Tel: 0121 550 2086 – www.industrialprocessnews.co.uk – January – Issue 680

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Inside this issue:

Contents:

JolodaSee them on page ........22

Datasound LaboratoriesSee them on page ........24

HoribaSee them on page ..........6

Engineering Company of the Month .......................7

PPMA Show Review Top 30 .........................9-11

Robotics & Automation Show Review Top 10 ......14

Torque Expo Review Top 10 .............................16

Maintenance & Engineering News .........19

Specialist Valves Company of the Month .................24

Pregis Limited have announced the launch of their new Easypack® Coiler, a high volume, high-speed ancillary

packaging solution that boosts on-demand packing times and enhances user experience.

Designed to bolt-on directly on to their bestselling Packmaster™Pro packaging technology, the new Coiler system automates the process of producing coils of robust, cushion packaging made from 100% recycled, 100% recyclable, 100% biodegradable paper.

Easypack is the UK’s leading environmentally friendly packaging brand, renowned for its innovative, green

packaging technology. The ‘coil’ is one of their trademark packaging mediums and is one the strongest and most flexible types of protective packing for securing goods in transit, and eliminating in-box migration. Coils can be used to cushion or mould firmly around products of any size, shape or weight in-the-box, making them ideal for all sectors using on-demand packaging.

Used in conjunction with the Packmaster™Pro, the new Coiler allows users to simply select the size and quantity of coils required and the system will automatically create them with minimal operator assistance, freeing up time and increasing productivity. Coil diameters range from 30cm

to 70cm, with a depth of up to 20cm, with an output speed of 26m per minute.

For more information on the Coiler and Packmaster™Pro, and to see huge range of benefits that the packaging technology has to offer, watch them in action at www.pregiseu.com/product-details/coiler. Alternatively, to arrange for a demonstration, please call 01438 740649 or email info@pregiseu.com

Pregis launches new Easypack® Coiler

Thanks to an energy management system (EMS) from Vickers, DS Smith,

one of the world’s leading providers of corrugated packaging and a specialist in plastic packaging, has enjoyed cost savings in excess of 60%, and reduced its carbon footprint by 27t over a three year period.

Installed in 2015 at the DS Smith site in Sheerness, Kent, Vickers’ EMS was primarily specified to control the company’s consumption of gas in its warehousing facility. The investment was also projected to reduce carbon emissions and make cost savings of 30%. However, after just three years, the company has more than doubled its projected savings by reducing gas expenditure by £5665.

Dave Almond at D S Smith says: “Thanks to our investment in a Vickers’ EMS, we have not only reduced our CO2 emissions, we have saved a significant amount of money by reducing our energy consumption, and this has more than covered the cost of our original investment.”

Vickers’ Energy Management Systems enable industrial and commercial premises

to gain control of their heating and reduce energy bills and CO2 emissions at the same time. Featuring highly accurate digital air sensors located in each zone to optimise the performance of a heating system, the EMS can eliminate any wasted energy with precision accuracy. Using an advanced self-learning programme, the system can also calculate the necessary burn time for each heater to achieve its target temperature, and can detect how long a heater will take to cool down and switch off accordingly. The EMS is also compatible with lighting systems.

T 0161 886 7190

Gas costs cut

Manchester based cleaning and facilities service provider, Floorbrite,

is celebrating after collecting another prestigious Green Apple award, presented to the world’s greenest companies.

Floorbrite was awarded the accolade this year for waste management innovation and increasing sustainability at ESB Carrington Power Station, Manchester.

Trudie Williams, Floorbrite’s Waste and Environmental Consultant, successfully implemented a series of measures at Carrington Power Station to reduce its carbon footprint, increase the recycling output and divert waste from landfill – all of which impressed Green Apple judges.

Nik Wyers, Joint Managing Director at Floorbrite said of the award: “This award marks the fourth year running that Trudie and her team have been celebrated for their commitment to sustainability and we simply couldn’t be more proud of their achievements.

“It’s a great honour to work with ESB Carrington Power Station who are the leading edge in gas powered technology, and yet again Trudie has done an incredible job of creating a bespoke, effective solution to improve its sustainability.”

Iain McGregor, Finance Manager at Carrington Power Station added: “We were keen to work with Floorbrite to reduce our carbon footprint and with their help, we have successfully achieved our target of zero to landfill, amongst many other targets.”

To find out more about Floorbrite, visit www.Floorbrite.co.uk

Floorbrite celebrates Green glory

is sponsored by Wolf Safety – see them on page 82

Editor Recommends

We supply Nitrogen

Generators and other gas supplies

to labratories around the world

�0333 200 0502info@titan-n2.comwww.titan-n2.com

Eco-friendly operation and integrated dust fillers make the new Green Pump range of

vacuum pumps from Simmatic an ideal choice for use in the food and pharmaceutical industries as well as in other applications where hygienic operation is an essential requirement.

Green Pumps feature compact and lightweight yet robust construction, which makes them easy to accommodate even when space is limited. In addition, their fast response time allows the vacuum to be switched on and off almost instantly.

Based on proven and dependable vacuum cartridge technology, Green Pumps operate from compressed air supplies in the range 4 to 6 bar, and are available in versions that deliver vacuum levels from 75 –kPa to 94-kPa.

All versions have an integrated high-performance dust filter that is capable of removing and retaining large amounts of contaminants.

