Welcome to our final issue of 2024! This year, we’ve had the privilege of spotlighting some of the most ground-breaking and innovative products and services to emerge in the UK’s industrial and process markets over the past 12 months.
On pages 4-5, we revisit Meritics Ltd, our July Particle Characterisation and Material Analysis Company of the Year, now named our End of Year Recommended Company. Discover their innovative BeScan formulation stability analyser by Bettersize, and insights from Managing Director Steven Miller on their plans for 2025.
On pages 6-7, we feature Titan Manufacturing as our End of Year Recommended Manufacturing Company of the Month. A leader in precision engineering, Titan offers comprehensive solutions from CNC machining to laser cutting. Learn about their new £1.8m production workshop and its impact on boosting productivity.
On page 14, we feature GCE Industrial as our Cutting and Welding Manufacturing Company of the Month. We take a look at their new Automated Hydrogen Oxyfuel Cutting Solution (Fit+Green), marked as the first hydrogen torch system on the market, offering a complete decarbonisation of the cutting process. We also share some technical advancements including Enhanced Propane Nozzles for BGR Cutters.
We look forward to 2025 and what the new year brings to the industry.
Have a great Christmas and Happy New Year.
Don’t forget to send us your latest Industrial news and updates and email us at: info@industrialprocessnews.co.uk
Cover Story
Union Industries
The UK’s leading manufacturer of bespoke industrial doors, has assisted Deep Sea Electronics with improving access and traffic flow through the installation of its high-speed Matadoor.
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In this issue of Industrial Process News, we are pleased to feature Meritics Ltd as our Particle Characterisation and Material Analysis Company of the Year.
Formed in 2003 by Brian and Sandra Miller, originally Meritics Ltd was set up to solely distribute Beckman Coulter products, however, the company soon added complement analysers from other manufactures to create a one-stop shop for particle characterisation.
Today, Meritics Ltd represents a number of world leading manufacturers of particle characterisation instrumentation and is ideally placed to offer an independent view of the most suitable techniques to solve particle characterisation needs.
“Meritics supplies a broad range of industries with particle characterisation instrumentation along with assistance with method development, proof of concept and SOP implementation which is often required. These analysers are also regularly maintained and serviced by our factory-trained engineers. Meritics also has a comprehensive in-house contract sample analysis laboratory and
instrument hire facilities,” stated Steven Miller, Managing Director.
One key area of growth this year for Meritics was the increase in the use of sustainable energy sources. “Our analysers are involved in areas like the design of composite materials in renewable energy technology such as blades for wind turbines, as well as high strength and temperature resistance needed in direct metal printed parts. We have also introduced a very interesting formulation stability analyser called the BeScan Lab by Bettersize. This is easy to use, small and low cost,” said Steven.
BeScan Lab is the new benchmark in stability analysis, designed to analyse the stability of suspensions and emulsion in real-time. Using Static Multiple Light Scattering Technology (SMLS), it is predestined to detect stabilisation processes such as framing, agglomeration, sedimentation and coalescence at the earlier stages.
Some key benefits include: True Stability Measurement, Characterisation of the original
sample, Identification and Quantification of Destabilisation Mechanisms, and Fast Detection of Destabilisation.
How does it work?
A probe head which is equipped with a laser light source and two detectors (0° and 135°) moves vertically over the measuring cell, which is filled with the sample. During the movement, a transmission signal (0° – for transparent, diluted samples) and backscatter signal (135° – for concentrated opaque samples) are recorded continuously every 20µm over the entire sample height. Both signals are related to particle size and concentration and its change over time indicates destabilisation of the sample. Following each scan, an instability index (IUS) can be computed. Short-term or longterm stability can then be assessed based on the trend of IUS. In addition, the mean particle size can be determined by analysing the transmission, backscattering or particle migration rate.
BeScan Lab is ideally used in applications for Cosmetics, Food, Paint & Ink, Oil & Petroleum, Pharmaceuticals, and many others.
Steven Miller, Managing Director recieves the Particle Characterisation & Material Analysis Company of the Year Award
innovation for Meritics Ltd
Meritics offers more than your average distributor, with servicing, training, instrument hire, method development, and contract sample analysis all being part of its exceptional level of customer service. This is something Meritics massively prides itself on when it comes to continuing future investment into its aftersales support and services.
“This was a key value Meritics was founded upon and an area which we excel at. A satisfied customer often means repeat business! It also reflects our industry influence and uniqueness, as we have been approached by a number of instrument manufacturers to help establish their technology here in the UK.
Although we are not a large company, this is part of our strength. Focusing purely on particle size and not being drawn in as a general lab supplier means we know our customers very well. All of our staff can talk about our customers, applications, key personnel and any issues that may have occurred without having to refer to a CRM. This means when they contact us, we have a genuine friendly interaction with them.
In 2024, our relationships with key clients have continued to evolve and grow as we navigate a period of product obsolescence. To support this transition, we have worked closely with customers investing in new analysers, ensuring seamless integration and the preservation of critical data continuity. This collaborative approach has been a cornerstone of our efforts, maintaining the reliability and accessibility of vital data points throughout this transformative phase,” said Steve.
Happy SAMS
Very professional. Punctual. Easy to liaise with and great customer service. Always very helpful and prompt in replying.
Additive Manufacturing (AM) – better known as the 3D printing market, is becoming increasingly more popular. For this sector, Meritics produces a wide range of components that result in a more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective outcome. “This is a fascinating area of which I have a personal interest. We have a number of systems that suit this industry very well, and it’s always an intriguing experience to go on-site to demonstrate how they are being used,” added Steve.
Lovely company to work with.
Thank you!
In order to achieve success for particle characterisation in AM, it is essential to accurately characterise raw materials, such as metal powders and polymer powders. The Bettersizer S3 Plus offers the correct characterisation solutions. The Bettersizer S3 Plus particle size and shape analyser combines laser diffraction and dynamic image analysis in one instrument. It can measure the size and shape of particles from 0.01µm to 3,500µm. Its exceptional sensitivity for either ultrafine particles or oversized particles, and unsurpassed resolution, makes it the most powerful size and shape analyser for enthusiastic researchers who conduct top scientific research. As well as for 3D Printing, this product is also ideal for applications involving Soy Milk, Advanced Ceramic Products, Ceramic Agglomerates, Lithium-Ion Batteries, Powder Coatings, Soils and Sediments, Abrasives, and Differing Abrasives.
Particle size is a critical factor in battery technology, profoundly influencing performance, efficiency, lifespan, and safety. In 2024, Meritics deepened its engagement in this sector, highlighting the pivotal role of particle size in advancing energy storage solutions and driving innovation in electric vehicles. As well as continuing this into 2025, we asked Steve what were the most important lessons learned in 2024, and how have these insights shaped the company’s planning for the future.
“While growth is significant in chasing shortterm goals, we keep a firm eye on where we are right now. As we believe that by maintaining what you have, will often pay you back in the long-term.”
As Meritics plans for the future and for what 2025 may bring, we asked Steve what trends or innovations does he expect to see.
“I can see AI helping in some ways, but possibly hindering in others! As an oldschool scientist, its essential you know how to evaluate and interpret results before you leave the job to AI. My fear is AI will be marketed as a time saver when, in reality, it may spoil production batches and cause more headaches than it solves if users rely on it too much. However, I am impressed with the ability to make (3D print) some component parts and believe this will make our customer service and repair rate even better than it has been. As a side note, this year, we have also welcomed two new employees: James Gregg (service) and Darren Bunker (sales support) to the team. With these new additions, we will continue to seek out new and innovate products whilst growing our customer relationships into long term collaborations.”
For more information, please see below: 01582 704807
info@meritics.com
https://www.meritics.com
NaomiT-64
Titan Manufacturing: Made better
In this issue of Industrial Process News, we are delighted to showcase Titan Manufacturing as our End of Year Recommended Manufacturing Company of the Month
Titan Manufacturing is a one-stop subcontract production workshop: specialising in sheet metal fabrication and welding, CNC machining, laser cutting and surface finishing. This versatile range of services enables the company to offer a fullservice package, including parts assembly services. With highly skilled machinists, coded welders and time served fabricators, Titan offers a leading range of precision engineering solutions across multiple diverse sectors.
Deep roots, strong growth
Established in 2011 by Managing Director, Jon Higson, with an initial team of just five, the company soon grew and by 2013, had moved to larger premises at Granby Industrial Estate in Weymouth, Dorset.
The units were then owned by Jon’s father, who had run his manufacturing business, ‘Park Engineering,’ there for many years. Park Engineering was sold in 2008, and then closed under the new operators in 2013. However, most of the staff were taken on by Titan when they moved in, so there is a hugely experienced core cohort among Titan’s now 50+ strong team.
Today, the head office and main site remain at Granby Industrial Estate. In the summer of 2024, the company expanded to a second location nearby, also on the Granby Industrial Estate in Weymouth.
New workshop in 2024
Titan’s new £1.8m purpose-built production workshop, opened by former South Dorset MP Richard Drax in June 2024 – is equipped with 4m x2m bed fibre laser for precision cutting, a 250-tonne press, industrial spraying and finishing facilities, and a wrapping and dispatch centre. Alongside all this, following a £500,000 investment, the new workshop also contains an additional four new CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining
centres and one driven tool CNC lathe from Hurco, to help production capabilities and allow Titan to meet the growing demand for its industry-leading services.
Across both its sites, Titan now has a total of 30,000sq.ft of factory premises, housing all of the company’s fabrication, milling, laser cutting and press brake machines. With this expansion, Titan has taken on new staff to support increased capacity. Titan was described as ‘a fantastic Dorset success story’ by Richard Drax, “Providing first class products and services, skilled jobs and training and development opportunities for local people.”
Mr Drax added, “They are a real asset to the local business community – with a far reaching and extensive client base.”
Investment and expanded capacity
The four Hurco VM30i machining centres offer increased machining capacity – up to 1,270mm in X, within a compact footprint and ideal for multi-vice set-ups. The Hurco TMX10MYi driven tool turning centre meanwhile, has the in-built capacity to produce high-quality turned parts requiring milled or drilled features which can be completed without the need for additional operations.
These five new machines are pinpoint accurate, fast and easily programmable, with each feature offering
Ryan Hanger, Director, Titan Manufacturing
measurable benefits, including increasing productivity and the greater speed from print to part.
Explains Jon, “They will improve productivity markedly, allowing Titan to fulfil client orders at greater pace. Our skilled machinists are now fully trained on the new technology, which enables even complex components to be programmed directly into the machine, using simple conversational commands, removing the need for separate CAD/CAM systems and offline programming.”
“With so much recent investment, this is an incredibly exciting time for our business as we invest and grow, building our future, and ensuring our reputation for quality and customer service is maintained, as demand for what we offer continues to rise.”
A growing customer base
Titan provides manufacturing solutions for customers across a range of sectors, predominantly the food industry – making food processing equipment and production line components, for example for the crisps and snack sector, working with household name brands and their suppliers. Alongside its long history of fulfilling MOD contracts, Titan also works with businesses across the specialised agriculture, automotive, and medical sectors.
“Our company motto is ‘Made better,’” explains Jon. “We are highly experienced in creating innovative and cost-effective solutions for the most challenging environments. If you have the designs, we can make it.”
“We can even offer support with design, reverse engineering products or producing prototypes and concept pieces, for example. Titan also provides assembly services on request, using not only components we’ve engineered, but those brought by the client from external providers too.”
“It is that breadth of competencies and that level of flexibility which sets us apart I believe.”
What makes Titan great?
