Pace - November 2016

NOVEMBER 2016 | VOL.69 NO.10 | Est. 1953

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NOVEMBER 2016 | VOL.69 NO.10 | Est. 1953

INSIDE PACE

Visions Systems

Energy Management

HVAC Systems

Brisbane Meatworks gets total process visibility

Battery Storage for Gas Turbines

Keeping the wine cool and flowing

Post Print Approved PP100008186

Engineering: snapshot of a changing industry

EXCLUSIVE:

Future technology: Why does the future take so long to arrive?

CONTENTS

Managing Director: John Murphy Managing Editor: Branko Miletic Ph: (02) 8484 0976 branko.miletic@primecreative.com.au

Journalist: Stephanie Stefanovic Ph: (02) 8484 0769 stephanie.stefanovic@primecreative.com.au

IN THIS ISSUE

Sales/Advertising: Camilo Molina Ph: (02) 8484 0829

28

camilo.molina@primecreative.com.au Production Coordinator: Kristina Peric Ph: (02) 8484 0998 kristina.peric@primecreative.com.au Art Director: Michelle Weston Designer: James Finlay, Blake Storey, Sarah Doyle SUBSCRIPTIONS: $99 pa incl GST NZ: $A109 pa & OS: $A119 pa Subscriptions: Gordon Watson Ph: (03) 9690 8766

16 News 7

Engineers in the news and NSW gets serious about energy security Cybersecurity 10

Copyright PACE is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy. All material in PACE is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published.

The opinions expressed in PACE are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.

Industrial control system Process Automation 12

Smart machines take control Vision Systems 14

Brisbane meatworks looks to EtherCat for visibility

Articles All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The Editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.

Wine cooling goes hi-tech Safety in Action 26

Taking action on workplace safety HR Issues 28

Don’t ignore the signs Water/Wastewater 30

New Products 34

The latest products for the process and control industry

Battery storage for gas turbines ON THE COVER

The future of the industry

NOVEMBER 2016 | VOL.69 NO.10 | Est. 1953

INSIDE PACE

Visions Systems

Energy Management

HVAC Systems

Brisbane Meatworks gets total process visibility

Battery Storage for Gas Turbines

Keeping the wine cool and flowing

Engineering: snapshot of a changing industry

Post Print Approved PP100008186

Average Net Distribution Period ending Sept ’15 5,521

EXCLUSIVE:

4 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

HVAC 24

The Internet of Postal Things 18 Energy Management 20

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A snapshot of the engineering sector

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The Engineering Industry 22

Why does the future take so long to arrive?

New Technology 16

© Copyright Prime Creative Media, 2016

10

Future technology: Why does the future take so long to arrive?

According to UNESCO, “Engineering has been, and will continue to be, challenged with designing systems that facilitate education and healthcare, enhance quality of life, and help to eliminate global poverty.” Key challenges in the coming years include: developing technology

to mitigate “hostile acts”, reducing the impact of natural disasters, and facilitating sustainable resource use. When engineering experts were asked where they thought the demand for specific engineering fields would be in the coming years, each gave a different answer.

COMMENT

EDITOR’S MESSAGE

Branko Miletic Editor

Can IT systems ever become totally secure?

China recently launched a satellite into orbit with the potential ability to send information securely, by using the fundamental laws of physics. This makes China the first country to achieve this feat, marking a milestone in the development of quantum technologies.

It is hardly an understatement to preclude that these days, society relies on digital communications, however a large proportion of this data is sensitive information that needs to be kept firmly away from prying eyes.

So how can we trust communications over the internet when this relies on data travelling down chains of potentially unknown computers, and snooping on the data as it passes by these anonymous chains has been shown to be all too easy?

And then of course, there is the cost of these data breaches.

According to the 2016 Cost of Breaches Study

by IBM, the average cost of a data breach is now M A 1 1 1 5 a_ 29 0 0 per 0 _ D AT 1 US$4 million, which represents cent increase since 2013. M A 1 1 1 5 _ 0 0 0 _ D A T - 1 MA 1 1 1 5 _ 0 0 0 _ D A T 1 That’s about US$158 for each and every lost or stolen record. In highly regulated industries like

healthcare, the cost of a breach can be as much as US$355 per record, or US$100 more than in 2013, the report said.

“Cybersecurity incidents continue to grow in both volume and sophistication,” Amanda Carl, IBM’s corporate communications officer wrote in the report, “with 64 per cent more security incidents reported in 2015 than in 2014.”

More to the point, last year, when PACE magazine spoke to Jason Whyte, Chief Security Architect, Verizon Enterprise Solutions to try and get to the bottom of the issue, it was clear that Denial of Service attacks on industry was a growing problem that was begging for a solution.

“What makes the manufacturing industry attractive to DoS attackers is the immediate and quantifiable impact of security attacks to a company’s business operations. Due to their specific use case, the nature of Industrial Control Systems (ICS) is notably different to that of the enterprise network.”

2 0 1 “For 5 - 1 0example, - 2 3 T 1 an 4 : ICS 4 9 : typical 2 7 + 1 real-time 1 : 0 0 or near 2 0real-time 1 5 - 1 0 transaction - 2 3 T 1 4 : process 4 9 : 2 7 means + 1 1 : high 0 0 latency 2 0 1 5 - 1 0 - 2 3 T1 4 : 4 9 : 2 7 + 1 1 : 0 0 or extended service unavailability is not acceptable, security controls and solutions must be tested in an

offline non-production environment, and in most cases, component lifespan exceeds 10-15 years. It’s these specificities that create unique challenges when it comes to the ongoing security and availability of these systems.”

“As mentioned, manufacturers hold unique assets that are comparatively easy to target. As such, while cyber security is a relatively new issue for manufacturing organisations when compared with financial services or government agencies, its impact is no less significant in the event of an attack,” said Whyte.

China’s new satellite therefore is an important step towards ultra-secure digital communications, as it allows quantum data to be sent over extreme distances and multiple locations.

This will be music to the ears for those that rely on the internet for conducting their business, while at the same time, a slammed door in the face for the growing legion of industrial hackers. branko.miletic@ primecreative.com.au Like us on Facebook and join the conversation facebook.com/PACEtoday

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NEWS

It’s time for engineers to step up The first engineer known to history, Imhotep, oversaw the construction of the Step Pyramid in Egypt.

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ustralia’s Chief Scientist, Alan Finkel, has called for engineers to step up and be thought leaders. He has shared his vision for 2025, where government and corporate bodies recognise the importance of engineers in improving business and Australian public life.

“The first engineer whose name is known to history is said to be Imhotep, who oversaw the construction of the Step Pyramid in the ancient Egyptian

“It is very easy to take the people who put the planes in the sky and the electricity in the grid for granted.” city of Memphis,” said Finkel.

“At the time, it was the largest building ever constructed, at more than 60 metres high; complete with temples, living quarters, courtyards and 13 false

doors. It remains the world’s oldest known monument of hewn stone: a 4500 year-old testament to inspired engineering.

“We could say that the engineering profession doesn’t stand on a pedestal quite that high today.”

According to Finkel, it is very easy to take the people who put the planes in the sky and the electricity in the grid for granted.

As the old joke goes, “every technological success is a great scientific achievement, and every technological disaster is an engineering failure”.

Finkel has drawn attention to the importance of engineering by noting that many of the leaders of our time are engineers: “from Jeff Bezos at the helm of Amazon, to Sundar Pichai at the helm of Google, to Xi Jinping, President of China”.

“So much of their success, in turn, comes down to the ingenuity of their crack teams of engineers – teams with global impact out of all proportion to their size.”

Turning the conversation to Australian public life, Finkel said: “As

an engineer come neuroscientist come Chief Scientist, I know that I don’t have to persuade engineers to take an interest in public policy problems.”

“It’s not in an engineer’s nature to sit in a traffic jam and not emerge with a prototype urban congestion plan.

“In my vision for 2025, the Master of Engineering is the equal of the MBA, if not the premier qualification that headhunters for corporate boards want to see.

“Engineering concepts are applied with the same fluency in Parliament and the media as economic jargon is today – and the terms aren’t just co-opted, but understood.

And engineers are encouraged and supported to step up as thought leaders in business and government alike; knowing how to make their knowledge useful at the tables where decisions are made.”

According to Finkel, leaders need to be able to grapple with the messiness of human affairs and build confidence in unconventional solutions.

“It can’t be done by pure engineering logic, but it can be done by perceptive engineers,” he said. PACE

“In my vision for 2025, the Master of Engineering is the equal of the MBA.”

Australian Chief Scientist Alan Finkel believes that engineers make the perfect leaders, a fact that is seldom recognised today NOVEMBER 2016 www.pacetoday.com.au 7

NEWS

NSW energy sector firmly anchored in the ground

L

ast month, Hon Anthony Roberts MP, NSW Minister for Industry, Resources and Energy, gave a presentation about the future of energy in NSW. Right off the bat, he said, “NSW will not be banning coal seam gas – we have a plan, not a ban.”

He elaborated to state that NSW will be releasing new areas of the state for coal and gas exploration “after environmental, social and economic factors have been considered and the community has had an opportunity to identify what it sees as the issues”.

The topic then turned to renewables, which according to Roberts, will start to comprise more and more of the state’s energy generation mix.

However, he maintains that fossil fuels will continue to play a role for the foreseeable future, in order to ensure a reliable energy supply.

“The increasing growth of renewable energy generators,

including wind and solar, is transforming our energy sector.

It will [also] change forever with the introduction and widespread adoption of battery storage products,” said Roberts.

