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Global Success Through Innovation Issue 82 2026 £4.95 www.pecm.co.uk

‘Because we know our business & work hard to understand yours’.

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Engineering Process

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Inside Issue 82 AERZEN

ADVANCED ENGINEERING SHOW

Process gas expertise from a single source

Control & Automation

ALEXANDER TECHNOLOGIES

BECKHOFF

Electrical & Electronics

Facilities Management

Gears, Drives & Motors

Health & Safety

Machining & Machinery

Measurement & Monitoring

Process Technologies

102

Pumps

112

Storage, Handling & Distribution

117

Tools, Plant & Equipment

121

Valves & Flow Control

126

Editor’s Choice

Connectors & Fittings

In a growing market sector, UAV manufacturers are facing a common challenge as they mature

FORTRESS TECHNOLOGY

Increase metal detection productivity at PPMA 2026

PPMA

Dr Kevin Fong announced as first keynote speaker at the PPMA Show® 2026

EDS

Engineering Design Show returns with a sharper focus, and a new identity to match

The day Guy Martin changed his mind about British engineering

Right-sizing control and motion without compromising future flexibility

TEZMAKSAN

Tezmaksan to demonstrate CubeBOX™ modular automation cells at IMTS 2026

RENISHAW

Renishaw strengthens its machine tool probing portfolio with two new innovative solutions

CP AUTOMATION

How a retrofit upgrade helped keep a leading steelwork running

QUALITY MANAGEMENT LTD Which is the best route into engineering?

Cover photo: Kecol

“The centre of excellence for strainer and ﬁltraaon technology”

www.bartonﬁrtop.co.uk Issue 82 PECM

At North Ridge Pumps, we make dosing, metering and transferring as easy as...

DSM Control

AMP16 Control

In fact, we have a whole range of non-clog metering pumps which will give you incredibly precise measurement of gaseous, viscous and shear-sensitive fluids without any loss of flow. We’re North Ridge Pumps, the UK’s largest pump supplier with over 25 years’ experience. We’re expert at specifying exactly the right pump for every client – not just an off-the-shelf, one-size-fits-all solution.

FMP30 Control

That’s probably why we’ve completed over 2,000 successful projects for clients all around the world. You can read case studies at www.northridgepumps.com

Got an application and not sure which pump you need? Call +44 (0) 1773 302 660 or go to www.northridgepumps.com

+44 (0) 1773 302 660 | sales@northridgepumps.com | www.northridgepumps.com North Ridge House, 3 Chrysalis Way, Eastwood, Nottingham, NG16 3RY, United Kingdom

Engineering Process

The leading source for innovators in Technology, Manufacturing and Maintenance within the Engineering & Processing industry worldwide. Published bimonthly, a subscription to PECM magazine is essential for Process Engineers, Chemical Engineers, Instrumentation Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Plant Engineers, Precision Engineers, Environmental Engineers & General Engineers, Companies and Organizations in the Food, Dairy, Beverage, Brewing, Semiconductor, Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, Chemical, Oil & Gas, as well as all UK's major manufacturing units. Every issue of the magazine contains the latest news, in-depth features, together with product innovations and case studies showing how process engineers are implementing new technologies to reduce costs and impact on the environment. With over 158,000 readers worldwide the publication is widely read, recognized, and well respected within the Process, Engineering & maintenance industries. A subscription to PECM magazine is the industry's 'must have' publication.

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Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in Process Engineering, Control & Manufacturing however, the publishers accept no responsibility for the claims or opinions made by the contributors, manufacturers or advertisers. No part of the publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, electronic (including printing), recording or stored in any information retrieval system without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Issue 82 PECM

EDITOR’S CHOICE

A BETTER WAY TO CLEAN QUIREPACE

How Warburtons tackled crumb and flour build-up with vacuum technology In a busy bakery environment, keeping production equipment and surrounding areas free from crumb and flour deposits can present a significant cleaning challenge. Conveyors, support structures, elevated areas and difficult-to-access spaces can all become collection points for debris. Compressed air is often used to tackle these accumulations. It is readily available and can quickly dislodge material from awkward areas. However, blowing debris away does not necessarily remove it from the production environment. Crumbs and fine flour dust can simply become airborne before settling elsewhere, potentially creating further housekeeping and cleaning requirements. For food manufacturers, this raises an important engineering question: how can material be effectively dislodged from difficult-to-reach areas while also being collected in a controlled manner? This was the challenge faced by the engineering team at Warburtons’ Ilkeston bakery, where crumb and flour deposits were accumulating around conveyors and production equipment. Working with Patrick Pritchett, Sales Manager at BVC (British Vacuum Cleaners), part of Quirepace Ltd, the bakery explored an alternative approach that could reduce reliance on high-pressure airlines for routine cleaning.

Moving from blowing to controlled collection According to Patrick, the problem is familiar across the bakery sector.

PECM Issue 82

The wider lesson is that industrial cleaning equipment can be engineered around the specific requirements of a production process.

This approach differs from using conventional high-pressure airlines to disperse debris. Instead of simply moving material away from the immediate cleaning area, the objective is to dislodge and collect it as part of the same cleaning operation. For a bakery environment handling flour and other powdered ingredients, this provides a more controlled alternative for tackling deposits in areas that can otherwise be difficult to clean effectively.

“Many bakeries face the same issue. There are always areas around production lines where crumb and flour deposits build up. Operators often turn to compressed air because it is quick, but in many cases it simply moves the material somewhere else rather than removing it completely.”

Applying the approach to bakery production

The challenge is particularly relevant in areas where access is restricted. Conveyor systems, framework and elevated sections of production equipment can make conventional cleaning difficult, encouraging operators to use compressed air to dislodge material.

The applications demonstrate how industrial vacuum equipment can be adapted to address specific production-environment challenges rather than relying on a one-size-fitsall approach.

The alternative is to combine the ability to loosen deposits with a means of collecting them at source. Following a site assessment at Warburtons, BVC proposed a modified version of its ATEX-rated TI60 industrial vacuum system. The system incorporated a dedicated blowing outlet, allowing operators to use controlled, low-pressure airflow to loosen deposits before collecting the material through the vacuum system.

The same type of cleaning challenge is not unique to Warburtons. Similar systems have also been supplied to Fine Lady Bakeries, where crumb and flour dust accumulation presented comparable cleaning requirements.

In this case, the requirement was not simply for a more powerful vacuum. The engineering challenge was to provide operators with a practical way of loosening material in confined or awkward locations while maintaining effective collection. That distinction is important in food manufacturing environments, where cleaning forms part of the wider production and hygiene strategy.

Cleaning as part of the production process Effective housekeeping is essential in a modern food manufacturing

environment, but cleaning methods themselves can have an impact on how easily a production area can be maintained. If material is blown from one location to another, operators may simply be transferring the cleaning problem elsewhere. By contrast, a vacuum-based approach allows material to be collected and removed from the production environment rather than deliberately dispersing it. As bakery production becomes increasingly automated and equipment layouts become more complex, access to every part of a production line can also become more challenging. This makes the selection of appropriate cleaning

equipment an increasingly important consideration. For Warburtons, the modified TI60 provided an alternative approach to dealing with crumb and flour deposits around production equipment, combining controlled air movement with vacuum collection. The wider lesson is that industrial cleaning equipment can be engineered around the specific requirements of a production process. Rather than accepting compressed air as the default solution for difficult-to-reach deposits, manufacturers can assess whether dislodging and collecting material within the same operation offers a more controlled approach.

For food manufacturers looking to improve cleaning practices, reduce the dispersal of dust and debris and make difficult areas easier to maintain, vacuum technology can form an important part of that process. BVC Quirepace provides industrial vacuum solutions for food manufacturing applications and offers on-site demonstrations of its equipment at facilities across the UK. As a special offer to readers of Engineering & Manufacturing, BVC Quirepace is offering 10% off. Simply mention that you saw this article in Engineering & Manufacturing when contacting the BVC team to claim the discount.

For further information, contact BVC on 023 9260 3700 or email sales@quirepace.co.uk. Issue 82 PECM

EDITOR’S CHOICE

ISOLATION & LEAKAGE CURRENT IDEAL POWER

The hidden factors behind safer power supply design Looking beyond voltage and power

benefits extend much further. Equipment used in pharmaceutical processing, laboratory instrumentation, analytical systems, portable test equipment and precision sensing all benefit from the same disciplined approach to isolation and leakage current.

Power supply selection often centres on output voltage, efficiency and package size. Yet many certification delays and field reliability issues originate from specifications that receive far less attention: isolation and leakage current. These characteristics directly influence electrical safety, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and signal integrity. Whether you’re designing medical equipment, industrial instrumentation or portable test systems, overlooking them can result in failed compliance testing, increased electrical noise or costly design revisions late in development. Medical devices provide a useful benchmark because they are subject to some of the industry’s most demanding electrical safety standards. A power module that meets these requirements demonstrates the level of testing and validation needed for applications where safety cannot be compromised.

Why reinforced isolation matters Reinforced isolation is far more than a figure on a datasheet. It provides a single insulation system capable of protecting users from electric shock without relying on additional insulation barriers. At the same time, it electrically separates input and output circuits, helping to minimise the transfer of noise, transients and unwanted interference. The 4168DW10-M Series from Yuan Dean demonstrates this approach with 5,000VAC reinforced isolation, rated for 250VAC working voltage. The 10W DC-DC converter

is approved to EN 60601-1-2 for medical EMC requirements and offers a 4:1 input voltage range, single and dual regulated outputs, operating temperatures from -40°C to +82°C, and efficiencies of up to 85%. These approvals and specifications provide evidence of a design developed for demanding environments rather than simply achieving a particular power output.

The importance of low leakage current Leakage current is equally significant. Excessive leakage can introduce unwanted electrical noise, reduce measurement accuracy and create problems during compliance testing. In medical equipment, controlling leakage current is essential for patient safety. In industrial systems, it protects signal integrity and helps maintain consistent performance in sensitive analogue circuits. The 4168DW10-M Series delivers less than 2µA leakage current, making it suitable for applications where electrical performance and user safety are equally important.

Benefits beyond medical applications Although these specifications are driven by medical standards, the

Selecting a power module with proven medical-grade performance can reduce development risk, improve EMC performance and increase confidence during product certification, even where medical approval is not a requirement.

What to check when specifying a power module When selecting a DC-DC converter for safety-critical or signal-sensitive equipment, don’t focus solely on output power and efficiency. Check the isolation voltage, insulation rating, leakage current, recognised safety approvals, EMC compliance and operating environment. These factors often determine how smoothly a product progresses through testing and into production.

Find the right solution from the start The 4168DW10-M Series demonstrates how reinforced 5,000VAC isolation, sub-2µA leakage current and recognised medical approvals can contribute to safer, more reliable equipment across a wide range of industries. If you’re specifying a power solution for a new design, Ideal Power can help you identify the most suitable PSU for your application, providing technical guidance, certification support and reliable supply from specification through to production.

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

PECM Issue 82

Specify Safer Designs from the Start

Designed for Compliance. Built for Reliability. The right power module is about more than output voltage. Ideal Power helps OEMs specify certified power solutions that support compliance, improve reliability and reduce design risk.

Explore our Power Solutions

Technical Expertise • Certified Products • Reliable Supply

Speak to our team at www.idealpower.co.uk or call us on 01733 309865

delivers: greater capacity, shorter lead times, EDITOR’S component CHOICE competitive costs, and confidence in the supply chain

relationships now extend beyond 30 years. Maintaining relationships for that length of time means continually investing as well as improving and planning beyond the next order.

ENGINEERING FOR GROWTH

That’s the thinking behind C&M Precision’s latest investment in a Citizen M532 LFV multi-axis sliding-head lathe, taking Our customers don’tour buy the CNC machines. We do. in manufacturing technology to more than Investing Today. Deliveringinvestment Now. Ready for Tomorrow.They buy the components their business depends on. £1 million over the past three years.

C&M PRECISION LTD

For manufacturers, the real value of investment in new technology isn’t the machine itself. It’s what that investment delivers:

The new M532 increases our ability to manufacture increasingly complex components in a single cycle, completing more operations in one setup and reducing additional handling, labour and machining time. Across production runs of thousands of components, those efficiencies matter.

• Greater capacity • Shorter lead times • Competitive component costs • Confidence in the supply chain Investment at C&M isn’t simply a response to today’s order book. Some C&M customer relationships now extend beyond 30 years. Maintaining relationships for that length of time means continually investing as well as improving and planning beyond the next order. That’s the thinking behind C&M Precision’s latest investment in a Citizen M532 LFV multi-axis slidinghead lathe, taking our investment in manufacturing technology to more than £1 million over the past three years. Our customers don’t buy the CNC machines. We do. The new M532 increases our ability to manufacture increasingly complex components in a single cycle, completing more operations in one setup and reducing additional handling, labour and machining time. Across production runs of thousands of components, those efficiencies matter. Many of our customers operate demanding production schedules of their own. A relatively small

If there is a better way of making our customers’ parts tomorrow than there is today, I want us to have it.

PECM Issue 82

That’s why we demand.

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precision component arriving late can interrupt a much larger production process, making reliability and capacity every bit as important as the component itself. That’s why we invest ahead of demand. Managing Director John Cable first saw the Citizen flagship M532 being manufactured during a factory visit to Citizen in Japan and immediately recognised how its capability could support C&M’s customers in the years to come. The recent £300,000 (approx) investment strengthens our manufacturing capability that has been built over more than three decades. It provides additional capacity for existing work while

giving our engineering team greater tomorrow than there is today, I want us flexibility to take on more demanding John Cable, MD components and future projects. Advanced technology, however, is only one part of manufacturing reliability. It has to sit alongside experienced engineers, robust processes, intensive and continuous quality control and an understanding of each of our customer’s requirements. Procurement and sourcing teams aren’t choosing a CNC machine when they place an order with C&M. They’re choosing a manufacturing partner they trust to deliver the right component, to specification, at the agreed cost and when their production schedule needs it.

For further information, please visit onehitcnc.com | office@onehitcnc.com

Many of our cu operate deman production sch own. A relative precision comp late can interru larger productio making reliabili every bit as imp component itse

THE RIGHT MACHINERY. THE RIGHT CAPABILITY. READY WHEN OUR CUSTOMERS NEED IT.

Investing today. Ready for tomorrow.

onehitcnc.com

office@onehitcnc.com

EDITOR’S CHOICE

GRID UPGRADE DRIVES GROWTH PP CONTROL & AUTOMATION

Grid expansion electrifies PP C&A’s move into the energy market with £20m order haul One of the UK’s leading strategic manufacturing specialists is tapping into the UK’s unprecedented investment in upgrading the electricity grid.

However, a significant investment programme does not automatically produce additional skilled people, production space, test capability or experienced suppliers.

PP Control & Automation (PP C&A), which has more than five decades of experience building complex control systems and electrical assemblies, has won £20m of orders from clients looking for greater flexibility and the ability to scale up production to meet demand.

Grid projects rarely arrive in a smooth and predictable sequence. Multiple substations, renewable developments, storage schemes and industrial connections may progress simultaneously, creating peaks in demand across the same specialist supply chain.

The Cheslyn Hay-based firm is working in partnership with civil and structural engineering partners to make protection and control panels, SCADA and RTU systems, LVAC and DC battery charger panels, switchgear controls and decentralised energy and storage. “Our approach is intended to reduce unnecessary handovers, improve buildability and give project teams access to scalable manufacturing capacity when internal or incumbent resources are under pressure,” explained Richard Spears, Industrial Markets Specialist at PP C&A. “It also allows engineering and manufacturing activities to progress in parallel, helping reduce delays without compromising the quality and compliance expected from critical infrastructure. “The grid upgrade represents an enormous opportunity for the energy sector and the wider UK economy, but investment targets will ultimately be judged by what is successfully built and connected. That’s where we aim to come into our own and it appears the market

PECM Issue 82

Richard Spears, Industrial Markets Specialist at PP C&A.

is responding to our expertise, with £20m of energy projects currently underway at PP C&A.” Britain’s electricity grid is entering one of the most significant periods of expansion and modernisation in its history Over £77 billion is being spent between Ofgem, National Grid, SP Energy Networks and SSEN Transmissions on electricity transmission projects, new major substations and hundreds of kilometres of upgraded or replaced lines.

Richard picked up the story: “Expanding permanent internal capacity may be expensive, slow and difficult to justify where project volumes fluctuate. Spreading work across multiple smaller suppliers can add interfaces, inconsistency and coordination risk. “A more resilient model is to develop long-term relationships with manufacturing partners that can add scalable capacity around the core project team. It is this positioning that has secured PP

Control & Automation a considerable share of energy sector work and it is growing.” He went on to add: “Importantly, this doesn’t mean outsourcing responsibility. The basis for the relationship is centred on creating a more integrated delivery structure in which design, procurement, manufacture, assembly, testing and documentation are considered together.

“The grid upgrade represents an enormous opportunity for the energy sector and the wider UK economy.

PP Control & Automation, which employs over 200 people at its state-of-the-art facility in the West Midlands, is a strategic outsourcing partner for many of the world’s leading machine builders and OEMs, providing module or assembly-based, part or full machine build production capabilities.

“Standardisation and modularisation can also play an important role. Where repeatable architectures, approved components and defined build standards can be established, project teams can reduce engineering duplication, improve consistency and make it easier to manufacture at scale. “Protection and control may be largely hidden from public view, but it will be central to whether Britain’s grid ambitions move from an ambitious vision to operational reality.” For more information, please visit www.ppcanda.com or follow the company across its social media channels. Issue 82 PECM

EDITOR’S CHOICE

SMARTER WIRE ROUTING PANDUIT

Wire management matters in safer, smarter food processing In food processing, the most visible advances are often robotics, inspection systems, high-speed packaging lines and data-led production controls. Yet the reliability of each depends on a less visible foundation: the physical infrastructure that keeps power, control and communications cables organised, protected and accessible.

maintenance intervention can all challenge standard components. Panduit’s stainless steel tie and strapping options, abrasion protection, corrugated loom tubing and sleeving solutions reflect a practical principle: products should be selected for the operating environment, not simply the size of the cable bundle. A cable may be electrically connected, but if it is exposed, difficult to inspect or vulnerable to damage, it remains a production risk.

In plants shaped by washdowns, temperature variation, product changeovers and continuous operation, wire management can no longer be treated as a back-ofpanel detail. It is part of the wider process engineering conversation around hygiene, operator safety, maintenance efficiency and production uptime. Poorly routed cables can create hardto-clean ledges, strain points, abrasion risks and avoidable downtime when a line needs to be inspected, modified or repaired. A disciplined cable management strategy, by contrast, supports sanitation, simplifies inspection and gives engineering and maintenance teams a safer, clearer environment in which to work. This is where Panduit’s broad wire management, protection and routing portfolio supports food and beverage manufacturers. Its solutions include wiring duct, cable clips and supports, cable sleeves, tubing, wraps, wire basket tray systems, cable ties, mounts and accessories. That breadth matters because process plants are rarely single-environment facilities. A control cabinet, wet processing area, overhead cable run and packaging line may each require different materials, installation methods and levels of protection.

The strongest case for improved wire management is contamination prevention. Food processors already apply strict controls around metal detection, hygienic zoning and foreign material risk on the product side of the operation. The same thinking should apply to the infrastructure around the line. Panduit’s metal-detectable and antimicrobial cable ties and mounts are designed for hygienecritical environments, where traceability and contamination control are essential. Used appropriately, they provide another layer of defence when fastening, identifying and securing cable bundles near production areas. Durability is equally important. Cleaning chemicals, moisture, vibration, heat, cold and frequent

Inside control panels, wiring duct supports reliability and serviceability. Well-organised conductors reduce clutter, make terminations easier to identify and help technicians work faster under production pressure. As food plants become more automated, this balance between compact layouts and long-term maintainability will become increasingly important. Overhead routing also deserves attention. As processors add sensors, vision systems, Ethernet-connected equipment and data acquisition points, cable pathways can quickly become congested. Wire basket tray systems and conduit-support products help create structured routes that are easier to expand, inspect and modify, especially during brownfield upgrades. Better wire management is not housekeeping. It is a quiet enabler of safer, cleaner and more reliable food production. For Panduit, the value lies in treating these components as part of robust physical infrastructure, helping process engineers design plants that are easier to maintain, audit and adapt.

For further information, please visit www.panduit.com

PECM Issue 82

The Wire Management Standard Panel Builders Trust Most

Jack Caveney filed his first Wiring Duct patent in 1955, and Panduit has continuously innovated Wiring Duct for 70+ years. Panduit wiring duct is the top choice in the market for efficiently organizing and protecting wires and cables.

f Faster panel installation f Secure, vibration‑resistant covers f Protects wiring during routing

For more information, visit panduit.com/wiring-duct

™

EDITOR’S CHOICE

MICROPILOT FMR6XB FAMILY ENDRESS+HAUSER

Level measurement in the digital age Simpler commissioning and maintenance

Today’s process plant operators increasingly expect more from their instrumentation, with functional safety, predictive maintenance and digital communications capabilities becoming as important as measurement accuracy.

Using Bluetooth connectivity and the SmartBlue app, engineers can commission, configure and diagnose instruments wirelessly from a safe location, even when devices are installed in difficult-to-access locations. This reduces the need to work at height or enter hazardous areas simply to perform routine configuration tasks.

Endress+Hauser’s Micropilot FMR6xB family of radar level sensors combines proven measurement technology with enhanced connectivity, simplified operation and integrated diagnostics designed for the modern era.

Ready for digitalisation Alongside established 4–20 mA HART and PROFIBUS communication, the new generation radar family forms part of Endress+Hauser’s comprehensive Ethernet-APL portfolio. Ethernet-APL provides faster access to device parameters, improved remote configuration and more informative diagnostic data. It also simplifies integration with asset management operational performance systems, allowing maintenance teams to identify developing problems before they affect production.

One platform for multiple industries The FMR6xB family covers a broad spectrum of industrial applications from liquid storage tanks and demanding chemical processes to hygienic installations and bulk solids measurement. For operators managing multiple sites or diverse production processes, this can help simplify training, commissioning and life cycle maintenance. Across the range, 80 GHz radar technology improves measurement performance even in confined installations and vessels containing internal obstructions.

Safety designed into every stage Safety has been integrated into the entire user experience. Developed in accordance with IEC 61508, the Micropilot FMR6xB family can be deployed in SIL 2 or SIL 3 circuits. Guided commissioning and prooftest wizards minimise systematic errors by taking users through each step in a structured sequence, making commissioning faster and reducing training requirements.

The inclusion of Heartbeat Technology also supports safety by enabling traceable verification of instrument performance without interrupting the process. Verification can typically be completed in just a few minutes while the instrument remains operational. Heartbeat Technology also identifies process conditions such as foam formation or product build-up that could affect measurement reliability, supporting predictive maintenance strategies and reducing unplanned shutdowns.