T 01299 877770sales@simmatic.co.ukwww.simmatic.co.uk

Green Pumps from Simmatic are the hygienic option METMOTEC, UK supplier of data communications products

for meters, announces a competitively priced range of modems that includes custom models for Honeywell/Elster A1700, A1140 & AS-series meters, Itron ACE6000 & SL7000 meters that are also suitable for some other manufacturers’ meters.

A range of low cost antennas is also announced for use under terminal covers or for mounting indoors or outdoors; the

antennas can be used on most manufacturers’ modems.

METMOTEC also offers a new range of optical meter probes IEC 62056-21 compliant featuring magnetic attachment for hand held readers and a unique version for mechanical attachment for automatic meter reading systems.

metmotec@btinternet.comwww.metmotec.com

METMOTEC announces 2G, 3G & 4G/LTE Cellular Modems for I&C Electricity Meters and Telemetry Applications

is sponsored by Curtiss Wright – see them on page 15 3

Green News

Gas engine support expert Gen-C has addressed engine downtime at Green Circle Renewables’ 1

MW on-farm anaerobic digestion (AD) plant in Northern Ireland. For eight years, Green Circle’s Jason Rolston was losing valuable heat, power and revenue whilst waiting for qualified service engineers to restart his regularly failing engines. Gen-C has resolved this by upgrading Jason’s engines and providing open access control panels.

Jason relies on the heat and power produced by the on-site AD plant to run his farm and feed mill, converting biogas generated through the anaerobic digestion of slurry, dairy waste and energy crops. Each time his engines went down, he was forced to import electricity at a cost.

Jason explains: “When the methane levels increase due to a slight change in feedstock, the engines can’t handle it and the system shuts down. As it had a closed control panel, I couldn’t access it to restart it, and neither could my service provider.”

Gen-C supplied a new open access control panel so Jason could dial in remotely to see how his engines were performing and even remotely restart them. Managing Director, James Thompson, also upgraded the engines and provided a multi-faceted solution that would improve performance in all four key components – ignition, fuel mixer, throttle and detonation control.

Jason estimates the overhauled engines cut out 90% less frequently than before. The new components have made the engines easier to start and deliver lower emissions,

more efficient fuel use and better engine protection.

“I didn’t believe the engine overhauls would be as big a success as they have been, but the difference they’ve made to my AD operation cannot be underestimated,” ends Jason. “ They cause me far fewer headaches, which means I can just get on with the business of running my farm and AD plant.”

ContactT +44 (0)1709 718000www.gen-c.co.uk

Gen-C helps AD operators take back control of their engines

Pioneering wellbeing programme wins Utility Week AwardLanes Group plc has won a

prestigious Utility Week Award for developing a ground-breaking wellbeing programme that combines digital app technology and practical help for colleagues in need. The company won the Health and Safety Award in the national industry awards at a ceremony held on 10 December in London.

Lanes was also a finalist for the Utility Partner of the Year Award and received a ‘Special Mention’ from judges for its “outstanding development of partnership” in recent years.

Judges were impressed with the Wellbeing App and Practitioner Programme which allows workforce

happiness to be monitored via a wellbeing app and for professional support to be provided to any colleague if it is asked for.

The wellbeing app asked field workers how they feel every time they start a shift. If they click buttons stating they are unhappy or very unhappy, they are offered

confidential support from a professional wellbeing and mental health practitioner. Office-based staff can access the same support.

Since the initiative was launched, scores of colleagues have been helped with a range of problems, including relationship breakdowns, personal debt, and depression.

Most of the issues have not been work related, but the initiative has contributed to a significant increase in workforce happiness and a 57% reduction in recruitment churn, saving £1m a year in training and recruitment costs.

Contactwww.lanesfordrains.co.uk

As part of the company’s programme of innovation

and continuous improvement, MARSH INDUSTRIES has undertaken structural integrity and fire tests on its range of water and waste water treatment products at the PIA GmbH test centre in Aachen, Germany. Structural integrity tests, performed in accordance with EN ISO 179-1/1eA: 2010-11, were undertaken to evaluate the strength of Marsh Industries’ GRP materials against similar GRP materials used by other manufacturers.

Three separate material samples were submitted for impact testing; Marsh GRP material (virgin unfilled resin), a GRP material containing calcium fillers and a GRP material containing calcium fillers and a GRP material containing sand filler. The tests involved 12 samples of each material at a size of

80x10x5mm. The nominal pendulum energy was 15J at an impact velocity of 3.8m/s. Results proved Marsh GRP material to be 40% stronger than the other materials tested.

Fire resistance testing, in accordance with EN ISO 11925-2:210, was performed to assess ignitability of products subjected to direct impingement of flame. Marsh Industries’ GRP material passed all practical testing to achieve EN ISO 11925-2:2010 standard.

Managing Director, Steve Boyer, explained the reasons for undertaking these tests; “Our customers are at the heart of everything we do and we strive to provide them with the very best products at the very best price at all times. Therefore, by successfully

testing the structural integrity and fire safety of our products, it provides certified assurance that everything we manufacture meets the highest quality, environmental and health & safety standards without any compromise in cost. When this is combined with our advanced engineering and manufacturing processes, and end-to-end customer support, we genuinely believe we are giving our customers the service they should expect from the UK leader in off-mains drainage products.”

