Subcon 2024, scheduled for June 5-6 at the NEC, Birmingham is the premier event for manufacturing buyers across all sectors. As a cornerstone event for the industry, Subcon provides an unrivaled opportunity to source your next manufacturing solutions from a variety of world-class exhibitors. With over 150 subcontractors and outsourced engineering services, Subcon is packed with possibilities for everyone.
This year’s event promises a refreshed and innovative format, with new developments introduced to adapt and enhance the experience for both visitors and exhibitors. Attendees can look forward to a dynamic programme featuring interactive CPD-accredited workshops, cutting-edge product demonstrations, and insightful keynote presentations. Additionally, you can engage in meaningful discussions through roundtable sessions that are designed to foster collaboration and idea-sharing.
Whether you are aiming to benchmark your capabilities, seeking innovative solutions, or simply looking to stay ahead of industry trends, Subcon is your gateway to the future of manufacturing.
Meet with over 150 leading UK and international suppliers under one roof, showcasing the latest innovations and solutions available from sectors such as CNC machining, metal fabrication, electronics, component parts, and more, all dedicated to advancing the capabilities of your supply chain.
Thousands of new products and innovations will be on display across the full range of advanced engineering technology, systems and services – from Additive Manufacturing and Metrology solutions to Frictionless bearings, cables and controls, and everything in between. This is a show geared to helping you increase capacity, optimise productivity, improve flexibility and remain competitive.
Revamped Workshop and Sessions Programme: A Hub of Innovation and Learning
New for 2024, Subcon has announced a significant enhancement to its conference and workshop programme, with the introduction of a variety of different session formats that take place within three specialised areas; designed to cater to a diverse range of interests and professional needs within the manufacturing industry: the Innovation Zone, Workshops and Learning Space, and the Manufacturing Insights Theatre.
Additionally, the programme is now officially CPD accredited, ensuring attendees can gain valuable professional development credits while engaging with top industry experts and cutting-edge technologies.
Explore insightful keynote presentations and engage in lively panel discussions at the Manufacturing Insights Theatre. This forum features thought leaders discussing the latest trends and challenges in manufacturing. Each session includes interactive Q&A segments, making it a dynamic platform for learning and engagement.
Dive into hands-on learning with roundtable discussions and sector-focused peer-to-peer meetings in the Workshops & Learning Space. Tailored to address specific industry challenges, these sessions offer practical insights and networking opportunities, facilitated by industry experts.
This area is dedicated to hands-on demonstrations, showing you how new technologies and products operate in real-time. It’s the perfect place to see the newest innovations in action and discover how they can enhance your manufacturing processes.
Click here to register for free!
Compete in professional motorsport simulators operated by FP Zero. Dive into the thrilling world of Formula 1 racing right on the exhibition floor. The fastest lap will not only boast bragging rights but will also win a PalmerSport driving day experience valued at over £600!
Need a quiet spot for a meeting or just to catch up on emails? Subcon now has dedicated spaces set up for exactly that. Stop by to meet with peers or to take a break and grab a coffee.
Networking Drinks & Entertainment: All visitors, exhibitors, and speakers are invited to unwind at a welcome drinks reception, complete with entertainment, starting at 5 pm on the first day of the exhibition.
Don’t miss out on Subcon 2024! Registration is completely free, offering an invaluable opportunity to connect with industry leaders, explore cutting-edge innovations, and participate in a variety of sessions designed to drive your manufacturing capabilities forward. Register today and discover your next manufacturing solution.
That’s not all! More NEW features include:
Microchip’s ATMXT2952TD 2.0 family of touch controllers offer cryptographic authentication and data encryption
As we see an increased number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road, the necessary charging infrastructure must expand to meet the increased demand. Adding credit card payment options to EV chargers is becoming a standard practice in many countries—and is a mandate in the European Union—and chargers need to meet Payment Card Industry
(PCI) security standards. To help EV charger designers protect their payment architectures, Microchip Technology (Nasdaq: MCHP) has launched the MXT2952TD 2.0 family of secure touchscreen controllers.
Typical touch-enabled human machine interface (HMI) and radio frequency identification (RFID) combination-based payment systems are vulnerable to hacking attacks via malicious software updates or man-in-the-middle attacks when a user enters their personal identification number (PIN) on the touchscreen. Physical mesh barriers and sensors are often used around these integrated circuits (ICs) for protection from hacking. Constant reflashing of software and device resets are used to help safeguard software integrity. The MXT2952TD 2.0 family is designed to encrypt touch data and cryptographically authenticate software updates to minimize risk and meet PCI certification compliance standards. When the RFID reader IC and the touchscreen controller are on different printed circuit boards (PCBs), it is especially difficult and expensive to build physical barriers for hack protection. Click here to read the full release >
Delta, a global leader in power management and a provider of IoT-based smart green solutions, is presenting, under the theme “Realizing an Intelligent, Sustainable and Connecting World,” its unique capabilities to foster smart manufacturing and sustainable cities at Hannover Messe 2024. The showcase features a new generation of collaboration robots (cobots) for smart factory automation applications, and a new 500kW DC ultra-fast charger for traditional and heavy-duty electric vehicles (EV).
