO of GTMA – Manufacturing Resource Centre. Each speaker relayed the latest information on topics such as innovations in plastics, sustainability, the future of UK plastics, productivity, diversity, equity and inclusion.

Spaces for Interplas 2026 are already filling up. Don’t miss out on your chance to exhibit.

Interplas 2026 will be held at the NEC, Birmingham, UK from 2nd-4th June 2026.

This is our pick of the best exhibitors from last year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Begg & Co, HPC Compressed Air & Smartech Energy. Further details can be found on this page and a half.

Contact https://interplasuk.com

Making a material HPC’s compressed air difference at Begg & Co and blower showcase H

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fter a successful show in 2021, we were very excited once again to be a part of Interplas 2023 and celebrate its 75th anniversary. It was great to catch up with our existing Customers and to see so many familiar faces, it also gave us the opportunity to introduce Begg & Co and make some new connections in the industry.

owned, family run business that has been trading since 1956.

As one of the oldest independent distributors, Begg & Co is a privately

Through our long association, we have formed close relationships with our Suppliers which allows us to act as the vital link in your polymer supply chain. A fundamental part of our business is understanding the aspirations and requirements of our Customers to meet their needs efficiently.

We supply a complete range of Commodities such as PP, PE, Styrenics, PET as well as a fast range of Engineering polymers. Delivering quantities from 25kgs to full truck loads from our warehouse in Kent – next day if required.

Interplas is a fantastic platform for the plastics Industry. We were delighted at the success and look forward to returning in 2026 (with a bigger fridge!)

0208 310 1236 info@beggandco.co.uk www.beggandco.co.uk

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PC’s 45-year partnership with KAESER Compressors enables it to provide customers with the most reliable and efficient compressed air systems and blowers, via its dedicated centres and nationwide network of distributors.

HPC Compressed Air Systems is recognised as the gold standard in the industry and HPC KAESER’s ‘yellow-box’ compressed air systems can be found throughout British industry, from workshops and garages to factories and power stations.

Compressed air and vacuum are critical to the plastics production and manufacturing sectors, in particular, for a variety of critical applications, including: reliably feeding pneumatic equipment including moulding and extrusion machines, robotics, and air knives, to name a few; in addition to being vital for wastewater treatment; PET bottling lines and thermoforming.

Three of HPC KAESER’s marketing leading compressed air and blower models were on display at Interplas.

The CB 131X rotary blower is a master of efficiency, dependability and durability. The SM16’s intelligent design enables installation in environments where space is at a premium. And the i.Comp 3 delivers the exact volume of compressed air required to perform the work at hand.

To find out more about HPC, please visit our website: www.hpcplc.co.uk or contact us via: info@hpcplc.co.uk.

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Review – Top Exhibitors

Reduce your organisation’s energy costs, consumption and carbon emissions by a third E

nergy management and reduction specialist SMARTech energy guarantees to reduce energy costs, consumption, and carbon emissions in the manufacturing and commercial sectors by up to 33% through energy efficient technology upgrades and solutions.

SMARTech energy partners with commercial organisations across the UK to reduce their energy usage and carbon emissions by up to 33%. The company does this through a shared savings energy management and reduction programme called Energy Efficiency as a Service (EEaaS).

With three commercial options available, including a zero CapEx model, SMARTech energy has just helped a large recycling

and waste site to reduce its energy costs and carbon emissions by more than 16%.

Managing Director, Stuart Pearce said, “SMARTech energy is passionate about helping customers to find the right solution to reduce emissions, improve efficiency and to save costs. Energy management and reduction through the EEaaS programme not only benefits the financial aspects of a company, but the sustainability too.”

All programmes start with a site survey and the installation of energy monitoring to identify how, where and why energy is being used – or wasted. The data from this then supports an energy management strategy which utilises one or more of 34 energy-saving and energy generating technologies to optimise the performance and operating conditions of a site.

For more information about SMARTech energy, please visit: www.SMARTech-energy.co.uk or call our team on: 01225 635660.

Machining & Engineering

XXL-BOX LASER MARKING WORKSTATIONS

The most competitive solutions for marking large workspaces

Funnel Integrated Technology hits the stage O

ver the last 30 years, there has been a boom in the traceability and identification of manufactured components.

Many industries want to directly laser mark these, however there are some parts that are just getting larger and larger.

Casting and pressing companies sometimes have such large parts that they simply cannot fit these into a standard sized Class 1 laser enclosure leaving many companies wondering how they can mark them.

➤ 3 WIDTH AVAILABLE ➤ ERGONOMIC & SECURED ➤ MANUAL OR AUTOMATIC AXES ON DEMAND

Even though they launched a new range of large XXL-Box class 1 enclosures in 2022, SIC Marking saw this problem as a new challenge for 2023. They have now launched their Funnel Integrated Technology (F.I.T. for short) as a complete all in one solution that combines all of the necessary components and settings to mark larger parts in a simple, safe and economic way within the customers production line and budget.

The FIT tunnel eliminates the need to enclose the entire part for the laser marking process by enclosing just the marking area. The compact design allows

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for the FIT system to be retrofitted easily into an existing robotic cell.

This ready to integrate and secured laser marking system comes as a ‘Tunnel Style’ Class 1 compliant enclosure. It is a compact and easy to integrate solution with a single connection to a PLC. The F.I.T. can be mounted to a robot head for presenting to a stationary part – or fixed in position allowing the robot to present the part for marking.