T 01933 654582www.marshindustries.co.uk

Marsh Industries

is sponsored by Wolf Safety – see them on page 84

Advance notice of two new training

opportunities …AMTC, Coventry, 26 March 2019The Crystal, London, 28 March 2019

Co-organized by PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI UK) and the European Interreg Project INCASE (“Industry 4.0 via Networked Control Applications and Sustainable Engineering”), these free-to-attend seminars will address the key practical issues arising from the use of digital communications technologies in automated manufacturing and process industry applications, with particular attention to the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Industry 4.0.

Opening with a keynote address given by PI Chairman Karsten Schneider introducing PI’s current and developing technologies for Industry 4.0, the event will cover key application areas such as mechanical handling and logistics, robotics, automotive engineering, electrical and electronics assembly, control systems and energy management, utilities, pharmaceutical, packaging and printing.

The events will be of great value to Designers, Production/System Engineers, Instrument Technicians/Engineers and C&I Engineers involved in the design, operation and maintenance of modern automated factories and process plant.

Part of the day is with parallel tracks, so that you can either refresh your knowledge as a beginner in PROFINET or as a more experienced user find new ideas for applications. The event is highly recommended for people who have attended our previous events.

The INCASE project has been funded by a contribution from the European Regional Development Fund and this event is organised in association with INCASE project partner, the University of Essex.

If you’d like to learn about The Smart Way to Industry 4.0 with PROFINET based technologies … don’t miss one of these one-day Seminars!

https://profibusgroup.com/2018/11/24/the-smart-way-to-industry-4-0-with-profinet-based-technologies

Amazon Filters is a leading supplier of robust, corrosion resistant filter housings for Active Pharmaceutical

Ingredient (API) manufacturing processes.

Highly corrosive chemicals such as concentrated acids are often used in API manufacturing which places great demands on both filter media and filter housings.

In order to provide a highly durable, yet affordable filter housing for API manufacturing – Amazon Filters has developed a range of filter housings that have been modified to provide a surface that is composed of pure Tantalum metal. Unlike coating technology, the filter housing deposition process used by Amazon Filters produces a surface that does not suffer from separation, peeling or flaking. The Tantaline alloy deposition is approximately 50 µm deep and typically a depth of only 10 µm is needed for protection, therefore a significant safety margin is built into the design. The Tantalum used in the processing conforms to ASTM B364-96 and a certificate of conformity and raw material certificates are available on request.

For further information on corrosion resistant filter housings for API manufacturing processes visit the website below or contact Amazon Filters using the following methods.

T +44 (0)1276 670600sales@amazonfilters.co.ukwww.amazonfilters.com/products/filter-housings/corrosion-resistant-housings/

Industrial Process Technologies News

In the specification of springs and other wire components, secondary processes and finishes can be an important

consideration. They can help the design engineer to address environmental considerations or meet the needs of aesthetics in high value applications. These secondary processes can tailor the properties of the component to its application.

Plastic coating gives an aesthetically pleasing finish, with a coating up to 0.5mm thick. As well as looking good, the coating can be useful in applications where it is advantageous to have some cushioning between metal components. A good example might be a component inside a car, where you would like to avoid direct metal-on-metal contact.

An alternative to plastic coating is to paint the component, with electrophoretic painting and delta-tone finishing being two popular options. Electrophoretic painting is a very thin coating that can provide an aesthetically pleasing product finish.

William Hughes employs a KTL-black electrophoretic process to deposit a shiny black, coating just a few microns thick on the spring – thin enough not to interfere with the functionality of the part. The coating can provide outside protection for up to 800 salt spray hours – enough to meet even some quite challenging environmental requirements.

With the availability of a full range of secondary finishing and painting processes, William Hughes is well placed to advise

on the most suitable finish for a specific spring application.

T 01963 363377 sales@wmhughes.co.uk www.wmhughes.co.uk

Secondary processes and finishes for springs & wire components

findtheneedle

www.dashdynamics.co.uk info@dashdynamics.co.ukTelephone 01995 606158

Bespoke Badge Manufacturers

We supply a wide range of domed badges for all industries which can be customised to include your own design, logo and details. We offer a full print and dome service for manufacturers wishing to enhance their products. We can print directly form your supplied vector artwork or hi res PDFs. All our products are tailor made to your requirements and ideally suited for all control panel and product marketing, even in harsh environments. For a cost-effective and professional way to brand and personalise your products for your market or application, contact us by phone or email with your requirements.

Small Production RunsHere at Dash Dynamics, unlike many of our competitors, we specialise in small production runs. So if you just need a series of machine panels for a new prototype or low production run, then simply send us your artwork and we’ll get on with it.

All at a realistic priceTurnaround time is fast! In most cases, if you order before 11:00am, the order with be produced the same day and after overnight curing, it will be sent the following day via first class post or carrier depending on size.

International orders are accepted too.

ASK OUR EXPERTS

The UK’s domed badge specialist

The smart way to Industry 4.0

Chemically resistant filter housings for API manufacturing

is sponsored by Curtiss Wright – see them on page 15 5

Electrical & Electronics News

Display choice is arguably the most complex buying decision on a project and your instinct might be to go for a standard, off-the-shelf display,

but wait, have you considered the benefits of a custom or customised display solution? Paul Hooper, Group Manager, andersDX answers questions about custom and customised displays.