Adds Jon, “Titan’s USP is our end-to-end provision – our wide range of capabilities and depth of expertise allow us to take control of a series of stages and processes under one roof, while other companies in this space may only specialise in one. We don’t just do welding – we don’t just do spraying – what is unique about us is the number of processes we control.”
“When a client comes to us with a product, we can offer them the whole manufacturing process from end-to-end and deliver it complete – all under one roof, with just one team to deal with, one time frame, one invoice to manage,” explains Jon.
Titan has a wealth of experience on which to draw: the team of welders for example, has a combined 100+ years of experience, with two having more than two decades of experience apiece. Skilled welders are essential for food technology work, adds Jon, “For any piece of equipment used in food production, a clean precision weld is absolutely requisite each time. This is because any pinhole flaws in joins can provide a refuge where bacteria can build-up.”
Developing a Skilled Team Titan employees are well looked after and are offered tailored training and development progression routes, as newly appointed Company Director Ryan Hanger can attest.
Ryan started out as a fresh-faced 22-year-old trainee on the shop floor a decade ago, progressing to laser operating and then became Laser Manager before taking on full responsibility for the running of the workshop, where he implemented changes that saw an impressive 15% increase in production output. After becoming Business Manager this summer, focusing on driving efficiency and cost-effectiveness through structural improvements within the company, Ryan was promoted to Company Director in October.
“I am keen to put all I’ve learned to good use, drawing on my own experiences to help others in the Titan team to grow and develop in their careers,” explains Ryan.
“At Titan, we want to make sure we are sharing and passing on key skills, and through that safeguarding the future of not only our company, but also of the wider manufacturing sector.”
Titan has two apprentices currently, and an ongoing partnership with Weymouth College, providing all important real work learning opportunities for students undertaking relevant qualifications.
“We want young people to see that a career in manufacturing is an exciting prospect, with opportunities to build
Jon Higson, Managing Director, Titan Manufacturing
skills, develop yourself personally and professionally, and create a successful and fulfilling long-term career,” says Ryan.
“As my own career trajectory demonstrates, Titan believes in nurturing talent, creating opportunities, and developing skills for the good of our team and clients, and the future of our sector.”
Future plans
This is an incredibly exciting time for Titan. Following a period of rapid growth and expansion, they are set to continue to push ahead with plans to further grow the business, with an ambition of doubling turnover within two years.
To support this goal, Titan is working towards NADCAP: the National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program, for the industrial spraying facility – which will mean Titan will be qualified to do MOD spraying work.
As part of a growing customer base in this sector, Titan attended the biennial Defence industry exhibition, DVD, in September, taking a stand at the event to showcasing the company’s capabilities with those responsible for defence sector procurement. In the same month, the Titan team also held a stand at PPMA, the largest food processing and packaging machinery exhibition in the UK.
“These expos are a fantastic way for us to showcase who we are and what we can offer to those at the heart of the defence and food and beverage industries,” says Jon. “These two sectors both demand the most exacting standards and flawless execution and finish. Our capabilities and deep understanding of what they need make us ideal partners, as we continue our focus on expanding our business in these areas.”
Giving back
In addition to providing world-class manufacturing from its state-of-the-art new facility, Titan is dedicated to helping bring about lasting change in peoples’ lives in the local community.
This is evident by an imminent launch of a new local charity partnership with The Lantern Trust – an organisation which supports vulnerable and marginalised people in the Weymouth and Portland area. Their remit includes assisting people dealing with mental health problems, offending behaviour, addiction and homelessness.
“While are an ambitious company, with plans for further national and international growth – we remain true to our roots in Dorset and are proud to be a big part of this community. The strong base and skilled team we have developed here in Weymouth give us the firm foundations for all we want to achieve for ourselves, and all we will deliver for our clients.”
For more information on Titan Manufacturing, please see the website below: https://titanmanufacturing.co.uk
The best-kept secret in the cable industry: Ultrascreen™
The demand for highvoltage cables to distribute electricity is high and growing fast. Supply is outstripped and new factories are being built all over the world. Look at the audacious Morocco project to link sunny and windy Morocco with the UK. And see ‘The surprising key to a clean energy future’ in Bill Gates’ blog.
High voltage is necessary to minimise the energy loss in transmission. It means that the insulation in the cables, whether under the sea or over land must be flawless. Especially for submarine cables repairing defects or damage on a cable is very expensive. So you would think that online quality checking in manufacture would be vital and commonplace. Yes and no. Yes it is vital, no it is not commonplace. In fact there is only one system that can examine HV cable insulation as it is being made, and that is Acuity’s ultrasonic Ultrascreen. An offline system for manual inspection of cable joints, Ultraprofilor, uses the same technology to 3-D visualise joints in even more detail.
Our technology is in factories of several global cable-makers. All our clients jealously guard the knowledge of the presence of our technology – hence the title of this
piece. We have enabled recovery of cable worth millions by identifying defective lengths to cut out of reels that would otherwise have been scrapped.
Cable buyers have therefore not been aware of the benefits of having cable scanned in detail prior to shipment, although this is now beginning to change.
The professional bodies in the industry are showing interest in
High voltage is necessary to minimise the energy loss in transmission. It means that the insulation in the cables, whether under the sea or over land must be flawless
using our data, potentially for certification.
As the cable market expands so must we, to learn more about our products and about collaboration, please get in touch at: info@acuityproducts.co.uk.
For further information, please visit: www.acuityultrasonics.com
FBDi association
German Component Distribution sees upturn in 2025 and requests investment initiative for the all-electric-society
Theconsolidation of sales in the German component distribution market continues. The third quarter of 2024 also fell short of expectations. With a drop of almost 43%, the turnover of the FBDi reporting members decreased to 779 million euros. Bookings also remained moderate, reinforcing the view that a turnaround is still some way off. The book-to-bill ratio rose slightly to 0.77.
construction cranes, lifting platforms, high-bay warehouses or presses.
The FBDi and its chairman Georg Steinberger are cautious about the prospects for 2025, “We are not yet seeing a turnaround in incoming orders, so a return to growth before mid-2025 is rather unlikely. What is needed is the right impetus from the most important
application markets in the direction of future-proof innovations. As ZVEI President Dr Gunter Kegel repeatedly emphasises, striving for an all-electric society is a matter of reason and future competitiveness. Politicians and business need to finally agree on this and set the right course. Our influence as a distribution industry is limited, but when it comes to innovations in electronics, we can bring all kinds of expertise to the table, from energy technology to artificial intelligence.”
https://www.fbdi.de
Whether mechanical engineering or intralogistics – wherever reliable standstill, speed, direction and position monitoring is required, the compact safety controller from Wieland Electric with up to 70kHz motion inputs on the base module is suitable. The integrated motion function modules include safe standstill monitoring (SSM), which can be implemented with both a speed window and a position window. The limits of the position window or hysteresis can be defined very easily using intuitive configuration options, allowing vertical and slowmoving axes to be monitored reliably and continuously, for example in
Switching application guide for T&M engineers building data acquisition systems
Leading manufacturer of high performance reed relays, Pickering Electronics has released the latest in its series of educational application guides for engineers building test & measurement (T&M) systems, titled: How Data Acquisition Benefits from Reed Relays. This subject matter expertauthored comprehensive application guide explains why reed relays are the ideal switching technology for most data acquisition (DAQ) applications.
In DAQ applications, measurements need to be taken from a diverse range of transducer and sensor types – including temperature, pressure, movement, sound and proximity. Many produce an electrical signal in response to a condition; for example, a photovoltaic (PV) cell reacting to light or a Hall effect sensor reacting to the presence of a magnetic field. In other cases, a fundamental property or characteristic of the sensor changes relative to its environment, as is the case with a resistance temperature detector (RTD) or a dielectric sensor used to measure moisture content.
The outputs or properties of the transducers are then conditioned into signals for feeding into data logging instrumentation (data loggers), or to act as inputs into closed loop control circuitry. In many cases, multiple sensors or transducers are employed; for example, several RTDs might be used to measure temperature in different locations.
Download your free guide today to unlock Pickering's expert insights and recommendations on selecting the right relay technologies for your specific needs – and discover why reed relays are the ideal solution for connecting signal conditioning circuitry to sensors.
Contact www.pickeringrelay.com
Increasing performance with premium motor technology
For applications where compact DC motors are mission critical, engineers specify designs for their precision and durability. But even when the stakes aren’t as high, premium motor technology can increase application performance and prove more cost-effective, as Tamas Hertelendi, maxon UK & Ireland’s engineering lead for Southern England, explains.
When you’re sending a space rover over 40 million miles to Mars to search for previous signs of life, you don’t look to make cost savings by procuring low cost motor technology. That’s why NASA’s engineers installed high performance, ultra-reliable, maxon DC motors in their Perseverance rover (currently exploring the red planet), as well as in the ground-breaking Ingenuity drone, the first to fly on another planet.
Not every organisation, however, has NASA’s budget. But then again, the relative cost of a premium DC motor isn’t beyond the financial power of most OEMs or end users who rely on them. Instead, the decision usually comes down to short-term procurement cost compared to the value that can be achieved long term.
Reducing size and weight
Compact DC motors must typically fit within a particular space envelope, and this is an area where innovation in motor design has a distinct advantage. Leading technology, such as coreless rotors and optimised windings, as well as multi-pole configurations, assists in generating a high level of torque relative to motor size. As a result, a much smaller motor can be used or, alternatively, more torque can be generated for the same space envelope.
For applications such as aerospace, ROVs (remote operated vehicles), and AMRs (autonomous mobile robots), weight savings are also critical. Lower mass can increase application dynamics, while reduced weight could enable a higher payload, or installation of additional battery power.
maxon recently received an ROV application design that included four drive motors, based on large, 42mm diameter designs, reaching nearly 200mm in length. The motors we specified were just a third of the size – and still outperformed the original ones in terms of torque generation. In addition, we also integrated maxon’s compact miniMACS6 programmable multi-axis controller.
Combined, this enabled the customer to double the battery size and dramatically increase the range of their vehicle.
Technology such as a coreless design, optimised windings, and more powerful magnets, also contribute to higher efficiency, another advantage particularly important for designers of battery-powered devices.
Enhanced reliability
A recent project involving a humanoid robot head required over 25 motors to control features such as the eyes, nose and mouth. Within such a space-constrained footprint, and with so many motors operating together, it was imperative to rely on designs that would run at a relatively low temperature. This principle applies not just to thermal management but covers all aspects of motor design that impact reliability, whether that be the bearings, electrical integrity, or sealing from ingress.
For applications where motor operation is critical, like drone flight or implanted medical devices, the need to ensure reliability is clear: motors used in these applications require product compliance, such as SN EN ISO 13485 for medical devices, EN 9100 for aerospace, and DO-160-G for aviation.
However, if motors are not mission critical, should engineers use inexpensive commodity motors? Depending on the application, opting for a durable motor that lasts ten times longer than a low cost design could help balance the long-term replacement costs. The expense of downtime resulting from a failed motor could also be significantly higher than the price of the motor itself.
Optimising performance
Premium compact motors are also often characterised by the precision and dynamism they can achieve.
For applications that rely on high performance, many engineers will already specify appropriate motor technology.
While precision is critical for applications such as surgical robotics, and dynamism is vital for systems like high performance automotive brake control, designers from widespread sectors can enhance their applications by optimising the specification of the complete drive system.
To achieve precision, technology such as a coreless motor design that removes cogging torque is typically involved, along with the right gear head, encoder, and precise motor controls. Meanwhile, to optimise dynamism and enable rapid changes in torque, speed, and position, a low inertia approach combined with responsive control is crucial.