Not only is the F.I.T. adapted for production environments with its maintenance drawer for the cleaning of the lens, it has built-in shock protection preventing the funnel from damage.

The F.I.T. tunnel can be adapted to your marking needs with three window sizes available as standard: 24mm x 32mm, 100mm x 32mm and 100mm x 100mm. +44 (0)1926 830372 salesuk@sic-marking.com https://www.sic-marking.co.uk

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Electrical & Electronics

Watlow launches ASSURANT® high temperature heating jackets A high temperature solution for semiconductor processing

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eading provider of advanced industrial electric heater manufacturer Watlow, has announced the launch of its new ASSURANT® HT high-temperature heating jackets, designed to meet the unique needs of semiconductor processing.

Watlow’s ASSURANT heaters are heater jackets made with PTFE-coated fiberglass that maximises thermal uniformity and coverage for gas lines, pump lines, forelines and exhaust lines in semiconductor processing applications. These solutions offer even heating for uniform temperature profiles over the entire heated line. The ASSURANT heater jackets optimise process tool uptime and chip yield by providing full coverage to the line, eliminating cold spots that result in particle build-up.

As today’s advanced processes, with new chemistries and applications, require even higher temperature ranges, ASSURANT HT delivers a recommended operating temperature of up to 350°C, making it the perfect solution for the most demanding applications.

Our glass-based technology ensures that ASSURANT HT is SEMI-rated for cleanrooms and flammability, eliminating issues associated with clogging and fouling.

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“We are thrilled to introduce the new ASSURANT HT to the market,” said Doug Schaefer, chief system designer at Watlow. “Our first-generation ASSURANT TC is a reliable heating solution for many applications, but as industry evolves there is a need for an even higher temperature range. With ASSURANT HT, we are providing our customers with a step change in thermal performance that will help them stay ahead of the curve on challenging processes like titanium nitride. The launch of ASSURANT HT marks a new era for the ASSURANT line of heaters, designed from the ground up to improve semiconductor processing.”

ASSURANT HT is compatible with all existing controllers, making it a true plug-and-play solution

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that allows for easy integration with existing equipment. Watlow’s extensive experience within the semiconductor industry has led to a broad portfolio of innovative products that have been thoroughly tested, with proven results.

For more information on ASSURANT HT and other thermal management solutions from Watlow, please visit: www.watlow.com

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Electrical & Electronics

Facing the heat: Tackling Achieving temperature diesel engine efficiency uniformity in gas line with heating technology heating systems N

ew environmental legislation has created an engineering challenge for heavy-duty diesel engines.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitric oxide (NOx) emissions must fall below stricter standards. At the same time, greater engine efficiency has resulted in a corresponding loss of exhaust gas temperature, leading to lower catalytic activity. This is particularly concerning when it comes to NOx emissions for cold start and low load cycles, as a lot of thermal inertia is produced in the aftertreatment system. Here, Jeff Diestelmeier, Vice President and General Manager Energy and Environmental Technologies Business Unit at industrial technology company Watlow, explores how heating technology can improve diesel engine efficiency.

In the past, manufacturers of heavyduty vehicles have been able to meet emissions standards by making small, incremental improvements in the engines themselves. These newer, stricter standards will require more of a ‘systems’ approach because of the engineering challenges involved.

How semiconductor manufacturing can benefit from adaptive thermal systems

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To achieve the newer, stricter standards, automobile and truck manufacturers will need to look at other elements of the system – specifically, adding heat to exhaust to increase catalytic activity. An advanced heating strategy has already been shown to be the most efficient means of meeting these NOx emissions standards. In fact, a small heater placed at the intake of the aftertreatment system enables its rapid and efficient heating, even during cold start and low load operating conditions. However, having a practical means to power and control this type of heater has been a barrier for implementation.

To learn more about Watlow’s thermal solutions, please visit: www.watlow.com

emiconductor tools with gas lines, fore lines and exhaust lines require precise heating and thermal process control.

Traditional systems are complex and often fail to offer sufficient thermal data and heating control. Without optimal thermal performance, line shutdowns are inevitable and costly.

Here, Andy Selvy, chief system designer at industrial technology company Watlow, explores how adaptive thermal systems (ATS) can prevent this and supports uniformity in gas line heating systems.

Semiconductor manufacturing needs to be a tightly controlled process, especially when it comes to thermal changes of materials and components. When the process is not properly controlled, small issues build

until a shutdown is imminent, causing loss in time and revenue.

These issues tend to revolve around three limitations of traditional thermal systems. This includes thermal stability, lack of thermal data and the complexity of the system itself.

Watlow provides semiconductor development teams with innovative thermal systems that give equipment manufacturers a unique competitive advantage.

To learn more about our solutions visit: www.watlow.com

New outdoor protective housing for infrared cameras under harsh environmental conditions

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recision electronic equipment is difficult to operate in harsh environmental conditions such as extreme temperatures, humidity and dust levels and therefore needs adequate protection to function properly. Optris have recently introduced a new outdoor housing for their PI and Xi series of infrared cameras to enable these precision devices to operate in harsh environmental conditions. The housing enables a combination of an infrared camera and a high definition camera in a single compact system with an integrated and compact USB server.