What’s wrong with using a standard catalogue display? Having specified displays for thousands of projects, the answer is that if you choose a standard product you almost always end up with an ‘if only…’

If you limit yourself to a standard display you will most

likely end up making compromises. In the vast majority of cases, the best solution to keep close to your budget means customising a standard product – usually in conjunction with a display specialist who is close to the manufacturer and understands what options are available and will fit the design needs. Sometimes, the right solution will be a fully custom display, designed from scratch and made specifically for that project. That way, you get exactly what you want- no compromises.

What do you mean by a custom display solution? A custom display always starts with a blank sheet of paper. We can design a display that meets your specifications, customising: the size, the form factor, the interface and the

features you want and those you don’t.

What is a customised display solution? By contrast a customised display starts from one of our manufacturing partners’ standard products. There is a lot that can be done to adapt that display to your specific project needs. We can add films, coatings and remove unwanted features and add others. We can even go as far as cutting down TFT displays to create letterbox format displays.

How much is a custom display? A custom display is more economic than you would think. In fact, the additional costs of a custom display are all upfront in the design, development and the production tooling cost stage, and are variable depending on the final design. It is always best to deal with a display specialist who can talk you through the most economical way forward.

The cost of a custom display can often be partly or fully recouped in a lower unit cost of the display itself. Eliminating unwanted features and specifications can bring a significant saving. Moreover, using a smaller display can create a lighter and less power-hungry system which is cheaper to manufacture and ship.

A display needs to fit precisely into the casing and withstand whatever physical abuse (shock, vibration, fluids, heat) the environment or the user inflicts. It is driven by a processor and needs to support appropriate hardware (electronic) interface requirements. It carries information created by the system software and (if it is a touch screen) needs to respond accurately to the user’s instructions. Then add ergonomics- an understanding of how the user will use the equipment- and finally throw in commercial constraints of the project.

How long does it take to create a custom display? Depending on the complexity of the project, the number of iterations and the speed of the interaction between the supplier and the project team, a custom display can be designed in 10-12 weeks. The manufacturing lead times for custom displays is actually the same as for standard and customised units: normally 12 weeks.

What is the obsolescence risk on custom displays? The obsolescence is lower with custom displays. Many standard displays are manufactured for high volume consumer products like smart phones. The consequence is that the industrial market is subject to the vagaries’ of high volume consumer requirements.

If you have a custom display designed to your specification manufactured specifically for you then you are protected from that risk. Using a specialist display design partner, the design work is done once, in co-ordination with different partners, with one design team.

For customised display projects, we select manufacturing partners that specialise in the industrial market. They are not subject to the same commercial pressure from high volume customers that general suppliers see.

A custom or customised display solution? The variety of project requirements is so great that the chances of finding an off the shelf solution that offers a best fit for the electronic, mechanical and software specifications of a project, as well as meeting the commercial and other constraints, is extremely small. Often, a standard product can be customised to create a much better outcome. When this isn’t the case, custom is always an option.

andersDX offers a project team including electric hardware, mechanical and software specialists in order to ensure that we are considering all aspects when we create a custom or customised display solution. Together, we can create a successful and optimised solution for each project.

T 0207 388 7171www.andersdx.com

A custom or customised display solution?

is sponsored by Wolf Safety – see them on page 86

Test, Measurement & Monitoring News

The eight wastes identification checklist

from Mettler Toledo is a template to support laboratory managers to carry out an efficiency audit of their lab.

This checklist provides a simple way to measure the current status for any sized lab, and can be tailored to individual requirements.

Previously ‘The Typical 8 wastes in the laboratory’ guide introduced an explanation of these 8 wastes, with typical laboratory examples, and recommendations for how to reduce or eliminate waste in these situations. The latest identification checklist takes it one step further by providing a template to measure the efficiency of a specific laboratory based on the occurrence of waste in the workflows.

This checklist is organised into 8 sections, based on the 8 wastes from Lean principles. It consists of a series of criteria with recommended target values that should be met. Based on the entries recorded during the audit a total score is calculated with a maximum of 33.

Any scored below 20 shows significant potential for improvement.

T +41 44 944 20 39www.mt.com/gb/en/home/library/guides/laboratory-weighing

Eight wastes identification checklist

Series 490W Hydronic Differential Pressure

Manometer is the most accurate and easy to operate manometer on the market. By using wireless transducers and a versatile handheld, a single operator can monitor and balance a hydronic system in less time than traditional hydronic balancers.

The Series 490W utilises mobile technology to communicate via a Bluetooth connection with the transducers to monitor differential pressure and flow on up to three different valves. Being wireless means there are no hoses to carry, snag on equipment or needing to be drained. The 490W includes the Dwyer Hydronic Application Software that contains valve charts for numerous manufacturers.

Dwyer Instruments, Inc. was recognised for excellence in product design in the 15th annual Dealer Design Awards Program sponsored by The Air Conditioning Heating & Refrigeration News magazine. An independent panel of contractors acted as judges in the contest that had 98 entries.

ContactT 01494 461707www.dwyer-inst.co.uk

Series 490W Hydronic Differential Pressure Manometer

Many industrial processes use RGAs… but not all solutions are the same. A Residual Gas Analyser (RGA) is a compact

mass spectrometer, used to detect the quality of a low-pressure environment. Primarily, an RGA is used for monitoring process gases, partial pressure and total pressure inside a vacuum environment. It can also be used to detect air/gas leaks and for contaminant detection.