Expertise in specification and support Whether the requirement of the drive system is to optimise performance, reliability, design integration –or elements of various criteria – engineering expertise in support can be key. The potential to discuss design needs with a drive system engineer helps ensure the right specification is achieved, and advice can enhance the design to improve the overall application.
Customisation of the motor or gear might also be advisable to achieve specific characteristics or meet certain environmental conditions. Even for urgent demands, customisation of production-based designs can be quickly achieved – in fact, around 80% of maxon’s projects usually involve some level of customisation.
An engineering partnership
Many OEMs, and end users, require components that will last a long time, and that can be recycled or safely managed at end of life. Ultimately, these demands are helping to enhance sustainable practices throughout the entire lifecycle of electric motors.
Engaging with a drive system specialist that has a holistic approach to quality, from product design through to service support, ultimately improves application reliability and performance.
www.maxongroup.com/en-gb
Controls, Drives & Automation
Custom design and fast delivery of IM B5 squirrel cage compressor package motor with support foot
Menzel pitch up with yet another quick delivery to UK.
When a customer on the Wirral suffered a failure of a critical 600kW, 6,000V, 4pole compressor motor his immediate response was to ask the compressor packager for a replacement.
With a like for like OEM replacement not available in under 30 weeks and his only alternative to hire diesel driven plant at extremely high monthly rentals it was not looking good!
However, one call to Menzel Motors from his Service Partner and frowns turned to smiles as Menzel confirmed they had configured a similar set up for other seemingly captive customers before.
A review of current available stock, a drawing and images showing how the motor would be configured in 2-3 weeks and an order was placed.
Within fourteen days the motor was delivered to the UK site ready to be installed!
Menzel continue to be the go to brand in time of real need for quick replacement motors.
Performance data of the squirrel cage compressor motor:
■ Menzel motor type: MEBKGR400L-04
■ Motor standard: IEC/EN 60034-1
■ Nominal power: 600kW
■ Nominal voltage: 6,000V (6kV)
■ Nominal frequency: 50Hz
■ Number of poles: 4 poles
■ Nominal speed: 1,490min-1
■ Design: IM B5
■ Frame Size/Shaft height: 400mm
■ Degree of protection: IP 55
■ Cooling type: IC 411 TEFC Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled
■ Weight 4,200kg
+49 30 349 922-0 https://www.menzel-motors.com
Introducing Cscape 10 and Horner’s Canvas Series
Summary
The Horner Automation Group is pleased to announce the release of Cscape 10 software – a major new release of Horner’s FREE Windows-based Application Development software for their line of OCS All-in-one Controllers and PLCs. Horner All-in-one Controllers combine the functionality of a PLC with a built-in Operator Interface –and are available with a variety of screen size and built-in I/O options.
version in the late 1990s. Cscape 10 continues the legacy of innovative, powerful yet easy-to-use software that has continued to be provided completely FREE for more than 25 years.
Trio’s new Motion-PLC combines motion and logic to reduce cost and complexity of machine design
Trio Motion Technology has launched Motion-PLC, a new class of machine controller that combines motion, robotics, and logic. Motion-PLC provides Trio’s advanced motion control performance with the functionality and simplicity of a PLC to reduce the cost and complexity of machine design.
The new controller combines multiaxis motion control and IEC language programming with Trio’s new MS I/O system for flexible I/O expansion.
Motion-PLC is available in six models to control a range of stand-alone machines, from two to 16 axes, including robotics integration. The Motion-PLC range is for applications that need motion control and machine logic, such as gantries, packaging, and glue laying. To achieve a complete machine automation solution, control engineers can integrate Trio drives, motors, HMI, and SCARA robots, as well as Modbus TCP, PROFINET, and Ethernet/IP devices.
Motion-PLC includes Trio’s new MS I/O system, providing compact and robust I/O expansion through a slice interface. MS I/O slices connect directly to all Motion-PLC controllers, allowing up to 16 I/O slices that combine digital and analogue inputs and outputs. The MS I/O system can be extended further with Trio’s MSEC EtherCAT coupler, allowing additional I/O to be connected via EtherCAT.
For more information, please contact: +44 (0)1684 292333, email: salesteams@triomotion.com or visit: www.triomotion.com
Flexxbotics announced Transforming Laser Marking Operations with Collaborative Robotic Automation Event
Cscape is used by Automation Professionals to configure every aspect of their OCS controlled machine control applications. This includes logic development using Ladder Logic and other IEC61131 languages, screen development and user interface design, network communications and I/O configuration all-in-one software package.
Cscape is easy-to-use with a wide range of features
Cscape and OCS were the first to perform all these functions in a unified control platform using a single software development package in their initial
As a major new release, Cscape 10 features a redesigned user interface and among its dozens of improvements includes the newly developed Advanced Graphics Engine. This Advanced Graphics Engine supports several graphic building blocks for user interface design that have been reimagined from the ground-up. These include (but are not limited to) Trend, XY Graph and Scatter Graph objects, a Recipe object, Alarm objects and a Video playback object.
Cscape can be downloaded free from www.hornerautomation.eu. It has no costly licensing fees, so you don’t have to pay for software upgrades. With fully integrated hardware and software, OCS offers easier programming, installation, development, and set-up.
Flexxbotics, delivering digital solutions for robot-driven manufacturing at scale, announced the event, Transforming Laser Marking Operations with Collaborative Robotic Automation. This live demonstration, in-person event was sponsored by FOBA Laser Marking + Engraving, Universal Robots and Flexxbotics and was hosted at the MassRobotics facility in Boston, MA on Thursday 1st August from 8:30am–12pm EST.
Laser marking & engraving is critical for unique part identification (UID), compliance, and branding, however, capacity constraints and labor shortage issues can create serious throughput challenges.
To increase output and improve profit per part, forward thinking manufacturers are transforming their Laser Marking operations with Advanced Robotic Machine Tending. Utilising collaborative robots from Universal Robots with Flexxbotics digitalisation technology, companies running FOBA Laser Marking & Engraving systems can increase the machine-to-man ratio to 10:1 or more and run ‘lights out’ safely for additional capacity, precision quality, and improved profit margins.
The half day session included a live demonstration of a cobot-enabled FOBA and provided best practices, proven approaches to real-world applications, as well as, specific information for your initiative.
Sessions included:
■ Live Operational Demonstration of UR cobot-enabled FOBA Laser Marker enabled by Flexxbotics
■ Robotic Automation and Lean Manufacturing Applied to Laser Marking by Faycal Benayad, FOBA
■ Getting Started with Cobot Automation in Laser Marking Operations by Silas Neale, Universal Robots
■ Running Advanced Robotic Machine Tending with Laser Marking & Etching for Continuous Operations by Tyler Bouchard, Flexxbotics
www.flexxbotics.com
www.fobalaser.com
www.universal-robots.com
C.K Tools: Designed for professionals
C.K Tools is part of CKI: Carl Kammerling International, which has been at the forefront of hand tool manufacturing for over 100 years. Originally founded in Germany in 1904 by the Kammerling family, the business was relocated to North Wales in 1950 and grew from the general hardware tool supplier to the leading premium tool brand, as it’s known today.
The company’s headquarters are in Pwllheli, North Wales, with an existing European office in Wuppertal, Germany – where the business was originally founded. C.K Tools products are sold around the world and is still a familyowned and run business, now in its fourth generation.
“We’re proud of our leading German engineering standard and components incorporated into our product development to produce innovative tools which really transform working practices for our customers.”
“C.K Tools is at the forefront of hand tool manufacturing and as a business we’re passionate about producing
high quality, innovative hand tools that meet the most demanding needs of trade professionals.”
“We work hard to innovate and design products which have the leading performance, durability and strength our customers have come to expect from the brand, to deliver professional results. Our range of award-winning premium hand tools are suitable for professional, industrial and consumer use and are sold by MRO suppliers, retailers and wholesalers throughout the UK,” explained Brinley Buckley-Roberts, Head of Marketing at C.K Tools.
C.K Tools is the leading hand tool brand for electricians in the UK, but also caters for wider markets including industrial, electro-mechanical and engineering thanks to the broad range of tools designed, developed and manufactured for a variety of applications.
“Here at C.K Tools, we listen intently to what the industry is asking for to come up with: namely product solutions that tackle everyday issues for busy professionals. By working closely with a panel of professionals, we can develop innovative solutions and product evolutions to make repetitive tasks more efficient. Our NPD team will then consider the design, the multi-functionality, the durability, the ergonomics, and of course – the materials. There’s no product without a clear thought process behind it; each tool is methodically planned, CAD designed, prototyped and thoroughly tested to develop the industry-leading hand tools we pride ourselves on.”
One of the latest launches from C.K Tools is five new IPrated Work Light and Head Lights, designed to enhance visibility and safety for trade professionals. Visibility and safety go hand in hand in the workplace, so the importance of high-quality, versatile and robust lighting on a work area cannot be overestimated. The new lighting range combines the very best of LED technology in a robust and durable package. This ensures great lighting, when combined with one of our C.K German manufactured precision tools, is a recipe for safety, efficiency and reliability that’s unparalleled in the industry.
The new Folding Work Light (300lm) for example, has an ingenious 360° folding design and magnetic base. Protected with IK07 robust casing, this light can be deployed for the toughest of jobs. This versatile light has built-in long-lasting power, up to 8.5 hours and features a handy battery level indicator for monitoring.
The IP65-rated Compact Work Lights (1,000/2,000lm) are available in mini and maxi sizes and are dust and water repellent. The handy 180° folding design and magnetic base allow hands-free operation, with the 5,000mAh battery providing up to 7 hours of power. The industrialstrength IK07 casing once again gives protection even in extreme conditions.
“We continue to invest in our people and systems to ensure we offer both our domestic and global customer base the very best in products and service. From
maintaining our next day delivery promise on 98% of our range, to embracing digital technologies, which make it easier to do business, we are always putting our customer first. With a high market share in the electrical wholesale and retail market, we are now focusing more on the industrial and MRO sector where our innovative range and expertise helps to reduce maintenance costs through efficient working and tools with class leading whole-life cost benefits.”
The hand tool industry might seem traditional, but it’s continually evolving with exciting innovations and C.K Tools is looking forward to staying at the forefront of these trends to create well-researched, considered and durable tools to eliminate everyday challenges.
“Some of the trends in the industry are being incorporated into our ongoing product development, including tools which are better ergonomically designed, to reduce strain and fatigue – without compromising on durability. These are multi-functional tools which combine a number of purposes in one and the usage of stronger and more durable materials in line with scientific advancements are also exciting to see.”
“We have enjoyed exhibiting at a number of shows around the country and abroad, including Toolfair/ELEX, BEPEX and Southern Manufacturing & Electronics shows. We will be adding more industrial sector shows in 2025 and look forward to meeting customers both old and new.”
Find out more about C.K Tools product range and stockists here: https://www.ck-tools.com
GCE Industrial: Always at the Cutting Edge
We are delighted to welcome GCE Industrial as our Cutting and Welding Manufacturing Company of the Month
GCE Industrial, part of The GCE Group, which was acquired by ESAB in 2018, is a market leader in cutting and welding applications, including the oxy-fuel and hydrogen cutting sectors. With a focus on mitigating hazardous work environments, solutions from GCE Industrial comply with the BCGA Code of Practice, EN, and ISO standards, ensuring top-notch quality assurance and management.