The new housing is IP66 compliant and is therefore suitable for operation in dusty or humid environments. An electrical heating element is included that activates automatically at temperatures below +15°C to enable use in very low temperatures; a ventilation fan circulates warm air evenly within the housing. The system can operates at temperatures ranging from -40°C up to +50°C. An optional air purge unit continuously clears the protective housing’s window with compressed air while ensuring that no dust or condensation gathers there.

This ensures that the infrared camera consistently has clear visibility and can provide precise and reliable temperature measurements.

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When operating in conjunction with the optional HD video camera, with its 1280x720 pixel resolution, combined thermal and optical condition monitoring as well as fire protection applications can fulfilled with precision and confidence.

The integrated USB server transfers the images from the infrared camera and the video camera can be used so that data from both cameras is merged into a single stream; transmission occurs via an Ethernet line. These cameras are therefore easily integrated into existing industrial video control systems. +49 (0)30 500 197-0 sales@optris.com https://www.optris.com/en

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Review – Top Exhibitors

Covering everything Leading UK self-adhesive the Surface Treatment materials converter and Industries need in one place distributor at Surface

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World Live 2023

undreds gathered at the NEC on the 4th-5th October 2023 for Surface World Live, the UK’s only dedicated event to the surface treatment, product finishing and coatings industry.

The event was sponsored by Surface World magazine and supported by all the major industry organisations including: The SEA, BSTSA, The IMF, Correx, The BCF, RAPRA, Qualicoat UK & Ireland, The Galvanizers Association, and Corrodere.

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Surface World Live was specifically designed to enable professionals to meet other faces of the industry and discover their products and services as well as to explore, collaborate and learn from the sector.

showcased their latest products of which visitors were able to see up close and test themselves. From cutting-edge equipment and technology to live demonstrations, each exhibitor offered expert advice and shared their latest knowledge with the Surface Treatment community through live discussions, panels and seminars.

The event created the perfect platform for visitors to discover the latest trends, advancements and innovations in surface treatment and coating techniques as well as find practical solutions to current problems facing the industry.

Surface World Live returns for its next event on the 26th-27th February 2025 in Hall 11 at the NEC in Birmingham where The Institute of Materials Finishing (IMF) will be celebrating their 100th anniversary. Book your stand today!

From water purification systems to 3D solutions, training and education services, inspection instruments, overhead conveyor specialists and tailored environmental equipment, Surface World Live had a fantastic exhibitor line up that promoted a wide range of products all suitable to the industry. A large range of exhibitors

This is our pick of the best exhibitors from last year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Hadleigh Enterprises Limited, LAUDA Technology & Purite.

Further details can be found on this page. http://www.surfaceworld.com/ surface-world-live

adleigh Enterprises Limited is a leading converter and distributor of self-adhesive materials. These include materials from wellknown brands such as 3MS, Nitto Tapes, Scapa Tapes, Advance Tapes, and Tesa.

Exhibiting at Surface World Live at the NEC, Birmingham from 4th-5th October 2023, the company showcased its leading range of products to the surface treatment, product finishing and coatings industry.

Established in 1971, the independent family-run business has been at the frontline of adhesive tape converting for over four decades and gained ISO 9001 in 1992, for quality assurance. We then gained AS9100 approval in 2015 for Aerospace Manufacture and are now AS9100D approved.

Based in Wickford, Essex, Hadleigh has built up a solid reputation with all major adhesive tape manufacturers over the years and offers the best products in the industry. There are numerous benefits to partnering with a converting distributor, these include:

■ 95% of materials are held in log roll stock, with supply slit rolls from 2mm and above and disc sizes from 4mm to 150mm available.

■ Slitting tolerance on all materials is +/- 0.2mm or below.

■ Converting is complete on-site, making lead delivery times quicker.

■ Technical drawing advice, discs, die-cut shapes and bespoke shapes are all offered to new and existing customers.

With customer service at the heart of operations, free samples are available to customers to accurately test the material with applications before committing to purchasing. International delivery is available and 24-hour UK express dispatch delivery for quicker turnaround.

For more information, please see the website below: 01268 572255 https://hadleigh-tapes.co.uk

Purite: Laboratory, LAUDA Technology: Healthcare & Industrial Perfect temperature control for UK & Ireland Water Purification Systems W

e are LAUDA – the world market leader for precise temperatures.

Our temperature control devices and systems are at the heart of important applications and hence make a contribution to a better future. As a full-service provider, we guarantee the optimum temperature in research, production and quality control. We are the reliable partner for hydrogen, chemical, pharmaceuticals, biotech, semiconductors and medical technology. With competent advice and innovative solutions, we have been inspiring our customers every day for over 65 years worldwide.

Our Hydro Water Baths boast reliability whilst being virtually maintenance free, and are built for continuous operation in the laboratory. A further reliable partner for applications in the lab is our Varioshake Shaker; extremely userfriendly, robust and durable. The LAUDA Puridest will provide ultra-pure, low-gas, sterile and pyrogen-free distillate.

All of our products set impressive standards with their compact design, user-friendliness and performance. In addition, we cover other important areas of the laboratory world with products from our LAUDA Scientific range,

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including; Viscometers, Tensiometers and Contact Angle Measuring Instruments (to name but a few).

We don’t just cover the ‘microscopic’ either. We also pride ourselves on being renowned world-wide for our reliable solutions in Plant Engineering.