When selecting an RGA, it is strongly advised to consider the bigger picture. For example, the HORIBA Micropole RGA is widely recognised as an ideal process gas monitoring solution for sputtering applications.

Due to its compact size, the Micropole RGA will provide up to

50% faster outgassing compared to more conventional systems; enabling your process to start sooner and thus minimise downtime. Also, the more compact the sensor head the closer you’ll be able to operate at higher pressure (up to 0.9Pa) without the need for a differential pump, which complicates installation and maintenance tasks.

In addition, by replacing the entire sensor head (as opposed to just the filament – when it fails) you won’t need to spend valuable time recalibrating the RGA, so you can get your process operational again in a fraction of the time.

Contactwww.horiba.com

Poles apart

is sponsored by Curtiss Wright – see them on page 15 7

Ultrasound is used widely throughout industry for removing problem contamination from all kinds of

hard surfaces. Its unique properties can be harnessed to clean items of all shapes, sizes and technical complexity, penetrating holes and cavities that are impossible to reach using ordinary cleaning methods.

Hilsonic is a leading international supplier of ultrasonic cleaning equipment for a variety of uses throughout industry.

The company’s systems are suitable for a variety of purposes within these areas, including the cleaning valves, pipework, plastic crates and components, indeed whatever you have may well lend itself to ultrasonic cleaning, potentially saving your company time and money indeed many companies get a financial pay back within weeks on cleaning expensive filters more often the pay back is a matter of months.

Hilsonic systems can also be used to clean engine parts such as pistons, cylinder heads and engine blocks.

Hilsonic’s industrial ultrasonic cleaning tanks deliver the best cleaning results, with no

compromise on quality or reliability. They are available in up to 50 distinct variations as standard with an endless number of custom built variations, built to fulfil industries demanding requirements.

The company offers full support including accessories, chemicals, service contracts and full training packages.

Its range of popular sizes comprises:- n IST2000 – with bath dimensions of 500x500x300mm, this is the most compact tank in the range, an ideal portable systems for cleaning small engine parts and filters.

n IST3000 - with bath dimensions of 1x1x1m, this mid-range system is ideal for general workshop use.

n IST4000 – with bath dimensions of 2x1x1.5m, this system is designed for larger components such as heat exchangers, intercoolers and major engine components.

n IST5000 – with bath dimensions of 3x2x2m, the largest standard system in the range, the IST5000 is built to accommodate the biggest coolers and heat exchangers.

All systems have Hilsonic’s unique generator technology, which features a predetermined frequency sweep and twin-tandem transducers capable of driving up to 2m in height, and full cavitation, crucial for cleaning larger components.

Hilsonic systems are manufactured using the

highest quality materials, with 316Lstainless steel tanks as standard, and heavy-duty stainless-steel frameworks for maximum weight distribution and performance.

Also standard through the range is the under liquid jetting system, which improves the cleaning performance and maintains chemical integrity for longer. With other unique design features, this makes the IST range of systems a durable solution to heavy-duty cleaning applications, providing many years of cleaning performance, backed by a two-year warranty.

Custom-built ultrasonic cleaning tanks Hilsonic also manufactures custom-built ultrasonic cleaning tanks of all shapes and sizes. From 1L to 15,000L capacities, and with a huge range of frequencies, densities and power ratings, these customised models will always deliver the best cleaning results, with no compromise on quality or

reliability. For more complex industrial cleaning processes, Hilsonic will consult fully with the customer to develop the right system.

Bench-top ultrasonic cleaning tanksFor small-scale workshop cleaning problems, Hilsonic’s bench-top ultrasonic cleaning tanks are the ideal solution. Its performance bench-top models are constructed in 316L stainless steel and are designed for long-lasting durability, while the Budget bench-top ultrasonic cleaning tanks offer good cleaning performance at a reasonable price, without cutting corners in terms of ultrasonic power.

Whether a standard or bespoke system is required, Hilsonic works closely with the customer at all stages in order to develop a system to suit their purpose.

T 0151 639 6020www.hilsonic.co.uk

Engineering Company of the Month

Dawson Shanahan is the world’s leading precision engineering and cold forming company. With an astonishing 75 years

of experience, their expertise is in the design, prototype and precision engineer of bespoke components and assemblies, to the highest quality, on time and to budget that has ensured their success. Industrial Process News is always on the lookout for exceptional products and services, and Dawson Shanahan do both. So, we have no hesitation featuring them as our Engineering Company of the Month.

Dawson Shanahan can trace their heritage back to 1920, when Edward Dawson opened an engine rebuilding business on one side of town, and Fred Shanahan started an engine rebuilding business on the other. A decision was made in 1943 to combine their skills and expertise, and so Dawson Shanahan was formed. Based in Welshpool, Wales,

Dawson Shanahan has innovated with precision engineering and cold forming techniques to become the world’s leader in their field, and they’ve worked with very high-profile clients in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, power generation and electronics to name a few.

We had the incredible opportunity to interview Les Reeves, Joint Managing Director, and Jeff Kiernan, Commercial Director to talk about the company, what they offer, and what has led them to become a world leader.