The GCE Group is a global leader in gas control equipment manufacturing, specializing in cutting and welding technologies, valves, healthcare, homecare, and specialty gas systems. Renowned product lines include cylinder valves for oxy-fuel applications, as well as gas supply systems for medical applications. With customers in over 120 countries, the Group continues to expand its global reach. Established in 1987 after a successful merger of gas equipment companies, the Group now operates through three primary divisions: GCE Industrial, GCE Medical, and GCE Specialty.
The UK headquarters for GCE are located in Haydock, St Helens, Merseyside, with a renowned factory in Norfolk that includes a laboratory for innovative testing.
“We see ourselves as more than just gas control equipment manufacturers; we’re part of one of the world’s largest gas control companies. We offer quality assurance across our entire product range, along with bespoke training and support for our valued customers. We have an established network of 25 distributors across the UK, each providing expert training to customers, reinforcing our commitment to an enhanced customer experience. Our in-house technical and commercial support teams offer guidance and call-outs. We’ve also expanded our social media presence to include product highlights, demonstrations, industry insights, and all our product instruction manuals are now fully digital: simply scan the QR code for detailed instructions in multiple languages.”
Over the last two years, GCE Industrial has upgraded its product portfolio to include next-level advancements, such as the Pro-Series cylinder regulators, the X-series range with traditional X10 and X20 cutters, and the Safe-Guard 2 flashback arrestors. Our new addition, the SmartControl Cylinder Regulator for industrial gas applications, has become a preferred product for cutting and welding. Featuring precise internal gas regulation, this cylinder regulator ensures reliable gas supply and accurate pressure control every time. The model is available in multiple configurations and is compatible with cylinder valves, withstanding inlet pressures up to 230 Bar.
Hydrogen cutting is a rapidly growing area for GCE and offers numerous benefits to the industry, including reducing CO₂ emissions, producing smoother, more precise cuts (which eliminate the need for post-cut processing), reducing labor hours for surface finishing, improving efficiency, and streamlining quicker project turnarounds with high-speed cutting.
Our new Automated Hydrogen Oxyfuel Cutting Solution (Fit+Green) is the first hydrogen torch system on the market, offering full decarbonization of the cutting process. This cutting-edge system is fully automated, matching the speed of acetylene, and is an all-in-one package that includes gas control, distribution, safety, cutting torch, flame ignition, and height control. With a modular approach for high flexibility in configuration, it cuts close to both the edge and the kerf for superior nesting. The integrated backfire detection enhances safety and provides longevity for the torch.
“This system is designed with safety in mind and is built for efficiency,” explains John Keats, UK Sales Manager.
GCE Industrial has been ahead of the curve in hydrogen technology for cutting applications and is excited by the results. Hydrogen offers a greener alternative to carbon-based fuels like acetylene, propane, and natural gas. The torch system matches acetylene’s precise cutting performance, with added safety features and cost savings. Aside from a small amount generated during the steel cutting process, hydrogen does not produce additional carbon emissions and enables timely decarbonization of traditional mechanical cutting methods. Another exciting benefit is preheating and cutting speed: hydrogen preheats a 50mm plate within three seconds, whereas propane takes up to eleven seconds.
Furthermore, hydrogen heats a targeted point, reducing the risk of the metal plate overheating and improving piercing technique. Hydrogen cuts 10% faster than acetylene. In terms of cost savings, hydrogen is 30% cheaper than propane and 20% cheaper than acetylene, and operators only need standard safety glasses (instead of shaded glasses) due to reduced ultraviolet light exposure.
GCE Industrial stands out from UK wholesalers with its expertly engineered manufacturing. The state-of-the-art UK laboratory supports cutting-edge R&D innovation, maintaining its position as a market leader. As long-term members of the BCGA, GCE Industrial is supported and informed on all the latest safety codes, practices, guidance notes, and technical papers on industrial gases from this respected UK trade association.
BCGA is also a member of the European Industrial Gases Association (EIGA), enabling close collaboration with European and non-European producers and distributors across industrial, food, and medical gases.
To find out more, contact GCE Industrial below: 01942 292950 sales@gcegroup.com www.gcegroup.com GCE Industrial Gas Solutions @gce_industrial
Innovative Profile Bending & Sheet Metal Pressing Solutions
to address even the most complex and intricate metal profiling challenges.
Profile Bending and High-Quality Sheet Metal Pressing are crucial in industrial processes due to their ability to shape and fabricate metal components with precision, durability, and cost-effectiveness. The process involves shaping and forming metal sheets into desired forms using specialised machinery and a specific technique that enables industries to produce durable and precise components that meet stringent design and performance requirements.
Charles Day takes great pride in its range of expert profiling services, and consistently strives to exceed expectations by crafting innovative solutions tailored
Using its four decades of experience, Charles Day has a team of profile bending and pressing professionals that are committed to providing an exceptional product every time, and always goes above and beyond to provide unique and efficient solutions that save you both time and money, whether on full production runs or at the early prototyping stage.
Charles Day has its own in-house facilities for Profile Bending and Sheet Metal Pressing, and is able to meet a range of project and material requests. Having state-of-the-art press brake machines on site results in a fast turnaround, ensuring quality is always superior. Whether your material of choice is mild or stainless steel, aluminium, or something different, Charles Day is able to profile and press materials to the very highest quality.
Further to its in-house capabilities, Charles Day also has a dedicated CAD team and technology on-site. Using the latest software to support all clients at the early design stage, clients can rest assured their parts will be correct, accurate and delivered on time.
Another reason to choose Charles Day for your Profile Bending and Sheet Metal Pressing needs is because of its versatile capabilities. Having a range of machinery, complimented by extensive tooling libraries, allows for stress-free procurement, even on the most complex of
projects. Furthermore, Charles Day is capable of pressing parts up to 4,300mm across multiple press brakes, which when complimented by its fleet of laser cutting machines with up to 20kW of cutting power, provides the industry’s shortest lead time on projects of all sizes.
Charles Day has built a robust partner network for those more challenging projects and bends. Whether they be heavy-duty or complex, Charles Day work closely with their trusted partner suppliers to ensure the highest levels of quality and reliability on even the most demanding projects.
Profile Bending & Pressing Processes are used across numerous industries from construction and automotive to aerospace, shipbuilding, machinery manufacturing, and architectural applications. Charles Day will work with you to ensure you receive only the highest-quality service.
For more information, please see below: 0114 244 5544 sales@daysteel.co.uk www.daysteel.co.uk
Discover superior precision and versatility with Charles Day Water Bevel Cutting Services
Charles Day is one of the largest and most diverse specialist profile cutting companies in the UK. Experts in laser, flame, waterjet, and plasma, the company continues to invest in the latest cutting technology to ensure customers the best-quality profile cut parts.
If you work in architecture, industrial manufacturing, nuclear, aerospace, automotive or art and design industries, you’ll likely be aware of water bevel cutting, and its uses across many applications. However, if you’re unaware of how water bevel cutting works, this method essentially uses a highpressure water jet, mixed with an abrasive substance like garnet, to erode material along a specific path. The water jet can be angled to create bevel cuts up to 60 degrees, allowing for precise control over the angle and shape of the cut edge.
Harness the power of Charles Day’s Waterjet Bevel Cutting services!
Waterjet bevel cutting is an efficient and economical method that is ideal for large-scale production with tight lead times. Utilising advanced waterjet technology, the Waterjet Sweden Beveljet 60 is their latest investment. The 125hp pump delivers an impressive 6,200 bar of pressure, ensuring precise cuts across various material thicknesses with unparalleled accuracy. The innovative dual-head design allows for simultaneous 3D and 2D cutting, enhancing productivity and reducing production times.
This method allows precise, cold-cutting at angles up to 60 degrees on materials such as metals (including steel, aluminium, and titanium), ceramics, stone, composites,
glass, and plastics – avoiding heat-affected zones. Eliminating the need for grinding, water bevel cutting is incredibly versatile with capabilities of cutting various materials and thicknesses up to 270mm. Providing an accuracy of ±0.25mm, Charles Day’s advanced waterjet technology minuses the need for post-processing, offering you parts that are ready for immediate assembly. This method doesn’t just reduce the overall project time but it also acts as a cost-effective method as it eliminates any additional weld preparation or machining steps you may experience, resulting in long-lasting savings.
Precision is 100% guaranteed when using Charles Day’s Waterjet Bevel Cutting services because its automated systems ensure high precision with zero margins for error, resulting in consistent and accurate results every time. Water bevel cutting also offers other benefits such as no heat-affected zones, whereby unlike laser, flameor plasma cutting, it doesn’t produce heat, which can sometimes alter material properties.
Charles Day delivers projects quickly and efficiently, even those that are large-scale and complex. Recognising the growing importance of environmentally-conscious practices, water bevel cutting stands out as a highly sustainable solution. This method relies on water and natural abrasives, significantly minimising the generation of hazardous waste over time.
Take advantage of state-of-the-art facilities by partnering with Charles Day.
0114 244 5544
sales@daysteel.co.uk www.daysteel.co.uk
Oliver Valves expands Testing Capabilities with new in-house Hydco Cycle Rig
Oliver Valves has announced a significant investment in its R&D and testing capabilities with the introduction of a new in-house hydco cycle rig. This advanced system is designed to automatically test up to four ball valves simultaneously, enhancing the company’s ability to ensure product quality and reliability.
The new hydco cycle rig is equipped with pneumatic actuators that operate with precision, offering the capability to handle valves with torque up to 82.3Nm and withstand extreme temperatures ranging from
-40°C to +80°C. These features allow for comprehensive testing that closely replicates real-world conditions, ensuring that the valves can meet the demanding requirements of various global industries.
Enhancing valve testing precision
The system’s automated valve testing capabilities mark a significant improvement in the efficiency and accuracy of Oliver Valves’ testing processes. With the ability to test four valves at once, the rig reduces manual intervention while increasing throughput.
Norwegians rely on vacuum pumps from Atlas Copco for fish packaging
EPS boxes ensure an unbroken cold chain
Norway has a long tradition of catching and processing fish. The country ranks second in the world for exports behind China. To ensure the high quality of their freshly caught products, Norwegians pay particular attention to an unbroken cold chain. One company that contributes to a high level of food safety is Atlantic Styro. The manufacturer, based on the Atlantic island of Lovund, just outside the Arctic Circle, produces containers made from expanded polystyrene (EPS). The polystyrene boxes keep fish and seafood fresh during transport and storage.
Modern liquid ring vacuum pumps
In addition to high quality, efficient production is more important than ever. In order to produce as sustainably as possible, the box manufacturer relies on a modern vacuum supply. The vacuum is used to extract the process vapor that is produced when the foam expands. “Atlantic Styro achieves this very effectively thanks to our modern vacuum solution,” reports Roy Mikalsen, the responsible sales manager at Atlas Copco. “Three liquid ring vacuum pumps from the LRP VSD+ series are used on Lovund, which are very well integrated
Additionally, two of the testing stations are equipped with sensors that measure crucial data points such as pressure drops, temperature fluctuations, and the correct opening and closing of valves. The system’s alarms automatically stop the test if any parameter exceeds the acceptable range, preventing damage and recording each valve’s cycle data.
Contamination control for accurate results
One of the rig’s standout features is its contamination control. To maintain a clean testing environment and prevent crosscontamination during fugitive emissions tests, an extractor fan has been installed. This ensures that any leaks from one valve do
into the overall process,” explains Roy Mikalsen.