For applications requiring customised solutions, we offer a made-to-measure design service courtesy of our highlyskilled team. Project engineering is a core competence of LAUDA and using the modular engineering approach we can design and scale a system specifically for your application. +44 (0)1780 243118 info@lauda-technology.co.uk www.lauda-technology.co.uk

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urite stands at the forefront of water purification, a trusted partner for industries seeking expertly designed, manufactured, and implemented solutions. Our dedication to excellence is underscored by our Made in Britain accreditation, a testament to the quality and reliability of our products. At Purite, we specialise in creating advanced systems tailored to the unique needs of diverse sectors, including surface finishing, microelectronics fabrication, boiler feed, food & beverage, and borehole applications.

Our turnkey service provision ensures a seamless integration of our systems into your operations. The heart of our offering lies in our Reverse Osmosis (RO) technology, crucial for high quality process water, delivering unparalleled efficiency and purity.

We pride ourselves on our customercentric approach, with over 99% of clients praising our technical support and advice as outstanding. This exceptional feedback mirrors our commitment to not just meeting but exceeding industry

expectations. Embracing innovation, we continuously evolve to address emerging challenges, ensuring our solutions remain at the cutting edge of technology.

In choosing Purite, you choose a partner committed to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, making us an ideal choice for any industry in need of superior water purification solutions.

Paul Gueran, Sales Leader, 01844 217141 vtc.vwts.puritemail.all@veolia.com www.purite.com

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Handling, Storage & Logistics

Award-winning resin flooring from 100% recycled waste plastic O

ur fragile planet is at catastrophic risk from waste plastic, with numerous quantities ruining our bountiful oceans, endangering marine life, human health and ecosystems. Harmful chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates in plastic can cause havoc in soil chemistry and landfill groundwater.

Abacus Flooring Solutions is a multi-awardwinning specialistflooring manufacturer from Coalville, Leicestershire that has come up with a landmark innovation. By using waste plastic (that would otherwise go to landfill) in industrial resin flooring, the East Midlands based company has revolutionised the flooring industry.

The groundbreaking patented innovation is named ‘Abaplas’ and is the brainchild of Managing Director, Nick Megson. It is the first exclusive design in the world of its kind, providing a wholly sustainable, ecofriendly flooring method. Established in 2020, the company designs, manufactures and installs resin flooring for a wide range of industries from industrial, commercial to healthcare. With a dedicated aftercare service, customers benefit from an annual followup site visit for cleaning advice and slip testing.

Furthermore, the sister company: Abaplas Recycling Limited treats all the plastic recycling for Abacus resin flooring products and initiates the sales of treated plastic for use by other product manufacturers.

flooring, along with many other industrial products, has traditionally been manufactured using silica sand, which is a dangerous and potentially carcinogenic substance when inhaled.” “Abaplas instead contains non-harmful recycled waste plastic, which is ground down to a white powder. The process will vastly reduce the volume of waste plastic ending up in landfill or the world’s oceans.”

We caught up Nick Megson, Managing Director to find out more about this award-winning company,

“The world’s first resin flooring using 100% recycled plastic was installed by Abacus in the enormous VIP Visitor Centre auditorium at JCB’s global headquarters in Staffordshire, UK.” The future looks bright for this flagship company as it sets a new benchmark for sustainable usage of plastic waste in flooring for years to come, “It is expected that Abaplas Recycling Limited will grow exponentially over the next few years as more clients specify Abacus’s 100% recycled waste plastic flooring. Rapid growth is also expected as Nick’s unique process becomes adapted for use in a much broader range of flooring, construction and industrial products,” concludes Nick.

“Our products are intrinsically more environmentally friendly than any other flooring product on the market: there is currently no competitor offering a resin flooring that entirely replaces harmful silica sand with 100% recycled waste plastic.” “Resin

For more information on Abaplas, please see the website below: 01530 432790 nick@abacusflooringsolutions.co.uk www.abacusflooringsolutions.co.uk

Businesses face legal implications for incorrect transportation of lithium-ion batteries ZARGES warns A

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t Volkmann, ideas are born that find a home with customers all over the world. These ideas can benefit an individual customer application or can improve the general process solutions we offer.

Volkmann, engineers and manufactures high-quality, highperformance pneumatic conveying systems including pneumatic vacuum conveyors, additive manufacturing material handling systems, bulk bag unloaders, rip and tip stations, hoists, delumpers, dust collection systems, and weighing and dosing systems to offer a complete, fully contained powder handling system for the safe material transfer of fine chemicals, granules, pellets, tablets and small components. Volkmann systems are particularly well-suited to dust-tight, segregation-free and damage-free

powder handling under vacuum.

With features such as ‘No-Tools’ disassembly and easy cleaning, as well as designs conforming to cGMP standards, air-driven Multijector® vacuum generation and ATEX certification for explosion-proof applications – it’s no wonder Volkmann is leading the industry with powder and granule pneumatic conveying solutions.

The developments of our team are versatile and ingenious. As a partner in the process, we take on responsibility for the success, the safety, and the reliability of the final solution. Volkmann supports customers in solving their conveying tasks, from the idea right up to the finished plant. This is our strength.

01494 512228 https://uk.volkmann.info

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s the surge in demand for lithium-ion batteries continues, ZARGES, Europe’s leading supplier of specialist case solutions, warns that the correct transportation and storage of them is vital in accordance with relevant legislation.