Les Reeves says: “we provide specialised, custom engineered solutions to customers around the world. Our core services include cold forming, copper machining and CNC machining. In addition to this we have a dedicated assembly department, enabling us to assemble and test sub-assemblies and assemblies, ready for delivery direct to the production line. “When it comes to attention to detail and superior value-added services, we go the extra mile. Moving beyond simply manufacturing components and assemblies, to providing clients with a total solution from one dependable, highly experienced source.”And as well as this total solution Dawson Shanahan

offer a completely customer focused service, Jeff Kiernan explains:

“Full service means just that: we’re here to support a business from the day we start working together. From design and testing, to prototyping and full volume production, we’re here to help develop engineered solutions meeting exact technical and commercial requirements – solutions that add real value to a company’s products or systems, in terms of reliability, performance, functionality and profitability. “But we go much further, providing technical and applications knowledge, consultancy and aftersales support. And we can produce assemblies, laser mark components, pack and carry out final quality approvals, to ISO standards, with line-side deliveries to manufacturing plants worldwide.” Dawson Shanahan prides itself on offering the very best quality but their lean process also ensures quality doesn’t cost a fortune. They know how to design, develop and produce customer specified parts, and re-engineer existing parts, so that unit cost can be reduced, while maintaining quality, performance and functionality. They use their extensive knowledge, experience and resources

to look at the challenges of engineering precision components in new and innovative ways – often finding unique solutions that have passed competitors by.

And their lead times continually impress customers. Dawson Shanahan always meets delivery promises. But delivering on time – every time – is just part of the story. They’re here to help a business meet the engineering challenges of this new and exciting world, and Dawson Shanahan understand the latest technologies, know which techniques work best in each application and deliver the custom engineered solutions that keep a business ahead of the competition.

To find out more about Dawson Shanahan and to see the extensive range of products and services they offer visit the website below or alternatively contact the friendly, professional team using the following details.

ContactT +44 (0)1938 551700info@dawson-shanahan.co.ukwww.dawson-shanahan.co.uk

Leaders in precision engineering & cold forming

Industrial Cleaning News

Ultrasonic cleaning for best results

is sponsored by Wolf Safety – see them on page 88

Health & Safety News

Creating safer & healthier work environments

BenchVent

For more information, contact T 01423 790039, email: info@benchvent.com

or visit www.benchvent.com

Dedicated to providing reliable, high quality and cost-effective fume & dust extraction equipment.

All products come with a lifetime guarantee.

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An Integrated Skin Care & Hand Hygiene Programme in Multiple Sectors: • Industrial• Healthcare• Food• Hospitality• Automotive• Education

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For many workers, two way radios represent an

indispensable tool in their day-to-day work. Offering a robust design and advanced safety features, the new PT790 Ex handset ensures that those working in combustible environments (such as mining or oil and gas) can maintain critical communications.

Hytera says the PT790 Ex is the first TETRA handheld radio with ‘ai’ approval worldwide. It can be used in areas in which an explosive atmosphere containing a mix of air and combustible gases, vapours or mists are permanently present (Zone O).

The device is dust-proof and water-proof in accordance with IP67, withstanding submersion in 1m of water for up to 30min. The PT70 Ex meets the requirements of the US MILSTD-810/F/G standard.

To further boost safety, the PT790 Ex features a man-down alarm sensor and an adjustable time alarm (lone worker). The standard equipment GNSS module receives positioning data via GPS, GLONASS and Beidou and can transfer this data for further analysis to the control room or AVL dispatcher.

ContactT 01753 826120

Handheld radio

The NEW Force™10

Typhoon™ is an extremely lightweight, easy to maintain full face mask at only

365g with a completely clear panoramic visor to maximise light levels within the mask giving optimum visibility.

The optical class 1 panoramic visor conforms to EN166.B offering impact protection at speeds of up to 270mph (tested using a 6mm steel ball bearing). The visor can have the option of a replaceable peel-off visor protector to prolong its life.

Extensive research has been carried out by NIOSH (ISO16976-2) to distinguish the world’s 5 most common facial shapes. Using this research JSP have digitally optimised the ergonomics of the Force™10 Typhoon’s™ face seal to maximise wearer compatibility.

T 01993 826050www.jsp.co.uk

Force™10 Typhoon™ full face mask from JSP

The Port of Lowestoft (Associated British Ports) has hosted a training exercise day for members of Suffolk’s Joint

Emergency Planning Unit (JEPU) as part of ABP’s commitment to creating a ‘Beyond Zero’ health and safety culture at work.

As part of the exercise, members of JEPU participated in a day of team building to learn more about port operations at ABP Lowestoft. JEPU is a shared service owned by all eight local authorities in Suffolk.

Its purpose is to support each local authority in fulfilling statutory responsibilities relating to planning for emergencies.

During the visit, the group went on a tour of the port’s inner and outer harbours via river taxi. Members of the group also enjoyed a talk focusing on the history of the port and future development opportunities.

The second part of the visit involved an oil spill training exercise organised by the Harbour Master, Gary Horton, and his team, which allowed JEPU members to witness the correct procedures put in place to protect the marine environment and the wider local community during similar incidents.

T 0207 430 1177

Emergency planning training

is sponsored by Curtiss Wright – see them on page 15 9

PPMA Show Review Top 30

James Mae is not only a manufacture company,

or a construction enterprise, it’s a different way of taking business altogether.

Our complexity and diversity in our working departments makes any project as simple as it can possibly be, as we take any challenge and simply provide a solution.

