Machine Building

Sustainability and efficiency for pumps

Pumps are energy-hungry devices that make life difficult for engineering operators who are attempting to build sustainability. However, innovations in processes, management and technology are all enabling manufacturers to reduce waste and increase the productivity of pumps, and of plant as a whole. Andy Cruse of ERIKS explains how initiatives such as an organised action plan will significantly maximise pump efficiency.

30th August 2013

Vibration monitoring in marine engine management

Challenges such as rising fuel prices and more rigorous emissions regulations have posed problems for marine operators in recent years. In the face of such challenges, a proactive vibration monitoring programme is one of the most effective options that can be applied, says Chris Hansford, Managing Director, Hansford Sensors.

28th August 2013

Integrated modular systems are key to precise gas handling

The precise metering and controlling of gases has become one of the most crucial operations in processes across all industry types and applications: from medical equipment to laser and plasma cutters; to heat treatment and analytical technology; food processing and packaging to air handling and fuel cell technology - to name a few. The technology to achieve the required levels of control is complex, involving control of the widest range of gases, including toxic and aggressive types, often in harsh, hazardous environments; sometimes, in medicals for example, the technology makes all the difference between life and death.

27th August 2013

Cost-effective vibration monitoring for smaller plant

Russell King, Managing Director of Sensonics, discusses how vibration monitoring can be implemented cost-effectively even on smaller plant such as pumps and fans, and introduces his company's VEL/GDC electro-dynamic transducer.

21st August 2013

Remanufacture: extending bearing life

Over more than a century, bearings have evolved into ever-more robust and reliable components that can function in the most contaminated conditions. Indeed, says Phil Burge, Country Communication Manager for SKF, many bearings have such integrity that they can now be remanufactured to cut costs and boost sustainability even further.

21st August 2013

How to select the best level measurement technology

Charlie Sorbo, Level Product Manager for Gems Sensors and Controls, looks at the how new technology and the need to boost efficiency has driven the development of level measurement components.

21st August 2013

Ladder safety for machine builders

There are plenty of ways in which serious ladder accidents can occur but there are also many preventative measures that you can take to avoid them, says ERIKS. Accidents involving falls from heights are by no means confined to the construction industry. In fact, the highest number of deaths occurs among those working at less than 2m off the ground. The Health and Safety Authority is therefore taking a far more aggressive stance in applying the Working at Height Regulations.

21st August 2013

How to design guards that comply with the Machinery Directive

Paul Laidler, Business Director for Machinery Safety at TUV SUD Product Service, a global product testing and certification organisation, offers the following suggestions to help with the design of machine guarding.

16th August 2013

The trends that are driving electric drives

What does the future hold for electric drives in the industrial automation sector? Currently there are three trends which are dictating development - speed and ease of specification, simplified control and maintenance, and machinery safety. Here, Nigel Dawson, Festo GB's Product Manager for Electric Drives, looks at these trends.

14th August 2013

Cutting costs with remanufactured bearings

In many sectors of industry, it is now common practice to remanufacture rolling bearings as they age in order to extend their operating life. This is especially true of larger bearings used in heavy machinery, including steel and paper mills, and in power generation and renewable energy. Phil Burge, Communication Manager for SKF explains how modern remanufacturing techniques extend bearing life and support sustainability.

14th August 2013