Building the connected plant Modern instrumentation must deliver more than dependable measurements. By combining proven radar measurement performance with integrated diagnostics, functional safety capabilities and modern digital communications, the Micropilot FMR6xB family can help operators address operational requirements – now and into the future. For more information, please visit Endress.com/radar Endress+Hauser Ltd, Floats Road, Manchester M23 9NF

Tel. +44 161 286 5000 / info.uk@endress.com / Endress.com/radar

PECM Issue 82

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Electrical, Instrumentation, Control and Cyber Security in Industrial Engineering • 'By Industry, For Industry’, practical guidance for everyday and irregular situations and tasks • Readily accessible for all in the industry – wherever they are, whatever time they have • E-learning for continuing professional development • Webinars and seminars for knowledge sharing and professional networking Selection of specialist publications and more resources including FREE task and procedure checklists

Code of practice for calibration and validation of process analysers

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Alarm systems: Guide to design, management, and procurement

Control rooms: Guide to specification, design, commissioning and operation

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Issue 82 PECM

EDITOR’S CHOICE

ERP 2026: KNOW YOUR ROLE AXAIR FANS UK LTD

ERP 2026 is here. Am I the fan manufacturer now?   Andrew Jones, Technical Director at Axair Fans, on the one question that actually matters with ERP 2026, and what to do once you’ve answered it. If you’ve read anything about ERP 2026 and come away more confused than when you started, this one’s for you. Most articles explain the legislation. This one explains the only question most people are actually asking and need answered: “Who is legally responsible for the fan? Am I the fan manufacturer now, and am I liable for the CE declaration before I place my fan on the market?”   Let’s make it simple to understand the context. When your fan arrived from your supplier, did it come as one complete, ready-built unit? Motor, impeller and casing all assembled and tested as a single product? Like a modular plug fan? Or did you buy some of the parts, a motor and impeller for example, and build the rest of it yourself before it went into the marketplace? Like the fan housing? If it arrived complete and you installed it as it came, for example you buy a compliant modular EC plug fan (motor, impeller and stator) and install it into an AHU, you can stop worrying. The compliance responsibility under ERP 2026 sits with whoever built and tested the complete fan, your manufacturing partner, and nothing changes for you because the product data that was declared at the point of CE declaration matches the fan placed in the marketplace. If you complete the fan assembly yourself after buying some of it

the build. So, the honest, practical question to ask yourself today is simply, do I have a Declaration of Conformity for this fan, signed by me or my business? If yes, you’re in good shape. If you’re not sure, or the answer’s no, that’s not a crisis, it’s just something worth sorting out before it becomes one.

We’ve built our reputation on technical support over the last 35 years, so we know what we’re doing. from a supplier, say a motor and impeller without the housing, then in many cases you’ll be considered the manufacturer for the purposes of applying the regulation. Not Axair. Not Rosenberg. You. You created a product that will be placed on the market, so you’re responsible for the new product’s performance data and CE declaration. Think about it; the parameters that were tested initially have now changed.   I know that sounds alarming, so let me be clear about what it means, because it’s less frightening than it sounds. If you’re the manufacturer, your responsibilities are straightforward: keep a technical file showing the fan meets the efficiency rules, and issue and sign a Declaration of Conformity, that part can’t come from us or the manufacturer. It has to come from whoever finished

And that’s exactly where we come in. We’ve created a dedicated ERP resource online featuring a short set of questions that takes you through your setup quickly and gives you a straight answer on whether you’re the manufacturer. But honestly, the fastest route for most people is just talking to us directly. We’ve built our reputation on technical support over the last 35 years, so we know what we’re doing. If any of this applies to you, here’s what I’d suggest. Call our technical team on 01782 349 430, or email industrial@axair-fans.co.uk, and ask for an ERP audit of your current fan set, even if it’s not from us. We’ll either tell you straightaway that you’re fine, or we’ll book in a proper meeting and help you with as much as you need. That’s not us requesting a sales call and there’s no charge for the conversation. It’s the part of this job we’re really good at, sitting down with a customer, working through the detail, and telling them straight where they stand.   ERP 2026 doesn’t ask whether you’ve read the legislation. It asks whether you’re the manufacturer. It’s time to get that bit cleared up.

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

PECM Issue 82

ERP 2026 SUPPORT THAT STANDS UP ERP 2026 IS HERE, ARE YOU READY? From 24 July 2026, an update to the EU 2024/1834 Ecodesign Directive Regulation changes the minimum efficiency and liability rules for fans between 125W and 500kW. It’s time to work with an industrial fan supplier that can help you to understand the rules, prepare for the next deadline and transition easily. Are you ready?

REAL ENGINEERING EXPERTISE THAT STANDS UP.

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industrial@axair-fans.co.uk

01782 349 430

EDITOR’S CHOICE

AERZEN PROCESS GAS GMBH AERZEN

Process gas expertise from a single source Aerzen Process Gas GmbH is a wholly-owned subsidiary of AERZEN and the specialist for the conveying and compression of process gases within the AERZEN Group. The company supports operators and system manufacturers with customised engineering and delivers process gas solutions for industrial applications – ranging from state-ofthe-art compressor technology to integrated, turnkey plant systems. Process gas compressors are a key technology in many industrial processes which place high requirements on availability, efficiency and process stability. As an experienced industry partner, AERZEN has a thorough understanding of the challenges specific to each application and provides customer-specific system solutions for virtually all process gases, gaseous mixtures, applications and sectors. References from around the world attest to their high reliability in demanding fields of application.

Combined expertise in the conveying and compression of process gases Since January 2026, the company has been consolidating its process gas expertise within Aerzen Process Gas GmbH, a whollyowned subsidiary of AERZEN. The integration of Emmerthaler Apparatebau GmbH and GPE Turbo expands the range of services and increases our technological and systems expertise. Whether it’s blowers, compressors or turbochargers, modifications and accessories, the manufacture of

reservoirs, piping and silencers or packages: Aerzen Process Gas GmbH offers all of these from a single source. This combined expertise and high level of innovation reduces interface complexity, enables the end-to-end implementation of complex plant solutions and thus shortens project lead times. All solutions are tailored individually to the specific process conditions. The credo: it’s not the machine that determines the process - it’s the process that determines the machine.

Portfolio for the process gas industry AERZEN blowers, compressors and turbochargers bring together knowhow and experience gained from more than 160 years of technological expertise. They stand for reliable product quality, efficiency and process reliability, as well as reduced capital and operating costs. The product range of Aerzen Process Gas GmbH comprises rotary piston, screw and turbine technology for pressures of up to 300 bar and volume flows of up to 350,000 m³/h. The positive displacement blowers achieve a differential pressure of 2 bar at a maximal working pressure of 25 bar a, as well as volume flows of up to 104,000 m³/h. The screw

compressors cover pressures up to 25 bar and volume flows up to 75,000 m³/h. The turbo compressors are suitable for pressures of up to 300 bar and volume flows of up to 350,000 m³/h. They are available in a wide variety of types of construction, sizes and special designs for almost all gases, and are used in both onshore and offshore applications. All relevant international rules, building regulations or specifications of various industries or acceptance organisations are complied with.

Optimised availability for the most demanding industrial applications AERZEN process gas machines are rated for continuous operation and will run for decades with minimal maintenance costs. They are at home in all key industrial applications and ensure reliability and cost-effective production processes. Typical applications include compression, conveying, recirculation and recovery of process gases and gaseous mixtures, as well as pressure boosting, for example in the chemical and petrochemical industries, in refineries, coking plants and steelworks, in power generation, industrial gas production, the refrigeration industry, helium cooling and liquefaction, and in oil and gas transport.

Expertise in process gas applications Whether it’s optimisation, modernisation or new system construction: Aerzen Process Gas GmbH embodies the highest level of expertise in process gas technology and sets the standard in demanding industrial applications.

For further information, please visit www.aerzen.com

PECM Issue 82

EDITOR’S CHOICE

HMA 2A Up to 30:1 turndown

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Issue 82 PECM

EDITOR’S CHOICE

PRECISION YOU CAN TRUST QCT

QCT delivering complete CMM solutions access to replacement components help customers minimise costly downtime and maintain production continuity.

In modern manufacturing, precision is more than a requirement – it is fundamental to quality, productivity and customer confidence. For businesses looking to maintain the highest standards of dimensional accuracy, Quality Control Technology Ltd (QCT) provides a comprehensive range of Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) solutions backed by decades of specialist industry knowledge. Established in 1992, QCT has developed from a dedicated measuring machine service company into one of the UK’s leading CMM specialists. Today, the company offers an extensive selection of new and fully refurbished CMMs alongside calibration, servicing, repairs, software, training and subcontract inspection services. At the heart of QCT’s offering is its ability to provide customers with a complete solution. Rather than simply supplying measuring equipment, the experienced team works closely with manufacturers to understand their individual inspection requirements and recommend machinery and technology suited to their processes. QCT supplies both new and refurbished CMMs in a variety of sizes and control configurations. Its new machine portfolio includes the Quantum range, while its continually changing refurbished stock provides manufacturers with access to established CMM technology supported by QCT’s engineering expertise. New and refurbished machines are supplied with a oneyear warranty, providing additional

For businesses without the requirement or capacity for their own permanent CMM installation, QCT also provides subcontract inspection. Components can be inspected within a quality-regulated 20°C environment by experienced inspection engineers, providing manufacturers with flexible access to precision measurement expertise.

At the heart of QCT’s offering is its ability to provide customers with a complete solution. reassurance for customers investing in their inspection capabilities. Support continues long after installation. QCT provides comprehensive servicing, repair and calibration packages designed to keep precision measuring equipment operating efficiently and accurately. Its capabilities include UKAS-accredited calibration to ISO 10360-2, an important consideration for manufacturers operating within demanding sectors where traceability, quality assurance and measurement confidence are essential.

From selecting and installing a CMM through to software, training, calibration and ongoing technical support, QCT offers manufacturers a genuine one-stop approach to dimensional measurement. With precision manufacturing continuing to demand ever tighter tolerances, QCT combines proven engineering knowledge with modern measurement technology to help manufacturers achieve something invaluable: confidence in every measurement. Quality Control Technology Ltd Westside Park, Belmore Way, Derby, DE21 7AZ Tel: 01332 572882 Email: sales@qctderby.co.uk

The company can also service and calibrate existing CMM equipment, with experienced engineers supporting a wide variety of machine manufacturers. Remote diagnostics, breakdown support and

For further information, please visit Web: cmmsales.co.uk

PECM Issue 82

ONE OF THE UKs UKs LARGEST STOCKISTS OF QUALITY NEW & FULLY REFURBISHED CMMs CMMs

Quality Control Technology are a one stop solution for all your business CMM requirements, we have the largest stock of New and Refurbished CMM’s in the UK, with over 30 years’ experience of CMM service, calibration and repair. New CMMs

The ‘Quantum 4 CMM Range’ is built and designed at QCT’s UK works and is available in a variety of standard frame sizes, other sizes can be built on request. All CMM’s are supplied with our bespoke software and interfaces. The Quantum 4 offers outstanding build quality and cost to performance ratio.

New Ace Portable Inspection Arms

The ACE arm offers portable measuring capability for the largest of projects as well as the flexibility to take the measuring machine to the object. Like our Quantum range, the Ace measuring arm offers exceptional quality and is the perfect system for contact and noncontact 3D measurements with the addition of the laser scanning options.

Refurbished CMMs

At QCT we only select high quality used machines, completely strip and overhaul them. Each used machine is rigorously tested, with all pneumatic pipes replaced, air bearings removed, cleaned, serviced & refitted. Electronics are tested & unsupported items are replaced with new. The original interface and controller are replaced with QCT’s own along with a new computer and operating system. QCT refurbished machines are supplied as a full turnkey package, fully backed with a comprehensive warranty. Re-using the frame of a pre-used CMM means that fewer resources are required to produce them, reducing their carbon footprint.

Subcontract CMM Inspection

CMM Calibration to UKAS ISO 10360

CMM Service & Repair

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QUALITY CONTROL TECHNOLOGY LIMITED Westside Park l Belmore Way l Derby l DE21 7AZ

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QCT also offers an ongoing calibration and service contract package to ensure your CMM is operating at its optimum.

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1992

EDITOR’S CHOICE

SEAWATER PUMP UPGRADE NORTH RIDGE PUMPS

Engineering reliable seawater intake systems for desalination plants On this recent project, the management team at a desalination plant contacted us after two of their intake pumps failed at a critical time. The plant had recently been operating at full capacity for a while because of abnormally low rainfall combined with higher than average seasonal temperatures. The result was that reservoir levels were low and their ageing pumps were constantly in operation. In fact, these pumps were over 25 years old and had reached the end of their useful working life, which was consistently providing a steady flow of desalinated water at over 300M³H above 6 bar. After speaking to the client, our job was to replace these pumps with alternatives which offered the best combination of suitable pump technology, performance and price.

What did we specify for our client? For this application, we considered all the parameters and specified two of our proven 12” submersible borehole pumps. This is a robust design of multistage submersible pumps easily capable of achieving medium capacities and high pressure thanks to the unique diffuser and impeller design. Due to the highly advanced micro casting technology, the whole range is long lasting, highly efficient and easy to maintain. They will be sent the plant where they will be used for seawater intake

Variable speed operation for greater flexibility as part of the desalination process. The pumps offer superior efficiency operating between 77% and 81% efficiency, with a sand tolerance of 50g/M³. A wide variety of materials are available for use in seawater. However, we chose these pumps as they’re made completely from duplex stainless steel. What’s more, an important design feature of our borehole pumps is the thrust bearing which supports axial loads, reduces axial movement and wear on the pressure-producing parts. Manufactured in PTFE and filled with 25% carbon/graphite, this is a high-performance engineering plastic that enhances PTFE’s wear resistance, compression strength and stability, making it perfect for seals and bearings in heavy use applications. It’s also a low-friction material which will minimise contact wear with the rotating impeller.

We fitted the seawater intake pumps with 92Kw motors with insulated windings. This would make sure that the pumps are suitable for variable speed operation as pump speed is often altered to match the required capacity. Moreover, unlike other submersible borehole pumps the external cables are not spliced. With connections only required at the motor entry point and control panel, this reduces the chance of motor cable failure and short circuits taking place. The motors are rewindable as standard and filled with oil for enhanced cooling, lubrication and durability, or alternatively, with a water/glycol mixture for sensitive locations requiring environmental compliance. If you have an application requiring the transfer, circulation or distribution of seawater, and need expert, impartial help and advice, speak to North Ridge Pumps today to see how we can help.

For further information, please visit www.northridgepumps.com

PECM Issue 82

EDITOR’S CHOICE

The industrial graphics, label and nameplate specialists

Vinyl Cut Decals

Light Safety Signage

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Issue 82 PECM

EDITOR’S CHOICE

THE MANUFACTURING CHALLENGE ALEXANDER TECHNOLOGIES

In a growing market sector, UAV manufacturers are facing a common challenge as they mature The nature of the UAV application is such that even between very similar looking products, the actual performance and features can vary greatly. The battery is a key factor that determines how the product performs against the application requirements, and many UAV manufacturers choose to design and develop battery systems in-house during early-stage development. In recent years, the commercial UAV market has rapidly developed both in terms of technology and demand. This presents a double-edged challenge for UAV manufacturers as they reach commercial maturity. At the point where repeat production in high quantities is needed, UAV manufacturers need the battery pack to do more than work technically; it must be manufacturable, testable, repeatable, traceable and supported by a reliable supply chain.

When in-house design reaches its limits One UK-based UAV manufacturer had strong expertise within its engineering team, so had always treated battery packs as a part of the aircraft design process. The inhouse approach allowed the team to make changes as each platform developed and ensured the battery design met the specific requirements of their UAV platforms. In the early days, the manufacturer worked with electronics manufacturing companies to build the battery cell packs which were then assembled elsewhere. As the company expanded its portfolio of uncrewed aerial systems

PECM Issue 82

for infrastructure inspection and public safety, it began looking for external partners to further support product development and help prepare key parts for volume manufacture. A senior project manager at the British UAV/UAS manufacturer said: “We needed feedback from a battery manufacturer on how the packs would translate into production at higher quantities. Manufacturability became an important topic.”

Designing for manufacture It is common within new product development, to find designs that had been suited to lower quantities are difficult to commercialise. Problems can include high labour utilisation, complex assembly processes, poor repeatability, unsuitable production testing, or hard-to-source components. This is particularly true within battery pack production which relies on multiple electronic and mechanical processes

as well as a complicated supply chain. Managing several battery-related suppliers can also add complexity for UAV manufacturers already managing the wider aircraft supply chain. A specialist battery manufacturer can help assess availability, alternatives and sourcing risk earlier in the design process. To support the next phase of their development, the UAV manufacturer looked for a UK battery partner with experience in volume manufacturing. The senior project manager said: “From our first introductions with Alexander Battery Technologies, we could tell the team knew what they were talking about. For example, we were talking directly with engineers from the outset, and they didn’t just take our design choices at face value. They wanted to make sure that what

we had specified was used correctly, efficiently and safely as we moved forward.” Mark Rutherford, CEO at Alexander Battery Technologies (ABT) said the project reflected a common challenge for manufacturers moving from development to higher-volume production. He said: “The customer came to us with a clear understanding of what its aircraft needed from the battery packs. The next stage was about looking at those designs from a manufacturing, testing and certification point of view.

Testing and validation is a critical stage in the battery pack production line. as quantities increase. For most UAV manufacturers, testing small numbers of packs on a benchtop is sufficient in the early days. However, improved traceability and speed of testing become critical at industrial volumes.

“That is where a specialist battery manufacturer can add value. We focus on working with OEMs to test the assumptions in their design, identifying what needs to change before production and making sure the final pack can be built and tested consistently.”

Mr Rutherford said: “Testing and validation is a critical stage in the battery pack production line. Here, we are validating that our control plans and assembly processes have worked as expected. Testing verifies that the finished packs are safe and operating within specification, and it becomes part of the traceable product history record.”

Testing, traceability and production control

A maturity milestone for UAV manufacturers

The scope of the UAV battery project with ABT also included meeting the global UN38.3 safety standard required to transport lithium-ion batteries.

The British UAV manufacturer and ABT are now working on three battery projects together. The project manager said: “We are getting technical feedback that we trust. The first project showed us that Alexander Battery Technologies was the right company to work with, which is why the relationship has grown from there.”

Testing to the standard is rigorous and proves that cells and battery packs can withstand extreme environmental, mechanical and electrical stresses, and therefore are safe to ship.

The trend for continued growth and sudden increases in demand within the UAV sector mean it’s likely that UAV manufacturers will reach the point of maturity where battery development progresses from being a design problem into a manufacturing, testing and supply problem. At this point, the manufacturers best placed to scale will be those that address supply, design, validation and production together from an earlier stage. A specialist battery pack manufacturer can draw on years of experience covering technical, safety and supply disciplines that are specific to battery pack manufacturing at commercial volumes. For UAV manufacturers moving from low-volume development to repeat production, the battery pack cannot be treated as a finished design simply because it works in the aircraft. It must also be ready to manufacture, test, trace and supply consistently as demand grows. Addressing these issues earlier can reduce avoidable redesign, protect lead times and give manufacturers more control over cost and product availability as demand increases. Alexander Battery Technologies is a UK-based battery pack manufacturer supporting custom design development, and build-toprint programmes.

The senior project manager for the UAV manufacturer said: “The test lab is timely and expensive, so we don’t want to go into that testing without a high level of confidence beforehand. “We understood the electronic safety requirements but needed more support around mechanical shock and vibration testing. Understanding it from a design perspective means that what we submit has a very good chance of passing the requirements.” Aside from testing for UN38.3 requirements, production line testing can also become a bottleneck For more information visit www.alexandertechnologies.com Issue 82 PECM

EDITOR’S CHOICE

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PECM Issue 82

One Radar Family. Hundreds of Applications. Less complexity. More confidence. The Micropilot family delivers secure connectivity, fast commissioning, and traceable verification across a wide range of applications. Supported by Endress+Hauser expertise, it provides a consistent approach from storage to process.

Discover the Micropilot family now. www.uk.endress.com

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EDITOR’S CHOICE

SMART FOOD INSPECTION FORTRESS TECHNOLOGY

Increase metal detection productivity at PPMA 2026 On Stand E36, Fortress Technology will present a compact, productive and compliant food production microcosm. See four interconnected, high performance food metal detectors working together, rejecting contaminated products, sharing data and weighing packages in total synergy. Showcased for the first time at a UK exhibition, the Raptor Tritek is a 3-in-1 combination system that features metal detection, checkweighing and label inspection vision technologies in a single easy-clean frame. Designed to improve TCO and OEE, it ensures food manufacturers maintain rigorous food safety compliance all-day-long, by prioritising metal detection on every pack. All in the smallest possible inspection footprint. Demonstrating the inspection of large format applications weighing up to 25kg is the Fortress Technology Big Bag Combination System. Integrating metal detection and case weighing in one unit, this easy-touse and ergonomic system handles bulky products effortlessly without slowing production lines. The system on show measures less than 1.7 metres without its heavy-duty reject conveyor (approx. 2.5 metres with). Rather than requiring separate machines for each stage of the inspection process, these intelligent Metal Detector/Checkweighing Combination systems can work side by side and talk seamlessly with each other using Industry 4.0 connectivity and automated data reporting. This helps to streamline

quality control, improve user safety and minimise human errors. A standalone Stealth Metal Detector will demonstrate how all manufacturers can improve inspection operational efficiency and productivity at the final packaging stage. Connecting seamlessly to existing upstream and downstream equipment, see how the Stealth Metal Detector can be built to match specific line heights, widths and plant configurations. “The industry is rapidly moving away from fragmented machinery toward cohesive equipment that prioritises productivity and supports operator free running,” explains Fortress Technology’s European Commercial Manager Jodie Curry. Additionally, many processors optimise floor layouts by expanding vertically. Positioning gravity detectors on mezzanine floors increases production profitability per square metre and protects processing equipment from costly damage. This supports processors by reducing total downtime, highlights metal detection expert and industry consultant Mike Bradley.

Engineered specifically for tightly packed production facilities, low ceiling heights and for insertion between product chutes and hoppers, the Fortress Technology Gravity Metal Detector is packed full of useful labour and time saving features. It is specifically built to withstand vibrations and temperature changes without compromising performance and can be supplied to meet hazardous location standards. All four machines can be supplied with Halo Automatic Testing to validate the performance of each metal detector. Replicating the signal disturbance automatically eliminates production downtime and reduces waste and product rework. During PPMA 2026, Fortress Technology will show how it is possible to extract and connect production data from multiple machines together using Contact 4.0. This consolidation not only simplifies data gathering but directly results in faster decision making and a quicker ROI. Visit Stand E36.

The new Fortress Technology Raptor Tritek features metal detection, checkweighing and label inspection to enhance productivity in the smallest footprint.

For further information, please visit www.fortresstechnology.com

PECM Issue 82

SAFETY SYSTEMS & SOLUTIONS FOR THE PACKAGING INDUSTRY For your packaging operations, you need technologies that do more than protect people and machinery. Our industry-focused safety products help boost productivity, maximise machine availability, and keep production moving. From hygienic design requirements to dust explosion protection during the filling and packaging of bulk goods, our specialist systems are designed to support compliance, operational efficiency, and long-term reliability. Speak to our experts today to find out how we can help safeguard your packaging line while improving performance and reducing operational risk. Scan the QR code to download our latest packaging brochure.

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EDITOR’S CHOICE

READY FOR EXTREME CONDITIONS IDS

IDS introduces new IP69K industrial cameras with Sony STARVIS 2 sensors for reliable machine vision in harsh environments When production systems are cleaned using high-pressure jets, operate in dusty environments or are exposed to sub-zero temperatures, particularly robust machine vision solutions are required. The uEye FA series from IDS Imaging Development Systems GmbH has been specifically designed for such demanding environments, featuring IP69K protection. From the end of July, the range will be expanded to include new models equipped with Sony STARVIS 2 rolling shutter sensors, covering resolutions from 2 to 12.5 megapixels. They deliver excellent image quality even in difficult lighting conditions. This provides users with highperformance cameras for a wide range of industrial applications with varying lighting conditions – from manufacturing automation to quality inspection. The new models incorporate sensor variants IMX662 (2 MP), IMX664 (4 MP), IMX675 (5 MP), IMX678 (8 MP) and IMX676 (12.5 MP). All are GigE Vision-compliant, allowing easy integration into existing systems. The Sony STARVIS 2 sensors impress with their exceptional light sensitivity extending into the nearinfrared (NIR) range, very low noise levels and the Clear HDR process for an extended dynamic range. This enables the capture of detailed, sharp images even in demanding environmental conditions. An asynchronous exposure trigger further ensures the sensors are ideally suited for industrial use.

even under high pressure, heavy contamination or temperatures down to –20°C.

The combination of robust hardware and state-ofthe-art sensor technology enables precise image analysis even in challenging environments. The camera hardware itself has also been consistently designed for industrial applications: Thanks to the IP69K-protected housing, lens tube and corresponding cabling, the cameras operate reliably

“The combination of robust hardware and state-of-theart sensor technology enables precise image analysis even in challenging environments,” explains Alexander Klingner, Head of Product Management at IDS. “This provides the foundation for stable and reliable processes in harsh industrial settings.” With this expansion of the uEye FA series, IDS is further strengthening its portfolio of rugged industrial cameras and offering additional high-performance models for factory automation.