“NSW will not be banning coal seam gas – we have a plan, not a ban.”

He recalled the events of 7 July this year when less than one per cent of the installed renewable capacity was actually found to be generating power, resulting in an extreme spike in energy prices.

According to the minister, out of 1600MW of installed capacity, South Australian wind turbines were producing just 14MW. As it was

7.20pm during winter, there was no solar generation either. As a result, the demand for power was dependent on interconnection and gas-fired generation.

“Increased demand for gas meant the fuel price went higher and this was reflected in spot market prices reaching $8,898 per megawatt hour for the 30 minutes ending 7.30pm,” he said.

“The main lesson to be taken from the South Australian incident, in my view, is that we must not forget the importance of maintaining overall grid security and stability.”

In an interview with PACE, the minister elaborated on how changes to the NSW energy sector could affect industry.

“When you have a look at the disruption that occurred at 7.20pm on 7 July in South Australia, that is no good for manufacturing,” he said.

“If you have disruptions within the national energy market and you

don’t have that reliability, you have manufacturers that might have to shut down and manufacturers that take some time to gear up again. So I see my role as ensuring that we have a reliable, safe and affordable network.”

He added that for NSW, the emphasis will be on keeping downward pressure on prices, having a mixture of energy sources and having a reliable network.

The minister also made a brief mention of the need to foster cyber security in the energy sector. When asked to elaborate, he alluded to cyber attacks such as the recent hack on Ukraine’s power grid.

“For us, ensuring that our networks are protected against these attacks is critical. This is a major issue across the world and many governments and corporations are looking at this,” he said.

“But certainly, the next war will be a cyber war. And that’s why we’ve got to be prepared for it and ensure that our manufacturing isn’t shut down by an attack on our networks via the internet.” PACE Hon Anthony Roberts MP, NSW Minister for Industry, Resources and Energy

8 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

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CYBER SECURITY

Keeping Industrial Control Systems secure in the IoT age We’ve all heard of the Internet of Things by now; billions of devices connected to the internet, gathering all kinds of information on us and our daily lives. While many of the headlines will be around the consumer-facing Internet of Things, such as in healthcare and cars, the industrial sector is also embracing connected devices, writes Andrey Dulkin.

C

ompanies in manufacturing, energy, utilities and so on are looking at how connected devices can help their business streamline Industrial Control Systems (ICS). However, just as there are worries over IoT security, ICS are also facing increasing security threats, and connected devices will only make this issue worse.

This is called the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), and attacks on it are already fairly common. This is a particular worry because the very foundation of IoT, and indeed IIoT what makes it such a game changer - is also its security weak spot.

By this we mean the fact that all these different components - generally manufactured by different vendors - talk to each other. These vendors can and do require remote access to systems for

“ It is vital that customers understand the dependencies within the supply chain, and where any weaknesses are.

Any links within that chain should have the same level of control that exist internally.” a variety of reasons, such as pushing out updates or for collecting data. Because many of these vendors originally come from the consumer side of things, security perhaps isn’t built into their devices as much as it should be.

IIoT vendors can be targeted as a way for cyber criminals to gain access to a specific organisation. It’s another route to bypass a company’s defences; attacking a third-party that interacts with or maintains part of the connected infrastructure of another business.

We have seen attacks like this already. In 2014, for example, a hacker targeted three European companies that make software for the industrial sector.

Malicious code was implanted into their software update processes, which when their customers updated was transferred to their systems, giving the attackers access to vital data, systems and services.

The fact that the attackers were able to introduce malicious updates to the victims’ servers strongly suggests that they had some sort of

internal access to the network. It is also likely that they would have had sufficient permissions to upload those infected updates. These privileges or permissions are associated with human accounts or automated systems and if these are not properly managed they can be hijacked.

Now, it is of course very difficult for a customer to have any impact on the security a vendor has in place. However, there are things that can be done. It is vital that customers understand the dependencies within the supply chain, and where any weaknesses are.

Any links within that chain should have the same level of control that exist internally.

Also, it’s possible that when working with vendors, customers can negotiate contracts or SLAs that guarantee sufficient security controls.

This can be specific to interaction between the vendor and customer, such as ensuring the integrity of updates before the customer downloads them.

It’s also worth considering if there is a human element involved, and what controls are in place to ensure credentials are secure. The same process can be applied when it comes to who from the vendor company can access the customer environment. Credential management like this can control who has the privilege or permission to remote access into a company’s infrastructure.

Ultimately, the openness of the IoT and communication between its different elements can and should be extended to include vendors and customers. That’s key to ensuring Industrial Control Systems remain secure. PACE CyberArk www.cyberark.com

10 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

CYBER SECURITY

Cyber security ‘fatigue’ is now rampant

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recent study from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has found that ‘cyber security fatigue’ is taking over, causing computer users to make risky decisions. Stephanie Stefanovic writes.

The study drew on data from a qualitative study on computer users’ perceptions and beliefs about cyber security and online privacy. Subjects ranged in ages from their 20s to 60s, resided in urban, suburban and rural areas, and had a variety of occupations.

As stated by one of the study’s subjects, “I don’t pay any attention

to those things anymore… People get weary from being bombarded by ‘watch out for this or watch out for that.’”

The research team found that the majority of average computer users feel overwhelmed and bombarded, and are tired of being on constant alert, adopting safe behaviour and trying to understand the nuances of cyber security.

“We weren’t even looking for fatigue in our interviews, but we got this overwhelming feeling of weariness throughout all of the data.” said computer scientist and co-author Mary Theofanos.

“Years ago, you had one password to keep up with at work. Now people are being asked to remember 25 or 30.

We haven’t really thought about cyber security expanding and what it has done to people.”

According to the study, participants questioned their likeliness of being targeted in a cyber attack; many felt that they are not important enough for anyone to want to steal their information.

Conversely, they also questioned how they could effectively protect their data when large organisations seem to fall victim to cyber attacks often.

Subjects with the most positive

attitude were found to be those who had experience with cyber crime.

Many of the above-mentioned subjects had not directly experienced a cyber attack.

The study suggested three ways to prevent cyber security fatigue: 1. Limit the number of security decisions users need to make 2. Make it simple for users to choose the right security action 3. Design for consistent decisionmaking whenever possible “If people can’t use security they are not going to,” said Brian Stanton, psychologist and co-author of the study. PACE

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PROCESS AUTOMATION

Key ingredients for designing smart machines and equipment Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have always been expected to innovate and keep pace with end users’ requirements. Yet, today in the era of smart manufacturing, end users want to optimise their production and supply chain by bringing together islands of information – and they want OEMs to help. Delivering on the promise of smart manufacturing is paramount, writes Dan Seger, Principal Application Engineer, Rockwell Automation.

A

t the heart of a smart operation is The Connected Enterprise. It consists of converged information technology (IT) and operations technology (OT) systems into a single network architecture. It also uses smart machines and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies for seamless connectivity and information sharing across people, plants and supply chains.

As a result, end users need smart machines and equipment that are designed to thrive in The Connected Enterprise and provide nearly endless opportunities to improve their operations. It also can help them address their most pressing needs, such as: • Remaining globally competitive by keeping business models relevant and moving from mass production to mass customisation.

• Addressing workforce issues, including retaining the skills of retiring workers, and ensuring IT and OT workers are prepared for the influx of new smart technologies.

• Addressing risks, including security threats and increasingly complex regulations.

• Making the most of Internet- and Ethernet-enabled technologies.

This all may be daunting for industrial OEMs. However, they can meet customers’ needs and simplify the design of smart systems by focusing on three key elements: processes, technology and people.

Processes: meet end users on their journey An end user’s journey to The Connected Enterprise generally

12 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

follows four stages (see sidebar). Still, every journey will be distinct. Factors, such as operational needs, available resources and workforce availability, will be unique to each organisation and influence their Connected Enterprise roadmap.

OEMs will encounter end users at different points in their journey.

Some will be in the early planning stages. Others may be in the midst of IT/OT convergence. Others may be ready to integrate smart machines or equipment.

It’s important that OEMs communicate with end users to understand their needs and stage in the journey. Those conversations can also help OEMs identify opportunities to innovate with their customers, such as using remote monitoring to monitor assets and maximise uptime.

Ultimately, OEMs must always be ready to equip end users with smart

machines or equipment, regardless of where they are in their journey.

Technology: deliver systems that match needs

OEMs that want to enable or support smart manufacturing and industrial operations should rethink traditional, machinery-design approaches. As they consider different design aspects to change and update, five key technology areas are paramount: 1. Integrated safety: Combining standard and safety control into a single platform enables the use of intelligent, machine-safetysystem designs. This can improve productivity while still achieving compliance. Safety-system data can also be collected to alert operators where safety-related issues are occurring for faster downtime resolutions and long-term improvements.

FOUR STAGES OF THE CONNECTED ENTERPRISE While every end user’s journey to The Connected Enterprise is different, they generally can be expected to follow these four primary stages: 1. Assess and plan: Conduct assessments to understand the culture and to evaluate the IT/ OT infrastructure in place, including controls, networks, information and policies.

2. Secure and upgrade network controls: Securely upgrade the network and controls to prepare for future configurations and technologies, such as mobility, big-data analytics and cloud computing.

3. Leverage data and analytics: Define data, identify how to turn it into actionable information to support better business decisions, and use it to drive continuous improvements.

4. Optimise and collaborate: Optimise operations, and engage with internal teams, suppliers and customers to better respond to internal and external events.