Recent research published

by McKinsey & Company revealed that the value chain of lithium-ion batteries is set to increase by over 30% annually over the next six years. This surge in demand is largely driven by global sustainability efforts, with many companies switching to the electrification of products traditionally powered by fossil fuels; particularly across the automotive industry.

While the demand for lithium-ion batteries increases, it is important to note that the storage and transportation of such batteries is subject to strict safety regulations set out by the Department of Transportation’s Hazardous Materials Act. Failure to comply with these regulations, which are mandated by law, not only poses a serious risk to safety, but could

see businesses facing significant fines and even prosecution.

The ZARGES K470 storage box, compliant to UN 3480 and class 9, is available in 25 standard sizes, offering a standard capacity range from 13–829 litres, with size customisation available. The cases are also available with a choice of flame-retardant foam or protective cushioning, designed specifically for the transportation and protection of lithium-ion batteries.

Stringently tested to ensure maximum safety, the ZARGES K470 Battery Safe version has been designed to eliminate the risk of explosion and the spread of flames in accordance with ADR P908 and SV 376, making it one of the most popular case solutions available on the market.

To find out more about the ZARGES K470 cases or for more information on the full range of products and services offered by ZARGES, please visit: https://www.zarges.com/uk/ products/k-470-universal-container

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Industrial Process Technologies

689nm discrete mode laser diode

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he 689nm discrete mode laser diode from the FEBP series is a cost-effective, highly coherent laser source with a typical linewidth of 4MHz. A strained multi-quantum well discrete mode (DM) laser diode chip is packaged in an industry standard hermetically sealed TO39 can with integrated thermo-electric cooler (TEC) and thermistor. The typical optical output power is 2.5mW.

A butterfly version with about 1.5mW out of an SM or PM fiber is in development and will be available soon.

This laser diode is excellently suited for high performance gas sensing and the use in Sr-based atomic clocks.

Contact sales@frlaserco.com www.frlaserco.com

The Innovative Partner for Consultation on and Distribution of Laser Products FLC3000: Laser Diode System with Fiber Output

FLC300: Laser Diode System with Fiber Output

FPYL-355-XXW-Q: High Power Ultra Violet Q-switched DPSS Laser

Optical Data Output Power (W) (at the fiber end)

5 - 300W* (CW)

Fiber Data Core Diameter (μm)

Applications äCladding äWelding äHeat Treatment

105/200/400**

Mechanical Housing Dimensions (LxWxH) (mm)

305 x 295 x 135***

* Power 5W – 100W with integrated TE cooling. Higher output power with water cooling ( separate water chiller). ** To be specified. *** At least 100mm free space to the fan on both sides.

Wavelength (nm)

355±1

Average Output Power (W)

1 ~ 50* (@1MHz)

Pulse Duration (ps)

<10

Repetition Rate (MHz)

0.4 ~ 2

Power Stability (RMS, over 4 hours)

<1%, <3%*

Peak-to-Peak Stability (RMS, over 4 hours)

<2%

*To be specified

Please visit our website www.frlaserco.com Telephone +49 (0)6172 27978-0 or email sales@frlaserco.com

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Industrial Process Technologies

Norway is Partner Country at Blue Diamond Technologies re-acquired HANNOVER MESSE 2024 N by original owners B

lue Diamond Technologies Ltd is delighted to announce a return to UK ownership following its purchase, four years ago, by Swedish seal and bearing manufacturer, Trelleborg Group.

Incorporated in 1977 as a stockist and distributor of engineering and industrial components, Blue Diamond was originally owned and managed by members of the Worley family. It is two of the original directors who are responsible for its reacquisition now. Richard Worley, former Managing Director and his brother, James, former Operations Director, aim to build on the company’s previous reputation for reliability and service, setting it back on a path for growth to match its previous success in supplying a wide range of industries within the UK and beyond.

Blue Diamond Chairman, Richard Worley (right) and Managing Director, James Worley return to Blue Diamond

Under the new ownership, Richard will be Chairman and James will be Managing Director. The company will continue to operate from its existing offices and warehouse in Chandlers Ford, near Southampton in Hampshire.

Prior to its takeover by Trelleborg in 2019, Blue Diamond had spent 40 years developing a secure and well-established supply chain for custom parts covering manufacture to final delivery, working with the best suppliers in Europe and the Far East to provide all the benefits of global procurement with the convenience of a single UK source. Stockholding too became a key benefit offered by Blue Diamond with the company taking full responsibility for security of supply and stock control management.

This event forestalls the likely closure of the company and secures jobs for over a dozen local employees, some of whom have been with the company for more than 20 years.

For further details, contact Blue Diamond Technologies Ltd, 023 8025 8966 sales@blue-diamond.co.uk www.blue-diamond.co.uk

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orway is Partner Country at HANNOVER MESSE 2024: Jan Christian Vestre, Minister of Trade and Industry, Norway, and Dr. Jochen Köckler, Chairman of the Managing Board, Deutsche Messe AG, made the official announcement today at the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding in Berlin.

The designation of Norway as Partner Country spotlights an ambitious country dedicated to deliver and develop new solutions for the green industrial transition.

