Machine Building

Collaborative technology is improving how we work with robots

Graham Mackrell, managing director of Harmonic Drive UK, looks at how collaborative robotics is changing the way robots are helping the human workforce.

3rd May 2016

The benefits of active safety for machine builders and end users

Murrelektronik explains how the use of active safety products, connected to a PLC via a fieldbus network, offers advantages for machine builders, system integrators and end users.

30th April 2016

Cost-effective development of bespoke panel instrumentation

Ben Savage, PanelPilot Manager at Lascar Electronics, discusses the rising demand from machine builders for customisation of components, and how PanelPilot can help with respect to operator interfaces that are 'bespoke as standard.'

28th April 2016

Managing obsolescence and maintaining production machinery

One of the principles regularly quoted by plant engineers is: "˜If it ain't broke, don't fix it'. This isn't always appropriate but when it is, it can relate to machinery that has delivered over 10, 20 or even 30 years with almost total reliability. The question is, what happens when the equipment's age becomes an issue in itself? Jeremy Shinton of Mitsubishi Electric shares his experience of managing obsolescence and maintaining, updating and replacing tried and trusted hardware in the field of automation technology.

27th April 2016

How to manage quality and traceability for better PLC programs

How can the quality of PLC programs be measured? How is it possible to ensure documentation is always up-to-date? How can traceability be maintained throughout all phases of PLC development projects? This article from Itris Automation explains how a PLC Software Factory provides a solution to these problems.

27th April 2016

Managing heat in electrical enclosures

Without proper consideration heat can easily build up inside electrical enclosures, triggering damage to the electrical and electronic components within. In addition, such heat can also lead to pressure variances which in turn can draw in moisture and cause problems. Chris Lloyd, Spelsberg UK Managing Director, offers a common-sense overview of the main concerns and their resolution.

21st April 2016

Safety laser scanners: what are the most important requirements?

Leuze electronic is regarded as a pioneer in the field of area scanning distance sensors based on laser scanner technology. Even today, the number of companies that offer such sensors remains relatively small. This is no surprise, as the development of these complex devices requires a great deal of know-how, years of experience and the willingness to pioneer new approaches. What are the most important requirements and where will the next development lead? These questions can easily be answered by considering the new RSL 400 safety laser scanner.

15th April 2016

Controlling palletised loads moving in automated processes

Automated materials handling is a vital part of modern manufacturing, production, warehousing and distribution operations. Most loads need gentle handling and stopping, so here Ian Carr of Drive Lines Ltd explains the vital role played by stops and dampers.

15th April 2016

Servitisation: why service revenue will eclipse product revenue

Spencer Earp, Vice President EMEA of ServiceMax, explains why machine builders can expect to increase revenues substantially by selling 'services' rather than just 'products' (machines) to their customers, adopting the approach referred to as servitisation.

8th April 2016

Can standard sensors be used for machine safety applications?

Dr Martin Kidman, a Safety Specialist with Sick UK, presents the arguments for and against using standard sensors for machinery safety applications.

6th April 2016