At a recent press conference, Dalip Sharma, President and General Manager of Delta Electronics EMEA Region, said, “Delta’s dedication to sustainability is intricately woven into our innovative solutions and business model, mirroring Europe’s netzero endeavours. Moreover, our proactive sustainability measures, such as our Internal Carbon Pricing system, have been crucial for Delta’s factories, R&D centres, and offices in EMEA to achieve RE100 in 2023. We are also proud to demonstrate our new factory digital twin, developed on the NVIDIA OmniverseTM platform, for our smart production demo lines.”
Across the approximately 400-square-meter Delta booth, visitors will engage on a journey into the world of intelligent infrastructure across three sectors: Intelligent Industry, Smart Energy Infrastructure, and ICT Infrastructure.
Transformation to Smart Factory
Michael Mayer-Rosa, Senior Director, Industrial Automation Business Group at Delta Electronics EMEA Region, said, “Leveraging our deeprooted expertise in machine, process, and factory automation, we’re honoured to unveil Delta’s D-Bot series cobots at Hannover Messe 2024.” Delta’s cobots are engineered for swift deployment and straightforward operation, offering plug-and-play functionality alongside intuitive programming. This innovation significantly bolsters Delta’s capabilities in smart factory automation, directly catering to the industry’s urgent requirements for adaptability and efficiency. Furthermore, the cobot portfolio boasts payload capacities up to 30 kg, reach spans as long as 1800 mm, and compatibility with EtherCAT, CODESYS, and Modbus to ensure optimal levels of precision, in applications such as pick & place, palletizing, and welding.
Just last month, Delta joined NVIDIA GTC, a global AI conference. With a digital twin developed on NVIDIA Omniverse, Delta simplified the simulation process of tray and object detection on a demo robotic line by consolidating the 3D data of diverse equipment.
Continue reading the full article here >
Live online, classroom, blended, e-learning or in-house
• Gain or renew your 5-year Certificates of Competence*
• Courses based on EEMUA 159
• English, Dutch, German and French language options
• Select from courses throughout year, including:
TankAssessor courses*
20-23 May 2024 – in English
– classroom – London, UK
27-30 May 2024 – in English
– live online – for MEA – GMT+3
10-13 June 2024 – in French
– classroom – Paris, FR
14-17 October 2024 – in Dutch
– classroom – Rotterdam, NL
4-7 November 2024 – in German
– live online
TankBasics courses
16 September - 25 October 2024
– in English – blended learning (live online, e-learning, and more)
TankInspector courses*
16-18 September 2024 – in French
– classroom – Paris, FR
16-18 September 2024 – in English
– live online – Houston time
23-25 September 2024 – in Dutch
– classroom – Rotterdam, NL
28-30 October 2024 – in English – classroom – London, UK
Storage Tanks e-learning
On-demand – in English or Dutch
In-house courses
By arrangement for your choice of: time, language, location
EEMUA Seminar – Engineering the Energy Transition 6 June 2024 – London, UK
More choices, information and registration at www.eemua.org and events@eemua.org
New certification allows accreditation without prior approval
Demonstrating its proficiency in product testing and continuous commitment to quality, scientific consultancy and testing provider Broughton has received ISO 17025 Flexible Scope Accreditation from the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS). The accreditation, received in April 2024, highlights Broughton’s high quality method validation, laboratory operations and quality assurance.
During the assessment for the flexible scope, Broughton had to demonstrate its laboratories operate to the highest standard and generate reliable results. The flexible scope allows Broughton to claim accreditation for defined testing beyond the fixed scope without prior
approval from UKAS, allowing the company to react quickly to market demands.
“UKAS would only normally accredit a laboratory for Flexible Scope if it had held accreditation for much longer than Broughton has,” said Cherry Bond, Quality Manager at Broughton. “Receiving the accreditation first time shows the confidence UKAS has in Broughton to manage the flexible scope appropriately.”
“This is a great effort from our Quality and Laboratory Services team,” added Chris Allen, CEO of Broughton. “The awarding of the Flexible Scope feeds into Broughton’s expansion plans, with plenty more exciting milestones to come in the near future.”
Broughton offers high-quality in-house analytical testing services integrated with scientific consultancy and global regulatory support. Its in-house laboratory testing facilities are GMP compliant and ISO/IEC 17025 accredited. For more information, visit www.broughton-group.com
If you want your connection system to achieve the desired transmission performance even under harsh conditions, ODU offers the right system solution “off the shelf”.
Andreas Pfeffer, Product Marketing Specialist at ODU Connectors has produced a new video showing three typical application areas (industrial, medical and military) to illustrate the key benefits for customer applications when using ODU connectors.
ODU cable assemblies for data technology enable the safe transmission of standard protocols such as Ethernet/IP®, SPE, USB®, HDMI® and DisplayPort® even in the harshest environments.
Fibre-Optics are the optimal connection technology whenever the highest data rates and fast, interference-free transmissions are required. We deliver quality and stability – our high-performance optical technologies can serve a wide and demanding range of applications.
Whether for particularly harsh environments, high mating cycles, or long transmission distances: ODU Fiber Optic is the ideal system solution for industrial outdoor use, medical technology, or standard applications in which speed and reliability are important.