Further information: www.en.ids-imaging.com/ueye-fa.html

PECM Issue 82

EDITOR’S CHOICE Advanced Engineering Products and Services for the Manufacturing Industry Experts in Press Protection, Quality Assurance and Productivity • Load Monitoring and Automation Systems for manufacturing equipment • Process monitoring and control for assembly machines • Manufacturing Execution Systems including downtime analysis • Production recording systems • Bespoke control systems • Calibration services • Repair/Maintenance

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Issue 82 PECM

PPMA SHOW PREVIEW

DR KEVIN FONG TO KEYNOTE PPMA SHOW

Dr Kevin Fong announced as first keynote speaker at the PPMA Show® 2026

Organisers of the PPMA Show®, which returns to the NEC, Birmingham in September, have announced the first keynote speaker for the event: Dr Kevin Fong, a doctor and broadcaster who has held prestigious positions with NASA and NHS England. Visitors to the UK’s biggest processing and packaging machinery, robotics and industrial vision event, which takes place from 22–24 September, will have the opportunity to hear from Kevin, who will share insights from his

PECM Issue 82

first-hand experience of high-risk situations in his keynote speech, Leading Through Uncertainty, on the opening day of the show. Drawing on his unique career across medicine, aerospace and emergency response, Kevin will explore how individuals and organisations perform under pressure, make critical decisions in uncertain environments and build resilient, high-performing teams. His experiences offer valuable lessons for manufacturers facing increasingly complex operational

challenges and rapidly changing market conditions. Organised by Automate UK, the PPMA Show® offers valuable insight into innovative technologies, live equipment demonstrations and networking opportunities for professionals from across the manufacturing sector. The event has become one of the industry’s most important annual events, bringing together manufacturers, technology providers and engineering

specialists from across the processing and packaging industries. Alongside hundreds of live machinery demonstrations, visitors can compare the latest equipment, discover emerging technologies and gain practical advice to help improve productivity, efficiency and competitiveness. Scott McKenna, Chief Operating Officer for Automate UK, said: “Every year we promise visitors to the PPMA Show® access to unique expert-led seminars, and we are thrilled that Kevin has agreed to share his extensive knowledge and experience in our first keynote address at the event. “Kevin is best known for his work with NASA’s Human Adaptation

and Countermeasures Office in Houston, Texas, further to which he developed an interest in highrisk, high-reliability teams and the science behind their success or failure. He was subsequently appointed as a National Clinical Adviser to NHS England during the Covid-19 pandemic and continues to fly as an air ambulance emergency doctor. “In addition to these inspirational roles, Kevin is a multi-awardwinning author and broadcaster, currently presenting his BBC Radio 4 series Artificial Human, following the success of his BBC World Service podcast 13 Minutes to the Moon, which focused on NASA’s first Moon landing and the rescue of Apollo 13.

Alongside hundreds of live machinery demonstrations, visitors can compare the latest equipment, discover emerging technologies and gain practical advice to help improve productivity, efficiency and competitiveness. “Needless to say, his keynote speech is going to be exceptional. Kevin will share his unique insight into how teams cope with risk, uncertainty and making decisions under pressure in some of the most intense scenarios imaginable, making his address a must-attend seminar at the event.” Kevin is the first keynote speaker to be announced for this year’s PPMA Show®, with further high-profile speakers set to be revealed over the coming months. Together, they will form part of a comprehensive seminar programme covering the latest trends, technologies and strategic challenges shaping the future of manufacturing, offering visitors practical insight they can take back to their own organisations. Now in its 39th year, the PPMA Show® has established itself as the UK’s leading exhibition for processing and packaging machinery, robotics and industrial vision. More than 350 exhibitors representing over 1,500 brands will showcase cutting-edge technologies designed to improve productivity, reduce costs and help manufacturers futureproof their operations. Visitors will be able to explore solutions spanning processing, packaging, robotics, automation, industrial vision and smart manufacturing, while speaking directly with technical experts about the challenges facing their own production environments. Issue 82 PECM

Kevin is the first keynote speaker to be announced for this year’s PPMA Show®, with further highprofile speakers set to be revealed over the coming months. The event will once again feature its popular Live Demo Theatre, where selected exhibitors will unveil new technologies through live presentations before taking part in daily Innovation Tours. These guided sessions give visitors the opportunity to see equipment operating in real production environments, ask technical questions and gain a deeper understanding of how emerging technologies can be applied within their own manufacturing facilities. Attendance at the PPMA Show® 2026 is free, providing

manufacturers, engineers and production professionals with an unrivalled opportunity to discover the latest innovations, hear from leading experts and connect with To register, visit: www.ppmashow.co.uk

PECM Issue 82

suppliers from across the industry. The PPMA Show® 2026 takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, from 22–24 September 2026.

22 - 24 September 2026 l NEC, Birmingham Be part of the Greatest Processing & Packaging Show - the PPMA Show® 2026, held at the NEC, Birmingham from 22 to 24 September. Discover the latest technologies from 350+ exhibitors, experience live demonstrations and network with key contacts, all in one place. Scan the QR code to reserve your free pass today.

e ppmashow@automate-uk.com w ppmashow.co.uk

Organised by

ENGINEERING DESIGN SHOW PREVIEW

EDS RETURNS WITH PURPOSE ENGINEERING DESIGN SHOW

Engineering Design Show returns with a sharper focus, and a new identity to match Electronic Design Source the components, tools and expertise that power the next generation of electronic products. Meet the suppliers driving innovation in PCB design, power electronics, connectivity and beyond.

Engineering Design Show (EDS) is back, and it means business. As the UK’s home of design engineering, EDS has unveiled a new brand identity and a renewed sense of purpose ahead of its 2026 edition. The new look is anchored by a simple, powerful idea: EDS is where design engineers come to source the solutions to their design challenges.

Embedded Design From microcontrollers to real-time operating systems, EDS is where embedded engineers find the development tools, hardware platforms and technical knowledge to solve the challenges that matter.

Whatever the problem. Whatever the discipline. Whatever stage of the project. EDS has the products, the suppliers, the tools and the expertise to move it forward. Embedded. Electronic. Mechanical. Engineered for Solutions.

More than a rebrand This isn’t a cosmetic refresh. It’s a realignment; a deliberate return to what has always made EDS the unmissable event in the UK engineering calendar. Simon Bonell, Event Director, has worked on every edition of the show since it launched. For him, 2026 marks a moment that’s been building for some time. “We’re entering our 14th year and this is the evolution I’ve been waiting to showcase. It’s far more than a rebrand. It’s a realignment with our core purpose and the community we serve. EDS is where electronic, embedded and mechanical design engineers come through the door to source components, suppliers, tools and expertise. That’s what we’ve always been. Now everything about the show reflects that.”

PECM Issue 82

This isn’t a cosmetic refresh. It’s a realignment; a deliberate return to what has always made EDS the unmissable event in the UK engineering calendar. From concept to prototype. From PCB to production. From design challenge to challenge solved. EDS brings together thousands of engineers and hundreds of the UK’s leading suppliers, solution providers and innovators — all under one roof, across two days.

Three disciplines. One destination. EDS 2026 is structured around the three pillars of modern design engineering practice:

Mechanical Design Materials, manufacturing, simulation, precision engineering. EDS gives mechanical design engineers direct access to the suppliers and solutions that take a product from drawing board to reality. As one attendee put it: “It’s like being a kid in a sweet shop for engineers.”

The Advisory Board: the industry shaping the show For the first time, EDS has established a formal Advisory Board, bringing together senior engineering leaders from some of the UK’s most respected organisations to help shape the show’s direction, content and feature areas. Representatives from Jaguar Land Rover, Dyson, BAE Systems, Lotus Cars, Siemens Healthineers, Würth Elektronik and more will work alongside the EDS team to ensure the show continues to reflect the real challenges, technologies and opportunities facing today’s design engineers.

Electronics, delivering expertled content grounded in real engineering practice, not sales presentations. Simon Bonell adds: “Having voices like these around the table is a statement of intent. These are the people at the forefront of British engineering, and their insight will directly shape what happens on the show floor, both in feature areas and on the conference stage.”

A celebration of innovation Above everything, EDS 2026 is designed to feel like exactly what it is: a celebration of the ingenuity, creativity and craft that defines UK design engineering.

New for 2026: Meet the Buyer

“Engineering Design Show has always been where ideas become reality,” says Bonell. “We want every engineer who walks through the door to feel that. Whether you’re looking for your next component supplier, discovering a new design tool, or sitting in a conference session that changes how you think about a problem, this show is built for you. Come and find your solution.”

EDS 2026 introduces a dedicated Meet the Buyer programme, a structured space where engineers and buyers can connect directly with leading suppliers through prearranged meetings. Supported by the EDS event app, visitors can plan their day, book meetings in advance

Registration for the 14th edition of the Engineering Design Show opens soon. Be sure to keep an eye out and join thousands of design engineers as the show returns to the Coventry Building Society Arena on 7–8 October 2026.

The reaction from the board speaks for itself. One member summed up their relationship with EDS simply: “It’s the only show on the Calander, that I won’t let my wife book a holiday on those dates.”

The conference programme will be curated in partnership with EDS’ trusted editorial partners, The Engineer, Eureka and New

and make sure every conversation counts.

Registration is free, find out more here: www.engineeringdesignshow.co.uk Issue 82 PECM

ADVANCED ENGINEERING SHOW

BRITAIN BUILDS BETTER ADVANCED ENGINEERING SHOW

The day Guy Martin changed his mind about British engineering “This place is just full of brains and innovation and people wanting to know.” It is a sentiment that many visitors share.

There is a tendency in the UK to focus on the challenges facing manufacturing and engineering. Skills shortages, global competition, rising costs, and investment pressures often dominate industry conversations, leaving many of the sector’s success stories hidden from view. Yet spend a day at Advanced Engineering and a different picture begins to emerge. When Guy Martin visited the event, he arrived with the same curiosity that has defined much of his career. Known for his passion for engineering, machinery, and problem-solving, he has spent years exploring how things work, how they can be improved, and what technologies might shape the future. What he found at Advanced Engineering surprised him. Having spent several hours walking the exhibition floor, speaking with exhibitors and exploring new technologies, his reaction was simple. “My mind is blown.” The comment was not directed at a single product, company or technology. Instead, it reflected the scale of innovation gathered under one roof.

PECM Issue 82

Every year, Advanced Engineering brings together businesses from across the engineering ecosystem. Aerospace, automotive, defence, energy, advanced materials, manufacturing technology and research organisations all converge to showcase the innovations shaping the future of industry. For many attendees, the event provides an opportunity to step outside their own sector and gain a broader perspective on the technologies, ideas and challenges driving progress across engineering as a whole. One of Guy’s observations was particularly striking.

Every year, Advanced Engineering brings together businesses from across the engineering ecosystem. “I thought the whole country’s a bit backwards.” It is a perception that still exists in some quarters. While Britain is rightly proud of its engineering heritage, discussions about the future are often dominated by concerns about what has been lost rather than what is being created. Yet the reality is that innovation continues to thrive throughout the UK.

From advanced manufacturing and automation to sustainable technologies, next-generation materials and digital engineering, companies across the country are developing solutions to some of the world’s most complex challenges. The difficulty is often not a lack of innovation, but a lack of visibility. Events such as Advanced Engineering help address that challenge by bringing together the people, technologies and ideas that are shaping the future.

The future of engineering will not be shaped by a single breakthrough, technology or company. It will be driven by thousands of engineers, researchers, manufacturers and innovators working across countless organisations and sectors. Sometimes it takes an event like

Advanced Engineering to bring that reality into focus. For Guy Martin, that is exactly what happened. If you want to see how this develops or be part of it as an exhibitor, register for free now.

By the end of his visit, Guy’s perspective had changed significantly. Reflecting on the engineers and innovators he had met throughout the day, he commented that the experience had given him “a bit of modernday patriotism”. It is a powerful observation. Not because it celebrates what British engineering has achieved in the past, but because it highlights confidence in what it is achieving today. For further information, please visit www.advancedengineeringuk.com Issue 82 PECM

CONNECTORS & FITTINGS

HUCK® EXPLAINED STAR FASTENERS

The most asked questions about Huck® fasteners Huck® fasteners have long been a trusted solution in industries requiring high-strength, vibrationresistant fastening. These fasteners play a crucial role in ensuring structural integrity and safety in a wide range of applications and industries. Given their significance, many engineers and professionals frequently turn to search engines with technical queries about Huck® fasteners. In this article, we address some of the most commonly asked questions about these specialised fasteners.

What are Huck® fasteners? Huck® fasteners are advanced fastening solutions designed to provide secure, high-strength joints that resist vibration and loosening over time.

What are the different types of Huck® fasteners? Huck® fasteners come in various types, each designed for specific applications. HuckBolts®: also known as LockBolts® are a two-piece, highstrength fastening system consisting of a pin and a collar, designed for permanent, vibration-resistant joints. They are installed using a swaging process, which eliminates the need for re-tightening, making it ideal for structural, transportation, and heavy-duty applications requiring superior strength and longterm reliability. Huck® Blind Fasteners: are highstrength, one-sided (blind-side) fastening solutions used when access to the blindside of a joint is restricted. They provide vibration resistance, high shear strength, and consistent clamping force, making them ideal for aerospace,

PECM Issue 82

automotive, rail, and structural applications where reliability and quick installation are essential.

Which industries use Huck fasteners?

Huck fasteners are widely used across multiple industries, including: ®

Automotive & Heavy-Duty Trucks: Common in truck chassis, suspensions, and trailers for secure, maintenance-free fastening. They can be used in anything, including defence vehicles and F1 racing cars! Railroad & Transportation: Applied in railcar construction and track infrastructure to withstand constant vibrations. Construction & Infrastructure: Utilised in bridges, portable buildings and large metal framed structures for strong, permanent joints. Solar Energy: Huck® fasteners are used in solar panel mounting systems to secure structures against wind loads and environmental stress. Wind Turbines: Huck® fasteners are used in tower assembly, nacelles, and rotor components for secure, vibration-resistant connections. Shipbuilding & Marine: Resistant to corrosion and extreme conditions, making them ideal for naval and commercial ships.

If there’s a fastening requirement, Huck® fasteners have a solution.

How do Huck® fasteners differ from traditional bolts? Huck® fasteners differ from conventional bolts in several ways: Vibration Resistance: Unlike bolts and nuts that can loosen over time due to vibrations, Huck® fasteners maintain their hold, making them ideal for high-vibration environments. Installation Speed: Huck® fasteners are installed using hydraulic, pneumatic and battery tools, making the process faster and more efficient than tightening a bolt and nut. Structural Integrity: The swaging process of Huck® fasteners creates a permanent joint, eliminating the need for re-torquing or maintenance. What installation tools are required to install Huck® fasteners? Installing Huck® fasteners requires specialised tools. These tools include: Pneumatic: Powered by compressed air, these tools are commonly used in high-volume assembly lines. Hydraulic: Used for heavy-duty applications, providing more force for larger fasteners.

Manufacturing & Industrial Equipment: Used in a multitude of production lines for durable and efficient fastening solutions.

Battery-Powered: Offering mobility and flexibility for production and field applications.

Aerospace: Used in aircraft assembly for their lightweight strength and vibration resistance.

No, Huck® fasteners are designed to be permanent. Once installed, they cannot be removed without

Are Huck® fasteners reusable?

damaging the fastener. If disassembly is required, the fastener must be mechanically removed and replaced.

Expert Technical Advice: Our team provides specialist guidance on selecting the right Huck® fasteners based on load requirements, material compatibility, and environmental conditions.

Reusing nuts and bolts can also compromises structural integrity due to thread deformation, fatigue, and reduced clamping force. Torque relaxation and material wear increase failure risks, especially in high-load or vibration-prone applications. For safety and reliability, engineering best practices recommend new fasteners to maintain precise tension and prevent mechanical failure.

How do Huck® fasteners compare to welding? Many industries choose Huck® fasteners over welding due to the following advantages: Speed of Installation: Huck® fasteners can be installed in seconds, whereas welding is timeconsuming. Consistent Strength: Welds can be inconsistent due to material variations and operator skill, whereas Huck® fasteners provide uniform strength. Safety: Welding requires specialised training and safety precautions, whereas Huck® fasteners can be installed quickly with minimal training and risk. No Heat-Affected Zones: Welding can weaken surrounding materials, whereas Huck® fasteners maintain the integrity of the structure.

How do you select the right Huck® fastener for your application? Choosing the right Huck® fastener depends on several factors: Load Requirements: Determine the strength needed for the application. Material Compatibility: Ensure the fastener material matches or is compatible with the materials being joined.

Environmental Conditions: Consider factors like corrosion resistance, temperature, and exposure to chemicals. Accessibility: Choose between blind (one-piece) or LockBolts® (twopiece) fasteners based on assembly constraints.

What are the maintenance requirements for Huck® fasteners? Since Huck® fasteners create a permanent joint, they require little to no maintenance. Unlike traditional fasteners, which need periodic re-tightening, Huck® fasteners maintain their strength and integrity throughout their service life. However, regular inspections of the structure in which they are used are still recommended to ensure overall safety. Huck® fasteners have revolutionised fastening technology with their strength, durability, and vibrationresistant properties. As industries continue to seek reliable and maintenance-free fastening solutions, the demand for Huck® fasteners remains strong. Whether you’re an engineer, technician, or procurement specialist, understanding the fundamentals of Huck® fasteners can help you make informed decisions about their applications and benefits.

How can Star Fasteners help with Huck® fasteners? Star Fasteners UK Ltd is a leading distributor and expert in Huck® fasteners, offering comprehensive support to help you make informed decisions about their applications, benefits, and installation. Here’s how we can assist:

Product Range & Availability: We offer a wide selection of Huck fasteners, including LockBolts®, blind fasteners, and installation tools, ensuring you get the right solution for your needs. Installation Support: We supply pneumatic, hydraulic, and batterypowered installation tools and can provide training on proper usage for efficient and secure fastening. Cost & Performance Optimization: We can help to identify costeffective fastening solutions while ensuring long-term reliability in high-vibration and structural applications. After-Sales Service: We provide ongoing support, maintenance advice, and troubleshooting to ensure your fastening solutions perform optimally.

Do Star Fasteners offer a tool repair and hire service? Tool Repair Service: We provide comprehensive maintenance and repair services for installation tools, ensuring your equipment remains in optimal condition. Tool Hire Service: Star Fasteners offers short- and long-term tool hire options, ideal for busy periods or specific projects requiring specialised equipment. We also provide service hire tools while your equipment is under repair in our workshop. By addressing these frequently asked questions, Star Fasteners hopes to provide valuable insights for those considering Huck® fasteners for their projects. Their superior performance and reliability make them a leading choice for industries where strength and durability are paramount.

For further information, contact Star Fasteners at +44 (0) 115 932 4939 or email sales@starfasteners.co.uk. Issue 82 PECM

CONNECTORS & FITTINGS

Torque overload protection for indirect drives in packaging and filling equipment ENEMAC safety couplings (torque limiters) protect indirect drive systems in packaging and filling machinery where torque is transmitted via belt, gear or chain drives. In the event of an overload, they mechanically disengage the drive and driven side within milliseconds, preventing damage to motors, gearboxes and other drivetrain components. The couplings ensure backlash-free torque transmission, high power density, compact dimensions and infinitely adjustable disengagement torques. Automatic 360° synchronous reengagement minimizes downtime and increases machine availability.

Fluid Carrying

Flexibility Articulated Torsion Pipework In Hoses Rotating Cylinders

Swivel Joints Swivel joints allow pipework to pressure 1/4” to 40” and beyond. Vacuum to over 20,000psi. Stock and bespoke production. Unique bearing/seal design for longer life.

Technical data:

ISO 9001 CE marked where applicable.

· Torques: up to 23,000 Nm · Bore diameters: 5–90 mm · Shaft connections: keyway, conical bushing, clamping hubs Corrosion-protected versions feature nitrocarburized or gasnitrided, oxidized components, coated disc springs and stainlesssteel ball bearings for use in humid or aggressive environments. Stainless steel versions made from A2 and A4 grades are available for hygienic applications. www.enemac.eu

Tel: +44(0)1663 735003

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

E-mail:

One System Every Sector Zero Compromise Our modular pipework system is engineered to handle bulk materials of every kind: powders, pellets, granules, biomass, and more. Designed for absolute reliability, it delivers smooth flow, rapid installation, and long-term performance in even the toughest environments. Whatever your process demands, our system adapts, protects, and performs without compromise. For more informations www.jacob-group.com/uk/

PECM Issue 82

CONTROL & AUTOMATION

COST OF OVER-SPECIFICATION BECKHOFF

Right-sizing control and motion without compromising future flexibility Sports cars are fun to drive, but that extra performance is probably not necessary if your main job is doing the school run. Machine builders often come across similar challenges when specifying automation systems. While some applications require advanced motion control and high-performance hardware, many do not. Here, Karl Walker, business development manager at

PECM Issue 82

automation and control specialist, Beckhoff Automation UK, explains why right-sizing automation can reduce costs and provide a stronger foundation for future growth. Deloitte’s 2025 Smart Manufacturing Survey found that nearly half of manufacturers rank process automation among their top investment priorities over the

next two years. As customer expectations evolve, machine builders must balance performance, flexibility and cost while ensuring machines remain adaptable over their lifecycle. Increasingly, the real challenge is not pushing for maximum performance but choosing automation that keeps the machine simple today and adaptable tomorrow.

The hidden cost Not every machine requires the highest levels of control complexity or motion performance. However, over-specifying machines can increase upfront costs, extend commissioning times and add unnecessary engineering effort. It can also increase cabinet space requirements, spare parts inventories and maintenance demands. At the same time, selecting a more basic, less flexible control platform can create challenges as machine requirements evolve. Machine builders may need to replace hardware, migrate software or redesign parts of the control system to introduce new functionality. Therefore, introducing scalable architecture from the outset helps preserve

Machine builders are often balancing today’s application requirements with tomorrow’s possibilities. engineering continuity while making future changes simpler and less disruptive. Machine builders are often balancing today’s application requirements with tomorrow’s possibilities. While a machine may be designed around current customer specifications, fixed functionality can limit future development as new applications, performance requirements or machine variants emerge. Designing systems with flexibility in mind from the outset allows OEMs to adapt machines more easily over their lifecycle, without unnecessary complexity or costly redesigns. Many automation suppliers segment their portfolios into separate controller families that limit functionality and constrain future scalability. As machine requirements grow, users often face a costly rip-and-replace exercise, replacing hardware and learning entirely new engineering environments.

One way to address this problem is to keep control, motion and safety within one automation environment. A machine can begin with a compact controller for basic positioning tasks and move to a high-performance industrial PC for more advanced motion control without needing to change the underlying software or communication architecture. This enables clearer upgrade paths for machine builders. They can begin with a streamlined specification and add capabilities

later, rather than having to switch between product families or redesign the control architecture as requirements change.

Fit-for-purpose motion solutions Beckhoff has developed a new range of products that extends this philosophy to motion hardware. Solutions such as the AX1000 economy servo drive, AF1000 variable frequency drive and ASI/AMI integrated stepper and servo drive provide optimised performance for applications that do not require the highest level of precision control, whilst offering designers the choice of flexible mounting options and system architectures. The EtherCAT-connected AX1000 also simplifies cabinet design by reducing the need for external components, helping OEMs optimise both footprint and cost. This technology is designed for less complex machines, where maximum control or advanced motion is not required, allowing machine builders to match automation performance to the needs of the machine while retaining the flexibility. By maintaining a consistent engineering environment through TwinCAT software, EtherCAT communication and PC-based control, machine builders can begin with a streamlined specification and add capabilities such as coordinated motion, enhanced safety or greater data connectivity as requirements evolve. A car capable of driving 180 mph is adding unnecessary performance if most of its time is spent in 30 mph speed limit zones. In the same way, a machine designed with more control and motion capability than the application needs can introduce unnecessary cost and complexity. By choosing automation that is right-sized from the outset, machine builders can meet today’s requirements while remaining ready for tomorrow’s requirements.