Designed for energy and water efficiency
In addition to the high, stable vacuum performance, the liquid ring pumps are energy-efficient and ensure low operating and maintenance costs. Equipped with two variable speed drives VSD: Variable Speed Drive Technology the vacuum system saves energy and water: the first of the VSD twins maintains the required vacuum level by precisely controlling the operating speed of the pump, which ultimately reduces power consumption. The second drive controls the water circulation pump and thus optimises the water flow in the pump.
Further information can be found here: www.atlascopco.com/vacuum https://youtu.be/ nk-e0IFxSZc?si=1B9z1pDv8-ltwtXm
not affect the results of tests on others, guaranteeing the accuracy of each test.
Custom programming for flexibility
The hydco cycle rig is also designed with flexibility in mind. Each valve station is controlled by its own Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), allowing engineers to tailor test cycles according to the specific needs of different valve types. The PLCs enable independent control over the time between each valve’s opening and closing cycle, ensuring that the tests can be adapted for a variety of projects.
A Testament to Global Innovation and British Engineering
This new rig is part of Oliver Valves’ ongoing commitment to reinvesting in R&D and improving its manufacturing processes. “The hydco cycle rig allows us to enhance our quality assurance and deliver even more reliable products to our global clients,” said a company spokesperson. “It exemplifies our dedication to innovation, precision, and British engineering excellence, ensuring that every valve meets the highest standards before it reaches our customers.”
With this cutting-edge system in place, Oliver Valves continues to lead in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of high-performance valves, supplying industries across the globe with the robust solutions they require.
Power Adhesives launches brand refresh and new website
Power Adhesives, the UKheadquartered manufacturer of hot melt adhesives for the construction, product assembly, manufacturing, packaging and DIY sectors, has announced the launch of its new website featuring a refresh of the brand.
The comprehensive rebranding initiative comes as a strategic move to strengthen Power Adhesives’ identity across its markets, and further differentiate the company from its competitors. The new visual identity and messaging strategy reinforces its position as the premier choice for bonding solutions.
The new website features insight into the company’s latest adhesive technologies, industry applications, and the work it is doing to drive sustainability into the industry. Easy to navigate, with blogs and social media links to keep Power Adhesives at the
forefront of industry discussion, the new website was launched on 24th September.
The rebrand marks a key commercial milestone for Power Adhesives and signals a new era of growth and innovation for the company and its distributors, delivered through a more cohesive and connected brand experience. The refresh also aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainability and technological advancement, positioning Power Adhesives as one of the most forward-thinking leaders in the adhesives industry.
To discover the latest range of hot melt adhesive solutions from Power Adhesives, please visit: www.poweradhesives.com
Henkel Adhesives Technologies drives end-to-end transparency on sustainability across its product portfolio
As a global leader in adhesives, sealants and functional coatings Henkel
Adhesive Technologies is constantly driving sustainability based on its Sustainability
Ambition 2030. The business unit aims to lead by example as well as through innovative technologies – and by providing full transparency on the sustainability impacts of individual products in the cradle-to-gate and use phase. This so-called end-to-end transparency which is based on reliable data and a consistent measurement methodology according to leading international standards is essential to improve Henkel´s footprint as well as the footprint of its customers.
of the product carbon footprint of about 58,000 products. The tool maps the cradleto-gate emissions including the emissions of raw materials, production, packaging, and logistics. This calculation methodology has been thoroughly verified and certified by TÜV Rheinland (ID-Nr. 0000086028: Henkel AG & Co. KGaA – Certipedia)
Breakthrough adhesive from IPS Adhesives Bonds PP, PE, and other LSE Materials, permanently
IPS Adhesives, a leading global structural adhesive and surfacing products manufacturer, has introduced a revolutionary adhesive that provides strong, reliable bonding on low surface energy (LSE) materials such as polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). The new SCIGRIP SG400LSE adhesive requires no surface preparation and has low sag, as well as short working and fixture times.
“Product design engineers seeking the many advantages of low surface energy plastics like PP and PE have long been plagued by difficulty in bonding them with adhesives. We are excited that our chemists have solved that problem for engineers. Our new SG400LSE adhesive bonds PP, PE, and other LSE materials without surface preparation giving the engineering
community new flexibility in creating stronger, lighter, and more durable products,” said Scott McDowell, IPSA President.
The new SG400LSE product is a two-part translucent, methyl methacrylate adhesive (10:1). It cross-bonds plastics to metals such as steel and aluminium. Unlike adhesives that claim to bond LSE materials and fail after a few months, SG400LSE sets in less than 24 hours, is practically indestructible once it does set, and bonds well to metal.
Areas in which the SG400LSE solution is already proving valuable include bonding large plastic storage tanks, such as those used for petroleum, grey, or black water; automotive interior fixtures; medical devices; workstations; casework; truck panels; outdoor furniture; and signage.
www.ipsadhesives.com
Power Adhesives launches first-to-market biodegradable hot melt for carton and corrugated packaging industry
Marking a worldfirst, UKheadquartered Power Adhesives has announced the launch of its fully certified, biodegradable, shaped hot melt adhesive designed for use by carton, corrugated packaging & POS converters, as well as contract packers.
this is truly a ground-breaking moment for the packaging adhesives sector.”
To provide its more than 100.000 customers in over 800 industry segments with a comprehensive sustainability profile and performance of its products, Adhesive Technologies has developed and implemented a digital solution in collaboration with Henkel´s digital department and Capgemini. This novel measurement platform – the ‘Henkel Environmental Assessment Reporting Tool’ (HEART) – enables the automatic calculation
Henkel is participating in different industrial sustainability initiatives to pioneer and collaborate in transparency for end-to-end product life cycle analysis and PCF reporting. The company is a member of ‘Together for Sustainability,’ an initiative that supports and coordinates the measurement of the sustainability performance of chemical companies and their suppliers.
www.henkel.com
Certified to completely break down in the presence of oxygen, leaving behind only non-harmful products and no microplastics, Tecbond 214B is manufactured with 44% bio-based materials and certified to ASTM D6400 and EN13432; the EU standard that sets out the requirements for compostable and biodegradable products.
Brendan Colgan, Power Adhesives Chief Executive Officer, said, “This is an exciting time for the packaging industry. All players in the supply chain are working hard to drive sustainable products and processes into the market to support brands and consumers, and
Available globally, Tecbond 214B offers the same performance characteristics as standard tecbond, with a high level of tack and fast setting speed providing an almost instant bond once applied and compressed. This enables companies to drive efficiency into packing procedures, improving workflow and output.
Tecbond 214B is also indirect food contact approved, enabling it to be used in all areas of the food packaging process, from wrap-around cartons and boxes to shipping packaging.
For more information on Tecbond 214B, and to discover its range of complementary tec glue guns that provide users with the highest possible output with the least amount of effort, please visit: www.poweradhesives.com
CAMTEC successfully presents first industry 4.0-ready modular zero-downtime industrial power supply series
At Electronica 2024 in November in Munich, Black-Forest’s well known laboratory power supply distributor Schulz Electronic successfully presented Camtec Power Supplies’ new CPSi 2,000/3,000W Lab Power Supply Modules. CAMTEC’s unique CPSi- series is up to 35 times scalable, super-easy to maintain, and equipped with self-calibrating exchangeable interfaces
The CPS-i series offers free scalability from 2,000W up to 105kW power output, accompanied by completely flexible up and downscaling and service by the customer himself. It connects up to 35 power supply units to form a large (DC grid) network by configuring master-slavemaster to slave systems. Thanks to the modular design, it is possible to scale this system precisely to the required power, which leads to lowered system and energy costs and increased sustainability - as it is possible to reuse all system modules easily and individually in new configurations. If the power supply units are decoupled from each other, the result is independent systems, which can then be used stand-alone or in new arrangements, provided one inexpensive power supply unit is added to each new block.
Due to their longevity even in demanding industrial or infrastructural surroundings and their unique strict modular design-to-service structure, the CAMTEC CPS series is a very cost-efficient high-end lab power supply solution. It plays out its unique strength and cost advantages exactly in those installations in which common power architectures enforce massive redundancies.
++ General CAMTEC high quality and robustness ++ The CPS-i2000 and i3000 devices are developed and produced in a highly automated modern production line in the German Black Forest. They are available in six voltage output versions up to 300Vdc per unit. Due to their longevity even in demanding industrial or infrastructural surroundings and their unique strict
modular design-to-service structure, the CAMTEC CPS series is a very cost-efficient high-end lab industrial power supply solution.
To make this main difference, it offers plug-andplay, easy-to-exchange, self-configuring interface components. Modules can not only be easily exchanged by the customer himself: Also monitoring and programming is extremely comfortable, due to the systems remote programming and 24/7 web-browserbased monitoring options.
++ Various leading technical features ++ Technically, CPS-i modules therefore come with an optional digital plug-and-play LAN interface.
Programming supports reference voltage for autonomous programming, real-time I/V programming and monitoring, and various remote supervising and remote shutdown options. 3D heat dissipation, a dual-fan system by Pabst, and solid 2U and 3U subframes allow them to be mounted upside down if necessary. Due to their compact construction, flexible space, and cooling concept, they fit even into the narrowest industrial surroundings.
Precise dynamics on load changes, a PFC power factor of 0,99%, low EMC, and last but not least, a long lifetime, even under challenging operating conditions, have always been essential arguments for choosing CAMTEC devices. The CPS series also includes many selfsupervising and protection features for heat management and remote supervision of power and currency.
The CPS series is designed to precisely meet the demand of challenging testing automation and highend industrial lab power supply users. It supports production process planners as well as energy and water infrastructure or UPS-system engineers. So finally, it plays its full strength wherever close to zero downtime of plants or infrastructure is mandatory.
BHS-Sonthofen opened a new test centre in Sonthofen on July 19th. The test centre offers expanded capacities for laboratory and pilot tests in the Process Technology division. Using state-of-theart technologies for the process steps of solid-liquid separation, drying, mixing and reacting, the experts at BHS support their customers' test series and can perform these steps both individually and in combination.
‘Transforming Materials into Value’:
BHS-Sonthofen assists customers in converting raw materials or preliminary products into valuable materials. Tests on a laboratory and pilot scale are essential to ensure that the respective process solution functions optimally and that the technology is perfectly adjusted to the process. The BHS experts support their customers’ test series with extensive technical know-how and define a qualified scale-up of the production machine based on the test results.
With 450 square metres of available floor space, the new test center is significantly larger than the existing premises.
In many process technology procedures, for instance, thermal drying is followed by mechanical liquid separation. BHS offers
equipment for both process steps and can integrate both technologies at one location. In addition, the new test center creates ideal conditions for transferring process engineering know-how to the customer. Systems and equipment can be assembled on a modular basis to suit the purpose of the test, and customers can participate in the test live.
BHS will continue to use the test center in Herrsching for mixing and drying tests, allowing the company to conduct tests at both sites simultaneously in the future and avoid bottlenecks. In recent years, the company has made significant investments in staff and infrastructure development and has also expanded its testing and sales capacities in China, India, and the USA. This expansion enables laboratory and pilot tests for a wide range of applications.
www.bhs-sonthofen.com/en
The North East’s largest process industry expo returned bigger than ever for 2024
The North East of England Process Industry Cluster’s (NEPIC) highly anticipated Meet the Members Expo and Conference returned on Tuesday 24th September 2024 at Hardwick Hall’s Grand Marquee for its 14th year.
Sponsored this year by Cyolo, Navigator Terminals, Pepperl+Fuchs GB, NSI Mobile Water Solutions, Technica Ltd and Tees Valley Combined Authority, Meet the Members is the North East’s largest process industry expo attended by over 350 delegates from sectors including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and renewables.
discussions from national cluster bodies, a dedicated networking zone and job sharing board, plus returning features such as one-to-one business mentoring sessions.