An advanced fibre-optic connector that offers highend transmission characteristics with extremely low loss levels – combining the easy-clean advantage of expanded-beam, with the low-loss characteristics of PC (Physical Contact).
Particularly suitable for military applications, it is available glass-fibre (multimode or singlemode) and plastic-fibre (singlemode).
More info: https://odu-connectors.com/uk/ technologies/fiber-optic/expanded-beamperformance/
ODU also offers hybrid connectors that combine fibre-optics with power, signal and non-magnetic RF contacts - a distinct design advantage for the likes of MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) equipment etc.
Terminating optical fibre requires a specific skillset, but you do not necessarily need it in-house as ODU also offers fully-assembled fibre-optic system solutions, whatever the application.
0330 002 0640
sales@odu-uk.co.uk
www.odu-connectors.com/uk
Improve biogas plant efficiency and reliability with SEEPEX’s advanced progressive cavity pumping technology. Join SEEPEX at Stand B25 during the World Biogas Expo, 10-11 July, held at the NEC Birmingham to explore our innovative solutions for the biogas industry.
Enhanced Biogas Operations with SEEPEX
SEEPEX offers a comprehensive range of progressive cavity pumps, macerators and control systems, suitable for all biogas applications. Our low-energy pumping solutions for biogas are engineered to:
• Enhance biogas plant operations
• Maximise gas yield through efficient product handling
• Enable high solids pumping up to 45% DS
• Ensure seamless feedstock handling and mixing
• Deliver precise, low-pulsation dosing for accurate chemical metering
Increased Uptime and Efficiency
With SEEPEX Smart Conveying Technology (SCT), biogas plant operators can experience up to a 200% longer stator life, 85% reduced maintenance time, and extended maintenance intervals.
Our innovative pump maintenance technologies offer:
• Simplified, fast and proactive maintenance
• Longer pump lifespan
• Reduced spare parts consumption
• Lower life cycle costs
• Enhanced uptime and efficiency
Uninterrupted Pump Performance
Through our comprehensive CARE services, SEEPEX ensures smooth, uninterrupted operation of critical pumps with planned maintenance and regular updates. This proactive approach not only maintains pump availability but it also lowers the overall cost of ownership.
Discover SEEPEX’s robust, energy-efficient progressive cavity pumps for high solids content, along with our innovative transfer, maceration, and mixing solutions. Join us at Stand B25 to explore our innovative solutions for the biogas industry.
Whether you are interested in learning more about our products and services, discussing any new or challenging pumping applications, or unable to attend in person, feel free to contact SEEPEX. We are committed to meeting your needs and helping you achieve the best results in your biogas processes.
SEEPEX low-energy pumping solutions optimise biogas operations, maximise gas yield, and handle high solids up to 45% DS efficiently.
Your Sustainable Partner in the Biogas Industry SEEPEX high-solids pumps: Robust, reliable, efficient design for all biogas applications
The pressure towards sustainability is pushing the oil, gas and energy sectors to evolve innovative and diverse solutions in a move to create an energy efficient future.
Major transformations within the oil and gas industry in the form of adopting sustainable practices, developing new revenue streams and pushing the boundaries of technology, are being trialled and delivering success. Expanding into new areas such as renewable energy, advanced chemicals and biofuels, is driving innovation and diversification.
Titan Enterprises provides optimised and custom designed liquid flow measurement solutions for oil, petrochemical and green energy applications for OEM customers. These have included bespoke oval gear flow meters for marine fuel flow measurement, monitoring the volume of grease lubricating wind turbine bearing mechanisms, high pressure intrinsically safe units for offshore oil drilling additive injection, and for biodiesel plants converting bio waste into sustainable biofuels.
One of the fundamental requirements for ensuring reliable and efficient wind turbine operation is to keep the heavily loaded main bearings fully lubricated in all operating conditions. Fully IP65 / NEMA 4 compliant, Titan’s compact oval gear flowmeters are optimised for measuring the flow
of viscous liquids. Designed to operate at pressures of up to 700 bar and temperatures up to 150°C, and with a standard flow range of 0.01 to 4.0 litres/ min on 30Cstk oil, the OG1 or OG2 models can routinely achieve outstanding accuracy (0.75%) and repeatability (0.1%).
Titan’s Oval Gear (OG) flow meters are an intrinsic component within Green Fuels’ biodiesel plants converting bio waste into sustainable biofuels. Green Fuels’ award-winning research and pioneering process plants have powered buildings with sustainable fuel from used cooking oil, with ongoing development to convert fish oil and sewage sludge into biofuel. Simple, accurate and chemically resistant, Titan’s OG flow meters, with the addition of the Namur switch, have proved the ideal solution for precise chemical dosing for Green Fuels’ biofuel plants within a potentially hazardous environment.
Titan Enterprises offer special options and adaptive designs of its Oval Gear (OG) flow sensors to meet
specific high-pressure requirements, aid chemical compatibility, and ensure safe operation in potentially explosive atmospheres. Titan’s Oval Gear range include ATEX compliant IP65/NEMA 4 protection models, and devices that offer intrinsically safe options for processes that operate within harsh environmental conditions, such as explosive or corrosive atmospheres, where flowmeters are required to withstand tough environments whilst maintaining accurate and reliable measurement.