PROCESS AUTOMATION

2. Accessible and secure information: End users develop goals for securely accessing and capitalising on their operational, business and transactional data. OEMs can support and fulfil those goals by connecting control systems and using performance dashboards that make information available and actionable.

“OEMs can meet customers’ needs and simplify the design of smart systems by focusing on three key elements: processes, technology and people.”

3. Simplified integration: Replacing a multi-tiered networking strategy with a single, open EtherNet/ IP network can simplify the

network infrastructure and reduce integration risks. Likewise, a single, Logix-based control and information platform can ease the collection, transfer and analysis of real-time operations data.

4. Real-time diagnostics and analysis: Embedded-intelligence devices can deliver real-time data for predictive maintenance to help end users more quickly troubleshoot and repair problems. Remote monitoring can also be used to monitor critical parameters and address issues before they reach a point of failure.

5. Operational efficiency: Design tools and scalable automation technology help OEMs deliver equipment that is flexible for multiple purposes to improve operating efficiency. For example, modular programming and re-usable code can help reduce system complexity and support faster design, commissioning and installation times. Motionsizing tools can also help make mechatronic designs faster and

easier to analyse, as well as help optimise, simulate and select motion-control systems.

People: secure the right skills Today, engineers and programmers must understand the blend of IT/OT technologies used in connected plants and enterprises. They must also know how to configure, operate and sustain their customers’ networked industrial control systems.

Providing training for existing workers can be critical to achieving this, especially because skilled workers are increasingly hard to find. OEMs should strongly consider using training and certification courses that have been specifically developed to help bridge the IT/OT gap in smart operations.

At the same time, OEMs don’t need to go it alone. They should look to use vendors’ consultative, design, integration and support services to help fill areas of need.

This could include using a vendor’s network and security services to help

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design a more secure control system in a connected operation. Safety services can also help smart machines and equipment comply with the latest standards, while virtual support engineers can analyse trends and recommend actions to help prevent downtime.

Keeping up with expectations

End users still expect machines and equipment to help them optimise processes, achieve compliance, maximise quality and protect workers. However, they now also expect those same systems to easily integrate into their operations, offer production intelligence and improve their responsiveness to changing market demands.

With the right mix of processes, technology and people, OEMs can develop smart machines and equipment that meet these higher expectations. PACE Rockwell Automation 03 9757 1111 www.rockwellautomation.com

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NOVEMBER 2016 www.pacetoday.com.au 13

VISION SYSTEMS

Seeing is believing: Brisbane meat works finds ideal vision solution When your business supplies fresh meat products to major supermarkets and consumers across Australia, you can’t afford to get it wrong. Products displaying illegible date codes, damaged packaging or wrongly labelled products can be disastrous for suppliers.

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leading Brisbane-based meat works producing high volumes needed an inspection system that guaranteed speed, product integrity and accuracy.

It turned to Omron for the answer.

Through its integration partner, Pac Technologies, the meat works commissioned Omron to install a vision inspection system that would minimise the risk of sending out any non-compliant products.

“All final packaged product lines were installed with Omron’s FQ2 vision inspection cameras for traceability of all shelf ready meat products,” said Omron’s Queensland State Manager, Paul Gibb.

“The main aim was to increase productivity, while maintaining consistent, high quality standards.”

The Brisbane meat works is unique.

It is a globally recognised fully integrated facility that completes a full circle in beef production including slaughter, boning, value add, retail-ready and distribution.

According to its production manager, the site processes some 1200 heads of cattle per day.

Apart from bulk meats it also produces stir-fry and diced beef and veal, beef sausages, corned, marinated, glazed and coated beef and veal products, corned beef silverside and hamburger patties.

Stringent requirements

“We currently have an annual production of over 15 million kilos for national distribution to prominent retail and supermarket shelves,” the product manager said.

“Due to very stringent requirements demanded by our retail distribution partners, our entire packaged shelf ready product needs to be exactly as per what it is ordered and labelled as.

“The biggest challenge for any meat 14 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

works is traceability. Most facilities traditionally rely on casual labour in the final packaging and inspection process.”

“We turned to Omron to assist us in greatly reducing the risk of sending out non-compliant final packaged product,” the production manager said.

A challenge for this application was to check both 1D and 2D barcodes at varying focal lengths on the final production line. There was also a requirement to check and verify the date code on each shelf ready product.

Vision solution

Kim Simonsen from Pac Technologies, in conjunction with Omron application engineers, created a vision solution using FQ2 machine vision cameras on each line. On some lines, two cameras were used at varying focal lengths to handle the varying heights of the target product.

The carton barcode is pre-checked

to verify that the product is as expected before the individual packs are checked.

“We accessed some very powerful algorithms built in to the FQ2 camera to achieve what the customer needed to satisfy their date and barcode checks,” said Yang Qui, a senior application engineer form Omron Electronics, Brisbane.

“OCR, or Objective Character Recognition was used to not only check for the presence of the date code, but actually read the text to ensure that the date code was correct and readable. The small sized 2D bar code was a challenge, and required us to employ the high resolution version of the FQ2 vision camera to obtain a reliable and accurate reading each and every time.”

Gibb said Omron is also assisting other Queensland based meat works that produce down to shelf ready product as well as bulk packs.

Hundreds of different variants

“There are common issues emerging when talking to each company about checking integrity and accuracy of the final packaged product and its labelling and identification,” said Gibb.

“Hundreds of different product and label variants, many types of barcodes and date codes, varying existing PLC architecture, high turnover of transient workforce, and a hostile operating environment all present a challenge to a solid and reliable vision solution.”

One of the main challenges was how to process the data once reliable and accurate judgements of the final product are obtained.

“In this instance we used our powerful and flexible NJ Machine controller with SQL connectivity and Ethernet IP to communicate directly to the customer’s database without

VISION SYSTEMS

the need for any software based middleware,” said Gibb.

“Since Omron’s NJ controller has the option of Ethernet IP communications, it communicated directly with the customer’s existing PLCs, creating a seamless network from camera to database.”

Gibb also said Omron’s FQ2 vision cameras are rugged enough to

be installed directly on the production line in a meat works hose down environment, and they have enough capacity to store more than the customer’s total product lineup and label varieties.

Below is a sample of Omron’s vision solution and connectivity to the customer’s existing production environment:

Gibb said the main issues for Quality Assurance (QA) inspection in the meat industry are: • Hundreds of different products and labels • IP rating camera • Huge variety of codes, different types of bar code, different types of 2D Codes • Complex production and device information like expiry date, batch number, lot number, stamp • Many workers lack technology, knowledge and training • Difficult to use traditional sensors or PLCs to collect all of the information • Difficult to integrate PLC/vision/ motion/sensors all together • Difficult to manage QA inspection information • Image logging and data logging • How to integrate to existing SCADA software

The Solution

Omron FQ2 supports up to nine types of barcodes. Whether it’s for verification or barcode character

reading, the FQ2 can easily meet customers’ requirements, according to the company.

The Australian meat industry uses GS1-databar code widely and FQ2 has been successfully used for product verification and production information inspection.

2D Code

FQ2 can read the main six types of 2D codes. There is no need to use more than one code reader – even for processing that combines different types of codes.

FQ not only forms a powerful and accurate vision inspection/data sharing network. It is the beginnings of a fully future proofed new single platform plant wide architecture, ready for upcoming robotics, RFID, safety and advanced sensing.

That platform is Sysmac – Omron’s new machine automation platform, where there is one control for the entire machine or production cell. PACE Omron Electronics www.omron.com.au 1300 766 766 NOVEMBER 2016 www.pacetoday.com.au 15

FUTURE TECHNOLOGY

Why does the future take so long to arrive?

I

n late 1971, a computer engineer named Ray Tomlinson sent the first email message.

It was ten letters long (QWERTYUIOP) and he was probably oblivious to the fact that hitting ‘send’ would gain him entry into the history books. Tomlinson’s invention changed the course of communication forever – usurping technology such as the fax.

205 billion emails are sent every day, and this will reach over 246 billion by the end of 2019. Yet, email hasn’t yet usurped the ‘paper trail’ and truly paperless systems are few and far between.

16 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

Paper stubbornly remains a feature of our everyday lives. Decades later, the paperless office is being called a ’30 year-old pipe dream’ and the United States Postal Service still processes and delivers 509 million pieces of mail each day. There is no doubt that the reliance on paper is decreasing, but we are still years away from actually achieving the paperless nirvana we were promised.

If paper is stubbornly sticking around, what does this mean for other technologies that are supposed to eradicate the problems of the past and deliver to us utopian efficiency and productivity?

Is it a harbinger for all things ‘paperless’, such as paperless money?

Bitcoin (the world’s first digital currency) claims that it will change finance in the same way the web changed publishing – yet, we have had credit cards for decades, and many still carry cash.

Why can’t we let go? What will it take to ‘kill’ analogue systems off once and for all?

Technology is not ‘yet’ ready The tools for going paperless are both accessible and economical; you can easily scan a key document and save it in PDF format; e-books can be downloaded and read through myriad

digital devices; and receiving all of your bills via email is a cinch. But while this technology has come a long way, it still has an uphill journey to be truly ‘ready’.

Paper does not need reboots, passwords, or charging. Paper notebooks do not ‘crash’. Bic pens are ready to write, whether you have 4G connectivity or not. With paper, there is no system to learn and shortcut keys to memorise. Alexa needs to be plugged in, while Siri, Cortana and Google Now can’t doodle.

The transition of paper to electronic document has not solved the issue of content chaos. We are still trying to remember which folder we saved that

FUTURE TECHNOLOGY

contract in. When the system fails, which is unpredicted, we easily fall back on paper and legacy paper processes.