HD Sports partners with Plating Solutions to remain at leading edge of ice skate manufacture
Ahistoric figure skating blade manufacturer has increased production capacity by 30% and growth by 135% after a digital transformation programme supported by an internationally renowned plating consultancy.
HD Sports produces John Wilson and MK Blades, two major brands used by the sport’s best, including Olympic and World champions.
From its plant in Sheffield – which traces its roots back to a 17th-century Royal toolmaker – it manufactures blades from 1075 carbon steel before coating them in nickel to apply shine and chromium for corrosion protection.
The company has completed a six-year electroplating production transformation programme with the support of Plating Solutions, which Radcliffe-based BEP Surface Technology recently acquired.
The project optimised the plant design, introduced automation and data-led decision-making, and improved the chemistry of metal plating.
The wide-ranging impacts include contemporary safety standards, enhanced overall efficiency, increased productivity, improved product quality and consistency, reduced operational costs and increased profitability.
Production capacity has increased by 30%, with the ability to scale a further 13%.
With the 2025 ISU World Figure Skating Championships and 2026 Winter Olympics around the corner, HD Sports is keen to continue improving what it does best and keeping its competitive edge.
To read more about the partnership, please visit: https://bep-st.com
The Kennet Crayfish Company Limited created largest processing facility for crayfish in Britain
Investors, contractors and suppliers from across the region flock to the event, with nearly 90 exhibitors in attendance each year; with this year including Kellas Midstream, Teesside International Airport and Children Challenging Industry.
NEPIC have reinvented the format for this year’s event, adding new features to include a range of stages, panel
With over 20 speakers throughout the day, attendees this year will have the opportunity to hear from a wide range of speakers including the Chemical Industries Association, CATCH and Navigator Terminals, as well as hearing about progress on the region’s newer projects which include Kellas Midstream, Green Lithium and Protium.
www.nepic.co.uk
The Kennet Crayfish Company Limited has created the largest processing facility for crayfish in Britain, and it is eco-friendly, humane and uses pure, chalk-stream water to handle wild crayfish from the River Kennet. Crayfish are smaller, freshwater cousins of lobsters and thought by many to have a superior flavour, much prized by top chefs and foodies around the world. Most crayfish currently sold in the UK are imported from fish farms in the polluted rivers of China.
The facility is the brainchild of local design engineer and crayfish specialist, Andrew Leech, managing director of the company.
The plant’s storage tanks have a capacity of 3,000kg of crayfish to be held while they are purged. There are then stressfree crayfish size-grading assemblies
and a custom built, Environment Agency approved, unit where the crayfish are humanely processed. The facility also includes vacuum packing, chilling and freezer rooms.
The water used in the cleaning and processing of the crayfish is critical. The source used throughout the facility is from a spring a quarter of a mile away and filtered through reed beds before entering the building. Kennet crayfish are probably the cleanest in the UK and are better tasting due to the nutrients and calcium in the water. The River Kennet and its tributaries provide a rare combination of very clean water, high in nutrients and calcium found in chalk streams, of which there are only around 200 in the world.
https://www.kennetcrayfish.com
Fleet Management from CheckedSafe
Whenit comes to the transport industry, ever-changing legislation updates and DVSA regulations can be a real minefield for businesses of all sizes to stay on top of. If you’ve found yourself with a headache when it comes to managing your fleet effectively, you’re certainly not alone.
1) Daily Pre-Use Check, Preventative Maintenance and Fleet Management
Managing commercial fleets comes with the legal responsibility of conducting regular checks to ensure vehicle safety and roadworthiness. We can supply you with the full toolkit from bespoke daily checks to full PMI’s, Schedules, we are also an Earned Recognition supplier
2) Verifying Driver Licences
We provide a full Driver Licence (DVLA) check service inc. DCPC and Tacho card checks all fully
remote via our App our unique process that has been audited by DVLA can provide you the full remote package
3) GB Domestic Hours
Are you using Driver Hours Log Books? CheckedSafe have developed via the award winning app a Drivers Hours Module capable of capturing live data and reporting on such data including exception reporting no need to wait for you driver to hand in his book weekly its on the desktop and the driver can have a copy on his phone if anyone wishes to see the log book at any time
Are you intrigued and looking for cutting-edge and innovative commercial fleet management solutions? Get in touch!
Business and climate have to work together says Gordon Kipling, Northern sales manager, Hart Door Systems. “Climate Change are two words which are in frequent use certainly as we in Britain inevitably discuss the weather. But there is a serious side effect because adverse weather can have grave implications for business be it buildings on a farm, day to day manufacturing and all that entails or residential in particular tower blocks.”
“We take a global view with the development of Hart’s Typhoon shutter being a good example of a response to Typhoon storms in the Far East. Typically thanks to Climate Change a major storm hit Northumberland a few years ago inflicting major damage to an isolated grain silo. Here Hart’s Typhoon shutters were retrofitted for protection from future storms.”
“As more and more Atlantic storms are forecast to hit the British Isles there has been increasing demand for Hart’s Speedor Storm doors. Speedor is Hart’s trusted, innovative, solution
for the ‘high-speed’ door and it has been developed further for specific manufacturing requirements, hence Cleanroom, Conveyor, Mini and of course Storm. All feature cuttingedge technology and a commitment to excellence in applications where operational efficiency, safety and reliability are required.”
“The Speedor Storm variant offers protection from the elements, withstanding winds of up to 70mph. The wind resistance is delivered via a unique guide system working in combination with other carefully designed features. Strength is through multi-layered PVC and textile which are both long-lasting and tearresistant. Horizontal curtain braces add additional wind resistance.”
www.hartdoors.com
Union Industries completes warehouse upgrade for Deep Sea Electronics
Union Industries, the UK’s leading manufacturer of bespoke industrial doors, has assisted Deep Sea Electronics with improving access and traffic flow through the installation of its high-speed Matadoor.
The robust high-speed door has been installed inbetween the company’s warehouse and production area in Hunmanby, North Yorkshire, and completes a significant on-site investment programme. The Matadoor replaces an existing sectional door, which slowed access between the warehouse & production areas due to the amount of time it took to open and close. Additionally, the Union Industries Matadoor helps to complete the smart new finish of the warehouse refurbishment.
Deep Sea Electronics is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of generator controllers, auto transfer switch controllers, battery chargers and vehicle and offhighway controllers. It employs more than 150 people across four continents and sells products to 150 countries, direct from its UK head office and through its comprehensive distributor network.
(L-R) Adam Sheader, Industrial Engineer at Deep Sea Electronics, Steve Moultrie, Technical Sales Engineer at Union Industries, and Gayle Smith, Marketing Co-ordinator
The Matadoor, which can be used via remote control or swipe-card, joins two Bulldoors already installed by Union Industries almost eight years ago.
It is engineered from heavy duty materials and components, hence why it is generally used for high use internal doorways, and where extreme reliability is required.
Matadoor, introduced to the UK by Union Industries in 1992, was the first ever high-speed door on the market with a ‘Crash-Out & Auto-Reset’ feature, which not only allows the bottom beam to swing out of the way if hit by a speeding forklift truck, but automatically resets itself back into the side guides so the door can continue to operate even if damaged.
Adam Sheader, Industrial Engineer at Deep Sea Electronics, said, “We approached Union Industries
having experienced the reliability and robustness of its two high-speed Bulldoors in 2016, which are supported by excellent customer service.
“We were seeking a solution to operational challenges of an older, sectional door which was left over following a refurbishment and was proving problematic due to the length of time it took to operate. We are not only pleased to have found a solution in Union Industries’ Matadoor, but also thrilled to support British manufacturing.”
Steve Moultrie, Technical Sales Engineer at Union Industries, said, “Once again, Union Industries is the go-to for reliable and efficient high-speed doors, which are known for their longevity.
“Deep Sea Electronics recognised that they needed a much faster solution and came back to us having experienced the quality and robustness of our doors.
“We were also able to link into the customer’s existing fob access system to maintain controlled access for this opening, which meant minimal disruption during installation.”
Ricardo joins partnership pioneering excellence in CO2 pipeline safety
Ricardo has joined a new partnership to help advance safety standards in carbon dioxide (CO2) pipeline operations.
Project Skylark has been launched in response to the increase in large-scale carbon capture, transportation and storage projects that are helping to facilitate green energy production around the world.
Although CO2 is already transported and safely stored, the growth of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) activity will see significant increases in the volume of CO2 carried through networks of onshore and offshore pipelines.
Executive, the National Centre for Atmospheric Science, and the University of Arkansas, our experts will provide empirical data on the behaviour of CO2 in high-volume pipeline release scenarios, which will be used to test, validate and improve modelling capabilities across industry and academia.
New research: 94% think that Health & Safety legislation needs ‘overhauling’
New research published today has found that more than nine in ten workers believe that the main piece of UK Health & Safety legislation should be overhauled, fifty years after it was first introduced.
The figure calling for an overhaul rises to 97% amongst managerial staff, with the need for a ‘greater focus on mental health and wellbeing’ seen as the most important factor (82%) in a future rethink of health and safety, and also a key reason in 2024 that people feel safer in the workplace (50%).
Positively, 78% think there is also an opportunity for an overhaul of the Health & Safety Act to better reflect the current working and risk landscape and to improve safety in their sector.
Given these networks can extend for long distances across a variety of terrains and topographies, undertaking detailed risk assessments throughout their entire length is a significant challenge for asset owners.
Working alongside DNV, the UK Government’s Health and Safety
Both the dataset and the validated, updated and enhanced tools will provide industry and regulators with an array of options for assessing the risk of new and re-purposed CO2 pipelines.
Contact http://www.ricardo.com/chemical
The findings are outlined in the Dräger Safety and Health at Work Report 2024, an annual study exploring attitudes to safety and health topics in UK workplaces.
Matthew Bedford, Managing Director, Draeger Safety UK, Ltd comments, “Five decades after it was introduced, it is perhaps unsurprising that so many people feel that approaches to Health &
Safety need a rethink given the changes in working practices as well as the rising prevalence of mental ill health over the last five years, not to mention fifty years.”
www.draeger.com
A ground breaking development
Be honest, when at home, how many times to you reprimand your kids for vacating a room and leaving the light on? We all know that the energy cost of leaving on a single light bulb is minimal compared to other appliances in a house, especially if the bulbs are modern low energy types. However, our thinking is rational when we consider the sheer number of times the lights are unnecessarily left on for prolonged periods of time. Over a 12 month period the electricity used is certainly quantifiable and is quite rightly considered a complete waste of money!
However, have you ever thought that this type of thinking might be very slightly hypocritical? When it comes to compressed air most production plants and factories encounter air or gas leaks on a regular basis. Whilst some of these are major line failures and remedial action is promptly taken, many smaller leaks go undetected and thought acceptable simply down to the fact that accurate detection is considered extremely difficult. It is this kind of thinking that has led one large compressor manufacturer to state that some plants loose around 80% of all compressed through leaks in air lines and centralised systems. Of course, this problem is not confined to compressed air; throughout industry various gases are delivered to manufacturing work stations through overhead lines with elbow joints, reducers and various line connectors. All these fixings have the propensity to leak over time giving rise not only to inefficiencies, but in the case of
certain gases, producing potential hazards in the workplace.
All sectors of manufacturing industry have witnessed escalating energy costs over recent years. Economical and geopolitical events, especially in Europe, have pushed oil and gas prices to unprecedented levels and resulted in companies taking a very close look at energy saving initiatives across the manufacturing spectrum. It should come as no surprise, therefore when we say that any gas and air leaks should be high on the agenda when looking for ways to save energy.