Norway has a rich industrial history and role as a reliable energy producer. This heritage combined with its dedication to speed up the green transition will be beneficial as a Partner Country at HANNOVER MESSE, the world’s leading trade fair for industrial technology.

The country’s theme for 2024, ‘Norway 2024: Pioneering the Green Industrial Transition,’ emphasises Norway’s ambitions for the transition to a low-carbon society and key role in developing solutions within sectors such as renewable energy, carbon-neutral production, and application of green and digital solutions – all necessary to

transform the industry and reach net-zero.

HANNOVER MESSE takes place at the Hannover Exhibition Center in Hannover, Germany. The annual event features the latest products and solutions for manufacturing and energy systems and attracts decisionmakers and industry leaders from all over the world. The selection of a Partner Country recognises and promotes a specific nation’s contributions to industrial progress as well as the current business opportunities it offers.

Norway is fully integrated into the European internal market through the EEA Agreement, making trade and investment flow seamlessly between Norway, Germany and the rest of the European Union. Norway and Germany are key trading partners and have entered a strategic partnership on climate, renewable energy and green industry to co-operate even closer in the green transition.

Contact +49 (0)511 89-0 https://www.messe.de/en

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Review – Top Exhibitors

Manufacturing & Engineering Week is industrial sector’s biggest event

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anufacturing & Engineering Week, produced in association with The Manufacturer, has become the biggest industrial sector event in the UK in just its second year, according to statistics released by event organisers The Nineteen Group. Over the course of the live shows back in June, 10,355 manufacturers, designers, engineers and maintenance professionals attended at the NEC and 342 exhibitors showcased their products and services.

The week began with digital sessions produced by The Manufacturer, a BBC radio broadcast followed by four live events featuring high profile speakers including Nusrat Ghani, Minister of State at the Department for Business & Trade who gave the welcome address in the Keynote Theatre. The six solution theatres covering Automation & Robotics, Digital Transformation, Innovation, Industrial Data & AI, IIOT & Connectivity and Maintenance were also packed on both days.

Senior manufacturing leaders attended the Manufacturing Digitalisation Summit and the SME Growth Summit while also finding time to visit the Google Leaders’ Lounge and The Manufacturer Top 100 Award ceremony, which celebrates the heroes of UK manufacturing and recognises their contribution to the sector.

As part of the STEM programme, more than 450 students attended the exhibition on the final afternoon finding much to inspire them in the Made Smarter Innovation Alley, the Innovation Village and beyond.

Manufacturing & Engineering Week has the support of most of the high-profile organisations, institutions and trade bodies representing the UK’s industrial and manufacturing sector, none more so than Make UK. Stephen Phipson CBE, CEO of MAKE UK and chair of Manufacturing & Engineering Week said of this year’s event, “Manufacturing and Engineering Week has gone from strength to strength with key challenges high on the agenda with skills, supply chain and sustainability discussed in detail. It was great to see the show also offset their carbon emissions once again by planting thousands more trees in the M&E Week forest.”

Peter Jones, CEO of Nineteen Group commented on the success of the event saying, “We gave our team the licence to disrupt the accepted norms of what an industrial sector trade show looked like, from the Nexa3D guitar players’ competition to the festival-like stilt walkers and branding to the sheer sense of excitement generated on the

exhibition floor it’s been superb, and it will only get better next year as we add Drives & Controls, Air-Tech and Fluid Power & Systems alongside the established Smart Factory Expo, Maintec and Design & Engineering Expo.”

This is our third pick of the best exhibitors from last year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: EA Technology & FC Laboratories. Further details can be found on this page.

M&E Week 2024: 5th-6th June – Smart Factory Expo, Design & Engineering Expo, Maintec (2 days, Hall 4) 4th-6th June – Drives & Controls, Air-Tech, Fluid Power & Systems (3 Days, Hall 5).

For more information, please visit: www.mandeweek.co.uk +44 (0)20 8947 917 enquiries@mandeweek.co.uk

Making Partial Discharge Data Analysis easy and accurate

CORETECH by FCLabs F

CLabs are a wearable neurotech company. Our first product, CORETECH, is an AI-powered B2B SaaS platform that gives employers and individuals the power to measure and manage brain fitness for the first time; to unlock better safety, health and wellbeing, performance and productivity.

Brain fitness is the state of brain health and mental well-being that makes us ‘fit’ for the demands of life and work.

Factors like lack of sleep, stress & anxiety, mental & physical fatigue, heat & cold, nutrition & hydration, illness all have an impact. In the workplace, lower brain fitness means mistakes are made, accidents happen, productivity and quality decline, costs increase, people get ill or burnout.

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Brain fitness fluctuates all the time for all sorts of reasons, but is an invisible problem.

CORETECH makes the invisible visible, allowing employers and individuals to proactively manage and mitigate the risks of fluctuating brain fitness and the human, environmental and work-related factors causing them.

CORETECH can use data from both wrist-worn devices such as Fitbits and our own wearable neurotech device (attached to hard hats, bump caps and other headgear).

Commercial trials begin in January 2024.

A 5 person, 6 month trial is just £2,500.

Contact Mathew Norbury, 0131 507 0368 mat@fclabs.co.uk

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T

he Wireless Phase Reference (WPR) is the latest accessory to EA Technology’s UltraTEV® Plus² instrument for Partial Discharge (PD) detection.

The compact and robust WPR unit makes PD data analysis easier and more accurate by helping to ensure a high-quality phase lock.