In addition, the reality for some organisations is that there are multiple touchpoints in the workflow that remain analogue.

Coupled with this, many have said that the practicality of paper is hard to beat on project sites; it is disposable, easily replaced and you can edit (using a red pen) as you please. Decades have passed, and the use of paper still feels natural and inherent.

In the words of Getting Things Done author David Allen, “…the easiest and most ubiquitous way to get stuff out of your head is pen and paper.”

Users are (often) not the centre of things

Amazon Kindle is an e-reader device that enables users to read e-books, newspapers, magazines and other digital media. Tech developers saw the need to mimic a book in tablet format, but still provide the feeling of reading a book (turning a page, etc).

Why was Kindle successful?

Because developers placed the users at the heart of the technology experience.

We often forget that systems and apps meant for everyone must be designed for everyone.

E-signatures and encryption are only useful if the people you want to communicate with have the same tools.

The Moleskin Paper Tablet and Pen+ combo, which digitises your

draft documents, but it didn’t catch on – content creation alone wasn’t enough.

Many systems and apps fail to benefit those who use them. And for that reason, creative professionals who write, sketch, or prototype by hand still carry cheap notebooks and pens.

Until technology can perform like (or better than) paper, we’ll incessantly default to the original. Going paperless is likely to remain a stretch for many

“In reality, we’ll more likely experience a blended future in which new and old systems co-exist. ” handwritten notes and doodles for editing and sharing, is reliant on its smartpen and mobile app to make it work usefully.

Microsoft’s Courier Tablet, a booksized digital journal with a native stylus, held promise as a tool designed for the creative minds, in which architects can sketch building plans or writers can

and the past decades have taught us that no matter how smart, technology is never ‘absolute’.

People will probably be stuffing wads of cash under their mattress for the next 50 years, possibly more. Vinyl records will continue to be played occasionally, and we’ll still see horses and carts on the roads (the queen drives

in one every now and then).

In reality, we’ll more likely experience a blended future in which new and old systems co-exist. And this will apply to a plethora of new technologies, not just paper, including those such as autonomous vehicles.

Collectors may always want to own a ‘self-drive’ vehicle and if that is the case, then we’ll need systems and infrastructure that allow both systems to coexist. Going forward, the ‘fast track’ to the future may literally be one in which the Hyperloop jostles for space among ‘vintage’ Volkswagens, BMWs and Volvos. Look left, and a drone will be delivering a pizza. Look right and you’ll notice someone doing the morning ‘paper-run’.

And whilst we all may fantasise about efficient sci-fi future worlds filled with Minority Report holographics, it is likely to be the transition from our current realities to these future enabled utopias where the real engineering challenge will lie. PACE This article was written by Sam Dungey, civil engineer at Aurecon

Delta Medium Voltage Drives • High rated system efficiency exceeding 98.5% • Integrated phase shift transformer significantly reduces Harmonics to meet IEEE 519-1992 • Built in Redundancy through Full System Bypass and Power Cell Bypass functions • Advanced PID control for precise control on motor and output variables • High Flexibility with modular power cell architecture to reduce cost Delta Energy Systems Australia www.delta-es.com.au | info@delta-es.com.au

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pacetoday.com.au 17

INTERNET OF THINGS

Alternative to M2M will allow the successful implementation of IoPT

P

rime Competence has developed a Reference Framework for posts new to the rapidly emerging Internet of Postal Things (IoPT). The IoPT is a network of physical objects — machines, equipment, vehicles and other items — embedded with electronics, software, sensors and connectivity that enables these objects to collect and exchange data to the advantage of the user.

The new Reference Framework sets out to provide guidance on the practical application of IoPT, with particular focus on the logistics function. Every post experiences common logistics problems such as undelivered mail, seasonal demand fluctuations, the availability of sufficient roll containers in the right places at the right times, and a lack of current location-specific inventory information with regard to moveable objects.

Knowing the location, route, load factor (by volume and weight) and 18 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

other data about shipments and assets can be extremely valuable. Importantly, such capability can also facilitate additional revenue streams or business models. For instance, there is potential to offer deeper level track and trace

concerns the best technology to locate among other things, roll cages, a request which is part of the greater need to locate shipments and packaging resources, and develop tracking in realtime. With this in mind, the principles

“The correct choices of technology will be determined by factors such as speed, cost and effectiveness for the specific post, leading to a ‘best of breed’ solution for each individual application.” capability, along with services such as live re-direct, and live collection/ returns based on current and predicted location of mail delivery personnel and vehicles, potentially even using autonomous robots and drones in the mail and parcel handling process. The possibilities are almost endless.

A common enquiry from posts

of the IoPT Reference Framework address many issues, including target identification and localisation, as well as data collection and exchange.

Of course, there is no off-theshelf IoPT solution that meets all requirements; each application will determine its own set of hardware and software specifics.

The correct choices of technology will be determined by factors such as speed, cost and effectiveness for the specific post, leading to a ‘best of breed’ solution for each individual application. One of the basic principles is that everything should be able to communicate with everything else in order to maximise the value of identification, localisation and data on individual transport flows and equipment. Importantly, the solution will be based on open industry standards without any vendor or technology lock-in.

Additional solution fundamentals include the use of interchangeable modular systems, as this allows futureproofing against constantly emerging technologies. Of course, the rapid development of new technologies presents a familiar dilemma; whether to press ahead knowing that certain technologies might soon be superseded, or to

INTERNET OF THINGS

wait. The Prime Competence IoPT Reference Framework provides the tools to break this deadlock, helping to create a cloud-based platform in which the added value of the whole is greater than the sum of its component parts.

“The principles of the IoPT Reference Framework address many issues, including target identification and localisation, as well as data collection and exchange.�

Take the case of a post which is keen to apply an IoPT solution to all of its shipments and vehicles. Here, information can be shared about location, status or behaviour with the cloud-based platform via the trolley Projekt2 10.10.16 10:56 Seite 1

where the consignment is transported, which in turn can share information back through the device, driver or delivery person.

In terms of the hardware, a typical application of this nature might comprise printable electronics for identification purposes on items such as parcels, mail and packaging of relatively low value like trays and bags, with connectivity provided by smartphones or trolleys equipped with the relevant readers. Similarly, readers with internet capability might be deployed on sorting machines.

For location and tracking (indoor and outdoor) communication with packages or letters in order to determine their whereabouts, proximity or long range communications technology is utilised. In addition, beacons are used commonly for communications in fixed locations such as sorting centres, while further sensors might be deployed for functions such as fill level measurement and weight on roll cages,

mailboxes and transport.

To explain in greater detail, assets such as roll containers are provided with a sensor that can emit a signal which is detected by the software on different devices, such as the smartphones of mail deliverers and scanners of package deliverers. On that basis, the location of the device can be determined via GPS and mobile signal. The stored signals and data collected can then be translated into crucial information for a variety of stakeholders.

This solution is an alternative to an infrastructure such as that of current machine-to-machine (M2M) solutions in which individual objects must be equipped with a SIM card, thus necessitating the need for costly mobile subscriptions. Ultimately, the IoPT solution has the potential to offer functionality similar to - or even better - than existing solution options; however at a lower cost.

Aside from cost, there are multiple benefits that arise from implementing

an IoPT strategy, such as optimising the total number of assets, correct asset numbers in correct locations, optimised traffic flows, the opportunity to implement condition monitoring or predictive maintenance, reduced loss/theft of valuable shipments, saving on vehicle fuel, improved fleet productivity, volume per stream known in advance, and even learning of weather conditions on route. There is, in fact, almost no limit to the impact that the new IoPT Reference Framework could have across a postal organisation, from doorstep to doorstep, through operations, to new service development.

With the IoPT Reference Framework as guidance, a post can start implementing the Internet of Postal Things tomorrow and gain valuable insights on how to use these new and exciting capabilities to further improve its current business and develop new business. PACE Prime Competence www.primecompetence.com

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pacetoday.com.au 19

ENERGY MANAGEMENT

World’s first battery storage and gas turbine system Much like South Australia, Southern California is currently in the wake of an energy crisis. Last year, the area saw a massive natural gas leak, which has left authorities scrambling to find a utility-scale energy storage solution that could be up and running by the end of this year. Stephanie Stefanovic writes.

O

n October 23 2015, a massive natural gas leak was discovered at a well within the Aliso Canyon’s underground storage facility in the Santa Susana Mountains.

Referred to as a ‘mega-leak’, it is considered the second-biggest gas leak in US history (after the 2004 Moss Bluff leak in Texas), and is known to be the most environmentally damaging, causing the expulsion of 97,100 metric tonnes of methane into the atmosphere.

As a result, authorities closed the Aliso Canyon facility (which had The LM6000 Hybrid EGT

been feeding the network of natural gas peaker plants in the LA basin), deeming it unfit to store fuel safely and sustainably. Following this, a state of emergency was issued and the search began for utility-scale energy storage solutions for Southern California.

One of these solutions is the LM6000 Hybrid EGT, which involves the installation of a battery energy storage system, followed by updates to a gas turbine to integrate the two systems. It is the product of a collaboration between General Electric (GE) and Southern

California Edison (SCE).

The hybrid system integrates a 10MW battery energy storage system from Current with an existing GE LM6000 aeroderivative gas turbine, with control system upgrades provided by GE’s Power Services.

The system will allow the turbine to operate in standby mode without using fuel and enable immediate response to changing energy dispatch needs. By eliminating the need to constantly run the turbines at minimum loads to maintain spinning reserves, the hybrid system will save fuel, reduce maintenance costs and cut down on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, according to GE. The hybrid system also offers ancillary and grid support at a lower cost and a smaller GHG footprint than traditional resources.

