MachineBuilding.net Technical Articles Index
Mitsubishi Electric improves PLC-based data logging In the push for increased overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), reduced energy usage, improved traceability, analysis of key performance indicators and more, the vital ingredient is data. Barry Weller of Mitsubishi Electric discusses why data logging has become an essential feature of the modern production line and why it is often best performed within a PLC platform.
Maintenance and modernisation - getting ready for better timesWith evidence that the recession is now behind us, factory owners at last have the time to take stock of their plant and equipment to see if some TLC or maybe even a small investment is in order. Stuart Harvey of SoftStart UK, offers some pointers on what can be achieved without breaking the bank.
PROFINET – A strong driverPI (Profibus & Profinet International) has been a constant driver of technology in modern drive engineering. For example, PROFINET has long been established in the drives world. To support users in getting started, a new community project has been created.
Ecodesign directive: frequency inverters can save moneyDemanding environmental targets within the EU and the rest of the world mean that the regulations concerning motor drives are being tightened up. Companies can benefit, both financially and environmentally, if they know the technical options and stay one step ahead.
Machine user manuals, noise levels and the Machinery DirectiveDoug Florence, a Senior Consultant at SafeMech, discusses the issue of noise emissions from machinery and introduces research that found the vast majority of manuals falling short of the Machinery Directive's requirements.
How to select linear actuators for positioning systemsSpecifying linear motion systems is not the 'black art' many engineers think it is. Mike Hughes, an Applications Engineer at Schaeffler UK, provides some useful tips and guidance for engineers on how to select the most suitable linear actuators for single- and multi-axis positioning systems.
Low-torque bearings bring energy, efficiency & size savingsAcross the global automotive sector, NSK is known for providing bearings that achieve reduced weight and size and low torque for automobiles, via its four core technologies: tribology, materials, analysis and mechatronics. These meet all the needs of the automotive sector in reducing power consumption and emissions, and in enabling more efficient integration of the engine and electrical system, or engine and electric motors in the case of hybrid vehicles.
Universal Robot can be used for collaborative workingThis article explains how the six-axis industrial Universal Robot can be used as a collaborative robot alongside human operatives, with no need for physical guards, light curtains or other additional safety devices.
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