For further information, please visit www.beckhoff.com/en-gb/ Issue 82 PECM

CONTROL & AUTOMATION

THE FUTURE OF AUTOMATION FANUC

FANUC set to open its doors in ‘automation for all’ technology showcase Back for 2026, this November will see automation experts FANUC open the doors to their UK headquarters to demonstrate how automation is now accessible for every manufacturing business, large or small. Taking place on 3-4 November in Ansty Park, Coventry, the free-to-attend FANUC Open House will highlight simple, scalable robotic solutions to help manufacturers of all sizes tackle key industry challenges such as labour shortages, rising energy costs and product inconsistency. Following the two-day event, FANUC’s Coventry HQ will also play host to the annual BARA Conference, taking place on Thursday 5 November. Combining expert guidance with practical solutions, this year’s Open House will bring together expert-led seminars, panel debates, industry discussions and real-world case studies. In addition, an extensive exhibition running throughout the event will showcase the latest robotic technology from FANUC and more than 30 of its system integrator partners and suppliers, showing solutions spanning every corner of British manufacturing from engineering, food and packaging to pharma, plastics and toolmaking.

Solutions as flexible as your business This year’s event will have a particular focus on supporting SMEs to realise their automation potential. Presentations and demonstrations will feature practical, easy-toimplement technology designed to deliver immediate value, as well as the ability to flex as a business evolves.

ROBOSHOT, plus reliable, consistent drilling tasks with the FANUC ROBODRILL. User-friendly CNC controls and scalable Power Motion display.

In-depth expert guidance “Today’s intelligent automation solutions are fast, consistent and adaptable, as well as being extremely reliable,” says Andy Armstrong, FANUC UK’s Managing Director. “Unlike complicated robotic systems of the past, they’re simple to operate and can be easily integrated into existing lines, complementing older machinery to enhance working practices, increase efficiency and boost productivity. At our 2026 Open House event, we’ll be demonstrating just how far automation has evolved in the past few years, showcasing solutions that are user-friendly and cost-efficient. With the UK currently sitting outside the global top 10 in terms of manufacturing output, automation is no longer a ‘nice to have’ for British manufacturers – it’s a business necessity.”

Live robotic demonstrations Alongside an exhibition of technology from over 30 of FANUC’s partner companies, visitors can also experience the latest in robotic innovation from FANUC itself. Live demonstrations at the Open House will include: ‘First step’ automation using CRX collaborative robots for tasks such as entry-level palletising and simple welding. All-electric injection moulding capabilities with the FANUC

Finally, an impressive line-up of speakers from across the manufacturing and automation spectrum will share their insights and advice on how to select the right automation solution for your business. Panel discussions will include: • Getting started with automation in manufacturing. • Solving labour challenges, tackling cultural change and mindset, and implementing modern technology. • Understanding real-world ROI: Taking the long-term view. • CRA regulations and machinery developments: What you need to know. “This year’s Open House is a mustattend for any UK SME, offering expert support and real-world automation solutions to improve product consistency, increase efficiency and alleviate staffing issues,” says Andy. “We look forward to demonstrating the latest robotic technology that can really make a difference to every manufacturing business.” To register your interest in attending the free FANUC UK Open House event (3-4 November 2026, Ansty Park, Coventry), go to https://www. fanuc.eu/eu-en/event/open-housecoventry

For further information, please visit www.fanuc.eu/eu-en

PECM Issue 82

Automation has a name.

→ FANUC UK

OPEN HOUSE 2026 YE AR S AS A EU RO PE AN IN DU ST RY PA RT NE R

↘ DATE:

03.-04.11.26 COVENTRY

↓

DISCOVER. CONNECT. EXPERIENCE.

CONTROL & AUTOMATION

RBF 2000: BUILT TO FLEX ADAPTTECH

New roller conveyor combines modular design with intelligent control The new RBF 2000 from mk Technology Group provides machine builders and system integrators with a flexible roller conveyor solution for the transportation, buffering and handling of containers, boxes and trays. As intralogistics and production environments become increasingly automated, conveyor systems need to provide more than straightforward product transportation. They must integrate easily into wider automation systems, accommodate changing material flows and provide reliable control without unnecessary complexity. The new RBF 2000 roller conveyor has been developed with these requirements in mind. Based on mk’s modular conveyor technology, the system can be configured using a range of standard modules to create individual conveyor layouts for applications including internal material handling, production logistics, picking and distribution. The system is suitable for conveying products weighing up to 55 kg, with conveyor widths from 320 to 700 mm. Depending on the application, speeds of up to 60 m/min can be achieved, while the conveyor system can handle a total load of up to 400 kg.

Intelligent accumulation One of the key features of the RBF 2000 is its use of 24V motorised rollers and zone control to provide zero-pressure accumulation (ZPA). The conveyor is divided into

individually controlled zones, with sensors monitoring whether each zone is occupied. If a product reaches an occupied zone, it stops in the preceding zone rather than coming into contact with the product ahead. As soon as the next zone becomes available, the product is automatically released. This approach allows products to be buffered without dynamic pressure, helping to minimise product damage while making efficient use of the available conveyor space. The control concept can also be adapted to the complexity of the application. For smaller systems, decentralised control allows the conveyor to operate without a higher-level PLC, while more complex installations can integrate the roller conveyor into a PLCcontrolled automation system.

Modular approach simplifies system design The RBF 2000 is based around a range of standard modules, allowing engineers to configure conveyor systems around the available space and required material flow.

different conveyor types to be incorporated into a single material handling system, depending on the requirements of individual sections of the process. The conveyor frame uses anodised aluminium profiles, with cables routed within the frame to maintain a clean installation. Sensors can be integrated into the side guides, while the roller mounting system is designed to make individual rollers straightforward to replace. For machine builders and system integrators, this combination of standardised mechanical components and flexible control provides a practical way to develop conveyor systems without requiring every installation to be engineered from scratch. The RBF 2000 is the latest addition to mk Technology Group’s extensive conveyor technology portfolio and complements its existing range of belt, timing belt, flat top chain, roller and pallet conveyor systems.

Straight sections can be combined with 45° and 90° curves, alignment conveyors, transfer units and infeed and outfeed modules. This provides flexibility when designing systems with changes in direction, merging or diverting product flows and connections to other equipment.

In the UK and Ireland, the RBF 2000 is available from AdaptTech Manufacturing Solutions, the exclusive distributor for mk Technology Group. AdaptTech can provide advice on conveyor selection, system configuration and integration, as well as supporting customers from initial application requirements through to the finished conveyor solution.

As part of mk’s modular construction system, the RBF 2000 can also be combined with other mk conveyor technologies. This allows

For more information about the RBF 2000 or to discuss a conveyor application, contact AdaptTech Manufacturing Solutions.

For further information, please visit www.adapt-tech.co.uk

PECM Issue 82

Roller Conveyor RBF 2000 The modular system for intralogistics

Standardised modules for implementing even complex route layouts Durable, low-maintenance design for reliable continuous operation High-performance, energy-efficient drives with clever control options Well-planned design for a simple and tidy electrical installation Flexibly expandable and adaptable to new requirements

www.adapt-tech.co.uk

CONTROL & AUTOMATION

LINMOT PILOT LINMOT

No-code robot control The increasing demand for automated systems using servos is often thwarted by the time taken to implement the systems for the wide range of applications needed. To code and test the system, many months are often required for implementation and even more time to then diagnose and support it on an on-going basis. LinMot is proud to present a major milestone: the no-code robot control LinMot Pilot. It is an intuitive, web-based platform for configuring and controlling multiaxis LinMot Flat Robots and LinMot linear and Rotary motors — without a PLC or deep programming knowledge. Instead of complex code, LinMot Pilot relies on parameterisable commands, clear logic modules, and intuitive widgets. This allows even demanding tasks such as screwing, conveyor synchronization, or pick-and-place to be implemented quickly, safely, and efficiently. Sequential programs can be created in just a few clicks. These programmes can include IF queries, waiting times, jump labels, variables and movement commands. You will be able to program like a pro – without prior knowledge, using a no-code platform working directly in your browser. Minimal training time is required allowing fast prototyping, quickly turning your ideas into action. LinMot have also built in their knowhow for process specific applications

Sequential programs can be created in just a few clicks. that are parameterised via custom wizards. A customisable interface will be available soon. This will allow you to visualise process data, cycle time and any other information of the system. The interface can be easily tailored to your application needs with userdefined controls using clean and modern design elements. Additional function packages for specific processes as well as smartcamera integration will also be available soon. Packages will include

conveyor tracking, camera interface, capping and screwing, palletising and much more. LinMot Pilot runs on the LinMot: TM01 technology module which controls up to 8 axes with a 1.5 Ghz 4-core processor with a 2ms. Cycle time. This controls with the Servo Drives and any additional I/O via EtherCAT. In turn, the TM01 can be integrated with many PLCs via either the Profinet or Ethernet/IP interface and supports Industry 4.0 thanks to OPC UA. In conclusion, LinMot Pilot offers a much faster and easier way to automate your application. For further details, please contact Quin Systems, your local LinMot specialist.

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

PECM Issue 82

Linear motors for

Dynamics & Precision ..clean room & wash down applicaons

www.quin.co.uk/linmot - Linmot distributor for the UK & Ireland

CONTROL & AUTOMATION

FLEXIBLE AUTOMATION TEZMAKSAN ROBOTICS

Tezmaksan to demonstrate CubeBOX™ modular automation cells at IMTS 2026 North American manufacturers are under growing pressure to increase productivity, use skilled labour more effectively and respond to changing production demands. At IMTS 2026, CNC automation specialist Tezmaksan will demonstrate its CubeBOX™ range of robotic machine tending systems. The Turkish engineering and automation company will show how CNC machine tending can be made more accessible, flexible and practical. Tezmaksan will exhibit with its North American partner, Dynamic Machine, at McCormick Place in Chicago from September 14 to 19, 2026. Dynamic Machine supplies CNC machine tools, automation and turnkey manufacturing systems across North America. At Booth #339430, the company will present variations of its CubeBOX™, a modular automation cell that combines robotic machine tending, part storage, pallet handling and control software to suit different production requirements. “North American manufacturers are looking for practical ways to increase capacity, manage labour pressures and adapt to changing customer requirements,” explained Hakan Aydogdu, CEO of Tezmaksan. “Our message at IMTS is that automation does not need to begin with a large or complicated project. “The CubeBOX™ range gives manufacturers different entry points depending on their machines, applications, production volumes and available floor space.”

One platform, multiple applications The systems on the stand will

demonstrate different approaches to automated production. CubeBOX™ Blues DR-3P uses a drawerbased configuration to organise and present components for robotic loading, while CubeBOX™ Blues RTVise uses multiple vises arranged around a rotary table. The Pallet Pool supports automated pallet handling, and EcoLEAN V1 provides a compact collaborative robotics option. “The products tell one connected story,” continued Aydogdu. “Whether a manufacturer needs drawer-based part handling, vise automation, pallet movement or a collaborative solution, the objective is the same — to reduce unnecessary manual handling, keep machines productive and make production easier to manage.” A major feature of the stand will be the integration of CubeBOX™ EcoLEAN V1 with a Senjo Seiki gear deburring machine. The demonstration will show how robotic automation can support specialist secondary processes as well as conventional CNC machine tending. By automating the loading and unloading of the deburring machine, manufacturers can reduce repetitive manual handling, improve workflow consistency and allow skilled employees to focus on highervalue work. “The Senjo Seiki integration shows that automation can create value across the wider production process,” said Aydogdu. “Secondary operations can become bottlenecks, so automating component handling can help

manufacturers create a smoother and more consistent workflow.” Tezmaksan will also demonstrate its CubeBOX™ Pallet Pool, operated by a FANUC M-20iD/35 robot using Tezmaksan’s custom-manufactured pallets. The system will show how automated pallet handling can help manufacturers prepare work in advance, reduce interruptions between jobs and support longer periods of automated production. It will also demonstrate how pallets can keep components and workholding organised as complete production units. A dedicated touch-screen display will provide live demonstrations of Tezmaksan’s RoboCAM+® software interface. RoboCAM+® is designed to simplify the setup and operation of robotic cells, reducing the need for specialist programming knowledge. The company’s collaboration with Dynamic Machine combines Tezmaksan’s automation technology with local market knowledge, application expertise and customer support. Visitors can see Tezmaksan’s CubeBOX™ automation solutions at Booth #339430, during IMTS 2026 at McCormick Place in Chicago.

For further information, please visit www.tezmaksanrobotics.com

PECM Issue 82

CONTROL & AUTOMATION

Industrial Quality Interface & Protocol Converters KDE485 C Programmable Converter An oven-ready solution for your new IoT, protocol conversion, data acquisition or telemetry project

◘ Free and license-free C development kit (STM Cube IDE) ◘ Ethernet TCP/IP with TLS HTTPS security & USB ◘ Four Serial Ports 232/4xx ◘ Analog I/O 16/22 bit & 4-20mA ◘ PT100/1k & TC input ◘ Lots of example code ◘ GPS Time Server for high security LANs

◘ Expandable I/O ◘ ARINC429 ◘ Remote FW updates ◘ Made in UK ◘ From £129

KK Systems Ltd 01273 857185

One System Every Sector Zero Compromise Our modular pipework system is engineered to handle bulk materials of every kind: powders, pellets, granules, biomass, and more. Designed for absolute reliability, it delivers smooth ﬂow, rapid installation, and long-term performance in even the toughest environments. Whatever your process demands, our system adapts, protects, and performs without compromise.

kksystems.com/kde485

For more informations www.jacob-group.com/uk/

Issue 82 PECM

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

30 YEARS OF INNOVATION LASER SOS

Expanding global reach with tailored laser solutions for diverse industries Today, after successfully operating for over 30 years, Laser S.O.S. Group’s core business sectors are in the support of a comprehensive range of solid-state lasers and IPL platforms used in various industrial applications such as drilling, cutting, welding, marking, diamond cutting, the manufacture of jewellery, medical and beauty application. These days, lasers have become as common as drills and lathes and their application has grown exponentially.

paramount consideration and LaserSOS has developed a knowledge and experience of the necessary logistics to deliver an item anywhere across the globe.

LaserSOS has grown from an operation that supplies consumable items such as laser lamps, laser crystals, laser optics and mirrors, cooling systems and power supplies to an organisation that not only supplies but also produces and maintains complete laser delivery systems throughout the world. It continues to develop tailor made solutions for specialist application such as diamond cutting and marking.

Frequently, a client will provide photos or samples of products it requires but will only have the laser system name and no part number. Finding solutions quickly can help facilitate business growth along with the maintenance of comprehensive stock levels.

LaserSOS provides its clients with extensive and in-depth technical understanding of key laser technologies, gained by the development of procurement and sales of a broad range of components and services plus its own in-house facilities.

helped obtain better and quicker levels of service and support for its

LaserSOS is an independent operation that through its success in the international laser market has been able to develop close and effective working relationships with a broad range of providers of technologies, products and services used by laser systems. These close relationships and the volume of business the company can place has

clients worldwide. The breadth of stock held by the organisation is second to none and where competitors may offer a client a single laser lamp, LaserSOS can provide several types with a variety of technical and commercial options. On frequent occasion, speed of delivery can be the

Today, the business is not simply a merchanting operation. Over time, it has created and enhanced its in-house assembly and test facilities. Its current facilities located several miles outside of Cambridge offers a one stop shop providing components and technical services direct to all laser end-users. LaserSOS has active operations in the USA, Germany, Poland and India providing technical and commercial support across the globe.

For further information, please visit www.lasersos.com

PECM Issue 82

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

INDUSTRIAL ISOLATORS KRAUS & NAIMER

Why quality, compliance and reliability matter Purchasing isolators or emergency stop switches from a reputable, well-established manufacturer rather than simply selecting the lowest-cost option can be justified on several practical, safety, and operational grounds. This is particularly important in industrial environments such as food manufacturing plants, where equipment reliability, compliance and worker safety are critical considerations.

Higher safety standards Better arc suppression capabilities, high quality insulation materials and enhanced protection against accidental operation help to reduce the risk of electrical fires, equipment damage and injury to personnel.

Better environmental protection

Higher quality switches are generally more robust, have a longer mechanical life and have better contact materials.

Offering higher IP ratings (IP66/67/69K) and more durable enclosure materials such as stainless steel (including sloped roof) means they can withstand wash-down procedures, humidity, dust and powder ingress and corrosive cleaning chemicals.

and any machinery directive requirements, BS EN standards and insurance company recommendations.

Greater reliability and service life

Manufacturer reputation and support

Higher quality switches are generally more robust, have a longer mechanical life and have better contact materials which can reduce maintenance costs and downtime.

Established manufacturers such as Kraus & Naimer offer proven product performance data, spare part availability and technical support, which are valuable benefits. In these environments the cost difference is often small compared with the potential costs of contamination risks, equipment failure, production downtime and perhaps most importantly the risk of injury to personnel.

Compliance with Industry requirements Providing the necessary certification and documentation required to comply with hygiene

Founded in 1907, Kraus & Naimer is a leading specialist manufacturer of low-voltage switchgear with a long-established reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation. The company designs and manufactures a wide range of switching solutions, including enclosed isolators, control stations, photovoltaic (PV) switches, load switches, and changeover switches.

For further information, please visit www.krausnaimer.com

PECM Issue 82

LEADING SWITCHGEAR SPECIALIST EST.1907

Safe. Assured control

Kraus & Naimer

SO YOU CAN FOCUS ON PRODUCTION Your choice of enclosed switches & functional handles. Customisable, IP rated for high pressure washdowns, pushbuttons, with or without auxilliaries, emergency stop function

FH10SERIES SE02 URE

bbaren Griffschenkeln | Functional machine handle with

Befestigung | Switch enclosures with bar handle for profile systems,

AVAILABLE FOR MOUNTING IN SWITCH PANELS/ ON MACHINERY OR READY MOUNTED IN ENCLOSURE

The expert technical guidance, Befestigung | attachment: high reliability & recognised quality workmanship, of course comes as standard.

www.krausnaimer.com

Durchgehende Nut in der Anschraubfläche für variablen Anschraubabstand.

t 01635 26 26 26

Continuous groove for a variable bolting distance.

e sales-uk@krausnaimer.com

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

PROTECTING CONNECTED SYSTEMS DEHN

Building resilience with smarter surge protection As industrial facilities, critical infrastructure, and modern buildings become ever more connected, the importance of safeguarding sensitive electronic systems has never been greater. From process automation and control equipment to communications networks and building management systems, today’s operations depend on the uninterrupted flow of data and signals. Yet these systems remain highly vulnerable to transient overvoltages caused by lightning activity, switching operations, and other electrical disturbances. Even a brief interruption can result in costly downtime, equipment damage, data loss, and reduced operational efficiency. As organisations continue to invest in digitalisation and smarter technologies, surge protection must be considered an essential element of system resilience rather than an afterthought. This is where innovative solutions such as the BLITZDUCTORconnect range from DEHN are making a significant impact. Designed specifically for the protection of measuring, control, bus and telecommunication systems, BLITZDUCTORconnect provides reliable surge protection while addressing the space and maintenance challenges commonly faced by engineers and installers. With a compact width of just 6mm, the device maximises valuable cabinet space while delivering high discharge capacity and dependable performance. Its unique fail-open functionality also helps maintain

At DEHN UK, protecting critical infrastructure has been at the heart of what we do for decades. signal circuit availability in the event of an arrestor failure, supporting continuity of operation and reducing disruption. Furthermore, maintenance is simplified through a tool-free, rotatable surge arrester design, enabling quick inspection and replacement where required. At DEHN UK, protecting critical infrastructure has been at the heart of what we do for decades. As one of the UK’s leading providers of surge protection, lightning protection, safety equipment and technical engineering services, we combine local expertise with the heritage and innovation of the global DEHN Group. Backed by over a century

of experience and a portfolio exceeding 4,000 products, we support consultants, contractors, facility managers and end users across a wide range of sectors. Beyond supplying products, DEHN UK provides specialist services including lightning risk assessments, earthing design, lightning protection system design, and CIBSE-accredited CPD training. Our objective is simple: to help organisations reduce risk, improve resilience, and protect people, infrastructure and critical systems from the effects of lightning and surges. As our industries continue to evolve, robust surge protection will play an increasingly important role in maintaining operational continuity. Solutions such as BLITZDUCTORconnect demonstrate how effective protection can be delivered without compromising on space, flexibility, or ease of maintenance, helping organisations build more resilient systems for the future.

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

PECM Issue 82

Safe. Compact. Robust.

BLITZDUCTORconnect The combined arresters of the BLITZDUCTORconnect series reliably protect measuring/control circuits, as well as bus and telecommunication systems against lightning and surge damage – in industry as well as in building technology. They utilise minimal space requirements while offering high discharge capacity and easy handling - from installation to maintenance.

Intrinsically safe versions also available!

Reduced Downtime

Space Saving

A ‘fail-open function’ protective measure ensures the signal circuit is retained in the event of a failure of the arrestor.

With a width of only 6mm, the device fits even the tightest switchgear cabinets, and leaves room for additional components.

Flexible

Easy to Maintain

In addition to modular & compact versions, intrinsically safe variants for hazardous areas or explicitly high-rated currents are also available.

The signal circuit can be disconnected galvanically and without tools by rotating the surge arrester.

Get in touch today. +44 7957 434 524

jason.hallam@dehn.co.uk

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

Lightning & Surge Protection Solutions SPD Ltd and our partners have been solving

exhibitions and

problems in Lightning & Surge Protection

conferences both in

for over 50 years. Our devices are European

the UK and overseas, where our knowledge

designed and manufactured, state of the art

is renowned. We also hold regular contractor

products, which exceed the requirements

training sessions online, some of which are

of the latest standards. With over 3000

live webinar sessions, where you can ask our

products in our range, we are the markets

Technical Director any questions, and some

Surge Protection specialists, with a device to

are on-demand, so can be accessed at a time

suit every installation.

to suit yourself.

We carry out many seminars with

If you have any questions at all please give

consultants and specialist training

us a call on 01484 851 747 or email

organisations as well as attending

info@surgedevices.co.uk.

Compact Bluetooth data loggers for smart, efficient monitoring T&D Corporation, a global leader in wireless data logging, offers the TR4A Series with compact Bluetooth® data loggers designed for fast, flexible temperature and humidity monitoring. Using Bluetooth Low Energy, the TR4A devices enable direct data access via smartphone or tablet. Automatic data transfer and intuitive apps ensure efficient workflows and real-time visibility. Models: TR41A: Internal sensor, -40 to 80°C, waterproof (IP67), ideal for transport and storage.

TR42A: External sensor, -60 to 155°C, splashproof (IP64), suitable for demanding environments. TR43A: Temperature and humidity monitoring (0–55°C, 10–95% RH), perfect for indoor climate control. TR45: Thermocouple (-199 to 1760°C) and PT compatibility (-199 to 600°C) With long battery life, easy setup and cloud integration TR4A Series offers a smart, scalable solution for critical cold chain applications, e.g. food or blood transport.

www.tandd.com

PECM Issue 82

Free Android and iOS apps: • T&D Thermo – easy device setup, data download and graphing • TR4 Report – creating PDF reports with one click • Plus: Free cloud access

Clean quicker Save time

Discover how Tork exelCLEAN® Cleaning Cloths can save your business time by cleaning 32% faster than rags.* And Tork Performance® Dispensers can be placed exactly where needed to decrease interruptions and reduce motion waste. Better hygiene for better productivity tork.co.uk or tork.ie Tork, an Essity brand *Panel test conducted by Swerea Research Institute (Sweden, 2014)

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

SMARTER DUST MONITORING CODEL

Introducing CODEL’s game-changing triboelectric dust monitor range In an era where environmental regulations are tightening and industrial efficiency is non-negotiable, CODEL has launched a trio of triboelectric dust monitors tailored to meet diverse compliance and operational needs with precision and reliability.