Hence, after full-understanding of any issue presented to James Mae, our team will then sit, discuss and design the best solution for each problem. And, as we also manufacture in-house, clients have the opportunity to follow up with all our working-response.

The main goal for James Mae will always remain to be able to take care of any situation from the very beginning of identifying any hitch, to the very end of making ours and other business more efficient and profitable.

On our first ever PPMA exhibition as James Mae Group, we have been selected as one of the Top 20 Exhibitors by the Industrial Process News, and therefore we are looking forward to thrive at the same event next year, where we will be presenting new machinery and building solutions to new potential partners.

Nevertheless, we haven’t stop at one event, and we have now confirmed our attendance at Foodex 2020, as we are also rebooting our marketing and sales strategy as new products and services are on their way.

T 01274 597218http://jamesmae.co.uk

James Mae projects

Gainsborough Engineering Company are pleased to announce a successful 2018

PPMA. On show was the ‘GHP250’ Stand up Pouch Machine, equipped with the latest PLC technology, electronic and pneumatic combined with a construction objective of simple reliable mechanics resulting in low operating costs. The Stand up Pouch Machine forms and seals the Pouch from the Reel resulting in upwards of 30% savings over pre-made Pouches.

GV2K6 – Vertical Form Fill Seal Continuous Motion BaggerAnother fairly newcomer on show was the GV2K6 a Continuous Motion vertical form fill seal bagger that can operate at upwards of 100ppm. The GV2K6 is ideal for high speed applications such as snacks and nuts, confectionery products, rice and powder as well as Vegetable Packing i.e. Potatoes, Sprouts, Pea’s & corn and other free flowing products.

GV2K range – Vertical Form Fill Seal Intermittent BaggerThis range of Popular Bagging machines offer the latest in design and control, all models in the GV2K Range are manufactured from Stainless Steel and offer either Standard or High-Care finish. The compact footprint makes this one of the smallest machines available whilst offering all the Additional Options available on the full range of Vertical Bagging Machines.

T 01427 617677 M 07971 121588sales@gains-eng.co.uk

Stand-Up Pouch Machine Model GHP250

Manufacturers to the food industry

need efficient cleaning solutions to meet the increasing hygiene and food safety regulations. However, time spent cleaning

scale parts by hand significantly affects the overall production downtime. The JEROS industrial cleaning system combines a Utensil Washer with the unique ACE handling & loading system that enables food manufacturers to reduce wash down time by more than 80 percent and therefore increase their production time.

The time it takes from removing, washing and reinstalling multihead weigher components and other scale parts can be reduced from an average of two hours to only 20 minutes

Furthermore, automating the process ensure a high level of consistency and food safety because the system has a rinse temperature of 85°C guaranteeing disinfection

In addition to reducing time and water consumption, the JEROS ACE system prevents components from being damaged or lost during the cleaning process, which is common due to manual handling

Pepsico, McCains, Arla Foods & Nestle, are just a selection of companies getting the benefit of using the JEROS Utensil Washer and ACE system

Contactwww.jeros.uk.com

Washing parts by hand? There is a better option!

The NEC, Birmingham, hosted one of the most anticipated and respected events in the processing

and packaging sector calendar – the PPMA Show 2018, which ran from 25 to 27 September. The three-day event celebrated its 30th anniversary this autumn and it proved to be the biggest and best show in its 30-year history.

With 350 exhibitors presenting a host of new product launches and the latest technology innovations, and a free conference and first-class speaker line-up poised to tackle key industry issues, the PPMA Show 2018 offered a unique, informative and value-added visitor experience.

The diversity of exhibitor stands ensured every aspect of the production environment was represented, from filling and packaging machinery, processing equipment to robotics, automation and vision systems, making the PPMA Show the ‘go-to’ industry event.

The Enterprise Zone was a focus of learning and networking during the show with its 2 day conference providing expert knowledge and insights into the latest industry trends, with presentations, interactive panel discussions, case studies and personal experiences on

how to increase efficiencies & future-proof businesses.

Topics included Industry 4.0, automation, augmented reality, sustainability, and the future of food manufacturing as well as the impact of plastics in packaging.

This is our second pick of the best exhibitors from the show. Further details can be found on this page and the next two pages.

www.ppmashow.co.uk

Celebrating 30 years of excellence in processing & packaging technology

Palamatic design, manufacture and provide Materials Handling Equipment and Lifting

Technology for reducing manual handling, helping operators to perform tasks safely, removing injury risks and protecting products from damage. Our equipment range covers industrial vacuum lifting systems, hygienic lifting solutions and sack opening and processing machines.

At the core of our business is our goal to provide systems that work for the operator and task they are carrying out and not to provide off the shelf systems that won’t fulfil that. We deal with most manufacturing industries and are conveniently based in Chesterfield, Derbyshire where we have a 22,000sq/ft factory and have a sales office and factory in North Carolina, USA.

We have over 50 years of knowledge and experience in the design and manufacture of semi or fully automatic sack opening machines which significantly reduce environmental dust emissions and dramatically increase productivity and production volumes. Our sack opening systems provide an ideal solution to COSHH recommendations and are suitable for various types of bags, sacks and boxes.

We also specialising in the manufacture and development of cGMP sanitary hygienic handling equipment. Incorporating systems for Handling, Docking, Blending, Emptying and Transporting all types of stainless steel Containers, Drums, Boxes and Sacks and a range of Ancillary Devices, Stainless Steel Containers and Valves for use in controlled and regulated clean process environments.