When it comes to leaks on air lines, detection can often be the most difficult part of the remedial process. These lines are often in elevated positions to ensure they do not interfere with operational areas and work stations, meaning they can be several metres above the ground and leaks simply go unnoticed.
In 2021, FLIR, a world leader in thermal and acoustic handheld cameras, launched the highly successful FLIR Si124 acoustic imaging camera. The nomenclature conveys the fact that the camera contains 124 highly sensitive microphones capable of detecting and accurately locating the slightest sound from a leaking system. Building on the success of this camera FLIR are pleased to announce the launch of the new Si2-LD acoustic imaging camera. This second-generation camera has improved microphones now capable of detecting sounds over an extremely wide frequency range, namely 2 – 130kHz. But it’s not just the frequency range that is improved with the new FLIR Si-2 LD camera. The
from FLIR: A Teledyne Company
detection range is equally impressive. At 10 metres the acoustic camera can detect gas leaks as small as 0.05 litres per minute. At a distance of 2.5 metres the camera is capable of detecting minute leaks down to 0.004 litres per minute. Difficult to reach areas of a production plant are often dark or dimply lit. For this reason, the FLIR Si2 comes complete with two extremely powerful LED lights that illuminate the area, allowing specific gas lines to be identified and analysed.
Images captured by the 12-megapixel camera are displayed on a new high definition five inch 1,280 x 720 screen which is brighter and sharper than its predecessor. The 8x zoom feature also allows more distant problem areas to be brought into focus.
So far we’ve focused simply on the economic aspects of air and gas leaks but with many gases there are health and safety issues that need to be considered.
Carbon dioxide gas is widely used in the food and beverage industry with the gas often stored in a bulk tank and delivered to production lines in elevated gas lines, generically termed air lines. As carbon dioxide gas is 1.5 times heavier than air it has the potential to be a health hazard amongst workers in confined spaces. As the gas is colourless and odourless detection can be difficult and the deadly hazard goes unnoticed. The above comments are true of many other gases used throughout industry; whilst the economic impact of minute leaks can significant over time, the health and safety impacts on employees can prove fatal. Although many gases can be detected through their distinctive odours many others are both colourless and odourless but nevertheless deadly!
Senior management and company financiers are not only interested in the amount of gas leaking but want to determine the financial impact over time. This is where the FLIR Si2-LD
financial impact of the detected gas or air leak. Termed Industrial Gas Quantification, the incorporated software can calculate losses for a variety of gaseous systems including ammonia, helium, hydrogen, argon, carbon dioxide and of course compressed air. This unique software coupled with the new advanced features of the FLIR Si2-LD described above, provide valuable monetary information regarding gas leaks enabling the maintenance engineer to perform remedial action that has an immediate and lasting effect on the company’s bottom line.
The FLIR Si2-LD camera is extremely light, making plant wide analysis a very easy task, and comes complete with a tough tailor-made carrying case for added protection.
As well as detecting gas and air leaks, many maintenance departments have used acoustic imaging cameras to detect faults in bearings and gearboxes. When a bearing is showing initial signs of wear, as well as a heat footprint there is also an acoustic footprint that emanates from the problem area. These abnormal noises can be inaudible to the human ear and yet the extremely sensitive microphones on the FLIR Si2-LD are capable of detecting the noise signals and allowing remedial action to be taken before expensive and catastrophic failure takes place. Any production engineer will testify to the fact that major bearing failures cost far more than simply the price of a replacement
gearbox, and can result in unscheduled maintenance halting production, with the knock-on effect of loss of orders, not to mention company reputation.
As well as launching the exciting new Si2-LD described above, FLIR are pleased to announce the launch of the Si2-PD acoustic imaging camera. The FLIR Si2-PD helps you reduce maintenance costs for electrical equipment by offering an effective solution for partial discharge (PD) detection and response. This camera detects, locates, classifies, and assesses partial discharge faults from up to 200 metres away, identifying PD issues 30 times smaller than previously possible. These enhanced distances mean the FLIR Si2 PD is ideally suited for detecting partial discharge on overhead power lines and railway applications where close and easy access to transformers, switch gear and relay equipment is simply not possible. It provides on-camera and software-based severity assessments, giving you the valuable support needed for precise maintenance decisions.
For further information on both the FLIR Si2-LD, leak detection and the FLIR Si2-PD, partial discharge acoustic cameras, please contact your local FLIR distributor.
Contact
https://www.flir.co.uk
https://www.flir.co.uk/products/si2-ld
https://www.flir.co.uk/products/si2-pd
https://www.flir.co.uk/products/si2-pro
camera really comes into its own. The camera has built in software that calculates the
Test, Measurement & Laboratory
Lab Cerba automates cold storage blood testing with new robotic workcell
One of Europe’s largest private pathology providers has dramatically increased blood testing productivity at its Paris laboratory with a bespoke cold storage robotic automation system designed and built in the UK.
Laboratoire Cerba (Lab Cerba) implemented a pathology automation system with the help of UK-based PAA (Peak Analysis and Automation Ltd), a leading provider of automation technology to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and laboratory sectors, with a track record of supplying solutions to the likes of Moderna, BioNTech and Janssen Pharmaceuticals.
throughput demands throughout the day.
The PAA solution involved the use of robots for the rapid sorting and cold storage of different blood samples at a range of different temperatures with a throughput of up to 2,000 samples per hour.
HIL simulation & EV BMS test rig demo from Pickering Interfaces
Pickering Interfaces showcased its range of modular signal switching and sensor simulation solutions for electronics test and verification in automotive applications ranging from ECUs and body control modules to infotainment and ABS brake controllers – including HIL (hardware-inthe-loop) simulation and BMS (battery management system) test – on booth #14995 at Automotive Testing Expo North America 2024, which took place from October 22nd-24th at Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, Michigan, USA.
to see the most up-to-date technologies in test rigs, end-of-line testing, simulation packages, durability testing, crash testing, dynamometers, emission measurement systems, and data analytics, as well as service providers such as proving grounds and test facilities.
The challenge for PAA was to devise a solution that could take sample tubes from the existing Total Laboratory Automation (TLA) system and then sort them into a format accepted by the storage unit, whilst optimising both the capacity and throughput of the storage platform. The solution would also have to contend with different tube sizes, a lack of sample tracking data and varying
The PAA workcell developed for Lab CERBA comprises four Mitsubishi Electric FR-Series SCARA robots with a 20kg payload and a maximum reach of 1,000mm installed alongside the TLA system.
For more information on Mitsubishi Electric’s range of FR series of SCARA robots, please visit: https://gb.mitsubishielectric.com/fa/ products/rbt/robot/horizontal
Pfeiffer Vacuum at the Battery Show 2024: Battery leak testing assures quality and longevity
At this year’s Battery Show Europe, Pfeiffer Vacuum exhibited state-of-the-art vacuum and leak detection solutions for advanced battery manufacturing and battery recycling.
Improved quality, high yield and reduced manufacturing and testing costs
There are several decisive factors for the functionality, high quality and safety of lithium-ion batteries. These include their integrity and impermeability to external influences such as penetrating moisture. For this reason, leak detection systems to test the batteries are incorporated in the battery manufacturing process. Vacuum and leak detection solutions from Pfeiffer Vacuum are integrated into such systems and help meet strict requirements. It is essential to achieve the required cycle time and deliver highly reproducible battery cell testing. These systems make it possible to quantify and localize
even the smallest of leaks. Any such leaks can be eliminated rapidly in a downstream production stage.
Essential leak detection and vacuum solutions from a single source Pfeiffer Vacuum stands out with its wealth of expertise in the field of leak testing and vacuum technology. At stand E74 in hall 8, visitors to the Battery Show in Stuttgart found out about leak detectors such as the ASI 35 as well as the GSD 350 quadrupole mass spectrometer. Mass spectrometers help to analyze the composition of any gases that develop.
www.pfeiffer-vacuum.com
Automotive Testing Expo is an international event series dedicated to automotive testing, development, and validation, taking place annually in Michigan, Shanghai, and Stuttgart, plus alternate years in Chennai and Seoul. In North America, it’s the leading event for technologies in ADAS and autonomous vehicle testing, EV and hybrid powertrain testing, hot and cold climate testing, aerodynamics and wind tunnel testing, EMI and NVH test and analysis, and the full spectrum of vehicle, component, and systems test and validation technologies – everything you need to build better cars and accelerate testing and development programs. With more than 250 exhibitors, visitors can expect
Pickering Interfaces stands behind its manufactured products with a standard three-year warranty and guaranteed long-term product support. Pricing, availability and contact information are supplied on its website at: www.pickeringtest.com
For more details on this application, please visit: www.pickeringtest.com/bms
Machine Vision Conference (MVC) 2024 review
The annual eighth edition of MVC was back at the CBS Arena, Coventry from the 18th-19th June this summer, uniting the industrial machine vision and imaging technology sectors. The conference welcomed more than 50 industryleading brands and over thirty expert keynote speakers, with visitors able to explore the latest advanced machine-vision solutions and cuttingedge seminars.
Hot topics on the seminar programme this year included: deep learning and embedded vision, vision in robotics, systems and applications, 3D vision, camera technology, vision innovation, optics and illumination and understanding vision technology. This included a fascinating presentation by Neil Sandhu: Sales Manager at IDS Imaging Development Systems on how machine vision can facilitate an unprecedented level of deep learning. The latest technology is enabling superior robust systems for inspection, classification, detection and text/code reading. Another stand-out presentation was from Nathaniel Hoffman: Market Product manager at Sick UK, discussing how prioritised vision guidance can help direct robots through interfaces and other technologies.
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many industry experts praising the high calibre quality of the presentations: which were appreciated for being less academic but more frontline cutting-edge in tone.
MVC has a strong reputation for delivering worldclass expertise and research under one roof, with live demonstrations and exclusive product launches. This year’s event attracted the best machine vision solutions from across the industry, with numerous opportunities to learn about the latest developments.
From 2025, MVC will be incorporated into Automation UK, to become the UK’s leading machine vision exhibition, dedicated to industrial automation, robotics and vision. The expo will take place from the 7th-8th May 2025 at Coventry’s CBS Arena and intends to offer an unbeatable content-led two day event. Specifiers and stakeholders are invited to see the latest cutting-edge products and solutions across robots, robotic systems, systems integration, automation control parts, sensors, machine safety and industrial products and services. The amalgamation of these two events will offer a bigger platform for exhibitors, keynote speakers and visitors.
Feasibility studies with Dynamic Imaging Ltd
With the Applications and Installations of Machine Vision technology growing daily with new technology forging new frontiers, selecting the right solution, technology and partner seems to be ever harder. With AI and faster technology giving options but also somehow uncertainty.
A feasibility study is a smart way to determine the likely success or failure of your next vision project. A low-cost way of evaluating the technology and tools, a low-risk exploration of the best design.
The best feasibility study is built on real-world experience and installations; however, project teams are increasingly over-stretched without real-world experience. This creates concern about delivery or worries about the return on investment.
If your team lack the resource or experience and are worried about making the right choice of vision approach, or technology, then maybe Dynamic Imaging Ltd can help navigate a good path through the options.
Dynamic Imaging deliver feasibilities, consultancy and development services which is vendor independent to our client’s exacting requirements across a range of sectors including automotive, pharmaceutical and military.