A range engineered for precision and performance Available now, CODEL’s Triboelectric Dust Monitor Range comprises three model families:

• DCEM 6000 A premier, QAL1-certified analyser designed for continuous emissions monitoring. It meets the stringent EN 14181 and EN 15267-3 standards, delivering exceptional accuracy and sensitivity for processes where regulatory compliance is critical.

• EnergyTech 600 Series (including ET 600 and ET 610) A versatile mid-range option certified to EN 15859, offering realtime particulate measurement for balanced compliance and operational insight. ET 600 excels as a dust monitor, while ET 610 is optimized for early-stage filter leak detection, ideal for process control across power generation, cement, chemical, and manufacturing sectors.

• EnergyTech 300 Series A cost-effective solution built for burst bag detection in dust extraction systems, offering fast, reliable alerts in applications such as woodworking, mineral processing, and bulk material handling.

A launch met with excitement and momentum

Access to real-time data through CODEL Cloud, issues can be addressed before escalation, reducing maintenance costs and retaining uptime. The advantage of triboelectric technology What sets this range apart is the proven triboelectric sensing method, known for its robustness, minimal maintenance, and accurate, realtime readings. Unlike optical devices susceptible to alignment issues, humidity, or soot, triboelectric monitors deliver dependable performance even in harsh industrial environments.

Smart, connected monitoring with CODEL Cloud Each monitor in the Triboelectric Range integrates seamlessly with CODEL Cloud, a centralized digital hub for real-time data, reporting, and analytics. This connectivity enables proactive maintenance, enhanced compliance tracking, and improved filtration efficiency, all accessible remotely and securely.

CODEL officially unveiled the Triboelectric Range earlier this year and received an overwhelmingly positive response from both customers and distributors. Industry feedback praised the range’s versatility, accuracy, and costeffectiveness, especially in reducing operational downtime.

Why it matters to industry • Compliance without compromise: Whether the project demands high-level regulatory monitoring or practical filter control, there’s a model tailored to deliver precision under the relevant standards.

• Operational Efficiency: Access to real-time data through CODEL Cloud, issues can be addressed before escalation, reducing maintenance costs and retaining uptime.

• Future-proofing: Built with scalability and adaptability in mind, the Triboelectric Range supports evolving environmental standards and industry expectations.

Final thoughts CODEL’s Triboelectric Dust Monitor Range marks a significant leap forward in the field of emissions and filtration monitoring. By pairing highperformance triboelectric sensing with innovative cloud integration, CODEL offers industrial operators agile solutions that are both futureready and firmly aligned with regulatory demands.

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

PECM Issue 82

Triboelectric

A Forbes Marshall Company

New

Dust Monitoring

Minimise Downtime, Maximise Profits, Stay Compliant CODEL Triboelectric Dust Monitor Range

DCEM 6000 QAL 1 Dust Analyser

EnergyTech 600 Series Certified Dust / Filter Leak Monitor

EnergyTech 300 Broken Bag Detector

Get Connected! Realtime Data, Alarms and Reports.

Your Partner in Dust Management Accurate and Affordable Dust Monitoring Solutions

CODEL’s comprehensive range of triboelectric dust monitors is designed to meet every level of industrial emissions monitoring. Whether you need simple, cost-effective burst bag detection or a high-precision QAL1-certified analyser for regulatory compliance, CODEL has a solution tailored to your application.

DCEM 6000 - Certified to EN 14181 & EN 15267-3 (QAL1) 0-7.5mg/m3

EnergyTech 600/610 - Certified to EN15859 with mg/m3 output available. EnergyTech 300 - Affordable solution for burst bag detection.

Triboelectric sensor technology, proven method for accurate dust detection. Direct sensing method, actual particulate concentration. Easy installation with minimal maintenance required. Compatible with CODEL Cloud, online real time data platform.

Scan for more

Ideal for monitoring dust within…

Industrial Manufacturing, Power Plants, Cement Plants, Dust Collectors, Chemical Manufacturing, Mining Operations, Woodworking and Sawmills, Waste Management, Recycling Plants, Power Generation, Pharmaceutical, Construction Sites

For more information and full specification

www.codel.co.uk - sales@codel.co.uk - +44 (0) 1629 814351

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

CLIMATE WIZARD CW80 SEELEY INTERNATIONAL

Refrigeration‑level cooling with up to 80% less energy, debuting at MCE Seeley International today announced the exhibition of a Climate Wizard CW80 unit at Mostra Convegno in Milan, an advanced indirect evaporative cooling system built around the company’s proprietary Multi Cycle Core. The CW80 achieves temperatures comparable to refrigerated systems while delivering up to 80% energy savings (using water as refrigerant), helping specifiers and building owners cut operating costs and carbon emissions without compromising comfort. Unlike conventional air conditioning, the CW80 provides 100% fresh, filtered outside air, improving Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and occupant wellbeing. The unit’s Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of up to 19 supports stringent decarbonization targets, while its ability to operate at static pressure up to 820 Pa, high airflow and filtration capability make it suitable for complex ducted installations and large industrial spaces. For instance, this unit can deliver airflow rates as high as 30,600 m³/h at 270 Pa, consuming 14 kW of power and offering a cooling capacity of up to 234 kW. It achieves refrigeration‑like supply temperatures using only water as the refrigerant. The Climate Wizard CW80 will be presented for the first time in a European exhibition at Mostra Convegno Expocomfort (MCE) in Milan (24th to 27th March 2026). Visit Stand P12, Pavilion 9 for live demonstrations, technical briefings, and application guidance.

Unlike conventional air conditioning, the CW80 provides 100% fresh, filtered outside air, improving Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and occupant wellbeing. Technical Insight: Multi-Cycle Core Explained The Multi-Cycle Core is the defining feature of Climate Wizard technology. It uses a series of heat exchange stages to indirectly evaporate water in a separate air stream, transferring cooling energy without adding moisture

to the supply air. This process leverages counter-flow and crossflow channels to maximize thermal efficiency, achieving dew-point cooling performance that rivals mechanical refrigeration. By isolating the working air from the supply air and with a portion of the pre-cooled supply air returning in the working air to be cooled again, the system delivers temperatures never seen before with evaporative technology. The result is stable, low-temperature air delivery for industrial spaces with minimal energy input and zero reliance on synthetic refrigerants.

More info at: www.tinyurl.com/climatewizardcw80 or eurosales@seeleyinternational.com

PECM Issue 82

GEARS, DRIVES & MOTORS

COUPLING CHOICE MATTERS PALS-SALES

Choosing the right coupling technology for modern machinery Choosing the correct coupling is not simply a matter of matching shaft diameters. The coupling sits between the driving and driven components, influencing reliability, positioning accuracy, vibration, bearing life and maintenance. An unsuitable choice can transfer shock into the machine, allow unwanted movement, accelerate wear or create repeated stoppages. Selecting the technology around the application, rather than adapting the application around an available coupling, therefore deserves careful attention. Flexible couplings are widely used where machinery must accommodate small amounts of axial, radial or angular misalignment. An elastomeric element can also absorb shock loads and damp torsional vibration, helping to to protect motors, gearboxes, pumps and bearings. They are often suitable for conveyors, packaging equipment, pumps and general industrial machinery, particularly where simple installation and maintenance are important. Precision automation presents different demands. Servo driven systems, indexing equipment, robotics and positioning axes may require zero backlash, low inertia and consistent transmission of motion. Elastomeric zero backlash couplings can combine accuracy with vibration damping, while bellows couplings provide high torsional rigidity and excellent dynamic response. The correct choice depends on the required positioning accuracy, speed,

SIT DRIVE SOLUTIONS offers flexible, zero backlash, bellows, disc and gear coupling technologies, together with custom designs for application specific requirements acceleration and permitted misalignment. More demanding industrial duties may favour disc or gear couplings. Disc couplings offer torsional rigidity, high reliability and maintenance free operation, making them suitable for pumps, compressors and process equipment. Gear couplings provide high torque capacity within a compact envelope and can accommodate misalignment, making them valuable in heavier machinery and arduous operating conditions. Before selecting any coupling, engineers should establish the continuous and peak torque, rotational speed, shaft diameters,

starting frequency and operating temperature. Misalignment values, reversing duty, environmental conditions, space restrictions and maintenance access should also be considered. For servo applications, inertia, torsional stiffness and backlash requirements become especially important. Understanding why an existing coupling has failed can be as valuable as knowing its dimensions. SIT DRIVE SOLUTIONS offers flexible, zero backlash, bellows, disc and gear coupling technologies, together with custom designs for application specific requirements. PALSSALES provides UK application and commercial support, helping machine builders and industrial users review operating conditions before selecting a solution. Engineers uncertain about the correct technology can request a coupling application review by providing their speed, torque, shaft sizes and operating conditions at www.pals-sales.com/contact. This early review can prevent oversizing, reduce unnecessary cost and ensure the selected coupling supports the machine’s expected service life, performance targets and practical maintenance needs from initial commissioning onwards reliably.

For further information, please visit www.pals-sales.com/contact

PECM Issue 82

THE RIGHT COUPLING FOR EVERY MOTION CHALLENGE From precision servo drives and automated machinery to pumps, compressors and heavy industrial equipment. FLEXIBLE / ZERO BACKLASH / DISC / GEAR / BELLOW / CUSTOM

TRASCO®

TRASCO® ES

SERVOMATE®

METALDRIVE®

SITEX® ST

SERVOPLUS®

Flexible jaw couplings

Zero backlash couplings

High performance disc couplings

Steel gear couplings

Servo disc couplings

Bellows couplings

A COMPLETE RANGE OF COUPLING TECHNOLOGIES Standard, ATEX certified options and application specific designs available

NOT CERTAIN WHICH COUPLING SUITS YOUR APPLICATION? Send us your speed, torque, shaft sizes and operating conditions for a coupling application review.

PALS-SALES | UK APPLICATION SUPPORT sales@pals-sales.com | 0333 090 7822 | pals-sales.com

REQUEST A COUPLING REVIEW

pals-sales.com/contact

GEARS, DRIVES & MOTORS

GEARMOTORS BUILT TO FIT APEX DYNAMICS

Apex Dynamics brings the same comprehensive technical and service approach to Compact AC and DC Geared Motors Machine builders rarely select a geared motor simply by considering power and output speed. The right solution depends on torque, ratio, mounting arrangement, available space, supply voltage, duty requirements and the mechanical configuration of the machine. It is this application-led approach that Apex Dynamics is bringing to the compact geared motor market with its SGM range of AC and DC motors and geared motors.

Gearbox flexibility

The SGM series is suitable for applications including small conveyors, sealing and filling machines, label heads, checkweighers and vision systems. A comprehensive range

The range extends the Apex Dynamics offering beyond its established precision servo gearboxes, rack and pinion systems and related motion-control products, bringing the same emphasis on product choice, technical support and customer service to lower-power machine applications.

K Series AC motors are available with single-phase and three-phase voltage options and power ratings from 6W to 200W. Features include sealed motor shafts, efficient heat-dissipation housings and optimised speed-torque characteristics. Brake and forcedcooling options are available, with sizes starting at just 60mm square.

The SGM series is suitable for applications including small conveyors, sealing and filling machines, label heads, checkweighers and vision systems.

For DC applications, the GDM Series provides multiple voltage options and power ratings from 10W to 400W, with sizes beginning at 55mm diameter. Brake and tacho feedback options further extend the choice.

The SGM programme includes the G Series gearbox range, using highprecision helical gears in aluminium housings. Inline gearboxes provide ratios from 3:1 to 500:1, while rightangle configurations extend from 5:1 to 2500:1. Designers can choose between inline, right-angle solid-shaft and right-angle hollow-shaft configurations, together with different shaft, bore and mounting options. The objective is to select a geared-motor configuration that fits the machine rather than redesigning the machine around the drive.

For further information, please visit www.apexdynauk.com

PECM Issue 82

GEARS, DRIVES & MOTORS

A UNIQUE PACKAGE WHICH NO OTHER SERVO GEARBOX SUPPLIER CAN MATCH PATENTED DESIGNS

It starts with design and we have Patented Designs for high performance.

UNIQUE 5 YEAR WARRANTY

On our complete range of servo gearboxes and rack and pinion products.

UNMATCHED 2-3 WEEK LEAD TIME

On our standard range of planetary and spiral bevel gearboxes and rack and pinion solutions.

The SGM programme includes the G Series gearbox range, using highprecision helical gears in aluminium housings. Application-led support Apparently simple applications can have very different requirements. A small conveyor may need high starting torque and continuous operation, while a labelling mechanism may demand compact dimensions and controlled speed. Filling machines may require rightangle or hollow-shaft drives where installation space is restricted.

ON-TIME DELIVERY OR IT’S FREE!

Guaranteed delivery - another industry first for Apex Dynamics. FREE PRODUCT if we are late on what we acknowledged as the delivery date.

ATEX AS STANDARD LARGEST RANGE OF REPLACEMENTS

We have Apex hasthe achieved largestCategory range of IIdrop-in 2 GD creplacements T6 classification and on ourofstandard ratios any major gearbox planetary ranges, gearbox to themanufacturer latest ATEX DIRECTIVE 2014/34/EU . Patented Designs

Patented Designs Call NOW for a 5 Year Warranty 5 Year Warranty quote on 2-3 Week Lead Time 2-3 Week Lead Time 0121 227 5340 Guaranteed Delivery Guaranteed Delivery Largest Range of Drop-In or email ATEX as Standard Replacements sales@apexdynauk.com

The configurable SGM system can also help OEM machine builders standardise designs while accommodating different voltages, powers, ratios and mechanical arrangements. With power ratings from just a few watts to 400W, AC and DC alternatives, extensive ratios and multiple configurations, the proposition is straightforward: the application may be smaller and the motor less powerful, but the technical support and service behind it should be every bit as comprehensive.

Apex Dynamics Heath House, Cheadle Road Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, ST14 7BY T: 0121 227 5340 | M: 07305 014551 E: sales@apexdynauk.com W: http://www.apexdynauk.com

Issue 82 PECM

GEARS, DRIVES & MOTORS

Web: www.rotechsystems.co.uk Email: sales@rotechsystems.co.uk TEL: +44 (0)151 356 2322

Rotech Systems has an excellent worldwide reputation when it comes to rotation monitoring. We have been in business for over 40 years, servicing many diﬀerent industries from the food Industry to the mining sector. Our products are extremely robust. Guaranteeing the end user a trouble free solution, to all their monitoring applications.

Rotech Motion Sensor’s can be used for indication, control, interlocking, protection, sequencing, alarm initiations and many more functions!

Rotech Motion Sensor’s can be used whenever information or monitoring of a shaft rotation, position, direction, speed, slip etc. is required!

Why gearboxes and drives should be specified together A geared motor is rarely just a mechanical component. In many industrial applications, it sits at the point where electrical efficiency, torque delivery, speed control and mechanical integration meet. Here, Marek Lukaszczyk, UK & Middle East marketing manager at WEG, explains why specification should consider the motor, gearbox and drive together rather than treating each component separately. The IEA 4E Electric Motor Systems Platform reports that motor systems account for 53 per cent of global electricity consumption, while existing and emerging technologies could reduce motor-system energy demand by 20 to 30 per cent across industry, infrastructure and buildings. That makes the way motors, gearboxes and drives are specified a significant efficiency opportunity. Applications such as conveyors, mixers, pumps and materials handling systems all place different demands on the motion system. A fixed-speed conveyor may need robust torque delivery and reliable operation over long running hours. A process with variable demand may benefit from a variable speed drive (VSD), such as WEG’s CFW series, allowing motor speed to

be matched more closely to the application. In both cases, the gearbox affects how efficiently useful work is delivered from the energy supplied. WEGs WG20 geared motors and WG50 gearboxes illustrate this system-level approach. WG20 supports compact, efficient geared motor applications, while WG50 is

designed for heavier duties where torque delivery, speed reduction and mechanical durability are central to performance. As energy efficiency expectations rise, the real value comes from specifying the right combination of motor, gearbox and drive for the way the equipment actually operates.

For more information about WEG’s high-efficiency motors and drive technologies, visit www.weg.net.

PECM Issue 82

HEALTH & SAFETY

IMPROVING BUSINESS TOGETHER EMBRACE SHEQ

45 years of supporting business success

The people who work for Embrace SHEQ Management Services have provided bespoke occupational safety, health, environmental and quality management services to many industries and businesses for over 45 years, ranging from small enterprises to large organisations. These businesses have included the engineering construction, manufacturing, renewable energy, commercial, industrial, food and printing industries. Our services are built around your requirements as we like to be part of the organisation, building on your organisations strengths, assisting with any areas that need strengthening

and providing ways for improvements and continuing growth. We recognise that whatever your organisation your systems and culture are important to the way you do your business, Embrace SHEQ Management Services have helped in recognising where changes can be made in organisations that have helped them win awards and create better client relationships. If you need any help in developing management systems, undertaking inspections and audits, creating new procedures, or enhancing your business training and culture, then please contact us for a chat to see how we can help you.

Embrace SHEQ Management Services have helped in recognising where changes can be made in organisations that have helped them win awards and create better client relationships.

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

PECM Issue 82

HEALTH & SAFETY

SITE-SPECIFIC FIRE SAFETY OHEAP

How OHEAP is supporting modern industrial protection For over 60 years, OHEAP Fire and Security has delivered specialist fire safety and security solutions across the UK. During this time, the company has seen how industrial and manufacturing environments have become more complex. Facilities teams and site managers need fire and security protection that reflects the specific risks of their sites, supports compliance, and provides visibility around the clock. Through OHEAP Fire and Security’s newly launched Fire Safety Consultancy service, the company works with engineers, facilities teams and site managers to understand how each site operates, identify sitespecific risks and develop practical fire safety solutions that protect people, assets and keep operations running.

Supporting fire safety around sitespecific risks Every industrial and manufacturing environment presents different challenges. Production processes, hot machinery, electrical infrastructure, hazardous materials and site layouts can all influence how fire safety and security systems should be designed, installed, monitored and maintained. OHEAP Fire and Security works directly with these teams to understand the risks involved and develop effective solutions. Early engagement can help identify fire detection, emergency lighting, monitoring and wider security requirements alongside the operational demands of the site. For industrial facilities operating around the clock, or those left

unattended outside normal working hours, monitoring can provide an important additional layer of protection. Fire alarm events, faults and system notifications can be communicated through approved monitoring pathways, while 24/7 monitoring support can help ensure an alarm or system event is identified and escalated when on-site teams are unavailable. For sites where an incident could disrupt production, damage critical equipment or affect operations, maintaining this visibility can be essential.

Protecting Operations Beyond the Tools Technology is only one part of an effective fire and security strategy. For manufacturing environments, systems need to be appropriately surveyed, designed, installed, and maintained to support reliable performance over the long term. OHEAP Fire and Security’s Fire Safety Consultancy service assesses site-specific risks to help teams determine the most appropriate

approach to fire protection. This can include considering the processes taking place, occupancy, equipment, building layout, potential ignition sources and the potential impact an incident could have on people, production and business continuity. Fire safety and security don’t need to operate as separate systems. OHEAP Fire and Security combines NSI Gold-accredited CCTV, ANPR, access control, intruder alarms, keyholding and monitoring with its fire detection and life safety systems, giving teams one holistic view of risk across a site rather than managing fire and security separately. For large or operationally critical facilities, this integrated approach can help teams manage access, identify potential incidents and protect their premises, even when left unoccupied. About OHEAP Fire and Security OHEAP Fire and Security has been a trusted name in fire protection and security for over 60 years. As BAFE and NSI Gold-accredited specialists, they support businesses through designing, installing and maintaining bespoke safety solutions.

For more information, contact laurenh@oheap.co.uk

PECM Issue 82

HEALTH & SAFETY

TURNING RISK INTO ACTION SIGMA-HSE

Gain confidence in your process safety Sigma-HSE is a global leader in Process Safety, supporting organisations across Europe, America, and Asia. Our experienced engineers and technical specialists help businesses eliminate or reduce risk, achieve regulatory compliance, and protect people, assets, and operations efficiently and costeffectively. Backed by an ISO 9001 certified quality management system, we are committed to delivering consistently high-quality consultancy, laboratory testing, and training services while continually improving the way we support our clients. We provide a comprehensive range of specialist services, including: • DSEAR / ATEX & Fire Risk Assessments • HAZID, HAZOP & LOPA Studies • Process Safety Management (PSM) • Industrial Explosion Hazards testing • Chemical Process Evaluation testing • Vent Sizing & Explosion Protection What sets Sigma-HSE apart is our ability to combine expert consultancy with advanced laboratory testing. Our ISO/IEC 17025 accredited Industrial Explosion Hazards laboratory forms part of a wider testing capability that includes electrostatics, UN transportation, and gas, liquid and vapour flammability.

Partnering with SigmaHSE means greater control over your safety.

practical steps to close any gaps, ensuring you are audit-ready and fully prepared. With robust technical insight and documented evidence, you can: • Protect employees and assets • Strengthen regulatory compliance

Our Chemical Process Evaluation & Thermal Screening laboratory, which includes ISO/IEC 17025 accredited DSC and ARC tests, provides precise, defensible data on the flammability, explosivity, and thermal reactivity of your materials. We also deliver bespoke workshops, open seminars, and tailored inperson training programmes designed for all levels, from operational teams to directors, helping embed a strong, sustainable safety culture throughout your organisation. Partnering with Sigma-HSE means greater control over your safety. Our experts identify hidden risks within your processes and provide clear, prioritised actions to reduce them. We assess compliance against relevant legislation and outline

• Demonstrate due diligence • Improve operational confidence • Lower insurance premiums More importantly, you gain clarity. Understanding where risks exist, how severe they are, and how to manage them effectively is essential for safe operations. Safety isn’t just about meeting regulations. It’s about protecting your people, your reputation, and your future operations. Want greater confidence in your process safety? You can learn more about SigmaHSE’s services or book a call with one of our process safety specialists on our website - sigma-hse.com Take the next step towards safer, stronger processes today.

For further information, please visit www.sigma-hse.com

PECM Issue 82

Is Your Process Truly Safe? Sigma-HSE combines specialist expertise and technical services to improve workplace safety and strengthen risk management:

Process Safety Consultancy

Explosibility & Chemical Process Testing

Bespoke Training

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MACHINING & MACHINERY

IN-PROCESS PRECISION RENISHAW

Renishaw strengthens its machine tool probing portfolio with two new innovative solutions Renishaw, the global engineering technologies company, has expanded its machine tool probing range with two new products that help manufacturers bring more inspection processes directly onto the machine tool: RMP400S, an all-in-one spindle probe for smart manufacturing, and RUP60, an ultrasonic thickness measurement probe. Both products increase in-process inspection capability, reducing reliance on separate inspection equipment and supporting smarter, data-driven manufacturing. The RMP400S is Renishaw’s most versatile spindle probe to date, combining touch-trigger, scanning, and surface finish verification in a single device. Built on Renishaw’s

PECM Issue 82

patented RENGAGE™ strain gauge technology, it delivers repeatability of 0.25 μm (2σ) and can measure surface finish to an Ra of 0.5 μm. “High-density scanning provides users with comprehensive data for enhanced traceability and reliability in manufacturing,” said Justin Walford, Principal Product Marketing Engineer for Renishaw’s Machine Tool Products Division. “This includes run-out, form, flatness, roughness and waviness measurements, providing a more complete picture of workpiece quality.” Surface finish verification is fully integrated into the probe’s scanning capability, giving manufacturers visibility of part finish and helping

to flag potential issues before they escalate. For certain applications, such as bore and boss machining, a single RMP400S probe and stylus combination can carry out touch-trigger, scanning and surface verification tasks that would previously have required multiple tools. The RMP400S enhances on-machine measurement capabilities by delivering high-density scanning data for improved in-process control, helping manufacturers streamline inspection workflows. The RUP60 is Renishaw’s first on-machine ultrasonic thickness measurement probe, designed to simplify inspection of parts where

access is limited to a single side, a common challenge in aerospace component manufacturing. It enables automated thickness measurement without removing the workpiece from the machine, reducing operator involvement and requiring no specialist training. Traditional manual thickness measurement of large metal workpieces is slow, consumes valuable factory floor space and is vulnerable to operator error such as poor positioning or inadequate coupling. The RUP60 addresses this with automated measurement of metal thicknesses between 0.7 mm and 30 mm using a single stylus, and it operates reliably with or without coupling fluid, even in harsh production environments. The RUP60 supports adaptive machining approaches such as cutmeasure-cut by reducing user error and delivering precise, repeatable results. Measurements take just two

High-density scanning provides users with comprehensive data for enhanced traceability and reliability in manufacturing. seconds per point, with accuracy better than 10 μm and repeatability of 2 μm. Because the workpiece never leaves the machine, the RUP60 reduces production steps while saving time, floor space and cost. Both the RUP60 and RMP400S communicate with the machine tool controller via Renishaw’s new RMMQE radio receiver, building on the established QE radio transmission protocol. A new Universal Sensor Interface (USI) has also been developed to support the RUP60 and

other Renishaw QE probes, along with the data-intensive processing they require. “Ultrasonic thickness measurement is a readily accepted technique, now innovatively adapted to the machining environment, allowing fast, highly accurate and repeatable measurement,” commented Heather Ormston, Lead Product Marketing Engineer for Renishaw’s Machine Tool Products Division. Both the RMP400S and the RUP60 are supported by Renishaw’s established Inspection Plus software. They are also compatible with Renishaw’s Set and Inspect software for intuitive, code-free programming, as well as Renishaw Central, the company’s smart manufacturing data platform. This software ecosystem enables manufacturers to integrate either probe seamlessly into existing workflows, reporting systems and quality control processes.