The pivotal role of oval gear flow meters lies in controlling precise liquid dosage for efficient and economical process operations. Within the petrochemical sector, a chemical injection system employs accurate lowflow measuring sensors to inject a precision dosage of chemicals required, including antifoaming scale inhibitors and methanol, into oil wells. Accurate chemical dosing is essential for the optimal functioning of the well system, promoting efficiency and heightened productivity without excessive costs. OG flowmeters are critical in preventing overdosing that can lead to unnecessary expenses, or under-dosing that may trigger premature maintenance and suboptimal well performance.
For measuring high viscosity liquids like thick oils, bitumen and tar, precision-engineered flow meters are necessary. Titan’s standard OG flowmeters are designed to provide highly accurate flow measurement up to 1000 cSt. For viscosities above 1000 cSt, Titan provides High Viscosity OG options specially designed with profiled gears to facilitate additional flow of the liquid and prevent hydraulic lock.
Visit Titan Enterprises’ website for further information on flow measurement or to discuss specific OEM applications, please contact Titan Enterprises on +44 (0)1935 812790 or email sales@flowmeters.co.uk
SICK has unveiled the world’s first photoelectric sensor with a touchscreen interface. The all-in-one W10 solves a wide range of industry problems, combining ease of use, high performance and effortless adaptability to specific detection tasks and applications in one device.
One sensor can do it all
The W10 represents a major step forward in precise detection technology. It has a variety of MultiMode functions and configurations via intelligent on-board algorithms, including ‘Speed’, ‘Precision’ and ‘Standard’ modes, teach-in options, and foreground and background suppression to make it easier to identify difficult to detect objects, such as those with reflective, dark or uneven surfaces.
With four variants (short or long range, cubic or hybrid), the W10 makes selection simple and tackles a huge variety of tasks with just ONE sensor. This results in unparalleled levels of convenience, with minimal effort for purchasing, administration, storage, training and maintenance.
Industry leading performance and precision from SICK
Combining range, speed, and robustness in one balanced and versatile system, the W10 delivers accuracy and precision via a precise laser triangulation sensor with high-resolution receiver array. Developed using SICK’s vast industry knowledge and sensor expertise, the W10 has exceptional repeatability and a rapid response time of 1.5 ms, assuring reliable switching at high speeds.
The W10 features an industry leading sensing range of up to 700 mm. Customisable from factory for personalised needs, the robust sensor delivers impressive performance across a multitude of applications, from fast-moving production lines to harsh and demanding environments.
and simplicity
The W10’s easy-to-use swipe-up touchscreen provides a world class user experience, with intuitive set-up through pre-configured settings and multiple teachin options, and no manual required for simple sensor integration.
Fully customisable while installed, the W10 is equipped with standardised mounting and optional manipulation protection in the form of a lock function to prevent unwanted in-field changes. IOLink connectivity allows sensor data to be shared with Industry 4.0 IoT systems; ideal for machine diagnostics, troubleshooting, remote set-up, edge configurations and easy device replacement.
“Powerful, versatile, yet simple to use, the W10 is a new generation of sensor technology. It demonstrates SICK’s exceptional knowledge and understanding of sensor technology and the market,” says David Hannaby, SICK Market Product Manager - Presence Detection, adding, “With just four product variations offering almost limitless applications, choosing the sensor you need has never been easier.”
www.sick.co.uk
Good Practice Guidance for Electrical Instrumentation, Control and Cyber Security in Industrial Engineering –Improving efficiency and safety
• ‘By Industry, For Industry’, practical guidance for everyday and irregular situations and tasks
• Readily accessible for all in the industry –wherever they are, whatever time they have
• FREE task and procedure checklists
EEMUA Seminar – Engineering
• professional development
• Webinars and seminars for knowledge sharing
• This selection of specialist publications and many
To make EEMUA’s guidance, training, events and other practical resources
you and your team – ask@eemua.org or visit www.eemua.org
Advanced processes and materials, such as beam shaping and copper, will aid knowledge exchange and enable new design and manufacturing innovations across sectors.
The University of Wolverhampton (UK) and 3D printing global leaders EOS, and AMCM, have today announced they will join forces to launch a new UK Centre of Excellence for Additive Manufacturing (AM). The partnership will provide access to cutting-edge technology from EOS and AMCM, and specialise in the development of advanced materials and processes for demanding applications within industries such as space, automotive, aerospace, electronics, and quantum computing.
Partially funded by the UK’s Regional Innovation Fund (RIF), The centre will be based in the Elite Centre for Manufacturing Skills (ECMS) at the University of Wolverhampton’s Springfield Campus. The centre will be a hub for knowledge exchange and research commercialisation activities, catering for local, regional, and global customers in a wide range of sectors.
The University of Wolverhampton’s Additive Manufacturing Research Group and its spin off company, Additive Analytics, will lead material and process development activities.
Industries ranging from automotive and electronics to quantum computing and aerospace are already expressing interest, highlighting the broad applicability of copper AM for thermal management and electrification, due to its exceptional thermal and electrical properties.