At the recent UKIVA Vision show, Dynamic Imaging Ltd demonstrated how combining the latest linescan, triggering and light technology increased system reliability and feature delivery whilst lowering overall cost. Using one camera and multiple wavelength Drew Lear Technology DLX technology and Halcon software acquisition, colour, 740nm and 850nm images were all delivered from one pass under the camera.
“Integrating Vision UK into Automation UK presents a great opportunity for us to raise the profile of the machine vision and automation industries at one exhibition. Both events have earned acclaim from visitors and exhibitors alike, and combining the two ensures that a broader crosssection of end-users can discover the best of what areas of the industry has to offer.” says Chief Operating Officer: Scott McKenna: Automate UK.
This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Dynamic Imaging & PARKVI GmbH. Further details can be found on this page and the next.
Book an exhibitor space now:
Automation UK 2025
7th-8th May
CBS Arena, Coventry
For more information, please visit: www.machinevisionconference.co.uk
Manufacturers turn to AI-enabled video over automation to boost productivity
New research from Hanwha Vision, the global vision solution provider, has found that well over one-third (37%) of European manufacturers are turning to AI-enabled video as a means of solving their business challenges.
This exceeds the number who favour established industrial technologies such as automation and robotics (32%) and places AI video alongside 5G, the Internet of Things (IoT) and other technologies as key means of solving challenges.
A further one in two (52%) manufacturers plan to use AI-enabled video to notify operators of plant and equipment failure, while over 45% plan to deploy it to identify blockages or queued items on production lines, as well as spot manufacturing errors in finished goods leaving production lines.
AI-enabled video combines networked video cameras with AI to automatically detect and classify objects and their specific attributes. Using algorithms built into the camera, it can alert users when specific behaviours are identified – such
as a warehouse operator not wearing safety gear or an unexpected object on a production line.
To better understand leaders’ attitudes towards AI-enabled video in the post-ChatGPT era, Hanwha Vision conducted research among 1,000 individuals in organisations across five European countries (UK, Netherlands, Italy, Germany and France). Operations and security leaders were questioned on the technologies they will adopt to address a range of strategic business challenges, such as finding new efficiencies, introducing new processes and controlling costs.
Read the full research paper here. www.hanwhavision.eu
PARKVI GmbH: Offering end-to-end machine vision systems
Germany is widely acclaimed as a global epicentre of technological brilliance, hosting premier manufacturing conglomerates that dominate their respective industries.
Upholding the nation’s rich technological heritage and work ethic to meet the image processing needs of manufacturing giants like BMW, Audi, AGCO(Fendt), Forvia, Procter & Gamble, and Bosch is PARKVI GmbH Its offerings are industry-agnostic, serving production based companies like automotive, e-mobility, battery and fuel cell production, packaging, food processing, photovoltaics, tire manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals.
Catering to their dynamic machine vision needs, it offers endto-end, bespoke, and cost-efficient image-processing solutions. This helps them achieve excellence in manufacturing management, inspection and defect detection, quality assurance, and process control.
PARKVI’s portfolio encompasses 2D, 3D, and line scan cameras, offering everything from conventional image
processing to AI-based. Clients can also engage with the company for manufacturerindependent image processing consultation and procuring top-notch machine vision components like cameras, complex PC systems for vision, 3D vision sensors, and industrial code readers.
Our extensive supplier base gives us access to top-tier components and products from vision technology and camera manufacturers across the globe.
While most market players offer standardised products, PARKVI distinguishes itself by prioritising the delivery of customised solutions tailored to each client’s specific needs.
Drawing upon its engineering acumen and proficiency in both traditional and state-of-the-art solutions, PARKVI is adept at seamlessly integrating Machine-vision systems into clients’ existing infrastructure in record time. The company understands their systems and goes the extra mile to optimise the existing toolset by upgrading those with the latest technologies in the market. It also exceeds industry standards by ensuring the solution is up and running within three months.
OMRON integrates Digimarc Decoding into FH Vision System & FHV7 Smart Camera
OMRON, a global leader in industrial automation, has announced a significant software update for its FH Vision System and FHV7 Smart Camera. This update introduces an optional Digimarc license to OMRON’s customers in the consumer goods industry, enhancing the machine vision series' capabilities and enabling modernizing digital product identification with digital watermarks.
Key features and benefits:
■ Enhanced detection accuracy: The integration of digital watermarks allows for unmatched decoding efficiency, particularly on cylindrical or non-uniform products where rotation varies. This technology ensures nearly perfect read rates of 99.9% across all types of packaging, including flexible materials and film.
■ High throughput: The entire decoding process, from trigger signal to output, is completed in approximately 30 milliseconds. This rapid processing capability is ideal for integration into some of the fastest production lines in the world.
■ Flexible camera integration: The feature allows for multiple cameras to be connected to the FH Vision System with asynchronous triggering. This flexibility makes it
possible to install the system across various production lines or stages.
■ Robust redundancy: Digital watermark information is redundantly encoded across the packaging surface, ensuring reliable decoding even if a part of the packaging is damaged or obscured.
■ Comprehensive inspection types: In addition to Digimarc decoding, the updated FH series supports a wide range of inspection types, including date code presence, lid concentricity, quality inspection, and more.
■ Full suite of vision tools: The firmware update enhances the FH and FHV7 series' capabilities, supporting 1D/2D barcode reading, OCR, pattern matching, and defect inspection. These tools can be used in combination or separately, tailored to specific application needs.
For more information about the FH series and the new firmware update, please visit: https://industrial.omron. eu/en/products/fh-vision-system
Its team of experienced and qualified specialists and service technicians ensures 100% client satisfaction.
PARKVI’s image-processing expertise and superior client support have garnered the company over 300 successful projects without any service calls. In a span of five years, it has successfully made its mark in the high-tech German market, taking up projects other providers have not dared to. In one of the instances, BMW approached the company after ten different providers declined to be on board with the project due to technical complexities. PARKVI could find a solution in two weeks and get the whole system running within six months.
It is undeniable that PARKVI has redefined Machine-Vision with its technological expertise. Its top-notch tailored solutions and strong after-sale support help it emerge as a leader in the space and a trusted choice for clients.
Food inspection technology experts at Anritsu Infivis, have launched a vision inspection machine specifically designed with the ability to withstand high-intensity pressure washing.
The IP69K sanitary x-ray, based on the company’s everpopular XR75 platform has been built to meet and exceed high-pressure washing and sanitary requirements for meat or wet products in the Americas and Europe. Ideal for positioning within the processing area of a production line – as opposed to the packaging area – the IP69K combines reliability, ease of use and low cost of ownership in a robust and compact footprint.
to its DualX+ technology, with direct signal conversion that makes the X-ray image sharper and dramatically reduces the product effect, making it possible to detect the smallest levels of foreign material in products.
Food manufacturers no longer need put up with inspection technology that has to be kept away from water, which can be inconvenient and unhygienic. With its ability to withstand washdown at pressures of 80 to 100 bar (1,160 to 1,450 PSI), with rates of 14 to 16 l/min, and at temperatures up to 80°C/176°F in certain conditions, the IP69K can be fully included in facilities using intensive washdown procedures to meet strict sanitation standards.
The machine’s detection of lowdensity particles such as fish and poultry bones is unmatched, thanks
For more information, please visit: https://www.anritsu.com/en-gb
Cleaning & Hygiene
Christeyns Food Hygiene acquires cleaning and disinfection partner
Specialist hygiene solution provider, Christeyns Food Hygiene has today announced the purchase of hygiene equipment application specialists H&M Disinfection Systems Ltd
Warrington based Christeyns Food Hygiene (CFH) has acquired H&M Disinfection Systems Ltd, who design, manufacture and install cleaning and disinfection systems for the Food, Dairy and Beverage industries.
In operation since 1989, H&M’s modern manufacturing site near Northwich manufactures high quality pump sets, control panels and hygiene systems as well as bespoke units built to individual requirements. With over 30 years of experience in their respective fields, the two firms have been partners for many years, providing a turn-key solution for effective cleaning and disinfection operations.
The acquisition will see the H&M facility continue to operate with all staff in place, the three-year site lease having been transferred to CFH.
Christeyns Food Hygiene is highly regarded in the industry for its effective formulations of detergents and disinfectants for all applications in the food, dairy and beverage industries with customers from across a range of household consumer brands and suppliers to the UK’s food retailers. It is part of Belgium parent company, Christeyns NV.
“As we continue our growth strategy, we are delighted to confirm that H&M has become part of the Christeyns family. This acquisition will increase CFH’s engineering team and significantly bolster our service offering to clients across the UK and Eire,” commented CFH Operations Director & Managing Director, Andy Bethel.
“We regard H&M as an expert in its field, with a reputation for providing high quality, bespoke hygiene application equipment, the cornerstone of many customer’s food safety management systems. Already working with us as a partner, this was a natural move forward and will ensure a broader, highly enhanced service and health and safety offering for all our customers.”
The current CFH engineering offering for the optimisation of water, energy consumption, dosing, time and labour will be further strengthened,
MSA Grid Software recognised with an Occupational Health & Safety 2024 Industrial Hygiene Award
MSA Grid software recently received an Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) magazine Industrial Hygiene Award in the ‘Auditing and Compliance Software’ category.
The awards feature winners across 28 categories, honouring the outstanding product development achievements of health and safety manufacturers whose products are considered particularly noteworthy in their ability to improve industrial hygiene.
“This year’s awards enjoyed a broad range of compelling entries with some hot competition in some of the categories,” said David Kopf, executive editor and publisher of Occupational
Health & Safety. “This was particularly noticeable in categories such as Internet of Things – Connected Devices and Hearing Conservation & Noise Reduction. It just goes to show that the companies providing industrial hygiene products and services are continually working to innovate and improve.”
MSA Grid is a cloud-based software solution that automatically integrates with the ALTAIR io™ 4 Connected Gas Detector to help enhance safety and productivity across workers, worksites, and workflows, accessible from anywhere with an internet connection via desktop or mobile.
New features recently released to Grid include Mobile Notifications, providing immediate in-app notifications when an alarm exposure or SOS event occurs along with live worker location and gas readings, and Shared Alerts, which notifies those on-site if a nearby worker or another worker in their group has gone into alarm.
Learn more about Grid software for ALTAIR io 4 devices here.
https://gb.msasafety.com
combining both chemical and engineering expertise including an expanded equipment portfolio, CIP sets, Washdown Systems, Bulk tanks and bespoke engineering.
“We hope this will be a pivotal move for CFH with new opportunities for the original H&M team and a further blending of skills and experience creating a stronger engineering division overall,” concludes Bethel.
Permanentperformance and high failure protection are of vital importance in medical technology. Because applications in medical technology have to meet special hygienic and mechanical requirements, ODU has developed silicone-molded system solutions. Their non-stick surface and properties are convincing as they are easy to clean, steam sterilizable, flexible, insensitive to extreme temperatures and tested according to DIN EN ISO 10993-5. This makes them a hygienic and robust solution for insert in everyday medical use.
In order to meet medical requirements, we offer individual silicone-molded system solutions consisting of connectors, overmolding as well as
cables as qualified cable assemblies while optionally providing laser markings in accordance with Unique Device Identification (UDI).
ODU silicone overmoldings for the medical industry The company has evolved over the years to become a specialist in custom overmolding. The tools developed and manufactured at ODU for straight or angled designs are designed (depending on the application) for samples, small series or large series production.
Since applications in the medical sector have to meet special hygienic and mechanical requirements, the contact specialist's silicone overmolding connects the ODU connector to the certified silicone cable and combines the best feel with hygiene and resistance.
For more information, please visit: https://oduconnectors.com/technologies/ silicone-overmolded-system-solutions