Learn more about Renishaw’s products and solutions at www.renishaw.com. Issue 82 PECM

MACHINING & MACHINERY

SPECIALISTS IN TOOLS & GAUGES WISEMAN THREADING TOOLS LTD

WISEMAN THREADING TOOLS LTD Specialists in Tools & Gauges for Screw Threads We have been supplying threading tools and gauges since 1987. Together with supplying plain plug and ring gauges this is all that we do, we therefore consider ourselves to be specialists in this field. We supply worldwide. We hold extensive ready stocks that include all of the standard stuff that others offer, but also includes taps, dies, die nuts, die head chasers, thread rolls and gauging for threads not normally available 'off the shelf '. Our real time stocks can be checked and purchased online at www. threadtools.com Just enter the thread details into the search box on the home page. You will be directed to the item, if stocked, or to our specials, (custom manufacture), sales team. who will quote to supply at competitive rates, in good time. As an account holder you can also order online from our listed in stock items, at your normal terms. We realise that you need the right item at the right price and quality, and in a reasonable time frame. We are geared to provide that. We can ship stocked items same day. Our experienced sales staff can assist and advise you on any technical issues. We welcome enquiries from resellers and can offer terms to suit.

WISEMAN THREADING TOOLS LTD 11 Padgets Lane, South Moons Moat, Redditch B98 0RA UK +44(0)1527 520 580 sales@threadtools.com www.threadtools.com

For For further further information, information, please please visit visit www.threadtools.com www.threadtools.com

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Threading Tool Specialists

HSS DIES & DIE NUTS Large shelf stocks for all Standard and many Special Threads. Check our stocks online.

THREAD CUTTING AND ROLLING HEADS and parts and repair service

THREAD ROLLS FOR ALCO & FETTE HEADS. READY STOCKS CUSTOM MANUFACTURURE

HSS TAPS Huge Stocks for all Standard threads CUSTOM MADE taps our SPECIALITY! We stock taps for many non standard (SPECIAL) threads All types; Spiral flute and point, Fluteless, Left Hand, etc, etc.

Wiseman Threading Tools Ltd 11 Padgets Lane, South Moons Moat. Redditch B98 0RA Worcs UK +44(0)1527 520 580 sales@threadtools.com www.threadtools.com

THREAD GAUGES all types. Large stocks for standard and SPECIAL threads. Any non stocked can be quoted for custom manufacture.

CHASERS FOR COVENTRY & LANDIS TYPE DIE HEADS Ready stocks for most size heads most standard and some special threads Geometry available for most materials. Custom manufacture our speciality!

MACHINING & MACHINERY

CLEANING WITH PURPOSE KLUTHE

Clean aluminium sustainably and efficiently Innovation and sustainability are increasingly important to the long-term competitiveness of the metalworking industry. A US plant operated by a leading German automotive supplier recently demonstrated how both can be achieved by optimising its aqueous cleaning process. The plant manufactures highquality transmissions for electric and combustion-engine vehicles. A key challenge for the plant was consistently achieving the required cleanliness standard for aluminium die-cast gearbox housings following ultrasonic immersion cleaning. At the same time, the plant wanted to extend cleaning bath life from one week to as much as three weeks without reducing production throughput. Achieving this required looking beyond the cleaning process itself and considering the entire process chain, including upstream machining.

A combined approach to machining and cleaning The solution was to introduce HAKUFLUID® 185B, a mineral oil-free, water-soluble machining fluid, together with HAKUPUR 439-1, a parts cleaner suitable for sensitive aluminium alloys. Both products are manufactured by Kluthe Group. Following successful trials conducted with Kluthe’s application engineering team, the new combination consistently achieved the required cleanliness standards. A major factor was the elimination of mineral oil from the upstream machining process. With the previous oil-containing coolant, oil accumulated on the surface of the cleaning bath and could re-contaminate gearbox

Following the conversion, components continued to meet the required cleanliness standard even after three weeks of full production.

Taking a holistic view of the entire process chain was the key to success. housings as they were removed from the ultrasonic immersion system. Removing this source of contamination improved the stability and effectiveness of the cleaning process. All seven cleaning systems were subsequently converted to the new neutral cleaner. The process combines ultrasonic immersion cleaning with spray cleaning.

Longer cleaning bath life with oilfree machining fluid The upstream machining operations were also converted to HAKUFLUID® 185B, initially on the aluminium production lines and, three months later, on the steel lines. The impact was significant. Even after several weeks of operation, the cleaning baths remained clear and foam-free. Previously, increasing levels of tramp oil from the machining coolant had contaminated the baths, reducing their service life and contributing to additional maintenance and non-conforming parts.

Lower temperatures reduce energy consumption A further improvement came from reducing the cleaning bath temperature from 60°C to 40°C while maintaining cleaning performance. To ensure process stability, the temperature was reduced gradually in 5°C increments. The cleaner remained stable throughout the extended operating period, while the lower temperature delivered a significant reduction in energy consumption. The combination of longer bath life, reduced cleaning temperatures and consistent component cleanliness provided both environmental and operational benefits. This project demonstrates the value of considering machining and cleaning as part of a single process rather than as separate operations. By addressing the source of contamination upstream, the manufacturer was able to improve cleaning performance, extend bath life and reduce energy consumption. The result is a more stable and efficient production process, with lower resource consumption and improved control of component cleanliness.

For further information, please visit www.kluthe.com

PECM Issue 82

HAKUFLUID – OIL-FREE COOLING LUBRICANTS

Precision Performance: Delivers consistent performance & cleanliness in machining with a safer, HAKUFLUID -

– OIL-FREE COOLING LUBRICANTS

eco-friendly EHS profile.

HAKUFLUID HAKUFLUID -HAKUFLUID – COOLING LUBRICANTS – OIL-FREE OIL-FREE COOLINGPerformance: LUBRICANTS Precision

#AdvancedMetalworking

–Delivers OIL-FREE COOLING LUBRICANTS consistent performance &

Precision Precision Performance: Performance: cleanliness in machining with a safer, Delivers Delivers consistent consistent performance performance & &

Precision Performance: Precision Performance: eco-friendly EHS profile.

cleanliness in machining machining with with a a safer, safer, cleanliness in Delivers consistent performance & cleanliness in Delivers consistent performance & UK info.uk@kluthe.com / DE info@kluthe.com eco-friendly EHS profile. #AdvancedMetalworking eco-friendly EHS profile.

machining with a safer, eco-friendly EHS profile. cleanliness in machining with a safer, #AdvancedMetalworking #AdvancedMetalworking #AdvancedMetalworking UK - +44 (0) 330 175 9970 / DE - +49 (0) 6221 5301 0 eco-friendly EHS profile./ DE - info@kluthe.com UK - info.uk@kluthe.com UK // DE -- info@kluthe.com UK -- info.uk@kluthe.com info.uk@kluthe.com DE175 info@kluthe.com #AdvancedMetalworking UK - +44 (0) 330 9970 / DE - +49 (0) 6221 5301 0 UK +44 (0) 330 175 9970 / DE +49 UK - +44 (0) 330 175 9970 / DE - +49 (0) (0) 6221 6221 5301 5301 0 0

UK - info.uk@kluthe.com / DE - info@kluthe.com ARMONY IN HARMONY IN CHEMISTRY www.kluthe.com www.kluthe.com ARMONY IN CHEMISTRY CHEMISTRY UK - +44 (0) 330 175 www.kluthe.com 9970 / DE - +49 (0) 6221 5301 0

HARMONY IN CHEMISTRY

www.kluthe.com

MACHINING & MACHINERY

Pentagon delivers a full turnkey solution for plastic injection moulding from one site of UK Manufacture.

MANUFACTURER OF HIGH QUALITY

ANTI VIBRATION PRODUCTS

NewDESIGN premises supports continued growth of control panel manufacture activities carried out by the INDUSDEVELOPMENT Engineering Services company, such as the design, is proud to offer a wide range manufacture, and testing of of custom control panels, special purpose machinery. automation systems and Also, to further our goals to special purpose machinery. reduce our carbon foot print After working on major control we will be installing a high and automation projects efficiency solar PV array in for several of the south’s the coming months. For more leading brands, the company information on the services has recently acquired a new that are available please do premises with the aim of not hesitate to contact and increasing production capacity we will be happy to discuss of bespoke and sub-contract, www.pentagonplastics.co.uk your project needs and control panel manufacture. websales@pentagonplastics.co.uk requirements. The new premises will also allow us to support the Tel: +44 (0)of1403 264 397 www.indusengineering.co.uk wider range engineering

MOULDING TOOLING

WIDE RANGE OF STOCK AVAILABLE FOR NEXT DAY DELIVERY

BEYOND THE MOULD

01282 878200

sales@fibet.co.uk | www.fibet.co.uk Fibet Rubber Bonding (UK) Ltd Unit 9 Dale Mill, Hallam Road, Nelson, Lancashire, BB9 8AN

Issue 72 PECM 1533425274-Print Ad Designs- 148x105mm-A6-V1-CS.indd 2

CM01-25.indd 79

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09/01/2025 10:51

PECM Issue 82

INDUS Engineering Services

CONTROL. AUTOMATION. PERFORMANCE. Bespoke control panels engineered around your operation

Unlock efficiency with control panels tailored to your needs At INDUS Engineering Services, we specialise in bespoke control panels designed for reliability, performance and ease of use. From manufacturing and automation to FMCG, our systems are engineered to streamline operations and optimise performance.

Our Services Include: • Custom Control Panel Design & Fabrication • PLC & HMI Integration • Automation & Process Control Solutions • Panel Upgrades & Retrofits

Why Choose INDUS?

• Electrical Engineering Consultations

Tailored Solutions: Designed and built around your specific requirements for seamless integration.

• 24/7 Maintenance & Support Services

Industry Expertise: Over 10 years of experience across manufacturing, automation and FMCG. High-Quality Components: Quality materials and components for dependable, longlasting performance. Compliance & Safety: Designed to meet relevant industry regulations and high safety standards. Rapid Turnaround & Support: Responsive delivery plus ongoing support to keep systems running smoothly.

SCAN TO LEARN MORE

T: 01202 942637 | E: info@indusengineering.co.uk W: www.indusengineering.co.uk

MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

INFRARED TRANSFORMS PV FLIR

Field Test Case of a Southwest China Photovoltaic Base

challenges: intermittency, output fluctuations, poor accuracy, high operational risks, and the inefficiencies that come with traditional operations and maintenance (O&M). All of these barriers risk hindering industry development.

China is investing in photovoltaic (PV) installations at a rapid pace and becoming a core market, holding more than 40% of global capacity. While the future of PV power generation is promising, the industry faces significant

PECM Issue 82

Many companies are turning to infrared imaging technology as a tool to help them overcome these challenges. Thermal imaging cameras such as the Flir T540 are invaluable for predictive maintenance at large-scale power generation facilities. In fact, an 80 GW integrated hydro-wind-solar base in southwest China employed

the T540 with a dual field-of-view lens to successfully address major O&M issues. Core Application Scenario: FullChain Coverage for Power Plant O&M The Flir T540 professional infrared thermal camera, paired with the FlexView dual field-of-view lens, is a powerful tool for PV O&M. Without manual lens replacement, it enables instant switching between a 24° standard FOV and a 14° telephoto FOV, ensuring efficient and precise fault localization. Based on on-site conditions and with thermal imaging in their

toolkit, the O&M team developed a “proactive prevention” strategy that balances inspection efficiency and accuracy while significantly reducing O&M costs and time.

Temperature anomalies caused by deformation or loose components are revealed with thermal imaging, enabling timely adjustment to reduce power loss.

Module Inspection: Locating Faults in Core Power-Generating Units Hot-Spot Effect Detection Issues such as shading, damage, or diode failure all appear as hotspot areas with >5°C temperature difference through a thermal imaging camera. The Flir T540 accurately identifies these zones, enabling repairs within 24 hours and preventing 20%–50% power loss.

Battery Bank Inspection The T540 detects localized overheating or abnormal temperature rise, preventing performance degradation or damage.

Micro-crack and Cold-Solder Detection Micro-cracks or cold-solder joints create linear or mesh-like low-temperature patterns (~1°C difference). The T540 captures these subtle defects, enabling repairs within 72 hours and extending module lifespan. Insulated Busbar Inspection PID Degradation Detection PID causes stripe-shaped hightemperature zones along module edges. The T540 clearly reveals these

Poor contact or insulation aging early can be detected on the T540, preventing short circuits or fire hazards.

patterns, allowing resolution within 7 days to prevent further degradation.

SVG and Incoming Cables

Equipment Inspection: Ensuring Stable Operation of Critical Devices Inverter and Transformer-Box Inspection Overheating points on heat sinks and terminals are all detectable

Abnormal temperature rises in SVG power modules, reactors, and cable joints can be caught early, preventing degradation and downtime.

Transmission Line Inspection Hotspots caused by poor contact or overload on transmission lines can be easily identified for repair. From the real-world case above, it is clear that the Flir T540 professional infrared thermal camera, combined with the FlexView dual field-of-view lens, reshapes the PV operation and maintenance system. By enhancing power generation efficiency, reducing O&M costs, strengthening safety risk control, the T540 drives the industry toward a “proactive prevention” model through technological integration and scenario expansion—ultimately enabling high-quality development.

Safer Inspections With the dual FOV lens, the T540 enables users to detect short-circuits early while operating the camera from a safe distance.

through thermal imaging, preventing equipment burnout and improving conversion efficiency by 3%–5%.

Support Structure and Mechanical Inspection

For further information, please visit www.teledyneflir.com Issue 82 PECM

MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

MAGNET THERMOCOUPLES LABFACILITY

Reliable temperature measurement made simple Magnet thermocouples provide a simple, reliable and convenient solution for surface temperature measurement where traditional fixed sensors may not be practical. Designed for quick and easy attachment to ferrous surfaces, the magnetic mounting allows sensors to be installed, repositioned and removed without drilling, welding or permanent fixing. This makes them particularly useful for temporary measurements, testing, maintenance and applications where flexibility is essential. Available with magnet pull strengths ranging from 0.7kg to 11.8kg, Labfacility magnet thermocouples can be selected to suit a wide variety of applications. Lower pull strengths are ideal for lighter-duty installations, while stronger magnets provide secure attachment in more demanding environments. Choosing the appropriate pull strength helps ensure good surface contact, dependable positioning and reliable temperature measurement. As a UK manufacturer of temperature sensors, Labfacility combines more than 50 years of temperature measurement expertise with the ability to provide solutions for a wide range of industrial applications.

About Labfacility For more than 50 years, Labfacility has been leading the way in temperature measurement excellence. As a UK manufacturer, we manufacture and supply an extensive range of temperature

sensors, including thermocouples, RTDs and associated components and instrumentation. Our experienced sales team provides fast, knowledgeable technical advice, helping customers select the right sensing and instrumentation products for their application. Through our partnerships with Digikey and Farnell, customers also have convenient access to an extensive selection of Labfacility products through established global distribution networks. Labfacility, UK Manufactured. Trusted Worldwide. Temperature Measurement Experts. For all sales enquiries, please contact us:

Website: www.labfacility.com Email: sales@labfacility.com Tel: +44 (0) 1243 871280 Tel: +44 (0) 1909 569446

For further information, please visit www.labfacility.com

PECM Issue 82

UK Manufacturer

MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

CURE WITH CONFIDENCE PHOENIX TM

Give your coating cure monitoring the Phoenix factor When it comes to coating quality, you need the ability to monitor product temperature, through the cure oven, to ensure you get the cure schedule recommended by your coating supplier. PhoenixTM Thru-process temperature profiling systems are designed for the demands of the busy coating operation. To suit different application demands a range of data loggers are offered measuring 6 to 20 thermocouples. The data logger accuracy of ±0.3 °C guarantees data quality. Powered with user replaceable AA batteries, the data logger offers 1000 hours of logging time. No charging or battery replacement delays so ready when you need it! The silicone free 113 mm high aluminium thermal barrier provides over 2 hours protection at 200 °C and weighs only 3.7 kg making transfer to and lifting on the line trouble free. Real-time monitoring options are available with a RF Radio Telemetry communication link. With this option, measured temperature data is transmitted direct from the data logger via a thermally insulated RF antenna exiting the barrier with the thermocouple cables. The RF signal transmitted out of the oven is then passed along a series of repeater units, if needed, (‘LWMesh’ networking protocol) back to the main coordinator connected to the monitoring PC. Process Issues can be identified immediately, and process optimisation can be performed live with the system in situ.

Phoenix Factor To make cure analysis easier and more accurate the Phoenix Factor cure analysis calculation is available

MiniMag to suit. Supplied with user replaceable cables to minimise consumable costs.

Optical profiling

in the Thermal View Finishing Software packages. The analysis calculation generates a single Cure Index value which is accurate yet easy to set-up and interpret. The Phoenix Factor allows not only instant QA but allows accurate optimisation of the process settings and direct comparison of different processes.

Thermocouple Innovation PhoenixTM offer with their thruprocess monitoring systems a comprehensive range of thermocouples. Designed specifically for coating applications they offer a robust, easy to use accurate solution for monitoring a range of different product types and materials. Choose from clamp, off-set magnetic or

The PhoenixTM Optic system allows thru-process paint defect detection using Optical Profiling. The highresolution video camera can safely travel through the paint oven with an independent torch recording video footage of the product transfer through the oven. The TS64 thermal barrier permits thermal performance of 3 hours at 200 °C. Airborne dust / dirt particulates appear as streaks across the video image, just like a shooting star across the nights sky. Such contamination is obviously a major paint inclusion quality concern. The video allows location of the contamination source allowing quick corrective action. Oven damage or conveyor product transfer issues can also be identified under production conditions. PhoenixTM your finishing oven to find, fix and forget your paint cure problems.

For further information, please visit www.phoenixtm.com or email sales@phoenixtm.com

PECM Issue 82

Thru-process Monitoring Solutions for Paint & Powder Coating Ovens Temperature Profiling Systems

Comprehensive Range • Data Logger and Thermal Barrier choice (6 to 20 Thermocouples) • Extensive Thermocouple range • Real Time RF Telemetry options • ATEX approved options • Full UK service and calibration support

Oven Profile and TUS software

Software Packages to Suit • Thermal View or enhanced Thermal View Finishing software - Match Analysis Tools to suit. • CQI-12 Temperature Uniformity Survey solution options

Optic Video Profiling System

Innovative Video Capture Thru the operating oven

• Detect paint runs, chips and defects • Spot transport problems • Identify oven damage • Locate dust and inclusion risk areas

Visit us for more information: PhoenixTM Ltd UK sales@phoenixtm.com

www.phoenixtm.com

PhoenixTM LLC USA info@phoenixtm.com

PhoenixTM GmbH Germany info@phoenixtm.de

Monitor, Control, Improve & Certify....Your Coating Process

ts n u o c e ic o h c & nce ...where experie

MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

BEYOND AUTOMATION GEMINI DATA LOGGERS

The conditions behind consistent production Automation can control a process, but it cannot control every environmental variable. Time-based temperature and humidity data gives manufacturers the context needed to investigate, validate and improve. Environmental conditions are easy to overlook when attention is fixed on machinery, automation and output. Yet temperature and relative humidity can influence materials, storage areas, production spaces and equipment performance. A reading taken during a walk-round shows only one moment; it cannot reveal what happened overnight, between shifts or during a process cycle. That evidence gap matters. A localised temperature rise may coincide with equipment operation, while changing humidity may help explain variation in a stored material or finished product. Conditions can also differ significantly across a warehouse, plant room or production areas. Without measurements collected over time and at suitable locations, teams may respond to assumptions rather than patterns. A useful monitoring exercise therefore begins with clear intention. Is the aim to compare two areas, investigate a suspected hot spot, assess a storage environment or understand conditions around a process? The answer guides logger position, recording interval and the parameters to measure. It also helps determine whether a short investigation or longer baseline is appropriate.

Environmental conditions are easy to overlook when attention is fixed on machinery, automation and output. Standalone data loggers offer a practical way to build that evidence without installing fixed infrastructure. They can be deployed at the point of interest, left to record through normal operations and then downloaded for review. Engineers and quality teams can compare locations, relate environmental changes to production events and decide whether further investigation or corrective action is justified. Tinytag Ultra 2 and Tinytag Plus 2 provide solutions for this endeavour. Ultra 2 is a compact family for dependable indoor monitoring in generally dry environments. Available in a range of variants, the Ultra 2 supports routine surveys and

more specialised temperature and relative humidity studies. It is well suited to dry storage, laboratories and indoor production areas where discreet, reusable monitoring is required. Plus 2 is designed for more demanding deployments. Its robust standalone design includes integral and external-probe options, dualchannel configurations and models for temperature and relative humidity. With its range of models it can support ambient, surface, highor low-temperature investigations. As robotics and automated processes increase the pace and consistency of manufacturing, independent environmental evidence remains valuable. It gives teams context for quality, validation, maintenance and improvement decisions. The strongest environmental monitoring programme is not the one that gathers the most data, but the one that starts with the right question and turns recorded conditions into informed action.

For more information visit: www.geminidataloggers.com/manufacturing-process

PECM Issue 82

Better Data.

Better Production Decisions.

Record temperature and relative humidity over time to support production, quality and engineering decisions. Understand Conditions Over Time - Replace isolated spot checks with a dependable environmental record. Investigate Process Variation - Compare readings across locations, equipment or operating periods. Support Quality Decisions - Inform reviews, investigations and corrective action with recorded evidence.

Find the right Tinytag for your monitoring application. Choose compact Ultra 2 or robust Plus 2 monitoring to suit the environment.

geminidataloggers.com/manufacturing-process sales@geminidataloggers.com +44 (0) 1243 813000 SCAN TO EXPLORE THE RANGE

BRITISH DESIGN & MANUFACTURE

TRUSTED ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING EXPERTISE FOR OVER 40 YEARS

MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

MAXIMISE UPTIME LEINE LINDE

How Leine Linde’s ADS Uptime is redefining industrial reliability In modern manufacturing, reliability is a critical driver of productivity and profitability. As production demands increase and maintenance windows shrink, the cost of unexpected downtime continues to rise. Leine Linde’s ADS Uptime addresses this challenge by integrating advanced condition monitoring directly into encoder technology, helping manufacturers predict failures, optimize maintenance, and improve operational resilience. ADS Uptime transforms encoders from passive components into intelligent monitoring devices. Embedded within Leine Linde encoder systems, it continuously measures key operating parameters including vibration, shaft speed, temperature, and humidity. By providing realtime insight into equipment health, the system enables maintenance teams to detect early warning signs and shift from reactive repairs to predictive maintenance.

condition, monitor trends, and adjust alarm thresholds to suit specific applications.