Whilst copper has desirable properties, it is challenging to laser process it, hindering its widespread adoption in AM. The work of the consortium aims to address this by leveraging cutting-edge technologies, processes, and expertise to drive efficiency and reduce material waste.
Building on the University of Wolverhampton’s 20-year relationship with EOS industry leading machines, the new Centre of Excellence will be bolstered by the adoption of an AMCM 290 FLX the next generation laser powder bed fusion system capable of processing challenging materials, such as copper. The AMCM 290 FLX is a customized EOS M 290 machine equipped with state-of-the-art nLIGHT beam shaping laser technology, high temperature processing capabilities and excellent oxygen control. The system offers businesses early and easy access to the latest technology and research findings.
Professor Arun Arjunan, director of the ECMS and Centre for Engineering Innovation and Research at the University of Wolverhampton, said: “The establishment of the UK Centre of Excellence for copper AM marks a significant milestone in additive manufacturing, setting the stage for a new era of innovation, sustainability, and responsible manufacturing. Future projects
will investigate the integration of laser process data and machine learning, and artificial intelligence technologies for efficient material and laser process development.”
Nathan Rawlings, Sales Manager at EOS UK, said: “The UK manufacturing sector has always pushed forward and embraced innovation. Additive Manufacturing with materials such as copper offers huge benefits for product designers, but they can be demanding for manufacturers to work with. This new Centre of Excellence will create and test the processes that enable material benefits to be reliably and consistently realised in real-world manufacturing component manufacturing.”
Intelligent Automation Conference North America is taking place on June 5-6, at Santa Clara Convention Center. This pioneering event will bring together industry leaders, experts, and visionaries to explore the latest advancements, strategies, and applications in intelligent automation.
With the rapid evolution of technology, intelligent automation has emerged as a key driver of innovation across various sectors. From artificial intelligence and machine learning to robotic process automation and cognitive computing, these transformative technologies are reshaping the way businesses operate, enhancing efficiency and competitiveness.
Intelligent Automation Conference aims to provide a comprehensive platform for attendees to delve into the following key areas:
• Cutting-Edge Technologies: Gain insights into the latest breakthroughs and advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotic process automation, and more.
• Industry Applications: Explore realworld case studies and success stories demonstrating the impact of intelligent automation across industries such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and beyond.
• Best Practices and Strategies: Learn from industry experts about best practices, strategies, and frameworks for implementing and optimizing intelligent automation initiatives within organizations.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, thought leaders, and solution providers to foster collaboration and build valuable professional relationships.
The Intelligent Automation Conference is expected to attract professionals within the automation industry. The event will draw a distinguished audience of developers, strategists, directors, integration specialists and many more key roles.
For more information and to register for the event, please visit intelligentautomation-conference.com/ northamerica
From day one, Learners on the EEMUA MIPC® training build a unique workbook of mechanical integrity know how tailored to each Learner, site and company. Combining live online classes, e-learning, and one-to-one sessions with expert Tutors, enhanced by Mentor support and guidance throughout, EEMUA's Mechanical Integrity Practitioner Certificate course gives professionals the flexibility to learn on-site or on-call.
Developed and verified by industry to satisfy industrial engineering’s requirements for primary containment in old and new equipment – including pressure systems.
K Keeps practitioner-level engineers on top of industry developments and good practice – so that valuable practitioners are most effective wherever they’re needed on-site.
E Enterprise-class, blended, live online system for productive learning – on-site or on-call.
A Adapts to the engineering needs of each Learner and their company via an Induction of 2 hours prior to the course – to fit work schedules from September 2024
I In-depth training to fit work schedules – 4 hours per week for 27 weeks.
Registration open now. Learning starts 21October 2024.
For more information please contact online-learning@eemua.org
+44 (0)20 7488 0801 www.eemua.org
C CPD-approved with industry recognised 5-year certification via robust exam.
WEG, a world leader in motor, drive and asset management systems technology is the headline sponsor of this year’s Europump Annual Meeting. The event takes place at the De Vere Beaumont Estate near Windsor on 22 to 24 May 2024. Daniel Godinho, sustainability and corporate affairs director at WEG and Martin Brand, engineering director at WEG Automation will deliver keynote presentations at the prestigious event.
Hosted by the British Pump Manufacturers Association (BPMA), Europump’s annual meeting is an important gathering for the pump sector. The show will encompass a comprehensive programme of meetings and presentations that offer intellectual and commercial value for Europe’s leading pump manufacturers and suppliers.
Enjoying an unrivalled position as a key supplier to the global pump industry, WEG is renowned for its practice in developing technologies and solutions that contribute to a more efficient and sustainable world. At the event, Godinho will provide a dedicated presentation with details on WEG’s own internal environmental, social and governance (ESG) programs, as well as the products and solutions aimed at supporting the decarbonisation efforts of WEG’s partners.