A high quality phase lock is essential to be able to differentiate between PD and noise, as well as to enable discharges on different phases to be detected.

By connecting to the UltraTEV Plus² via Wi-Fi, the WPR offers a reliable and versatile method for providing a phase lock to match the frequency of the test instrument to the 50 or 60Hz frequency of the HV network.

This allows PD events to be plotted on a phase resolved partial discharge (PRPD) display, to allow patterns to be interpreted on the first attempt at surveying, ensuring effective time management of staff.

EA Technology has put customers at the

forefront of its latest design, considering feedback that the most common methods of generating phase locks were often unreliable and inconsistent, sometimes due to substation layout or to accidental user error.

The advantage of the WPR accessory is that as a separate unit from the handheld instrument, it is unaffected by the actions of the user.

For more information, click here For more information, please visit: www.eatechnology.com

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Electric Track Systems

Innovative horizontal and vertical Monorail System Q

uirepace are the UK agents for the innovative products from Telelift Logistic GmbH. The long-established Unicar product, which has been developed over the last 30+ years, has more recently been supplemented by the heavier duty Multicar system which, with its higher payload, is finding applications in industrial markets.

The monorail track products from Telelift offer unique solutions that are not directly available from any other conveyor system. The ability to travel between floors or across working spaces at high level, means that the whole of the space within a building is available for the intralogistics system, maximising the flexibility of the space and minimising the interference with other processes.

Unicar and Multicar are network monorail track systems with autonomous trolleys or cars which can move anywhere on the track network. The track can be installed horizontally, vertically and at any gradient.

The original Unicar system’s traditional markets are Healthcare and Libraries with payloads up to 15kg.

Multicar operates in a similar manner, with the same control software, but in a heavier duty configuration.

Multicar trolleys can carry payloads up to 45kg, making the system much more suitable for industrial processes for e.g. parts delivery to production lines, collection of output from injection moulders and small-pressings, and as part of the production line itself.

Multicar can be equipped with highly customised load handling devices for many different sizes, shapes and weights of payload. In automotive applications, Multicar delivers bumper assemblies and door panels to the production line.

The Unicar and Multicar tracks carry both data and power on a busbar system. The trolleys are friction driven on

horizontal track sections, making them extremely safe in operation, and convert to rack and pinion on climbs.

The ability to transport payloads both horizontally and vertically without any requirement to transfer the payload to a separate lifting mechanism delivers an innovative and extremely flexible intralogistics solution.

Both Unicar and Multicar can be routed at high level and within service areas where the track can be kept well away from production floors and other logistics systems, only dropping to load/unload areas in the immediate vicinity of the process to be served.

Both Unicar and Multicar transactions can be initiated either through HMI (touchscreen terminals) or integrated with SCADA and WMS for automated control. Interface with other automated systems, such as automated load/ unload stations is easily delivered through local PLC interfaces. The trolleys themselves also present both power and digital I/O for sophisticated load handling systems if required.

The standard touchscreen terminal offers the operator complete information on the activity of the station; it shows approaching trolleys, trollies in the station and those departing. The operation has the facilities to record the contents of the payload and also offers the ability for secure transport if required.

A feature of both Unicar and Multicar is the ability to keep the payload perfectly horizontal during transportation, no matter whether the trolley is moving horizontally or vertically. This can be achieved either using a gravity pendulum system or a dynamic powered solution.

way tracks supplemented by switches, the layouts are configured for maximum efficiency.

Both Unicar and Multicar are completely modular systems that may be extended at any time simply by adding switches and additional tracks. Not only that, but the performance is scalable by adding additional cars and trolleys to the network, so whatever the anticipated growth might be, it can be accommodated by the Telelift installation.

In many installations, custom load handling devices are required. Telelift have a wide range of standard components such as powered roll-on roll-off conveyors, but are also able to construct customised load handling devices for particular applications.

Inevitably in many buildings the track will be required to cross fire compartmentation. The Telelift system includes a range of fire doors and gates which can be mounted on both walls and floors in order to maintain the appropriate fire resistance. A sophisticated UPS system ensures that even in the event of total power failure, the trolley can be powered clear of a fire door to allow it to close correctly.

The fire doors are connected to the building fire alarm system and incorporate the appropriate time delays to ensure that all trollies are clear before the doors close.

All fire doors are ‘failsafe’ with both controlled closure and back-stop fusible links.

Both Unicar and Multicar are well established solutions and are available in the UK through Quirepace. Contact us today and find out more about these innovative and flexible systems.

Contact 023 9260 3700 sales@quirepace.co.uk www.quirepace.co.uk

Like any transport system, the track network is configured to deliver the traffic handling requirement of the customer. Many cars or trolleys can be active on the network simultaneously, with one and two

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Oil, Gas & Offshore

Cutting-edge technologies for the marine environment and sustainable measuring strategies for the ocean electrical engineers and software specialists, this medium-sized company is committed to next-generational R&D, bespoke project consultation, rigorous testing of protypes and first-class manufacturing.

Under the expert guidance of Stefan Marx, the company is divided into two specialised sections: ■ Ocean Power Products ■ Ocean Monitoring Equipment

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ward-winning SubCtech (Subsea Technologies for the Marine Environment) is a leading manufacturer of underwater technologies, subsea solutions and ocean monitoring systems.