It can provide 50MW of GHG-free spinning reserve, flexible capacity, and peaking energy; 25MW of highquality regulation; and 10MVA of reactive voltage support and primary frequency response when not online.

“We are excited to launch this innovative hybrid solution to provide immediate power, increase the flexibility of our gas turbines, leverage new software controls solutions and increase customer competitiveness,” said Paul McElhinney, president and CEO of GE’s power services.

“GE’s new LM6000 Hybrid EGT product fits in well with SCE’s objective of providing cost-effective, innovative solutions that enhance grid reliability, flexibility, and fast response for our customers,” added Phil Herrington, vice president of generation for Southern California Edison.

The battery energy storage system is expected to be installed and operational by the end of 2016, and the updated and integrated turbine controls are scheduled to be operational by early 2017.

In the wake of the Aliso Canyon gas leak, Tesla will also be providing a 20MW/80MWh Powerpack system at the Southern California Edison Mira Loma substation. The system will charge using electricity from the grid during off-peak hours and deliver electricity during peak hours to maintain reliable operation of SCE’s electrical infrastructure. Once complete (due by late 2016), it will be the largest lithium-ion battery storage project in the world.

SCE has also invested in a number of other large scale battery storage projects, to become operational from 2018 onwards. PACE

“By eliminating the need to constantly run the turbines at minimum loads to maintain spinning reserves, the hybrid system will save fuel, reduce maintenance costs and cut down on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.”

20 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN FOR 2017 2017

For more information and to nominate visit www.paceawards.com.au

ENGINEERING INDUSTRY

A snapshot of the engineering industry In a new report by Cebr for the UK’s Royal Academy of Engineering, the engineering industry is examined on a global scale and features future trends, research and engineering rankings, along with a focus on where Australia stands world-wide. Stephanie Stefanovic writes.

The future of the industry

According to UNESCO, “Engineering has been, and will continue to be, challenged with designing systems that facilitate education and healthcare, enhance quality of life, and help to eliminate global poverty.” Key challenges in the coming years include: developing technology to mitigate “hostile acts”, reducing the impact of natural disasters, and facilitating sustainable resource use.

When engineering experts were asked where they thought the demand for specific engineering fields would be in the coming years, each gave a different answer.

Martin Manuhwa – Vice President, World Federation of Engineering Organisations: “The world is going digital, which will require a breed of engineers who are more literate in high-tech areas like nanotechnology, materials engineering and ICT. Engineers in the field of sustainability and renewables will be in high demand.”

Mike McWilliams – Professor Emeritus, Stanford School of Earth, Energy and Environmental Sciences: “Environmental engineering is a growing field and more engineers will be required to help deal with ecological damage and climate change.

Figure 21: Research and development expenditure as a percentage of GDP, CAETS countries, 2012 4.0% 3.5% 3.0% 2.5% 2.0% 1.5% 1.0% 0.5%

Research and education

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Ko re a nl an d Ja p Sw an ed De en Sw nm itz ark er l G an Un erm d ite an d St y a Sl tes ov e Au nia st ra Be lia lg iu m Ne Fran th ce er lan d Cz ec C s h h Re ina pu Un b ite Ca lic d na Ki d ng a do No m rw Hu ay ng ar y Sp ain In d C ia So ro ut atia h A Ar frica ge nt M ina ex Ur ico ug ua y

0.0%

Source: World Bank, Cebr analysis

Figure 19: Number of university engineering and technology departments ranked within top 100, 2015-16,

by Country 31

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t Ki es ng do Au m st ra lia G er m an y Ch in a Ca na da Re pu bl Jap ic an of K Ho ore ng a Ne Kon g th er lan d Sw s ed en Fr Sw anc e itz er l Si and ng ap or e Ta iw a Be n lg iu De m nm ar k In di a Au st ria Isr Ru ae ss l ian Fe Italy de ra tio n

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Using the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the report investigated the countries with engineering and technology departments that rank within the top 100 in 2015/16.

The US is the most successful, with 31 engineering departments in the top 100. This is followed by the UK with nine, and Germany and Australia with seven.

The world’s top five engineering departments belong to:

6

Un i

te d

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Climate resilience engineering (closely linked to civil engineering) is also expected to become important in coming years.”

Considering Africa specifically: Dr. Allyson Lawless – Managing Director, South African Institution of Civil Engineering: “Agricultural engineering needs to be expanded to improve productivity and address poverty.”

Calestous Juma – Professor of the Practice of International Development: “Civil engineering will play an important role due to growth in the transportation and housing sectors. There will also be demand for mechanical engineers and electronic engineers due to increasing transportation and greater emphasis on IT and communications technology.”

The report notes that across the world, automation is likely to play a key role in shaping the future of engineering, with regard to engineers’ work processes.

Source: Times Higher Education World University Rankings

22 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

1. Stanford University, US 2. California Institute of Technology, US 3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology, US 4. University of Cambridge, UK 5. University of California, Berkeley, US

As can be seen in Fig. 21 and Fig. 19, the amount of investment in research and development is roughly equivalent to the success of engineering departments.

According to the report, the following areas could benefit from greater investment: • Sustainable and low carbon construction • Smart construction and digital design • Virtual and augmented reality

The Engineering Index

The Engineering Index has been constructed using data from 99 countries across the world. It is comprised of the following engineering-related indicators: • Employment in engineeringrelated industries • Number of engineering businesses • Gender balance of engineers • Wages and salaries of engineers • Human capital investment in engineering • Quality of infrastructure • Quality of digital infrastructure • Exports of engineering-related goods

The rankings Note: The rankings are those of the CAETS countries; countries that are members of the International Council of Academies of Engineering and Technological Sciences, of which there are 26. The report found that overall, CAETS countries were the top performers in most categories.

As can be seen from the table on p23, Australia ranks highly – seventh among the CAETS countries and (according to the report) seventh overall.

According to the report,“This is chiefly due to its high engineering employment, and its strong performance in the research category: Australia has seven university engineering departments among the world’s top 100. It also boosts a high

ENGINEERING INDUSTRY

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On a larger scale, the report also notes: “There appears to be a correlation between GDP per capita and Engineering Index scores across

countries when using data available for 2013.

Aside from notable outlier countries such as Qatar, Vietnam and Ukraine, we observe that higher output per capita is associated with higher Engineering Index scores.”

The greatest potential for higher engineering performance lies in Africa, according to the report. PACE

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WINE COOLING

Cooling solution keeps the wine barrels topped up

A

barrel hall cooling system designed to efficiently maintain ideal temperatures and raise humidity is robbing the wine gods of the ‘angel’s share’.

South Australian air conditioning manufacturer Seeley International is enjoying global success with its Climate Wizard Supercool systems, which have been specifically designed for the wine industry.

So far the Adelaide-based company has installed about a dozen systems in wineries across Australia, the United States and South Africa.

General Manager of Commercial Sales, Michael Hamilton, said the key features of the systems were their indirect and direct evaporative sections that allowed desired storage

24 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

temperatures of 16°C – 18°C to be achieved while increasing air moisture to 60 – 80 per cent relative humidity.

He said the Climate Wizard was also up to 80 per cent cheaper to run than equivalent refrigerated cooling systems.

The systems are aimed at New World wineries that store their barrels in sheds and warehouses rather than underground cellars.

“When we looked at where we wanted to take this winery campaign in our global market we’ve considered this product in the American and South African markets but not so much in Europe because a lot of barrel halls are underground there and they maintain pretty consistent temperatures without a lot of assistance,” said Hamilton.

“We’re finding that when we go and talk to some of these wineries and survey their sites, the barrels at the top of the wine hall can reach up to 32°C during our summer period.

“We’re creating interest with this technology because we are able to create the conditions the winemakers are looking for at a very low operating cost.”

The ‘angel’s share’ is a winemaking term that refers to the amount of wine that evaporates out of a barrel, potentially affecting quality and forcing barrels to be “topped up” during maturation. The angel’s share is generally higher when barrel room temperatures exceed 18°C and when humidity is low.

Hamilton said Seeley was looking

to ramp up production of the Supercool units at its South Australian factory on the back of a flood of inquiries received at the Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference in Adelaide.

“Ultimately, if they reduce that angel’s share effect, which means they don’t have to top up as much, they would be aiming to deliver a higher quality of wine and more volume,” said Hamilton.

Australia’s largest air conditioning manufacturer, Seeley is a global leader in the design and manufacture of portable and ducted climate control systems for the domestic, commercial and industrial markets. PACE This article was printed with permission from The Lead.

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SAFETY IN ACTION

Taking action on workplace safety Australia’s largest workplace health and safety event, Safety in Action, took place this year in Sydney, exhibiting the latest systems, products, and seminars to encourage safety in the workplace. PACE was on site speaking to some of the companies that attended. Sharon Masige writes.

T

he Sydney Showground played host to the three-day event, with more than 4000 health and safety decision makers throughout the government, resources, construction, transport, and manufacturing industries discovering new ways to improve their organisation’s safety.

Part of the Safety In Action event series, with events also held in Perth, Brisbane and Melbourne at different times during the year, more than 100 exhibitors were in attendance including Chemical Safety International, Mediflex Industries, Safe Work Australia, the Black Dog Institute and SafeQuip.