The second part of the presentation will be given by Brand, who’s background in engineering at WEG Automation sees him oversee the fabrication and engineering of products for several business segments, including low and medium voltage drives, switchgear and solar and others. Click here to read the full article >
• Cutting Parameters AI, from CloudNC, automatically generates appropriate physics-based feeds and speeds for virtually any CNC machining scenario, in moments
• It allows users to instantly set unique feeds and speeds for every toolpath in a CAM program, even for materials and tools they have never used before, all within their existing CAM software packages and workflows
• CloudNC expects CAM Assist users to realise productivity gains of at least 20% in their machining operations through the improvements offered by Cutting Parameters AI
CloudNC, the manufacturing technology company, has announced the release of Cutting Parameters AI, a new solution that automatically generates appropriate physics-based feeds and speeds for virtually any CNC machining scenario, in moments.
Defining new feeds and speeds for CNC machining operations is an arduous and time-consuming task, involving considerable manual experimentation. As a result, many CAM programmers are forced to rely on a ‘one-size fits all’ approach towards machining components, instead of tailoring specific settings for every toolpath - resulting in lower productivity, inefficient cycle times, and sub-optimal surface finishes.
Cutting Parameters AI resolves that problem by employing models that allow users to easily set physics-based feeds and speeds for every unique toolpath in moments, within their existing CAM software packages and workflows. With Cutting Parameters AI, the largest constraints to removing material faster in any unique cut are always visible to the machinist, enabling them to take immediate action to increase productivity.
In addition, Cutting Parameters AI can provide safe starting feeds and speeds for materials and with tools that the user has never worked with, dramatically increasing right-first-time operations.
As a result, CloudNC expects users of Cutting Parameters AI - provided as a new module of its existing CAM Assist solution, which generates machining strategies for 3-axis and 3+2 axis components - to immediately benefit from instant cutting parameters tailored to any scenario, resulting in productivity optimisations of at least 20% in their machining operations.
Theo Saville, co-founder and CEO of CloudNC, said: “Cutting Parameters AI is the first solution to automatically provide sensible feeds and speeds that can be applied in virtually any machining scenario, by a user of any ability level. It’s a step change in accelerating one of the most time consuming, tricky aspects of machining and will substantially reduce the time that CAM users spend setting up, while also substantially increasing what it’s possible for them to achieve with a CNC machine.”
When making new components with a CNC machine, there are so many factors to consider when selecting feeds and speeds that determining the best option is very time consuming for an experienced CAM engineer, and bewildering for someone new to the industry.
Cutting parameters that are too aggressive cost money through broken or worn out tools and
scrapped parts. Equally, sticking to a conservative, safe range of cutting speeds leaves time and money on the table with slow toolpaths.
Furthermore, what are good cutting parameters for one toolpath may be less suitable for other toolpaths - but programming different parameters for every operation is too intricate and difficult for all but the largest batch sizes. Additionally, introducing new types of tooling (or materials) comes with the overhead of creating presets and populating the data into CAM software.
Cutting Parameters AI resolves those problems by applying AI. When using the software, the physics model immediately recommends appropriate feeds and speeds by combining both its embedded domain knowledge and an understanding of the cutting context.
It identifies and models factors that ultimately limit the machining process, including cutting dynamics, workpiece and tool material, tool holder geometry, and surface finish models. It then combines machine learning models and a detailed three-dimensional model of the physics of the cutting process to provide a recommendation to the user.
The user interface also allows the applicable constraints to be configured in a flexible and intuitive way, allowing the user to rapidly reach a recommendation tailored to their specific usage and specifications.
Cutting Parameters AI is available now as a module for CloudNC’s CAM Assist solution, which is available today via www.cloudnc.com, and the Autodesk App Store.
Haverhill-based cleanroom design & build experts are working on more than 20 significant projects concurrently – an all-time high
THE GUARDTECH GROUP have made a storming start to 2024 – with more than 20 significant projects currently under way as we move towards the summer.
The Suffolk-based cleanroom design & build specialists have grown from 12 permanent members of staff in 2020 to around 50 this year – and that natural growth is indicative of the packed construction schedule across a wide range of industries.
The Group’s large-scale turnkey business Cleanroom Solutions is currently working on phase two of their 1,650sqm ISO8 Aerospace cleanroom in the South of England, whilst putting the finishing touches on an 850sqm ISO5 & 7 cleanroom laundry in Cheshire.
Guardtech Cleanrooms are also nearing completion on their largest current project – a 1,500sqm CNC manufacturing facility in Suffolk, while the Group’s international team are at a similar stage with their 300sqm ISO5, 6 and 7 Electronics facility in Germany.
And yet, both brands are continuing to take on exciting new projects at a rapid pace, including a 125sqm Grade D cleanroom along with a 175sqm CNC laboratory in Glasgow, a 250sqm ISO6 aseptic processing cleanroom in Liverpool, a 100sqm ISO8 cleanroom for advanced composites work in Belfast, Northern Ireland, a 40sqm modular cleanroom for Molecular Diagnostics work in Cambridge, a 20sqm Grade D modular in Innsbruck, Austria and a 30sqm ISO6 modular in Switzerland.
Operations Director Conor Barwise is proud of how well the teams have coped with the increasing demand for the Group’s services.
“All our businesses continue to grow, not just year on year –but month by month, and there seems to be more need for cleanroom construction now than at any point in my 20 years in the industry,” he said.
“It’s a fantastic position to be in – but it brings a lot of challenges. I’m immensely proud of the way our teams have pulled together to continue delivering an excellent service across the board.
