Industrial Technology

Gigabit industrial Ethernet is key to Industry 4.0 goals

While there may still be some debate about what Industry 4.0 really means, there is no denying that greater interconnectivity of devices and increased network capability will be the key drivers behind achieving the goals it sets out. John Browett, general manager of CLPA Europe, outlines the network requirements that will enable Industry 4.0.

17th September 2017

Where and when will we actually see Industry 4.0?

There are a great many people now invested in working towards achieving the goals set out by Industry 4.0. For a concept that started life as a German government strategy project it is fair to say that it has captured the imaginations of many engineers and futurists from around the globe. With so much effort being put into talking about the concept, it is interesting to look at the aspects of it that are close to being realised and, with so much momentum, consider who it benefits and if everyone is on-board with it.

17th September 2017

Omron cuts power switching down to size

The new J7KNU contactor from Omron is suited to a wide range of applications where a compact, dependable and easy-to-use power switching solution is needed. Measuring only 35.5 x 35.5 x 33mm, the J7KNU contactor has a 2.2kW AC3 rating and is available in three- and four-pole versions with AC or DC coils and as reversing contactor with mechanical interlock. Typical applications for the new contactors include interfacing electronic systems with power circuitry, control of motors in washing machines and similar appliances, motor control for security barriers and gates and packaging machines. A full 3mm contact opening enhances the safety and reliability of the contactors. They can be supplied as interlocked pairs mounted on a single base.

17th September 2017

Mini PLCs added to RS the range

RS Componnets has updated its mini-PLC range from Barth Elektronik, with three new mini PLCs, a new parameter programmer and a touchscreen display. The three new mini-PLCs are based on a 32-bit ARM Cortex processor, which offers a significant step change in performance. Programming is via the established miCon-L software, as well as allowing open source C-programming with the KEIL â•¡Vision software suite. All PLCs exhibit 10 I/O and a CAN interface that allows communication with external devices.

17th September 2017

Subcontractor makes perfect Formula 1 parts with hypermill

Previously working as an engineer in the F1 industry, it was the unsociable and unpredictable working routines that led Allan Carabine to set up his own machine shop in 2011, MK Precision. Working in the F1 sector taught the new business owner two valuable lessons; the first was to start with a 5-axis machining centre and the second was to implement leading CAM software to drive the machine.

17th September 2017

7th/6th Generation Intel Core Expandable Modular Fanless Box PC

IBASE, a global leader in the manufacture of embedded computing and IIoT solutions, announces its brand new AMS300 series expandable modular box PC. The AMS300 is a compact, yet expandable fanless system designed for industrial control and measurement processes in smart factory automation applications. It is powered by 7th/6th Gen Intel Core i7/i5/i3 processors and comes integrated with 8GB memory as well as 64GB of industrial-grade SSD storage.

17th September 2017

MSA Foams supports the Bloodhound SSC project

As a specialist in the design and manufacture of protective packaging solutions and with extensive experience and expertise in tool control, MSA Foams was given the opportunity to fit out the tool cabinets for the Bloodhound support team.

12th September 2017

CamdenBoss adds universal enclosures and more sizes for Takaichi range

CamdenBoss, the interconnection and enclosures specialist, has launched a new range of Takachi high quality flanged comms boxes featuring removable end panels and added more sizes to two other Takachi lines.

12th September 2017

Connectors suit harsh environments

Seamless connectivity will be the focus for Fischer Connectors at Northern Manufacturing & Electronics 2017. The firm provides push-pull connectors for a variety of industrial applications, including machine control systems, robotic technology, sensors and inspection.

12th September 2017

Rotatable connections from Lemo

At this year’s Northern Manufacturing & Electronics, Lemo (UK) will exhibit the high performance Anglissimo range of rotatable, right-angled connectors. This versatile range of push-pull connectors offers users the ability to configure cable exit angles during installation and therefore can minimise system costs with simplified assembly and a consolidation of the connector variants required.

12th September 2017