Machine Building

Controlling CIP / SIP in food processing applications

Implementing an effective cleaning process that will deliver the required hygienic standards requires expertise in valve design and process control techniques. It is important that both design and process engineers understand the importance of the right design, both in terms of the pipework and the control valves.

24th September 2015

Top 10 tips: industrial gearbox inspection and maintenance

To prolong the operational life of your industrial gearboxes, regular inspections and maintenance is essential. On the other hand, removal of the gearbox for a full inspection and a possible overhaul can cause undesirable lengthy downtime and breaks in shift work or production lines. Here are ERIKS UK's Top 10 tips to minimise downtime and ensure your gearbox experiences as long an operational life as possible.

23rd September 2015

Energy efficiency - it's a journey, not a destination

The UK Government has for many years used a carrot and stick approach to promote energy efficiency in companies and other organisations by introducing legislation and offering tax breaks or other incentives. Here Jeremy Shinton, Product Manager - Business Solutions at Mitsubishi Electric, looks at some of the current initiatives.

23rd September 2015

Energy saving with process valves

Many industries use steam and compressed air as sources of heat and motive power and need to be managed properly in order to be used efficiently. Both are expensive to generate and so improving the level of consumption can have a significant impact on production costs. By assessing an existing process control structure and looking at alternatives, it is almost always possible to identify areas for improvement and start a programme of worthwhile energy saving initiatives.

17th September 2015

ESOS an opportunity for pump users, says Watson-Marlow

Pump manufacturer Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Group says that the requirement to meet the UK Government's ESOS (Energy Savings Opportunities Scheme) presents manufacturing and process plants with a real chance to invest in future competitiveness. The company points out that plants viewing ESOS as a needless tick-box exercise are either ignoring or unaware of the numerous cost, performance and quality benefits that could be available.

15th September 2015

Information retention is key for optimum pump performance

The distinct lack of information retention around pump performance at the commissioning stage can be detrimental to future maintenance procedures, according to ERIKS UK.

15th September 2015

A guide to thick and thin film coating of ceramics

Oliver Ridd of Morgan Advanced Materials discusses coating technologies, their applications and performance benefits

15th September 2015

Improve threaded fastener reliability with anaerobic adhesives

Andy Bardon, a Senior Application Engineer at Henkel Corporation, explains how the reliability of threaded fasteners can be improved by using anaerobic adhesives.

10th September 2015

Motor controllers: build or buy?

Maxon motor often hears experienced engineers talk of developing their own controller for their application, as it's perceived as being an easy thing to do and, therefore, a cheaper option. But is it? Mark Gibbons, Technical Engineer, maxon motor UK, answers the question.

7th September 2015

Vacuums for pick and place: suckers for efficiency

Robotic end-effectors are a hotbed for innovation in pick and place lines right now, and attached to each is a powerful vacuum system that delivers the suction required to move products in an efficient and controlled manner. Effectively, any type of end-tooling, from suction caps to grippers, clamshell or magnets can work with these vacuum systems, emphasises Paul Wilkinson, Business Development at Pacepacker Services, and their flexibility also enables manufacturers and contract packers to opt for multi-use end-effectors which can perform multiple tasks, resulting in fewer tool changeovers. Vacuum systems are becoming increasingly popular with the last couple of years witnessing a 30 per cent increase. Here, Paul explores the four main types of vacuum systems, how they work and the benefits of each.

5th September 2015