A variety of safety solutions for all sectors were displayed such as fork lift grips, safety footwear, risk management training services, scaffolds and platforms and PPE. Keith Barks, general manager

26 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

at Informa Australia – who jointly presented the event with the Safety Institute of Australia (SIA) – said an estimated 2000 workers die from work related illnesses each year. “[This] highlights the urgent need for national improvements to prevent and reduce the number and severity of injuries and illnesses in the future,” he said.

Additionally, in 2013-14 more than 106,000 serious workers’ compensation claims were lodged, reinforcing the importance of implementing necessary safety measures in all workplaces.

This year’s theme was ‘Keep your workplace safe’ with height safety, (particularly in construction) in focus.

Ferno Australia, which specialises in height safety equipment, exhibited their range at the event, with their products suitable for construction through to emergency services including helicopters, ambulances,

fire and defence industries.

Greg Wyld, the company’s territory sales manager, highlighted the importance of proper restraint while working at height.

“There’s been quite a few deaths at height so awareness is one of the main factors,” he told PACE. “There’s a lot of people working at height that aren’t properly restrained and they’re getting injured, so actually wearing the appropriate PPE, so that they’re arrested if they fall or preventing from falling in the first place, is a big thing.”

A Safe Work Australia report on work related injuries involving a fall from height found the construction industry made up 37 per cent of the 41 fall related fatalities between 2008 and 2011. This was more than three times the number from the next highest industries; with 12 deaths in the primary industries of agriculture,

forestry and fishing, and 12 across the transport, postal and warehousing industries; while 11 deaths were recorded in the manufacturing sector.

Super Spill Solutions, which provides liquid spill response products, services, and training throughout all industries that have bulk liquid storage, also attended the event.

Company director Dominic Fedele, told PACE they provide products for companies required to have liquid response products, which they can use in the event of an emergency spill. He added that they provide training on how to respond to liquid spills.

“We have service and maintenance programs where we go on site and restock the spill kits on the spot and issue a report for their environmental due diligence, and also follow up with training,” he said.

With automation and innovation fast becoming the norm for several

SAFETY IN ACTION

industries, management systems to further streamline traditionally paperbased processes are on the rise.

Nicky Bishop, consultant at safety management software company MyOsh, explained that MyOsh is a modular system based on email alerts that records an organisation’s management.

She said the system helps companies comply with safety legislation.

“The mobile apps make it really easy to log incidents, hazards and actions, which is basic compliance,” she told PACE. “You need to keep track of all your incidents. You need to be able to audit them, find out what’s going on with them – if they’re open or closed –and once all your data is in the system it’s really easy to run your reports.”

The system consolidates all data and can present it in graphs, pie charts, or tables through its dashboards, which can pinpoint exactly which part of the site is experiencing a particular problem.

“On top of that we’ve got all the other modules; training management, contracts management, online learning, and inspections which is really popular.

You can create your own inspections so you can go around and with your mobile app and do all your inspections really quickly,” she said.

“It’s very automated; emails

are sent out automatically, so accountability is great.

“The ability to make people accountable for their safety is very important, you can save on time, man-hours, and on insurance premiums.”

The event also featured a range of seminars on how to achieve a zero

harm, positive safety culture; contractor safety management and compliance; and how to manage and improve work safety with software tools.

Co-located at Safety in Action was SIA’s National Convention – a two-day conference that challenged safety leaders to change their thinking around safety. With the theme of ‘Disruptive Safety’, the speakers tackled ways to positively disrupt the status quo in workplace health and safety.

Australia’s largest cleaning and hygiene show CleanScene was also run parallel to Safety in Action, with companies including Electrolux, SABCO and Whiteley Industrial displaying the latest in cleaning technology. The event also hosted seminars throughout the day, with topics including the emerging standards in cleaning and hygiene; the importance and rise of sustainable cleaning products; and how to grow a cleaning business.

The next Safety in Action event takes place in Brisbane in early 2017. PACE

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NOVEMBER 2016 www.pacetoday.com.au 27

SAFETY

Don’t ignore the signs Recent Australian research reveals the influence of drugs and alcohol on workers is far more widespread than once believed. Alan Johnson reports.

M

anufacturers who think drugs or alcohol use is not an issue in their workplace are fooling themselves, as recent studies clearly show.

The Australian Drug Foundation estimates that alcohol and drugs are costing Australian workplaces $6 billion a year in lost productivity, with millions of work days lost annually.

Research by the National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction (NCETA), reveals that 2.5 per cent of the workforce report going to work under the influence of illicit drugs, with tradespeople and unskilled workers having the highest prevalence compared with professionals and managers.

In fact, amphetamine usage is 4 per cent higher for employees in the manufacturing industry than the total workforce average.

But it’s the drug “ice” (methamphetamine), with its destructive side effects, that has organisations worried. Weekly usage amongst employees who reported using the drug in the last 12 months was 17 per cent higher for workers in the manufacturing industry.

The NCETA research shows that drug usage is more prevalent for workers aged between 18 and 29 years of age, with male workers in the manufacturing industry more predominant users at 4.8 per cent as opposed to 3 per cent of female workers.

Leanne Cruden, Ai Group’s Principal Adviser – Workplace Relations, Safety & Workers’ Compensation, admitted drugs and alcohol use in the workplace is a problem that is not going away.

“However, the extent of the issue is becoming better understood, with the release of more and more data,” Cruden told PACE.

Warning signs

When it comes to identifying whether or not an employee is affected, Cruden said it’s important to firstly 28 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

assess whether the signs are from a genuine illness or injury, or are symptoms from taking prescription medicine, which can be very similar to those from alcohol or illicit substance abuse.

“It is important that employers are aware that there can be more than one reason for a worker’s abnormal behaviour.”

She said this behaviour might include a person being involved in a near miss incident, violence in the workplace, someone being habitually late or frequently absent from work.

“This behaviour could also be interpersonal problems in the workplace arising from the person, or could be factors such as poor coordination or the person appearing

to have difficulty concentrating.”

Cruden says the problems that drugs or alcohol in the workplace can cause include a safety risk to the worker, co-workers and the public in some cases.

“There can also be potential business risks, for example someone who is processing transactions might be under the influence and cause errors

SAFETY

which could result in a business loss.

“Workers who are under the influence, and in external facing positions and are acting in an unpredictable or volatile manner, can also impact on client relationships.

“Damaging work relationships is another big area, where someone is abusive or threatening to fellow co-workers,” said Cruden.

Having an employee in the workplace affected by drugs or alcohol can mean that co-workers have to shoulder an increased workload or an increased level of stress or the burden of a concern of working around other workers who may be impacted or unable to safely do their job.

According to research, one in 10

workers say they have experienced the negative effects associated with a co-worker’s misuse of alcohol.

The negative effects include reduced ability to do their job, involvement in an accident or close call, working extra hours to cover for the co-worker, and taking at least one day off work.

If a co-worker’s use of alcohol or other drugs is affecting someone else, then that co-worker does have a drug problem.

Often that person may not be aware their drug or alcohol use is affecting those around them, so it is recommended a work colleague approach them, or an appropriate person in the organisation such as a manager or someone from human resources.

An employer should remove any employee suspected of being affected by drugs or alcohol from a work situation where this could pose a risk, until the employer is satisfied the worker can safely perform their work.

It is also recommended that employees who are concerned that a co-worker’s drug or alcohol use is affecting their work and/or the safety of others, should document evidence of incidents.

She said it is easy to see that employees in the workplace who are affected by drugs or alcohol could present a safety risk and in that sense it would be prudent for employers, who have identified it as a potential hazard in the workplace, to take steps to address it.

“And the easiest and most effective way to address the problem is to introduce a drug and alcohol policy,” explained Cruden.

Policy

Cruden said for manufacturers who have concerns about employees working under the influence, as with any safety issues in the workplace, it’s just a matter of implementing a policy in consultation with workers, and unions if applicable.

“Areas to be discussed should include the objective and the features of the policy and they should go through the steps of implementing it, monitoring it and evaluating it.

“An important part of any policy should be designating and training relevant people who can identify these sorts of issues involved with

drugs and alcohol, and also to become skilled in approaching workers who are suspected of displaying signs of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

“Employers should also put in place a policy that encourages education and awareness in the workforce.”

Cruden said some companies have conducted workplace health and safety surveys, which has provided co-workers with an anonymous forum to report a concern that they may have with a co-worker’s use of alcohol or drugs or experiencing their aftereffects (a hangover or coming down.)

It has been shown that having a hangover or coming down from drugs at work can be just as problematic as being intoxicated or drugged.

Headaches, blurred vision, irritability, problems concentrating, lost voice and extreme tiredness can all create problems for co-workers.

Cruden said the key point of any drugs and alcohol policy is to tailor it to the particular workplace, and to consider the nature of the workplace and composition of the workforce and any relevant environmental issues.

“Employers need to think about which levels of the workforce the policy will apply to; if not everyone, which is common. They also need to think about training in the policy.”

She said an important part of introducing a policy is the step of consulting with the employees who are impacted by the policy.

“This step is likely to lead to a greater acceptance of the policy.”

Cruden pointed out that employers have a legal obligation to address alcohol and other drug issues in the workplace through the ‘duty of care’ provisions in the WHS Act. These provisions require employers to take all reasonable or ‘practicable’ steps to ensure the health and safety of all workers and any other people who may be affected by the actions of the employer, such as contractors or clients.

As well, employees have a responsibility to their own safety and the safety of other workers.

Testing

Cruden said one feature of a drugs and alcohol policy that can be seen to be controversial by employees, and trade unions in particular, is the

introduction of drug and alcohol testing as part of the policy.

“However, members have reported drug and alcohol testing is an important component of their policies.

