Machine Building

Hygienic sensors for the food processing industry

The food processing industry performs a delicate balancing act, striving to meet the needs of both food safety and equipment efficiency. With a strong focus on the improvement of effectiveness and efficiency, sensors are playing an increasingly important role - but it is important that they do not compromise food safety.

25th August 2018

Why surge protection is essential

Proper electrical protection is the key to safely removing the effects of dangerous overcurrents due to short circuits, overloads and voltage transients from switching surges, and other abnormal conditions. Kevan Cowley, Electronic & Safety Specialist with Wieland Electric, examines how and why protection is often overlooked.

24th August 2018

How industrial machines benefit from smart sensors

Sensors are essential in capturing basic diagnostics from industrial machines and equipment. However, as the people maintaining these machines near retirement, a new, younger workforce is emerging. Although this new generation is comfortable with rapidly evolving manufacturing technology and the data that comes with it, these employees are not necessarily as 'in tune' with the equipment as seasoned staff.

24th August 2018

Using predictive analytics to improve manufacturing

Research by IndustryWeek shows that equipment failure is the cause of 42 per cent of unplanned downtime. This raises questions about why more manufacturers aren't using technology to improve machine and factory performance. Here, Stefan Reuther, Chief Sales Officer at industrial software expert COPA-DATA, explains how to leverage predictive analytics to reduce factory downtime and increase business competitiveness.

23rd August 2018

Solenoid control in potentially explosive atmospheres

Paul Hobden, Bürkert UK ATEX solenoid valve champion, looks at the challenges surrounding process control in potentially explosive atmospheres and how they can be overcome.

22nd August 2018

Correct installation prevents premature bearing failure

The mounting of bearings is a practice that requires the correct knowledge and skills. Historically, this task has seen maintenance personnel make a certain amount of mistakes, which consequently have reduced the lifespan of bearings. Further factors compromising service life include a failure to keep the bearings clean, not respecting the recommended clearances between the bearing rings and the shaft, and failing to use professional mounting tools. However, according to global bearing manufacturer NSK, these errors can easily be avoided.

2nd August 2018

Blockchain, the Tangle and opportunities for manufacturing

Apple versus Microsoft, Uber versus Lyft, Amazon Video versus Netflix. Technology companies are constantly advancing their product or service offering to remain competitive in their fields, particularly when they have a large rivalry. As cryptocurrencies become more popular, their creators are vying for new customers. Here, Jonathan Wilkins, marketing director of industrial obsolete parts supplier, EU Automation, explains how blockchain and the tangle differ and what both can do to improve manufacturing practice.

1st August 2018

Smart sensors enable motors to recognise when a service is due

Nearly all of the motor technology that we still use today was invented over a period of 70 years from 1820-1890, with the first commutated DC electric motor invented by British scientist William Sturgeon in 1833. Clearly, production processes - and the resultant demands on equipment - have changed since then, and there is a lot that modern businesses can do to keep pace with the latest technology. Here, Simone Wendler, food and beverage segment manager for ABB's motors and generators business, explains what to expect from a new generation of wireless motor sensor that offers powerful data collection and analytics in a small package.

31st July 2018

Collaborative robot grippers - safety and certification

Professor Dr Markus Glück, Chief Innovation Officer at Schunk GmbH & Co. KG, considers some questions relating to collaborative robots, safety and certification.

30th July 2018

How to choose the optimum heat transfer fluid

Dr Chris Wright, head of research and development (R&D) at thermal fluid specialist, Global Heat Transfer gives his view on the main considerations when choosing a heat transfer fluid.

25th July 2018