“It’s an exciting time for STEM businesses and we’re ready to capitalise on it – whilst remaining as determined as ever to keep up the same high standards we’ve always maintained.”
Beyond their standard cleanroom construction projects are a HVAC upgrade for the University of Cambridge and the manufacture and installation of a series of bespoke and unique separative devices for a biopharma firm in Wales, as well as a string of design studies for a leading aerospace client,
clinical pharmacology specialists, compact heat exchanger manufacturers and global Micro-Electronics innovators in Weilburg, Germany.
The hard work continues among rapid deployment businesses CleanCube and Isopod – where work is under way on a Containment Level 2 CleanCube Multi 7, whilst the final design touches are being made to further larger-scale portable cleanrooms for the international market – an ISO7 CleanCube Multi 3 and a CleanCube Multi 8 facility – as well as several ongoing CleanCube rental agreements.
Isopod remains flush with enquiries, with a bespoke 8sqm ISO8 unit for a major University in the North of England one of many exciting custom quick-assembly pods currently in development.
And a thriving international scene is being further developed by Guardtech Group Nordics & Baltics Territory Manager Lars Strandljung, who has utilised his network to deliver phase one of a 170sqm Grade C cleanroom for a leading biotech company in Lund, Sweden while also securing a 150sqm Grade B cleanroom construction project for site restoration specialists in Solna, Stockholm.
All of this backed up the Group’s continuing strong performance across cleanroom furniture & equipment sales, Cleanroom Service Plans and Decontamination Agreements. Commercial Manager Mark Wheeler added: “It’s vital that we deliver a top-drawer service across all of our brands. We promise a total package for clients – and we want them to feel like we’re with them for the long haul.
“That’s why regardless of whether it’s a Cleanroom Solutions turnkey project or smaller Isopod Rapid Cleanroom, we always want to offer the full fit-out and regular service, maintenance and decontamination options – we don’t just want to sell a solution and move on. We want to be our client’s cleanroom partner for life. And we know that to achieve this, we have to continue to deliver the highest levels in terms quality and ongoing customer care.”
For more information on the Guardtech Group, call 0330 113 0303, visit www.guardtech.com or email sales@guardtech.com
Making the strategic decision to transition to a nearshoring operation can bring about transformative benefits in how you acquire fasteners.
That is why Optimas customers are excited to discuss the cold form manufacturing facility we plan to open in Monterrey, Mexico in 2024. Last year, Mexico overtook China as the United States’ largest goods exporter base on recent trade figures, and we are excited to be giving our customers a competitive edge by getting their fasteners produced locally in the second half of 2024.
However, the process requires careful planning, evaluation and execution to ensure a seamless transition that maximizes the advantages of geographical proximity, cultural compatibility and costeffectiveness.
Here’s a valuable guide we use to help customers navigate the shift to a nearshoring operation.
1. Assess Current Operations:
Before making the shift, conduct a thorough assessment of your current operations. Identify pain points,
challenges, and opportunities that could be addressed through nearshoring. This evaluation will help you understand the specific areas where nearshoring can bring the most value.
2. Define Objectives:
Clearly define your objectives for nearshoring. Are you aiming to reduce lead times, improve collaboration, or cut costs? Defining your goals will guide your decisionmaking process and help you measure the success of the transition.
3. Research Potential Nearshore Locations:
Research potential nearshore locations that align with your objectives. Consider factors such as political stability, infrastructure, skilled labor availability, and legal regulations. Choose a location that offers the right balance of advantages for your business.
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Electrolytic capacitors owe their name to the material that one of the electrodes is made of. Next to the metal (for example, aluminium) electrode, there is an electrolytic one. The thin oxide layer applied to the plate surface acts as an insulator. The electrolytic capacitor is characterised by high capacitance while still being small, which is also its great advantage. Due to its polarity, proper operation of the capacitor is only possible when it is connected in a specific orientation. What does it mean? It means that one of the contacts, the so-called anode, can be connected to high voltage.
• Characteristics of electrolytic capacitors
• Electrolytic capacitors
• The role of quality when choosing the capacitor
Electrolytic capacitors
As stated above, electrolytic capacitors are divided depending on the material they are made of. The difference is that for each capacitor type one of the two covers is made of a specific material. In an aluminium capacitor, the conductive plates
are made as aluminium strips, a positive one and a negative one, separated by an electrolyte-saturated material. The capacitance of such elements ranges from 100 nF to 1 F.
Electrolytic capacitors are commonly used in many demanding branches of the industry, including military or medical devices, but also in high-quality audio equipment.
Hybrid solutions are an interesting expansion of electrolytic capacitors. In response to the needs of the rapidly developing computer technology, components characterised by high stability and resistance to exceeding current ratings have been designed. These small-sized capacitors can operate at both very low and high temperatures. Their resistance to electrical overload makes them a perfect choice for applications requiring high inrush power.
Polymer capacitors are also worth mentioning here, as thanks to the hybrid of a liquid and solid electrolyte, and an aluminium cathode, a low ESR value can be offered, while maintaining high capacitance. With the high stability of capacitance, even
at low temperatures, these solutions perform much better than ordinary capacitors. Polymer components are also the right choice for high operating frequencies. Thanks to the robustness and high noise tolerance, their service life is relatively long and, consequently, the stability of operation and the durability of the motherboard on which the component is installed is also significantly improved.