“Not for the reason of catching people out, as there is normally an important focus on education, counselling and rehabilitation in the policy, but testing can be an important deterrent to the use of illegal drugs and alcohol in the workplace.

“We have had feedback saying that were it not for the random drug and alcohol testing, being able to detect employees affected by ice would not have been possible.

“This is mainly because ice-affected employees can initially show no unusual behaviour, though they will later become aggressive and irrational as the ice usage continues.”

She said drug and alcohol testing is now a common part of many manufacturing companies’ drug and alcohol policy pointing out that the testing can take different forms.

“If there has been an incident or someone has been acting in a suspicious manner then the testing will often be less controversial than random testing.

“Equally there is a choice between urine and oral testing for drugs and alcohol, with the urine testing generating the greatest degree of opposition, primarily in relation to privacy concerns.”

She said it is important that the drugs and alcohol policy deals with how the information is collected from the testing, how it will be stored and handled, and how it will be dealt with if someone produces a non-negative result.

“This is an important component of putting employees at ease with the idea of drug and alcohol testing,” said Cruden. PACE Alcohol and Drug Foundation 03 9611 6100, www.adf.org.au/workplace or http://www.druginfo.adf.org.au/ fact-sheets/alcohol-and-drugs-in-theworkplace#impact Free alcohol and drug counselling online, www.counsellingonline.org.au.

Ai Group Workplace Lawyers 0457 789 562, www.aigroupworkplacelawyers. com.au NOVEMBER 2016 www.pacetoday.com.au 29

WATER/WASTEWATER

Crystal-clear water from Glass Pearls

T

he average backyard swimming pool probably gets a few hours of use each day for several months of the year, yet users can still be at risk if the health of the water is not maintained.

So imagine the challenges involved with ensuring a clean, healthy environment for a group of adults which spend much of their lives in the water. That’s what happened when the team at Jenkinson’s Aquarium at Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey in the US found the exhibit for their adult harbor seals wasn’t staying clean – despite almost constant backwashing.

New life support system

The challenge was to create a new life support system for adult harbor seals that would not only provide the best possible water quality to ensure their health and wellbeing, but also reduce time and money spent on maintenance.

“In our old exhibit we ran two high rate sand filters that were constantly in need of backwash, and the sand was always channelled,” senior aquarist Angela Pizza said.

“Despite this, we never really got the clarity and cleanliness from the sand and maintenance was time consuming.”

The team had previously experimented with bead media on their penguin exhibit, but found it didn’t provide the water clarity they had hoped for. They thought that meant the only option was to stick with sand.

“Glass Pearls operate on the basis of “depth filtration”; dirt is driven through the filter bed and trapped in minute spaces between the particles of filter media, allowing the cleansed water to pass through.”

Harbor Seal Exhibit renovation. Glass Pearl media, filters and MultiCyclones were installed in April 2015. The team was thrilled with the results.

Glass Pearls operate on the basis of “depth filtration”; dirt is driven through the filter bed and trapped in minute spaces between the particles of filter media, allowing the cleansed water to pass through. The water saving ability of Glass Pearl is due to the spherical smooth shape, as this results in a

low coefficient of friction. After each backwash, Glass Pearls are cleansed of trapped contaminants.

“After running the new seal exhibit for several months with Waterco Filters, MultiCyclones and Glass Pearl media and being very happy with the results, it was decided we would retrofit a bead media filter on our penguin exhibit with Glass Pearls in July 2015,” said Pizza.

“The only change that needed to be done was a simple swap out of the lateral system inside the filter body.

“The penguin exhibit, too, is running great.”

Enhanced living environment; time and money savings

According to Pizza, both the seals and penguins are enjoying a better quality living environment, while the aquarium is saving time and money on maintenance with the peace of mind that the animals are safe and healthy.

“We run many large sand filters here and to have a media that requires less backwash and still gives the polishing quality of sand is great,” she said.

“Also, the use of the MultiCyclones on the Harbor Seal system has been a huge help in the removal of solids before they ever reach the filter. So far, the maintenance of these systems has been cut down dramatically, while still giving us the water clarity and quality we require. Also, a reduction in the amount and length of backwashes was a plus.”

Clint Holland from Waterco said: “The MultiCyclone technology uses the most advanced hydro cyclone technology which ensures high water quality and clarity – and that was vital for these two water exhibits.”

Then there is the added peace of mind that comes with reliability of product quality and service.

“Waterco definitely stands behind their products, which is important to us,” said Pizza.

“We are a small facility and as such are sometimes looked over by larger companies because we don’t use the volume of products larger facilities use.” PACE WaterCo www.waterco.com

Optimal water quality

The previous failure of bead media didn’t mean the team wasn’t open to suggestions of products other than sand.

“Our requirements were simply that the media had to give good water clarity and polishing and keep the water quality optimal for animal health,” said Pizza.

“After meeting with Waterco representatives at the Aquality Symposium in 2014, we were excited to hear of a product that could give us the polishing qualities of sand but with less maintenance.”

Angela and the rest of the aquarium team discussed the Glass Pearl media with Waterco’s representatives and decided to try it out as part of the 30 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

Jenkinson’s Aquarium has fitted its exhibits with Glass Pearl media from WaterCo

WATER/WASTEWATER

Remote major mine scores an A-grade environmental upgrade supplied and installed a FAST unit for Newcrest’s Cadia Valley Operations (CVO) in NSW to purify human and other waste water and enable it to be recycled on-site.

The treatment system is part of CVO’s ongoing program to maximise community benefits flowing from a project that will include Australia’s largest underground mine and the world’s fourth largest gold mine.

FAST systems

O

ne of Australia’s major mining enterprises is benefitting environmentally in terms of water recycling and conservation from new plug-andplay wastewater treatment systems installed by CST Wastewater Solutions.

The two modular Smith and Loveless FAST (Fixed Activated Sludge Treatment) systems were delivered to the world class outback mining operation to produce an effluent water quality class of A. The A grading performance means the water can be recycled for processes around the site, in accordance with the company’s ethos of improving quality of life and effectively managing impacts.

The successful installation at this mine (which cannot be named for commercial confidentiality reasons) follows previous successful installations globally at remote locations such as mining and energy installations and commercial and recreational facilities operating in areas where water is a precious shared resource and where there may be water quality issues.

“The challenge for this project was the remote location,” said CST

Wastewater Solutions managing director Mike Bambridge.

“The FAST system is the perfect solution for projects like this, because it can be built into standard shipping containers.

“The plant arrives on site essentially as a complete system requiring only a concrete pad and some relatively minor mechanical and electrical works. Class A effluent is achieved by the addition of a filter and UV sterilisation after the FAST system.”

One of the FAST systems installed is used for the plant workshop, which has a maximum daily flow of 110m³. The second system is installed at the village for the camp and accommodation block, which has a maximum daily flow of 345m³.

Not only does the system achieve higher loading rates within a smaller footprint, but effluent produced can be recycled into suitable industrial, public facility and commercial processes.

“The FAST system allows this major entity to reuse the effluent water for dust suppression and lubrication water, which helps with their environmental footprint,” said Bambridge.

“The modular format of the FAST System also allows an easy bolt on for any expansion in workforce. For any future major increase of staff numbers, it is a simple matter of adding another FAST 20-foot Module. Each system is designed to handle an increase of approximately 200 workers. This could be incorporated in the design.

“The FAST System has been proven over a long period of time as being a very robust and simple system to operate. It is very reliable because its stable process withstands hydraulic shocks and the bacteria are not washed out into the environment. It is simple to operate and requires no daily operator maintenance, which results in low annual maintenance costs.

“Ease of operation and optimum reliability is very important in remote areas where service contractors and skilled operators can be expensive and in short supply.

Proven technology

FAST systems have had other strong successes in the mining and resources industries over the years. One example is when CST Wastewater Solutions

FAST achieves nutrient removal for applications containing a high level of nitrogen, a water pollutant that has increased significantly in industrial, commercial and municipal applications and which is an environmental concern particularly to resources, engineering, construction, hospitality, marine, agribusiness, public facility and water and wastewater infrastructure organisations.

Seen in thousands of installations worldwide, FAST consists of tankage packed with completely submerged media. The FAST media creates a high surface area-to-volume ratio, which, combined with internal settling zones, maintains constant bacterial growth during low-flow and peak usage periods typical of many remote installations.

This results in stable operation on a daily basis.

“Simple operation and maintenance means no daily operator requirements and very little annual plant maintenance,” said Bambridge, whose company has installed the FAST system for Australian applications by companies including: Anglo, Alcoa, BHP-Billiton, Blair Athol Coal, Cadia Gold, Dampier Salt and Glencore. Further installations have been completed for the Central Coast Grammar School, CSIRO, Hunter District Water, Kiama Municipal Council, Lakeside Leisure Park and Berowra Waters Marina. PACE CST Wastewater Solutions 02 9417 3611 www.cstwastewater.com NOVEMBER 2016 www.pacetoday.com.au 31

WATER/WASTEWATER

Plain text diagnosis solution improves process reliability for water supply

T

he Perlenbach water supply association, based in the Eifel region of Germany, is benefitting from the condition monitoring of Schaeffler’s new FAG SmartQB, which can identify problems further in advance and recommend preventative actions to be taken.

The preconfigured plug-andplay SmartQB unit, which has just been released in Australia, provides information about the condition of up to six machines or assemblies using plain text messages.

“The technology used by the Perlenbach water supply association is readily available across Australasia, and is our easiest to use condition monitoring device,” said Mark Ciechanowicz, industrial services manager, Schaeffler Australia.