Working collaboratively with distinguished customers across science, offshore gas and oil and industry, the company produces premium Li-Ion batteries as leading primary products: namely pCO2 analysers and system solutions as leading primary products.

Established in 2010 by Applied Physicist: Stefan Marx (CEO), the maritime powerhouse is based in Kiel, Northern Germany. With a diverse team of expert mechanical and

The Ocean Power Products are supplied primarily to customers in offshore oil & gas companies, monitoring stations/moorings, subsea applications and autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), remotely operated vehicle (ROV) manufacturers. The Li-Ion battery systems (PowerPacks) range from standard, subsea, vehicle, customised batteries, chargers to battery-management systems (BMS.) The advanced-precision titanium housing is fully customised and can be used for depths up to 6,000m.

The subsea batteries, for example allow high-performance for a design life of 25 years, with the electronic and Li-Ion cells meeting meticulous, optimised safety standards. The rechargeable Li-Ion batteries provide robust subsea Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

and are perfect for marine and offshore technology applications, offering next-level capacity.

The PowerPacks™ automatically protect itself e.g. at low voltage, to prevent damage, leaving operators assured of safety at all times, with the capacity to disconnect in the event of overcurrent or external short circuit. The advantage of Li-Ion batteries over Alkali primary batteries, is the high current operationality features, ability to function at subzero temperatures and during high currents/ peaks. Furthermore, the corrosion-free titanium housing can be used up to depths of 6,000m. The batteries are used for industrial applications and are tested in accordance to API17F, MIL-STD, DIN-EN and DNV – according to the application.

The Ocean Monitoring Equipment are supplied to scientifical institutes, scientists on vessels and sailors. The monitoring equipment covers surface, subsea greenhouse gas monitoring and micro-plastic samplers. The Autonomous Underway Measurement System (AUMS) is designed for pCO2 monitoring on ships (‘Ships of Opportunity’) and can be further expanded by various sensors: Meteo Top-Box for Sea-Air Exchange flux measurements and any 3rd party instrument.

The latest Microplastic Sampler for example, offers autonomous monitoring on on any

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delighted by its design functionality and manufacturing high standards.

type of sea vessel and can detect even the smallest presence of microplastics in the water, down to particles per m³. The nextlevel robust, waterproof design provides accurate sampling, even on high-speed boats travelling at 30kn.

With a growing, international presence in the maritime industry, we spoke to founder and CEO: Stefan Marx to find out more about this burgeoning company, “We are in a good position in our industry, enjoying rapidly increasing production capacity, due to explosive market demandespecially across our Ocean Power Product line. We regularly supply to customers across the globe: Europe (including UK/Ireland and Scandinavia), Asia, Australia and the US, in fact any country that has a demand for underwater technologies. With our UN T38.3 certified batteries, we can transport our Li-Ion batteries safely by airline cargo to anywhere in the world.

Our batteries undergo rigorous heat, shock and vibration testing, to reach the UN T38.3, MIL-STD, DNV or API17F standards of compliance and other on request.

We have established a professional sales partner network around the world to have local partners in every region of the world, providing a streamlined service.

Due to this exponential growth, we have nearly doubled our members of staff to 76 and are looking in the future to triple our company facility from 1,200 sqm to 4,000 sqm.

We are highly conscientious about our environmental impact as a company and use LED lighting across all our facilities, encourage staff to use public transport and recycle all components including

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the batteries, contributing to the circular economy.

Our cutting-edge Microplastic Sampler is helping tackle the devastating impact of microplastic pollutants in the ocean, with marine animals and later people sadly digesting them. Microplastics have now been detected in plankton, whales, commercial seafood and even in drinking water. The sampler is allowing worldrenowned scientists to monitor the situation effectively across the world’s oceans.

Our latest innovation is already making waves across the industry: the Subsea 1MWh Energy Storage System (ESS). It has been a labour of love over the past two years and is now in the final testing stage: System Integration Test (SIT) before delivery to our customers in the maritime industry with the Technology Readiness Level 5 (TRL 5). The ESS is the first of its kind anywhere in the world and we are

We have been keeping a construction diary on our website, sharing all the milestones towards the final testing stage. Our hardworking team has completed all active manufacturing measures on the ESS and it is heading towards its final Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) imminently. The Power Skid (PS) with adjoining power distribution unit has been completed in tandem and is simultaneously undergoing an extensive, long-term environmental full-load test in our customised 18,000 L capacity water tank, for the duration of three weeks. As we approach the final stage: the final, fully approved system with a total of 2MWh will be carefully delivered to our first customer. The final aspect will be to use offshore Support Vessels to prepare the seabed, to fully integrate the system, making it ready for its first operations.

We are really excited about the release of our latest innovation: The Subsea 1MWh Energy Storage System (ESS) and looking to the future, we will become the market leader in our industry: across subsea and ocean power solutions and ocean monitoring systems globally.

We are seeking strategic partners going forward and are always looking to network further across the entire international oceanology sector.”

SubCtech will be exhibiting at Oceanology International: 12th-14th March 2024, ExCeL, London & at Offshore Northern Seas: 26th-29th August 2024, Stavanger.

For the latest, exclusive information on The Subsea 1MWh Energy Storage System (ESS) and more about SubCtech, please see the website below: +49 (0)431 220 39880 info@subctech.com www.subctech.com

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