Diagnostic test waiting lists are at record levels in the UK, with targets to reduce the backlog to pre-pandemic levels being missed. The nationwide shortage of specialists plays a key role in delays, but the impact of outdated scanning equipment is often overlooked. Here, Stewart Goulding, managing director of stepper motor supplier EMS, explains why modern, reliable equipment is essential to tackling the backlog.

WDS Components has extended its range of castor wheels. The broad wheel range covers a variety of designs, materials and sizes, for an array of industrial and commercial applications. With sizes now including a compact 50mm diameter, through to a 200mm wheel, castors also include brake and adjustable levelling options.

Medical device engineers strive for compact designs for a variety of reasons, and in many cases this requires compact components. To help designers optimise the size of their devices, Simon Ward, technical manager at TFC, highlights the capabilities of wave springs.

Since former partner for small helical geared motors Panasonic discontinued its product line, Lenze Selection has been relentlessly working on establishing a suitable alternative, and now it has signed a partnership with high quality manufacturer SPG.

For time-critical applications where timely delivery of even a latching mechanism may be vital, the online team at FDB Panel Fittings offers a solution that encompasses ex-stock urgent delivery of a wide range of cam latches with barrel body and inserts.

Tolomatic has extended the capability of its twin profile rail linear stage actuator. The new TRS 225 doubles the maximum stroke length, now up to 2,200 mm, and boosts maximum load up to 1,960 kg. The linear system is supported in the UK by motion specialist INMOCO.

Portescap’s 60ECF brushless DC slotted flat motor is the newest frame size to join its flat motor portfolio and a significant expansion of its brushless flat technology capabilities. This 60mm BLDC motor features a 38.2mm body length and an outer rotor slotted configuration with an open body design, allowing it to deliver improved heat management in a compact package.

The new MD and MF planetary gearbox ranges unveiled by Apex Dynamics have been designed to deliver the best possible combination of value and high precision performance.

There’s nothing worse than opening a new toy at Christmas to find that it’s broken. Adam Carless, vision product specialist at automation and control technology expert Beckhoff UK, explores how using machine vision during the manufacturing process can help to ensure quality standards are met, not just at Christmas but all year-round.

igus is a member of the European Hygienic and Design Group (EHEDG) and has now developed the first linear guide system that is based on EHEDG hygienic design guidelines. With an ‘anti-contamination’ design, iglidur high-performance plastic and stainless steel, the new linear guide ensures exceptionally high hygienic standards.