Electrolytic capacitors by Panasonic Panasonic is a global powerhouse and one of the undisputed leaders in the broadly defined electronics market. The company, with more than a hundred years of tradition and experience, has an extremely broad portfolio that covers household appliances, the automotive industry, industrial solutions, as well as cameras, TVs, audio systems and devices, air conditioning, heat pumps, and much more. The Panasonic Industry assortment also includes, among other things, proven electrolytic capacitors, which will be discussed in more detail in this text.The TME catalogue includes both SMD and THT mounted electrolytic capacitors. With more than a thousand items on offer, you will surely be able to select a suitable solution for any application. When selecting a product, it is worth paying attention to some particularly important parameters:
• Capacitance [F] – the capacitance range of electrolytic capacitors in the TME catalogue spans from 22 µF to 22 mF;
• Operating voltage [V] – from 4 to 450 V DC;
• Operating temperature [°C] – ranging from -55°C to as high as 105°C, confirming high resistance to particularly harsh operating conditions;
• Service life [h] – Panasonic capacitors are characterised by a very long service life, reaching up to 10000 hours of continuous operation;
• Low ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance) – such capacitors are called low-impedance components. Thanks to low equivalent series resistance, they do not heat up that much, which means that much smaller capacitor structures can be offered with the same capacitance as classic solutions that are available on the market.
• Compliance with the AEC-Q200 standard – Panasonic products are compliant with a rigorous standard which confirms compliance with the resistance and reliability standards required for the automotive industry in relation to passive components, i.e. resistors, capacitors, induction coils, etc.
The SMD electrolytic capacitors made with the use of the low ESR technology are an interesting group of products. The EEEFH1A561L model from the FH series is a new arrival in the TME catalogue and is a good example of the component belonging to the family of SMD electrolytic capacitors. According to the manufacturer, it is characterised by a service life of up to 10000 hours.
It is worth noting that it is designed in such a way that it makes soldering at elevated temperatures and mounting directly on the PCB possible. It is important to note that the SMD capacitors dissipate heat very efficiently, allowing them to operate over a wide temperature range, from -55 up to 105°C. The capacitance of this model is 560 µF, with a tolerance of ±20%, and the capacitor’s operating voltage is 10 V DC. Thanks to their small size, these Panasonic capacitors can be used even in the smallest electronic circuits.
The solutions in this product family have a very low impedance. In this particular case, it is just 0.2 Ω. As befits first-class products, they are also compliant with the AEC-Q200 standard mentioned above.
Electrolytic capacitors are an extremely important group of passive components available on the electronics market, which are used in almost every electronic device. They perform a vital function of filtering and removing current ripple or reducing noise. Due to the remarkably wide range of solutions, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s technical specifications when selecting the best component for your application. The use of certified and proven capacitors, whose parameters will be compliant with the specification, guaranteeing reliable and stable operation, is also very important. Without a doubt, the Panasonic electrolytic capacitors are precisely such components.
Text prepared by Transfer Multisort Elektronik Sp. z o.o.
In December 2022, 3M™ announced their plans to stop producing per - and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in its product line by the end of 2025.
ARE YOU AFFECTED BY THE PHASE-OUT OF 3M™ NOVEC™ ENGINEERED FLUIDS?
At EnviroTech Europe we can offer replacements with our ProSolv® range for all 3M™ Novec™ solvent cleaning fluids. We understand the uniqueness of every precision cleaning application and provide free on-site visits, technical support and cleaning trials when required.
We can provide a full assessment of your current precision cleaning process to put in a plan to help ensure a seamless transition.
FUTURE-PROOF YOUR CLEANING PROCESS WITH OUR NEW ProSolv® RANGE ADDITIONS
We have added several cost effective and efficient precision cleaning process formulations to our range of ProSolv® vapour degreasing solvents, offering immediate drop-in replacements for 3M™ Novec™ engineered fluids.
This phase-out affects the following 3M™ product lines: 3M™ Novec™ Engineered Fluids and 3M™ Fluorinert™ Electronic Liquids Novec 71DE
Replacement
71 TDE Novec 71DA
71 TDA Novec 72DE
72 TDE
72 TDA
IPA
Hfe 71
or Prosolv® 5408e
Introducing ProSolv®5408e, a next generation PFAS free fluorinated solvent with low GWP and zero ODP
ProSolv®5408e is a general multi-purpose vapour degreasing cleaning solvent that can act as an immediate drop-in replacement for most of the 3M™ Novec™ engineering fluids. We can also deliver an exact formulation replacement of your current solvent should that be your requirements.
EnviroTech Europe have many years of experience and our experts are available to guide you through your solvent cleaner changeover procedures or to advise on equipment. We have extensive partnerships with equipment manufacturers through our global distributors and can provide information and advice on solvents and solvent systems.
For more information on our range of products, please visit www.envirotech-europe.com
Supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd
Aissela, 46 High Street, Esher, Surrey, KT10 9QY
United Kingdom
Tel +44 (0) 20 8281 6370
www.envirotech-europe.com contact@envirotech-europe.com