Practical Analysis The app also serves as a practical analysis tool, storing historical data and presenting it through graphical displays. This helps identify gradual performance changes, allowing teams to intervene before minor issues develop into costly failures. The result is longer equipment life, improved safety, and fewer unplanned shutdowns.

Predictive Maintenance Strategy For organizations operating within larger automation environments, ADS Uptime integrates through ADS Link, an OPC UA-based gateway that transfers encoder diagnostics directly into existing SCADA, monitoring, and maintenance systems. By making condition data available across the organization, encoders become active contributors to a plant-wide predictive maintenance strategy.

By providing real-time insight into equipment health, the system enables maintenance teams to detect early warning signs and shift from reactive repairs to predictive maintenance. and run-time metrics helps reveal developing mechanical problems before they affect production. In many applications, preventing a single unplanned stoppage can justify the investment.

In short Designed for both new installations and retrofit projects, ADS Uptime supports Industry 4.0 initiatives through Bluetooth connectivity, OPC UA integration, and appbased workflows. By combining intelligent diagnostics with seamless connectivity, Leine Linde’s ADS Uptime provides manufacturers with the visibility needed to maximise uptime, reduce risk, and build more efficient, future-ready operations.

The Standout Advantage A major advantage of ADS Uptime is its wireless capability on the 800 series encoders. Integrated Bluetooth connectivity allows maintenance personnel to access live diagnostic data via a mobile app from anywhere on the plant floor. Technicians can review equipment

Preventing Unplanned Stoppage Early fault detection is one of the system’s most valuable benefits. User-configurable and predefined alarms provide immediate visibility into abnormal operating conditions. Monitoring vibration, frequency,

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

PECM Issue 82

HEIDENHAIN Leine Linde are distributed in the UK & Ireland by HEIDENHAIN GB Ltd: Leine Linde are distributed in the UK & Ireland by HEIDENHAIN GB Ltd: T: 01444 247711 E: sales@heidenhain.co.uk T: 01444 247711 E: sales@heidenhain.co.uk

MEASUREMENT & MONITORING

PICOZOOM

VISION ENGINEERING

A new autofocus digital inspection microscope for global quality control Vision Engineering, a UK-based designer and manufacturer of magnification and inspection systems, today announced the global launch of PicoZoom, a new autofocus digital inspection microscope built for electronics, component amotorised zoom, oneclick autofocus, focus stacking, and built-in measurement and reporting tools in a single workflow, helping inspection and quality teams achieve clearer images, faster set-up and more consistent, documented results. Manufacturers are under growing pressure to meet tighter quality control requirements and to document inspection results more thoroughly, without slowing down production. PicoZoom has been developed to meet that need, sitting between low-cost USB microscopes and higher-end digital inspection platforms and giving manufacturing and quality control teams access to autofocus imaging, measurement and reporting within one accessible system. One-click autofocus and a motorised 0.7× to 4.5× optical zoom (18.9× to 121.8× system magnification) allow operators to move between parts, surfaces and magnification levels without changing lenses or manually refocusing, reducing set-up time and helping keep results consistent between operators and shifts. Quadrant-controlled LED lighting gives operators directional control over illumination and automatic exposure, making edges, marks and surface detail easier to see on reflective or low-contrast parts.

threaded components, a single image often only shows one area in sharp focus. PicoZoom’s focus stacking function combines images captured at different focal planes into one sharp composite, extending depth of field across the part without manual refocusing.

On parts with depth, such as solder joints, stepped surfaces and

Built-in dimensioning and annotation tools, together with

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custom report output, let operators capture on-screen measurements and images and compile them into formatted reports without leaving the system, supporting quality control documentation and traceability. PicoZoom connects via HDMI, USB 3.0 and LAN. It uses a 2 MP CMOS sensor delivering 1080p resolution

at 60 fps, and occupies a compact benchtop footprint of 320 x 308.6mm. “Manufacturers today face increasing pressure not only to carry out inspections consistently, but also to demonstrate and document the results,” said Sam Crossley, Managing Director of Vision Engineering. “PicoZoom combines imaging, illumination and reporting in a single, easy-to-use system that can be deployed quickly and adopted with minimal training. By making documented, repeatable inspection more accessible, it enables a wider range of manufacturers to benefit from capabilities that have traditionally required a significantly greater investment. PicoZoom is a natural extension of our digital inspection portfolio and reflects our commitment to helping customers improve quality, traceability and efficiency.”

PicoZoom combines imaging, illumination and reporting in a single, easy-to-use system that can be deployed quickly and adopted with minimal training.

PicoZoom is available now through Vision Engineering’s global network of branches and authorised distributors, with a UK list price starting at £3,250.

Typical applications for PicoZoom include PCB and solder joint inspection, medical device inspection, incoming goods inspection and defect analysis, alongside broader use in component inspection and quality control across aerospace, motorsport, welding, automotive, research and education environments.

Full technical specifications and further information are available at visioneng.com. Issue 82 PECM

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“Insect ingress, as with most food manufacturing facilities, has the potential to be a serious issue. We have successfully controlled insects with EFK and periodic fogging; however, these are insect control solutions after the insects have entered the building. Our initial expectations have been exceeded by the Enershield Air Barrier that you specified, supplied, and installed. I commend you on project management, as well as the quality of workmanship in the unit's manufacture and installation.” Operations Director.

PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES

PRECISION THROUGH EXPERIENCE TRANTEC SOLIDS HANDLING LIMITED

Engineering powder handling solutions for 30 years For 30 years, Trantec Solids Handling has been developing metering screw feeders to improve the reliability and performance of bulk solids handling. Based in Lancashire, UK, the company designs, manufactures and continually refines its products to meet changing customer demands. Serving the food, chemical, pharmaceutical, plastics and environmental sectors, offering precision powder dosing solutions to improve dosing accuracy and address increasingly complex material handling challenges. supports closer quality control, rapid prototype development and prompt design modifications as application requirements change. Combined with extensive powder handling experience, enables Trantec to develop practical solutions tailored to individual applications.

Better solutions begin with better understanding Trantec understands that successful powder handling begins with understanding material behaviour. Flow characteristics, bulk density, particle size distribution and cohesiveness all influence feeder performance. Material characterisation and testing provide the technical knowledge needed to develop solutions for each application. This knowledge also guides hopper geometry, auger profiles, agitator design, feeder configuration and control methods to suit the material and process. Even small differences in material behaviour can influence dosing consistency, making careful equipment selection essential to achieving reliable process performance.

changeovers, reduced downtime and greater cost efficiency. For example, Trantec’s hygienic QR-TEC Feeders were developed to simplify cleaning and reduce stripdown times between production runs, making it easier to meet stringent hygiene requirements. At the same time, Trantec’s Micro Dosing Feeders deliver precise, repeatable feed rates at ultra-low dosing levels, where even small ingredient additions can influence product quality. In-House Design and Manufacturing

Customer Challenges Shape Product Development Continual product refinement has been driven by increasing demands for dosing accuracy, faster product

Trantec’s investment in design, CNC machining, laser cutting and fabrication enables equipment to be developed, tested, refined and manufactured under one roof. This

Reflecting on the company’s 30-year journey, Managing Director Gareth Harrison says: “Every application is different. The important thing is understanding the customer’s process first, because that’s what leads to the right solution.” Thirty years of engineering have shown that meaningful innovation comes from technical knowledge, continual refinement and solving real process challenges. By investing in engineering capability and manufacturing expertise, Trantec remains focused on developing reliable, high-performance powder handling solutions that meet evolving process requirements.

For further information, please visit www.trantec.net or contact the engineering team at sales@trantec.net.

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POWDER METERING MADE SIMPLE

Reliable screw feeding for powders, granules & pellets every time

The NEW Trantec True-Flow screw feeder range offers simpler, proven, and cost-effective solutions for accurate material handling. No unnecessary bells and whistles, just reliable, proven technology designed to deliver consistent performance you can trust.

ACCURATE & CONSISTENT FEEDING Precise material flow for reliable, uniform dosing.

VERSATILE MATERIAL HANDLING

Handles powders, pellets, granules, and challenging materials with minimal blockages and bridging.

Take advantage of our

FREE COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTION Reliable performance with low maintenance and reduced downtime.

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MATERIAL TESTING

To optimise your process

01282 777 566

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Tool-less dismantling,

EC / FDA

crevice-free design

Food compliant

PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES

BEYOND MACHINE CAPACITY VOLKMANN

Your biggest production bottleneck may not be where you think it is Every manufacturer wants to increase throughput, reduce downtime and improve efficiency. Yet one of the biggest causes of lost productivity is often overlooked how materials actually reach the process.

At VOLKMANN, we understand that production performance begins with reliable material flow. No matter how advanced the equipment, it can only perform as well as the material supply feeding it.

As IEEE Technology Navigator explains, throughput reflects actual production output rather than theoretical maximum speed.* When manufacturers look to increase throughput, the focus is often on the next investment. A faster mixer. A higher-capacity filler. A more advanced packaging line. But what’s often overlooked is that equipment can only perform at its full potential if material arrives consistently, reliably and at the right rate. It’s a situation seen in factories every day. A mixer may be capable of producing five tonnes an hour, but if operators are manually emptying bags, moving ingredients between processes or stopping to deal with poor-flowing materials, that capacity is never realised. The investment has been made, but valuable production time is still spent waiting for materials instead of making product. The challenge is that material handling inefficiencies rarely look like major breakdowns. Instead, they appear as small, repeated interruptions throughout a shift. A sack has to be lifted, opened and emptied manually. Material bridges in a hopper. Dust needs to be cleaned before production continues. A product change requires equipment to be stripped down and cleaned.

Individually, these interruptions may only take minutes. Repeated across multiple batches, shifts and production lines, however, they accumulate into lost production time and can restrict the output of otherwise capable equipment. This is why assessing throughput requires manufacturers to look beyond the headline capacity of individual machines and consider the complete material journey. How does material arrive? How is it transferred between processes? Where is operator intervention required? How long do cleaning and changeovers take? And, crucially, is each process receiving material consistently enough to operate as intended? To move more, material flow must be optimised. Automating these transfers can create a more predictable flow of material through production, while also reducing manual handling, containing dust and improving efficiency. The objective is not simply to move material faster, but to ensure that material handling no longer dictates the pace of production.

VOLKMANN designs enclosed, ATEXcertified vacuum conveying systems that integrate seamlessly into existing production lines, transferring powders, granules and other bulk materials safely, gently and dust-free. By automating material transfer, manual handling is significantly reduced while transfer rates are optimised, allowing downstream equipment to operate far closer to its intended capacity. The modular design can also be dismantled without tools, enabling rapid cleaning and faster product changeovers that keep production moving. From raw material intake through to final packaging, the aim is to create a more connected process where materials arrive where they are needed, when they are needed, without compromise. Enclosed vacuum conveying provides the missing link, creating a reliable, automated flow between processes and helping existing equipment perform closer to its true potential. Visit VOLKMANN UK on Stand K10 at PPMA to see our VS Vacuum Conveyor range and Rip & Tip Dump Station in action. Our engineering team will be on hand to discuss your process challenges and demonstrate how enclosed vacuum conveying and bulk material handling solutions can increase throughput, reduce manual handling, minimise downtime and remove bottlenecks.

For further information, please visit uk.volkmann.info

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Vacuum Conveyors & Bulk Material Handling Systems

MOVE MORE. Optimising material ﬂow.

Safer, cleaner & more efﬁcient handling of bulk materials.

MOVE MORE Conveying rates up to 10,000kg/h

WORK SAFER ATEX certiﬁed

CONTROL DUST Enclosed transfer

PROTECT PRODUCT Gentle conveying

STAY HYGIENIC FDA compliant

CLEAN FASTER Tool-free disassembly

FREE

ON-SITE TRIALS* See the difference in your own production environment. No obligation.

Efﬁcient material transfer. Engineered for your process. +44 (0) 1494 512 228

mail.uk@volkmann.info

*Free on-site trials across England & Wales. Reduced-rate trials available in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Bespoke trials also available at our test centre in Soest, Germany.

PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES

NEWCODE PARTNERSHIP NEWCODE PARTNERSHIP

Your partner for coding, marking and labelling Newcode Partnership is a UK-wide coding, marking and labelling specialist helping manufacturers keep products clearly identified, traceable and ready for market. We work with businesses that need reliable date codes, batch numbers, barcodes, 2D codes and labels applied accurately across live production environments. Our role is not simply to supply equipment. We help customers choose the right system, install it properly and support it throughout its working life. That matters because when coding, marking or labelling goes wrong, the impact quickly reaches production, dispatch, compliance and customer confidence. As the official UK distributor for Hitachi, Anser and Evolabel, Newcode covers continuous inkjet, thermal inkjet and automated print and apply labelling. We support manufacturers across food and drink, pharmaceutical, industrial, packaging, personal care and general manufacturing. Our technology proudly prints on 95%

Our role is not simply to supply equipment. We help customers choose the right system, install it properly and support it throughout its working life. of eggs sold in the UK, which says something about the reliability manufacturers trust us to deliver.

What sets us apart What makes Newcode different is the way we work with customers. We take time to understand the line, product, substrate, environment, operator requirements, compliance needs and long-term running costs before recommending anything. Equipment is matched to real production needs, not selected from a catalogue because it looked right on paper. We stay involved after installation too.

• Five-year warranty covering all parts and labour, going further than most suppliers are willing to commit. • Free Printer Deal on the Hitachi UX2 with no upfront cost, so businesses can upgrade without capital pressure. • Same-day endeavour support and a next-day guarantee to stop downtime becoming a dispatch problem. • Industry-leading self-clean station that prevents solvent spillage and reduces operator exposure as standard. • Price-matched consumables where applicable, keeping ongoing running costs predictable. • Regular engineer health checks for larger fleets, keeping maintenance proactive rather than reactive. For manufacturers reviewing their coding, marking or labelling setup, speak to a Newcode engineer who understands live production not a sales team working from a brochure.

Visit www.wearenewcode.com or call 01942 228882.

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PROCESS TECHNOLOGIES

Akona Process Solutions returns to PPMA with complete powder handling expertise

Paramount Mini-System provides efficient automated waste handling

Akona Process Solutions will return to the PPMA Show 2026, bringing together the expertise of its four specialist brands - Cablevey, Kason, Marion and Spiroflow - on Stand B76 to showcase complete powder handling and material processing solutions.

Paramount Mini-System waste handling solutions were originally developed for small printing companies but are now attracting interest across multiple industries seeking cleaner, tidier factory floors and automated waste removal.

Visitors will be able to see equipment from across the Akona portfolio, including a Cablevey tubular drag conveyor, Kason Centri-Sifter centrifugal screener, Spiroflow flexible screw conveyor and sack tip station, and Marion horizontal mixer. Together, the technologies demonstrate how conveying, screening, mixing and bulk material handling can be combined to improve product quality, minimise waste and increase production efficiency. Serving manufacturers across the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical, minerals and pet food industries, Akona combines four established brands within one organisation, providing a single source for powder processing expertise. Throughout the show, Akona’s application engineers and sales specialists will be available to discuss individual production challenges, from upgrading existing equipment and increasing capacity to developing new processing lines. With expertise spanning conveying, screening, mixing, bulk material handling and process automation, Akona helps manufacturers develop integrated solutions designed to improve reliability, consistency and overall operational performance. For more information visit - www.akonasolutions.com

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Systems can incorporate three key technologies: blower fans for cost-effective conveying of smaller waste; Venturi systems for continuous trim removal; and chopper fans for larger materials requiring size reduction. A recent automotive installation demonstrates the system’s versatility. Paramount designed a solution incorporating a blower fan, pickup hood, conveyor, ducting and dissipator. Waste packaging from three robotic assembly stations is automatically transported by high-velocity airflow to a collection bin. Careful calculation of airflow, velocity and motor size ensures reliable performance while minimising energy consumption, operating costs and noise. The installation exceeded customer expectations, demonstrating Paramount Waste’s ability to provide efficient, cost-effective waste transportation solutions. Tel: 01276 581392 Email: Enquiries@ParamountWaste.co.uk Web: www.ParamountWaste.co.uk

Low shear, Energy efficient Improve process efficiency and minimise total cost of ownership with the Certa pump. Contact our experts wmfts.com | info.uk@wmfts.com +44 1326 536 800

Visit us at PPMA Birmingham, 22 – 24 September, Stand G12

PUMPS

100,000 HOURS KNF

KNF diaphragm pumps achieve exceptional lifetime

Image showing the diaphragm pump test setup of NMP 850.1.2 micro diaphragm gas pumps from KNF. The NMP 850.1.2 diaphragm pump test subjected to demanding operating conditions to evaluate long-term reliability.

A decade is not long enough: KNF proves what long-term reliability looks like. With a verified lifetime test result of 100,000 operating hours under defined operating conditions, the NMP 850.1.2 sets a new benchmark in diaphragm pump lifetime. This milestone reflects engineering excellence rooted in reliability-driven product development. A rigorous testing philosophy ensures every product meets the highest standards. The result is a pump that enables OEMs to build safer, more efficient, and more durable systems.

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KNF diaphragm pump test demonstrates exceptional durability Reaching 100,000 hours of uninterrupted performance is a remarkable achievement for micro diaphragm gas pumps. It represents more than 11 years of continuous operation in a controlled environment, exceeding the demands of most real-world applications. This milestone highlights KNF’s engineering expertise and the reliability built into every pump. “This achievement is not an isolated result, but a reflection of the high quality and

engineering standards we apply to every product” Fabian Hofstetter, Head of Product Management at KNF Micro AG, said. Testing reliability: a closer look at the 100,000-hour lifetime test KNF routinely performs long‑term diaphragm pump tests under demanding conditions to understand real‑world reliability and provide customers with trustworthy lifetime information. The goal of this lifetime test was simple: to determine how long the NMP 850.1.2 diaphragm gas pump

remains functional at a specific operating point. Two sets of five pumps each were installed at a KNF testing facility and operated

and directives. This inspection is independent of development and lifetime testing activities. Additionally, every KNF pump is individually tested before delivery, supported by pre-tested single components that ensure efficient processing even for customized solutions. Customers can rely on consistent, repeatable performance throughout the lifetime of their devices, something that pumps without thorough testing often fail to deliver.

continuously under intense laboratory conditions. To create a demanding environment, the pumps were exposed to: • 40°C ambient temperature, the highest permissible value for this pump type • 40-60% humidity • 0.5 bar overpressure • Vibration from the other pumps mounted in the test setup Despite these elevated stresses, the pumps continued to run reliably without any maintenance or part replacements, even after surpassing 100,000 hours. This result provides valuable insight into long-term durability under specific operating conditions. Long-lasting performance that minimizes downtime Robust design and outstanding durability significantly reduce the risk of unexpected downtime, especially in industries where continuous availability is essential. This includes: • Medical devices

Reaching 100,000 hours of uninterrupted performance is a remarkable achievement for micro diaphragm gas pumps KNF’s engineering-driven product development approach, where pumps are designed for durability and long-term stability from the outset and then thoroughly validated through systematic testing. All pumps undergo detailed technical inspection as part of serial production to ensure compliance with relevant specifications

KNF’s testing processes are designed to identify and eliminate potential risks during development and throughout production. This leads to predictable pump behavior and stable performance in the field. For customers, this means enhanced safety, consistent quality, and long-term confidence in their applications. “When pumps perform reliably from day one, our customers can shorten qualification processes, optimize their own workflows, and reduce service efforts,” explains Hofstetter. “This milestone demonstrates how KNF’s engineering and testing processes go beyond validating specifications; they build the foundation for solutions that outperform expectations and deliver lasting value.” concludes Fabian Hofstetter.

• Portable and stationary emission measurement • Analytical and laboratory instruments • Safety-critical systems such as gas detection A pump designed for long-term operation can support stable device performance, lowers maintenance needs, and helps customers reduce total cost of ownership. This proven longevity gives OEMs and system integrators greater confidence when installing KNF pumps into their applications. KNF quality enhances application safety and reliability Results like these do not happen by chance. They are rooted in For further information, please visit www.knf.com/en/uk Issue 82 PECM

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PUMPS

TURNING WASTE INTO VALUE SEEPEX

Smarter waste processing for food manufacturers In food manufacturing, efficiency is measured not only by product output but also by how effectively unavoidable waste is managed. Fruit and vegetable peels, seeds and production residues are generated every day, and inefficient handling can lead to operational disruptions, hygiene challenges and increased labour requirements. A medium-sized vegetable processor in Austria experienced these challenges firsthand. Processing several tonnes of produce daily, the facility generated around 750 kg of organic waste each day. Waste containers occupied valuable production space, while manual handling and cleaning demands slowed operations. “Previously, our waste handling processes were a constant source of disruption to daily operations,” recalls a plant manager. “Space requirements, hygiene demands and manual handling continuously slowed us down.” Today, many food manufacturers are integrating waste handling directly into production processes. Rather than treating organic waste solely

FlowShred combines a twin-shaft grinder with a progressive cavity pump.

the benefits can be seen across the entire operation,” he explains.

When waste handling operates reliably, companies are free to focus on their core business. as a disposal issue, modern systems shred and homogenise waste into a pumpable suspension that can be conveyed automatically to storage or further processing. According to Bernd-Guntram Schulz, Product and Market Manager at SEEPEX, waste streams often have a greater impact on plant performance than companies realise. “When these streams are stabilised and controlled,

SEEPEX FlowShred makes food waste pumpable directly at the source.

Learn more at www.seepex.com

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By automating waste collection and transport, manufacturers can reduce blockages, manual intervention and workflow interruptions. The result is greater process reliability, improved use of production space and reduced labour requirements. Additional benefits include lower disposal and cleaning costs, fewer waste transport movements and reduced carbon emissions. Shredded organic material can also support resource recovery efforts, including biogas production, helping companies strengthen their sustainability objectives. For food manufacturers, where uptime and efficiency are critical, reliable waste handling is becoming an increasingly important contributor to overall plant performance. “Our goal is to transform a disruptionprone process into a stable part of production,” says Schulz. “When waste handling operates reliably, companies are free to focus on their core business.” As the Austrian processor found, effective waste management is not just about disposal. It is about creating a more efficient, resilient and sustainable operation.

FROM WASTE TO EFFICIENCY FLOWSHRED

Your complete, shredding and conveying system to secure your food processes.

SEEPEX FlowShred brings efficiency and process reliability to the food processing industry. This advanced unit reliably handles fibrous, bulky or hard components, ensuring a controlled and stable conveying process every time. YOUR BENEFITS WITH FLOWSHRED y Uniform shredding ensures smooth material flow and prevents blockages y Snail geometry safely handles large, round or fibrous components y Seamless transfer to the PC pump enables uninterrupted conveying y Compact design reduces odors and simplifies cleaning y Reduced energy and maintenance costs

SEEPEX UK Ltd. sales.uk@seepex.com www.seepex.com

PUMPS / STORAGE, HANDLING & DISTRIBUTION

XD-Series Plunger Pumps Exceptional Performance in Ultra-Pure Deionised (DI) Water Applications Proven in the Field — Trusted Worldwide From power plants to agricultural operations, Cat Pumps XD-Series models are trusted in mission-critical environments where failure is not an option. The XD-Series, offers more uptime, fewer service calls, and pumps that keep working when others fail. Cat Pumps offers a wide range of XD-Series pump models and configurations.

Quality You Need to Keep Your System Running • Seal Materials: Proprietary XD low-pressure seals and advanced high-pressure packings for maximum life in DI water use • Flow Range: 38 to 170 lpm • Pressure Range: Up to 152 bar depending on model • Manifold Materials: 316 stainless-steel for superior corrosion resistance

The latest in automated packaging from YPS at PPMA Show 2026 Automated packaging specialists Yorkshire Packaging Systems (YPS) will be exhibiting at the PPMA Show at the NEC in September. The YPS team will be available at stand A62 to discuss both machinery and materials that help production operations achieve increased throughput, improved consistency and reduced materials use. “We’re celebrating 50 years in business this year! Over those years, we’ve helped

numerous manufacturers and contract packers to find the right packaging system for them,” explained YPS MD, Glyn Johnson. “We’ll have shrink wrapping and bagging systems on show, as well as our display of materials. We offer a wide range of specialist materials, so our team can talk through all the options and explain how materials and equipment can work optimally together.”