“It’s designed to generate plain text messages on its screen, so that any in-house technician can operate the unit without additional knowledge of vibration technology.”

The Perlenbach water supply association supplies fresh drinking water to roughly 50,000 residents in seven municipalities in the Eifel region each day. Around 2.4 cubic metres of water is supplied in the area each year, which has been filtered and treated using complex methods until it meets the high requirements defined in the German drinking water regulations.

“Conventional systems for machine monitoring are costly and complicated. In contrast, the FAG SmartQB is so easy to use that our employees did not require any specific knowledge about vibration diagnosis. They could get started right away. This convinced us,” explained Joachim Dankwardt, deputy manager of the water procurement/treatment department at the Perlenbach water supply association.

The system has proven to be very reliable after only a short period. The maintenance personnel were able 32 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

Pumps used by the Perlenbach water supply association.

to react quickly and in a targeted manner thanks to the information and specific fault assessment provided at an early stage about the onset of bearing damage. Both bearings in the 8-stage centrifugal pump were replaced by the maintenance personnel in a very short period of time, thereby preventing severe damage to the facility. Unplanned downtimes of up to several weeks in combination with considerable damage amounting to several thousands of dollars could be prevented this way.

Challenge for Schaeffler

Increased vibrations and noise on the centrifugal pumps are often due to bearing defects. These irregularities may cause the centrifugal pumps to fail and thus pose a threat to the supply of water. To prevent this, the Perlenbach water supply association decided to change from a temporary pump monitoring system to a

and linked with the FAG SmartQB. In the event of irregularities, the FAG SmartLamp installed next to the FAG SmartQB illuminates red and the system generates a message.

With only two additional clicks on the touch display, the maintenance technician can view more detailed information about the fault and specific recommended actions.

What’s special The FAG SmartQB continuous pump monitoring system.

The objective was to generate long advanced warning times.

Schaeffler Solution

As part of a pilot project at the Perlenbach water supply association, two centrifugal pumps were equipped with two FAG SmartQB sensors each

The Perlenbach water supply association’s initial experience with the unit has been so positive that it is considering including further pumps in the monitoring process and integrating the system into the internal maintenance alarm system. This means that all information could also be bundled centrally in addition to the local visualisation on the display. PACE Schaeffler 02 8977 1000 www.schaeffler.com.au

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NEW PRODUCTS

Multiphase flow meter EMERSON Automation Solutions has introduced the Roxar MPFM 2600 M multiphase flow meter, a flexible and easily manageable wellhead measurement solution for direct and continuous wellhead multiphase flow monitoring needs.

The flow meter can identify and measure non-symmetrical flow in varying flow regimes, providing improved measurement uncertainty monitoring and reliability. It includes the advanced signal processing, field electronics and electrode geometry innovations of the third generation MPFM 2600.

Embedded computer for military and aerospace systems

Different modules can be placed into a variety of configurations and software modules are available to help with challenging applications including flow back measurements, well testing and allocation metering. These customised configurations include a venturi which extends the operating range of gas void fractions (GVF) to 100 per cent (MPFM 2600 MV), a compact gamma system for improved accuracy (MPFM 2600 MVG), a formation water salinity measurement system, and a special operating mode for wet gas wells.

Emerson Automation Solutions www.emerson.com

Digitally-programmable strain gauge amplifier FUTEK has announced the IDA100 Digitally Configurable Strain Gauge Amplifier, which provides both analog and digital output via USB. The analog output can be used to send information directly to a PLC while the USB output can be used to simultaneously verify that the system is functioning correctly.

Furthermore, the amplifier eliminates the need for manual adjustment via dip switches and potentiometers; micro adjustments and calibrations can all be done electronically.

The product’s main features include: • Analog output with a bandwidth of 1kHz and digital output with a variable bandwidth of the selected sampling rate of /4 • Powers on via a 5V USB connector to minimise the interference of noise into the sensor platform • Bipolar output with software selectable excitation voltages of ±5 or ±10 VDC • Designed with an integrated 35mm DIN rail clip

Futek Advanced Sensor Technology www.futek.com

EtherNet/IP encoders for high-speed applications TURCK has announced the availability of EtherNet/IP enabled encoders, providing an optical-

34 www.pacetoday.com.au NOVEMBER 2016

based encoder solution with electronic multiturn capabilities for position applications requiring feedback. Common applications for the ODVA-certified encoders include automotive production, logistics, metal processing, textile applications, as well as printing and packaging machines.

The encoders are available in both singleturn (RS-107/108) and multiturn (RM-105/106) variants. They come with a diameter of 58mm, offer a total resolution of up to 32 bits (16 for singleturn, 16 for multiturn), and have been designed

specifically for high-speed applications. The encoders offer an RPI (requested packet interval) time of 1ms, and allow operation in high-speed applications with up to a 1000Hz update frequency.

These features allow users to save time and costs, according to the company.

Furthermore, the encoders have Device Level Ring (DLR) capability, which allows the network to stay active even if one direction of the communication bus line is compromised. For the user, this means that their process can continue while one process is offline, influencing efficiency and reducing costly down-time.

Turck Australia 1300 132 566 www.turck.com.au

ACROMAG has released its ARCX box, which is a rugged small form factor embedded computer with unique expandable features that include PMC, XMC, mini PCle, mSATA module slots, optional solid-state drive, front I/O panel, and secondary connectors.

According to the company, the SFF embedded computer has been engineered rugged with size, weight and power to address the space requirements of vehicle electronics.

Compatible with industry standards and manufactured to IP67 standards and shock and vibration tested to MIL-STD-810G, these computers are available in either a single PMC/XMC slot or double PMC/XMC slot versions.

The computer comes equipped with an Intel 4th generation Core i7 CPU, which allows programmable power limits, where heat and power is a concern. The rugged design includes thick circuit boards and a high shock and vibration SODIMM hold-down mechanism and heat sink, and is fanless with no cable. It has been designed and manufactured for military/ aerospace deployable systems such as vetronics, C4ISR, payload management, and command and control applications.

Acromag www.acromag.com

NEW PRODUCTS

Solution for network latency in lighting and industrial applications CEL has announced the addition of new features to its Cortet Connectivity Suite, a turnkey wireless solution that bridges the gap between “things” and the cloud. It enables building automation, lighting control, smart home, industrial and machine to machine (M2M) product manufacturers to confidently link their physical “things” to the digital world.

According to the company, its new Voice Control feature makes it easy

for integrators and manufacturers to add natural voice control capabilities for a wide range of “smart” applications, including lighting, climate control and building automation.

Furthermore, the new Instant Broadcast architecture solves the problem of “popcorning” or latency from network delays that can occur when a single command is used to control a wide range of networked lights, appliances and devices.

Instead of coming on at various times, all the devices actuate simultaneously and without delay.

The connectivity suite enables OEMs and developers to quickly and easily radio enable their appliances, devices and sensors, and also integrate them into an intelligent solution complete with local and IoT-based controls, analytics and application software.

CEL Electrical www.celelectrical.co.uk

Real-time interface for batch control ROCKWELL Automation has released its FactoryTalk Batch View software, which enables a “modern batch experience” by improving employee collaboration and system interactions. The software offers an intuitive and scalable, browser-based interface that adapts across smartphones, such as iOS and Android, to tablets and PCs. Users can access real-time information and interact with their process from the plant floor to the production office through a consistent user interface.

Key capabilities include: • A modern web interface offers easy adaptation to new or existing platforms and environments with backward capability to previous versions of the software; singleserver architecture allows for new features and functions to be added with minimal impact to operations.

• Uses common system security policies for access control similar to any workstation, as a node on the plant network.

• Interfaces support multiple mobile devices and are easily integrated with HMI screens onto workstations.

The software is suited for large industrial facilities that have workstation infrastructure limitations, and require multiple access points across the plant.

Rockwell Automation 03 9757 1111 www.rockwellautomation.com

Compact portable hygrometer for convenient spot checks MICHELL Instruments has introduced the MDM50 portable hygrometer, which enables efficient spot checks of dew point or moisture content down to -50°C dew point. The integral sampling system allows for measurements of dew point to be made at pressure, up to 20 barg, with an option available to measure up to 300 barg. Furthermore, the integrated filter removes particulates down to 0.3μm which provides 99.5 per cent protection to the sensor.

The fast-responding polymer moisture sensor of the MDM50 gives rapid dew point measurements in compressed air – T95 to -35°C from ambient typically in less than five minutes.

According to the company, the sensing element is highly stable, resistant to contamination and along with the robust and sturdy case, this means the hygrometer is well-suited to the often tough conditions in industrial applications.

Along with dew point in compressed/instrument-air dryers, typical applications for the MDM50 include moisture measurements in medical gases, polymer chip and the output from refrigerated dryers.

Michell Instruments www.michell.com

Isolation plugs preventing contamination in pipes Pipes and ducts are often exposed to contamination during factory maintenance, routine fumigation, plant modification and duct cleaning operations in industrial environments.

Plug-Up isolation plugs from 1300 Inflate are specifically recommended for industrial settings when there is a need to isolate a pipe or duct from potential contamination. These isolation plugs are also used to plug pipes to avoid the possibility of a maintenance tool being dropped into a silo or down a duct, leading to expensive and inconvenient stoppages.

Made to any size or shape, Plug-Up isolation plugs are easy to operate, quick to fit, and efficient, and can help avoid expensive and inconvenient downtime in the construction, mining and engineering fields.

1300 Inflate 03 9588 2626 www.1300inflate.com.au

NOVEMBER 2016 www.pacetoday.com.au 35

, D E E N U .

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