Industrial Technology

Connecting systems in the age of the IIoT

The use of communications middleware to automate diverse device-to-device communications is not a new concept; however, today’s software systems are efficient, flexible and ideal for ensuring that industrial equipment communicates reliably. Nick Pridham of Hamersham Automation Software discusses how such programmes can save businesses time, money and resources through streamlining the communications process across a range of industrial uses.

21st May 2018

What are the benefits Industry 4.0 really brings?

Industry 4.0 means different things to different people. Is it sensor networks, big data or artificial intelligence? Lucian Dold of Omron argues that although all these technologies are part of Industry 4.0, it is the results that are more important – the benefits that Industry 4.0 can bring, and what this all means for machine builders.

23rd April 2018

The ergonomic aspects of the digital future

Do ergonomics have an bearing on the journey to Industry 4.0? The experts at Item believe that they do, and indeed are a key part of the golden opportunity of the digital transformation of the manufacturing environment.

23rd April 2018

Industry 4.0 on legacy machines

Industry 4.0 isn’t just about greenfield sites or brand new machinery. Technologies such as sensors and HMIs mean just about any machine can be turned into a smart machine, as we learn from Bosch Rexroth.

23rd April 2018

Clinching offers a breath of fresh air in H&V applications

On the face of it the process of clinching would appear to be a straightforward process: that of squeezing two or more sheets of metal together in a way that joins them together permanently. However, as with most allegedly ‘simple’ things, there are an infinite number of variables that can come into play

23rd April 2018

Cost-effective anti-spatter

Although good practice can reduce weld spatter, by and large it is a fact of life. Many welders don’t have access to the latest technology in welding equipment to eliminate the problem and it’s here where Henkel is really making a difference. The company, whose brands include Loctite, Teroson and Bonderite, has developed a range of simple, spray-on anti-weld spatter agents and the latest addition is Bonderite S-MA 98.

23rd April 2018

Threaded fasteners and ancillaries

Challenge Europe has found that wherever threaded fasteners are used then various ancillary products are often needed. For example, protection of the nut end of a bolt or screw with a plastic dome cap – or protection of the internal hex socket head from filling with dirt by use of a protective cap insert. Both from sales partner Korrex, who also provide insulating bushes which offer protection from electrolytic corrosion between combinations of metals.

23rd April 2018

Increase your productivity with Spirol compression limiter insertion machine

Spirol has announced the release of a new line of installation equipment for UK manufacturers, specifically designed to install compression limiters into plastic assemblies. The Model CL compression limiter installation machine can install a single compression limiter or multiple limiters simultaneously into various polymers, thermoplastics and thermosets.

23rd March 2018

Modularisation and the pursuit of Industry 4.0

Modularisation has been a feature of machine design for at least two decades. With more recent developments – not least Industry 4.0 – have come further challenges of integration and communications, not just between modules, but across enterprise wide platforms. Neil Beaumont of Lenze examines the problems and offers some solutions.

23rd March 2018

Industry 4.0 doesn"t have to be difficult

The potential of digitalised manufacturing could mean stronger links between design and production, interconnected machines, factories and supply chains, transparency into supplier factories, and improved efficiency and productivity. But many companies are fearful of even setting out on an Industry 4.0 journey.

23rd March 2018