YPS supplies shrink wrapping systems for display applications as well as transit wrapping options. Display applications deliver shelf-ready packs and are achieved by using L-sealer and side sealer shrink wrappers. The company’s automated bagging systems range includes both horizontal and vertical bagging equipment, suitable for everything from small operations to those processing thousands of packs a day. “We’ll be at stand A62 and are looking forward to meeting producers and helping them with their packaging challenges,” concluded Johnson. Yorkshire Packaging Systems (YPS) Stand A62, PPMA Show, NEC

01484715111 | enquiries@yps.co.uk | www.yps.co.uk

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Doors Ready for Action

British design and manufacture, wide range of models covering high security, large doors with high wind resistance (3,000 to 5,000 pascals), fire and high speed automation with systems’ interface. Hart protects people, products and premises through leading brands.

Globally recognised Hart’s high speed doors and shutters deliver options and solutions for industry wherever you are.

Take control of your business environment. Call 0191 214 0404 info@hartdoors.com www.hartdoors.com

STORAGE, HANDLING & DISTRIBUTION

RETHINKING LOAD AUTOMATION HUBTEX

Why automated long-load handling needs a specialist approach Automation has become well established in pallet transport, but long, heavy and bulky loads create a very different set of challenges. Timber packs, steel sections, panels and industrial components vary in length, weight and centre of gravity. They must often be moved through narrow aisles, positioned with great accuracy and handled safely alongside people and manually operated vehicles. This is precisely where HUBTEX focuses its expertise. The company develops automated multidirectional sideloaders and special-purpose vehicles for loads that conventional forklifts and standard AGVs cannot handle efficiently. Rather than adapting the customer’s process to a predefined vehicle concept, HUBTEX starts with the load, the available space and the required material flow. Multidirectional vehicles are particularly suitable for these applications because they can travel lengthways, sideways and diagonally. This enables long loads to be moved through confined areas without the turning space required by a conventional counterbalance truck. In an automated application, however, manoeuvrability alone is not enough. The vehicle must also combine precise navigation, reliable load detection, intelligent route planning and a safety concept tailored to the operating environment. HUBTEX therefore treats automation as a complete engineering project. Each application begins with a detailed analysis of load dimensions, transfer points, aisle widths, floor

Sensors, cameras and control software help to monitor the load throughout the process and ensure consistent handling. conditions, storage locations and interfaces with existing systems. These findings determine the vehicle design, navigation technology and level of system integration. The load itself is often the greatest variable. An automated HUBTEX vehicle may need to recognise whether a load is positioned correctly, compensate for different dimensions and approach racks or transfer stations with a high degree

of precision. Sensors, cameras and control software help to monitor the load throughout the process and ensure consistent handling. Safety remains central to every project. The vehicle must detect people, obstacles and other traffic while maintaining efficient operation. Depending on the application, the solution can include defined safety fields, controlled aisle entry, warning systems and communication with doors, machines or warehouse management systems. For HUBTEX, successful automation is not simply about making a vehicle driverless. It is about creating a coordinated material-handling solution that reflects the customer’s real operating conditions. The result can be greater process reliability, reduced manual intervention, improved safety and more effective use of space and labour.

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

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HUBTEX.CO.UK

SPECIALIST AUTOMATION FOR INTRALOGISTICS COMPLEX LOADS NEED SPECIALIST AUTOMATION.

AUTOMATED MULTIDIRECTIONAL VEHICLES DESIGNED AROUND YOUR LOAD, YOUR SPACE AND YOUR PROCESS. > SAFE HANDLING OF COMPLEX LOADS > PRECISE MULTIDIRECTIONAL MOVEMENT > TAILORED PROCESS INTEGRATION

HUBTEX UK Ltd +44 (1908) 211161 info@hubtex.co.uk

STORAGE, HANDLING & DISTRIBUTION

MODERNISING CRANE CONTROL CP AUTOMATION

How a retrofit upgrade helped keep a leading steelwork running A major global steel producer began experiencing problems with an overhead crane after the variable frequency drive (VFD) controlling its hoist motor became dysfunctional. However, the existing Yaskawa F7 drive installed on the crane had long since become obsolete, making a direct replacement impossible. As a result, the crane service provider responsible for the upgrade approached crane and hoist specialist CP Automation for support. The overhead gantry crane played a key role in the steelworks, transporting large, high-temperature materials such as scrap metal and molten iron across different production stages. However, replacing the failed drive with modern hardware introduced several challenges, particularly as the installer was unfamiliar with the newer hardware platform and concerned about maintaining the crane’s existing performance characteristics.

Replacing obsolete hardware After reviewing the crane drawings and existing control architecture, the team at CP Automation recommended upgrading the system using a CR700 crane drive, alongside a braking resistor and an encoder driver card for the VFD. The modernised setup also allowed the steel producer to remove several legacy components, including separate brake choppers and redundancy circuitry, from the system. Unlike a like-for-like replacement, the retrofit required the crane’s original parameters to be translated from the obsolete F7 platform to the newer CR700 system. CP Automation

extracted the parameter sets from the original drive and pre-programmed the replacement hardware before delivery, helping simplify installation and commissioning on the site. “The customer initially approached us looking for a replacement F7 drive,” explained Ian Knight, Application Engineer – Cranes & Power Transmission at CP Automation. “Unfortunately, the F7 is now obsolete, so the only viable option was to move to a newer platform. Naturally, there were concerns about how the upgraded system would perform compared to the original hardware.

Designed for crane applications As part of the retrofit, CP Automation specified a CR700 hoist drive platform designed specifically for crane and lifting applications. As well as replacing the obsolete hardware, the upgrade introduced several modern safety and performance features. The replacement CR700 features a built-in brake chopper (up to and including 75kW), allowing several legacy components to be removed from the original system architecture while simplifying the wider control system. Meanwhile, integrated safety features such as safe torque off (STO) and dedicated Brake Sequence parameters (for controlling the mechanical brake) added another layer of operational protection. The platform also includes cranespecific functionality designed to support smoother load handling and improved control performance. “The challenge with this project was ensuring the upgraded system delivered the same operational

characteristics as the previous setup,” continued Knight. “By pre-programming the drive and supporting the installation team throughout commissioning, we were able to simplify the retrofit process significantly.”

Supporting installation and commissioning Although the installer was experienced in crane servicing, the retrofit involved hardware with which it was unfamiliar. To help support the project, CP Automation worked alongside industrial engineering specialist BTC Citadel, which provided technical guidance and specialist training ahead of installation. The training was crucial as it helped build confidence with the upgraded platform and ensured the installation team fully understood the commissioning process before arriving on site. The crane service provider ultimately completed the installation itself, while engineers from BTC Citadel provided additional technical oversight and support during commissioning. “Ian delivered specialist training to help build confidence before the work began,” added Andy Swann, Global Business Manager – Cranes & Power Transmission at CP Automation. “That collaborative approach meant everybody involved understood the hardware and commissioning process before arriving on site.” Since commissioning, the upgraded crane system has operated reliably, while also providing the steel producer with a clear pathway for future upgrades across other gantry cranes on site.

For further information, please visit www.cpaltd.net/crane-ac-drives/

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TOOLS, PLANT & EQUIPMENT

INDUSTRY LEADER SINCE 1895

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Samarium Cobalt Magnets - RECOMA 35E - world’s most power dense SmCo operates well in extreme temps High Speed Rotors, Stators and full Motors - complete system integration from prototype to production Thin, Flexible Lead-Free Shielding - protect electronics and astronauts from radiation and RF/EM interference Precision Thin Metals - Titanium, ArnonTM NGOES, Molypermalloy and other foils rolled to 2 microns thin

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Food & Drink International 9

PENICO ROTARY GRINDING TABLE

Converts surface grinders to rotary work

For further details contact Penico Guages Limited info@penico.com | 01274 511044 | www.penico.com Issue 82 PECM

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TOOLS, PLANT & EQUIPMENT

IBC Mixers 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

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Blasting Abrasives Coating Training Finishing Systems Testing & Compliance Recycling & Waste Repairs & Servicing Equipment Hire

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WE DELIVER RESULTS BEYOND THE SURFACE.

TRAINING & RECRUITMENT

Innovative lean, manufacturing engineering and manufacturing solutions Revicon Solutions Ltd, based in the East Midlands, is a specialist consultancy in Lean Manufacturing and Manufacturing Engineering. We work closely with organisations to tackle long-standing challenges and deliver practical, innovative solutions that drive measurable results. Our mission is to help businesses unlock their full potential through proven methodologies and tailored strategies aligned with their goals. With over 27 years of experience in global manufacturing, we bring expertise across sectors including fabrication, machining, and assembly. This knowledge enables us to understand complex manufacturing environments and provide actionable insights. At Revicon Solutions, we leverage Lean behaviours, tools, and strategic deployment to streamline operations,

reduce waste, and boost efficiency. We have supported businesses of all sizes— from SMEs to multinationals—in achieving sustainable growth and operational excellence. Our experience includes designing and building new facilities, managing work transfers, establishing supply chains, and resolving critical supplier issues. We pride ourselves on delivering solutions that are both innovative and practical. Whether your objectives involve reducing lead times, improving product quality,

empowering your workforce, or increasing value-added activities, Revicon Solutions is here to help. We work collaboratively with your teams to ensure improvements are implemented effectively and sustained over time. Our passion for manufacturing excellence is matched by our commitment to customer satisfaction. If you’re ready to take your operations to the next level, visit Reviconsolutionsltd.com or call 07388 236940. We look forward to partnering with you to achieve your goals.

www.reviconsolutionsltd.com

Issue 82 PECM

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TRAINING & RECRUITMENT

ACADEMIA VS. APPRENTICESHIPS QUALITY MANAGEMENT LTD

Which is the best route into engineering? Lorren Ward, talent & resourcing project manager at Quality Management Ltd, explores whether apprenticeships or degrees offer the best route into engineering, and explains why employers should consider both pathways to build the workforce of the future. For decades, two major routes have shaped the UK’s engineering workforce. Both can lead to fulfilling, highly skilled careers. Yet, as the UK faces an increasingly widening engineering skills gap, the debate continues over which route, via academia or apprenticeships, best prepares candidates for entering the industry. The Royal Academy of Engineering expects that growth in clean energy, defence, digital technology and housebuilding could create 834,000 additional jobs over the next five years, with one in four UK job adverts now spanning engineering. However, employers are struggling to find the skills they need. The IET’s 2025 UK Engineering and Technology Skills Survey found that 76% of engineering employers struggle to recruit for certain skills, while around one in three believe the current engineering and technology workforce is not fit for purpose. So, with such a severe skills and talent gap, does UK industry have the luxury of favouring one talent pipeline over another?

The value of apprenticeships: learning by doing The greatest strength of an apprenticeship is hands-on experience. With workplace exposure, apprentices learn to understand production

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applying corrective measures where needed. However, experience can sometimes be narrow. An apprentice’s development is often shaped by the employer. Where a business has strong training systems and can offer cross-functional exposure, apprentices can develop rapidly. Where that support is weaker, there is a risk that learning becomes overly specific.

environments, customer requirements, safety protocols, documentation, process discipline and the consequences of error right from the outset. Onsite experience gives apprentices an early appreciation of the impacts of engineering decisions on variables like cost, lead time and quality. Engineers with practical experience will usually be more comfortable diagnosing issues under pressure, working with operators and suppliers, interpreting data and

The value of academia: building a technical foundation Undergraduate degrees bring technical depth and the time to develop a strong theoretical foundation. This is particularly important in advanced engineering environments where products and systems are becoming increasingly complex. Degrees are especially valuable for roles involving research and development, product design, software development and advanced manufacturing, as well as emerging fields such as battery systems and electrification.

Employers want to see evidence of curiosity, resilience, communication, problemsolving and commercial understanding, and importantly the capacity to keep learning. Academic study also encourages independent research, critical thinking and the ability to work with uncertainty. These are valuable attributes in a manufacturing landscape where technologies are constantly evolving, and yesterday’s engineering assumptions may not hold tomorrow.

Looking to the future In a fast-changing manufacturing landscape, the best engineers will not be those who simply chose the “right” route after leaving school. They will be those who continue to learn throughout their careers.

Some graduates, however, can enter industry with strong technical knowledge but limited understanding of the realities of production. This is why placements, internships, employer-led modules and project-based learning are so important, because the most employable graduates are often those who can combine academic understanding with practical exposure.

What are employers really looking for? Modern engineering is no longer defined by a single technical discipline. Across all areas of advanced manufacturing, employers increasingly need people who understand a range of disciplines including software, automation, AI, data, electrification and quality management. In many roles, the ability to solve problems across disciplines is now as valuable as deep technical knowledge in one area. Employers want to see evidence of curiosity, resilience, communication, problem-solving and commercial understanding, and importantly the

capacity to keep learning. Whether someone arrives through a degree or an apprenticeship, the ideal candidate will use their experience as a springboard further develop their skills. It’s therefore important to avoid talking about apprenticeships and degrees as competing options. Doing so risks creating an unnecessary push-pull between academic and vocational routes, when the sector actually needs both.

At G&P Quality Management Ltd, our Talent Division supports OEMs and suppliers with engineering, manufacturing and quality assurance by providing temporary workers, contractors and permanent placements across a range of manufacturing sectors. We’ve seen young engineers entering the industry through both pathways excel, and it almost always boils down to enthusiasm and work ethic over whether they chose the academic or technical route into the industry. UK Engineering must encourage a skills system that gives more people more ways into engineering, while ensuring every route is rigorous and aligned with industry needs. If we can achieve that, apprenticeships and academia will stop being seen as at loggerheads and instead become complementary routes towards a stronger, more competitive UK engineering landscape.

For more info about G&P and its unique engineering and talent services, please visit www.gpqm.com. Issue 82 PECM

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VALVES & FLOW CONTROL

A SAFER WAY TO OPERATE ROSS PNEUMATROL

ROSS Pneumatrol delivers complete machinery safety solutions for modern industry As manufacturers continue to face increasing pressure to improve workplace safety, reduce risk and maintain compliance with ever-evolving regulations, ROSS Pneumatrol is providing a unique combination of machinery safety expertise and market-leading safety products to support safer, more productive operations. Unlike many suppliers that focus solely on products or consultancy services, ROSS Pneumatrol offers a complete machinery safety portfolio that combines professional safety services with one of the industry’s most comprehensive ranges of pneumatic, hydraulic and electrical safety solutions. This integrated approach allows customers to move seamlessly from risk assessment and compliance reviews through to the implementation of engineered safety solutions. ROSS Pneumatrol’s machinery safety services include conformity audits, machinery risk assessments, Lockout Tagout (LOTO) audits, functional safety support, ISO 13849 guidance and TÜV-approved Certified Functional Safety Expert (CFSE) training. These services help machine builders, system integrators and end users identify hazards, reduce risk and achieve compliance with applicable machinery safety standards. Supporting these services is a worldclass portfolio of safety products developed through decades of fluid power safety innovation. ROSS safety valves are trusted globally in critical manufacturing and process

Supporting these services is a world-class portfolio of safety products developed through decades of fluid power safety innovation. applications where personnel protection and machine reliability are paramount. The range includes solutions for energy isolation, safe exhaust, soft-start, safe return, load holding, safe control and hydraulic safety functions, providing protection against unintended machine movement and the release of stored energy. Key technologies such as the DM2®, SV27® and CrossMirror® safety valve platforms have become recognised throughout industry for their reliability, advanced monitoring capabilities and suitability for highperformance safety applications. Many ROSS safety valves offer some of the highest B10D values available within the fluid power marketplace, providing engineers and machine designers with greater confidence when designing safety-related control systems and calculating performance levels in accordance with functional safety requirements. Their robust construction and proven service life make them an ideal choice for demanding industrial environments where safety and uptime are equally important.

Top left, 15 Series. Top right, SV27. Above, M35_AirEntry-System Left, M35 Series with Soft Start Valve

By combining industry-leading machinery safety services with a proven portfolio of pneumatic, hydraulic and electrical safety products, ROSS Pneumatrol enables organisations to create safer workplaces, improve operational reliability and maintain compliance with confidence. For companies seeking a single partner capable of delivering both safety expertise and engineered safety solutions, ROSS Pneumatrol provides a complete approach to machinery safety.

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

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Fluid Power & Machinery Safety Experts Helping Industry Achieve Safer, Compliant & More Productive Operations What We Do

Why Choose ROSS Pneumatrol?

With over 100 years of experience in fluid power and machinery safety, ROSS Pneumatrol helps manufacturers, machine builders and end users improve machine safety, reduce risk and achieve compliance with current UK and international standards. Our specialists support businesses throughout the entire machinery lifecycle, from conformity audits and risk assessment through to providing documented verification and validating procedures.

ROSS Pneumatrol combines global machinery safety expertise with industry-leading fluid power technologies to help organisations reduce risk, improve machine reliability and demonstrate compliance with applicable standards. Our team works closely with manufacturers, integrators and end users to develop practical, cost-effective solutions that enhance both safety and operational performance.

Our Services • • • • • • • •

TÜV-Approved Certified Functional Safety Expert (CFSE) Training Machinery Conformity Audits (CE & UKCA) Lockout Tagout (LOTO) Audits & Procedures Machinery Risk Assessments ISO 13849 & Machinery Safety Support Documentation Procedure Safety Valve Solutions & Integration Services Installation & Commissioning Services

For More Information

Visit Our Website

Trusted by Industry Professionals “As soon as I viewed the application, I thought of ROSS Pneumatrol” Prosys Automation Automation & Control Specialists

VALVES & FLOW CONTROL

GEMÜ GB TURNS 45 GEMÜ

GEMÜ Great Britain celebrates 45 years of supporting UK industry

On 11 June 2026, GEMÜ Great Britain celebrated its 45th anniversary, marking more than four decades of engineering expertise, customer partnership and continued growth. Established in 1981, GEMÜ Great Britain has built a strong reputation for supplying high-quality valve, measurement and control systems, supported by technical expertise and reliable local service. Over the past 45 years, the company has become a trusted partner to customers across a wide range of industries, including pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, food and beverage, chemical processing, water treatment,

Over the past 45 years, the company has become a trusted partner to customers across a wide range of industries and battery and semiconductor manufacturing. Working closely with the global GEMÜ Group, the UK subsidiary continues to strengthen its presence in key growth markets by delivering

innovative, application-focused solutions tailored to customers’ process requirements. Reflecting on the milestone, the company extends its sincere thanks to its customers, partners and employees, whose continued trust, collaboration and commitment have played a vital role in its success over the past 45 years. As GEMÜ Great Britain looks to the future, it remains committed to providing reliable products, expert technical support and innovative solutions to help customers meet the evolving demands of modern process industries.

For further information, please visit www.gemu-group.com

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PECM Issue 82

ATEX Hazardous Areas Process Controls Air Filtration Regulators Solenoid Valves Pneumatic Cylinders Electric Actuators

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Manual Valves Pressure Gauges Valve Islands Pressure Switches Temperature Switches Flow Control Equipment Pneumatic Fittings & Tube Engineered Systems Control Panel Design Panel Assembly

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VALVES & FLOW CONTROL

DIN11864 and DIN 11853 Aseptic Unions for Orbital Welding DIN11864 and 11853 unions were developed to meet the exacting needs of the food, chemical and pharmaceutical industries. This range of unions has been developed from the three most common systems used in the hygienic and sanitary industries; namely the “Aseptic” screwed union to DIN118641; the “Aseptic” flange union to DIN11864-2 and the “Aseptic” clamp union to DIN11864-3. Available with optional lengths to suit both orbital and manual

Precision in every flow! Benefit from the advantages of the low flow control valves by Schubert & Salzer Control Systems for microflow rates and high operating pressures:

welding, these unions have been designed to match tube and pipe specifications to DIN11866 Table A (DIN11850); DIN11866 Table B (ISO 1127) & DIN11866 Table C (ASME BPE). Size range: 10mm to 150mm and 1” to 4” Specials

• ultra compact

are available up to

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304mm

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Materials:

Visit us at PPMA Show 22 - 24 September 2026 NEC, Birmingham, UK Stand: G70

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316L SS 1.4404 and 1.4435 Specials available in Duplex and Alloy 22 www. alchemprocess.co.uk | 01269 841 324

Micronics UX5000 ATEX USM Safe & Accurate Flow Monitoring Without Compromise

Introducing the Micronics UX5000 Clampon Flow Meter for use in Hazardous Environments. A high performance ATEX USM, made in the UK with a remarkably low price point. ABLE, as Micronics’ exclusive UK representatives for the Model UX5000, are delighted to announce the arrival of a truly technically elite and commercially advantageous clamp-on ultrasonic flow meter. The UX5000 flow meter uses a crosscorrelation transit time algorithm to achieve precise flow measurements. It generates an ultrasonic beam at a specific frequency, transmitting it between transducer crystals in two directions: first from the downstream transducer to the upstream, then reversing from upstream to downstream. As the liquid moves through the pipe, it slightly increases the speed of the ultrasound transmission.

This time difference, calculated as T1−T2, is directly proportional to the liquid’s flow velocity, providing an accurate measurement of flow rate. Applications for the UX5000 are many-fold. The UX5000 is ideal for harsh, heavy duty industrial measurement of liquid flow in pipes. Being non-invasive and easy to install, it is particularly well suited to the chemical, water and oil industries. Key Features: • Non-invasive, efficient, and easy installation, no process downtime

• Cutting edge technology at its most affordable • Certified for use in hazardous areas (ATEX) • Reliable measurement accuracy – up to 0.5% with process calibration • Separate Display (DCSIU) and Remote Measurement • Unit (RMU) allows flexibility in installation • Cost effective metering for harsh, heavyduty applications • Single and Dual Channel Options • Remote System Setup and Monitoring Have a live application? Contact our flow specialists to book a demonstration.

Call us now on +44 (0) 1189 169 420, or email us now at info@247able.com

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emco.co.uk sales@emco.co.uk 02392 637100

[ Designed for your profit ]

The new benchmark in universal turning UNIVERSALTURN 50

HIGHLIGHTS

More performance. More precision. More future. All-purpose turning machine for precise and high-performance machining With the new UNIVERSALTURN 50, EMCO sets the next milestone in complete machining of bars and chuck parts. Developed for maximum precision, dynamics and process reliability, the compact high-performance turning centre offers everything that modern manufacturing centres require: powerful drive systems, an integrated Y-axis for extended milling and flexible automation concepts. Whether complex turned and milled parts for mechanical engineering, the automotive industry, medical technology or defence – the UNIVERSALTURN 50 impresses with its outstanding rigidity, intuitive operation and scalable equipment.

FOR THE BEST MACHINING QUALITY, PRECISION & COMPACT MACHINE CONSTRUCTION

SMALL FOOTPRINT EMCOTURN E25 CNC turning center for bar stock work up to Ø 25 mm (1”) and also chucking work. The EMCOTURN E25. Uncompromising quality right down to the last detail at a very reasonable price. With an extremely solid machine base, a thermo symmetric spindle headstock, high precision spindle bearings, preloaded roller guideways in all axes, a fast 12 stn tool turret and your choice of Sinumerik 828D or Fanuc 0i TD. Available with driven tools, C axis for main spindle, Manual tailstock with automatic quill.

• High-precision turning centre for efficient complete machining of bars up to 51 mm bore • Integrated Y-axis for extended milling and maximum machining versatility • Highly dynamic drive systems for fast machining cycles and maximum accuracy • Compact counter spindle for precise rear-side machining without additional re-clamping • Powerful tool turret with up to 12 driven tool positions • Scalable automation solutions – from integrated swivel loaders to gantry systems • Stable cast machine bed for maximum rigidity, damping and process reliability • Absolute measuring system for maximum repeat accuracy without reference point homing • Intuitive operation with SINUMERIK ONE – optionally available with FANUC 0i plus control from 2026 • Perfectly coordinated machine concept for applications in mechanical engineering, automotive, medical technology, defence and more • Made in Austria