If you have a manual problem and would like a no obligation sales visit and quotation for a solution, you can contact us at sales@palamatic.com or telephone +44 (0)1246 452054.

Palamatic

is sponsored by Wolf Safety – see them on page 810

Earlier this year, the Packaging Machinery and Manufacturing Show, returned to Birmingham’s NEC

centre on the 25th-27th September. At the show, Herma UK showcased their range of exceptional labelling machines.

Herma have over 110 years’ experience in the manufacturing industry, and subsequently, their establishment has grown to become a global leader in the manufacture of self-adhesive and label application systems.

The company are proud to design and build high quality labelling equipment, in addition to supplying a range of standard and special purpose machinery.

Their range of products is suitable for a variety of applications, including: bottles, cartridges, paint tins, vertical form-fill-seal (VFFS) and tamper evident labelling. Some of their most popular products consist of the following: The HERMA 400 Label Applicator, The HERMA 452C top labeller and The HERMA 652C top and base labeller.

If you would like to get in touch with Herma, call them on the number below. Alternatively, if you would like to view

an extensive range of their products and services, make sure you check out their website.

T +44 (0)1440 763366 sales@herma.co.ukwww.herma-labellingmachines.co.uk

PPMA Show Review Top 30

As experts in foreign body removal, Eclipse Magnetics

specialises in high performance magnetic separation and detection systems to protect bulk processing lines from contamination. Their success is founded on key market advantages including high intensity magnetic technology and advanced product design offering first class performance and total reliability and compatibility with applications.

One of the greatest challenges to processing industries is ensuring the maximum integrity of the finished product. Failure to do so can be catastrophic with the real risk of causing personal harm and untold damage to the brand. Contamination risks exist at most stages of production, to combat this, a robust HACCP system and high

performance foreign body removal equipment are vital.

Eclipse Magnetics’ magnetic separation systems are used in almost every processing industry to remove ferrous and para-magnetic contamination from process lines, preventing product contamination and damage to machinery. Through a detailed understanding of our markets developed over many years, Eclipse now lead the way for product quality, performance and service. From simple manually cleaned units to fully automated PLC controlled systems, the company manufacture the full range of options for every stage of production.

Eclipse Magnetics produces high-quality, high-power magnetic separators for most applications,

including bulk, grain, dry powders, damp powders, liquids and syrups and a comprehensive range of metal detectors and vibratory sieves. The company is also fully conversant with all major industry standards such as FSA, FDA and IFS, plus institutes such as BRC and GFSI. Many of our products have full ATEX certification.

T +44 (0)114 225 0600info@eclipsemagnetics.com

High performance magnetic separation and detection systems

Global Recycling Solutions Ltd. are the exclusive distributor for

Shred-Tech in the UK and Europe. Shred-Tech® has installed over 5,000 Shredding and Recycling Systems worldwide. Our dedicated team of professionals have the experience and expertise to provide efficient and economical solutions to the toughest recycling and shredding problems no matter the location or application challenge.

Since 1978, Shred-Tech® has been solving shredding, recycling, waste reduction, and material handling problems for its many and diverse customers. Shred-Tech® has become a leading provider of environmental and shredding technologies based on sound engineering practices, innovation, quality, and most important, satisfied customers.

By creating profitable uses for waste products, Shred-Tech® has developed new business opportunities and technologies to improve our quality of life.

Shred-Tech® supplies equipment and systems for the paper, plastics, food packaging, pharmaceutical, hazardous, municipal and medical waste industries. Shredding products and systems are also used to destroy outdated products, end-of-life electrical goods, military hardware, and improve the environment through waste reduction and recycling.

Our mission is continued strong growth for Global Recycling Solutions Ltd and Shred-Tech® by supplying customers with profitable and environmentally correct materials shredding and recycling solutions.

ContactM +44 (0)7771 624892stevefouhy@globalrecycling.eu

Global Recycling Solutions Ltd

Magnum Materials Ltd has been a customer focused

company since 1983 when it first started. Built around customer service and high

speed deliveries, it is a strong company with a wealth of Self Adhesive material and Labelling knowledge. Magnum is now at the forefront of inkjet labelling technology and the introduction of several new machines in 2018 serves to push Magnum forward for 2019.

The PPMA show saw the introduction of the new L801 plus machine which offers high quality durable print at up to 18 metres per minute. With many Memjet machines already in the UK market this upgraded version of the machine is set to change how customised or

bespoke labels are made by end users. The whole range from Magnum is specifically designed to be user friendly, affordable and economical for end users. The focus is all about making it easy for customers to use and get the most out of their machines. By offering everything a customer may need to make their own labels Magnum offers a “one stop shop” approach to on demand labelling.

For more information on the L801 plus and many other printing and finishing machines please contact Magnum on 0161 343 1131

Magnum Materials Ltd

The Fitzpatrick Company, part of the IDEX Materials

Processing Technology group recently launched the CCS320 roller compactor for dry granulation, extending the range of their Contained Compaction Systems.

With independent feed screw and pre-compression screw, the CCS range gives improved ribbon density and consistency and virtually eliminates the need for vacuum de-aeration needed by other compaction systems.

The enhanced roll force and

gap control gives excellent process stability and scalability meaning the CCS range is ideally suited to the requirements of continuous

processing where consistency of granule production is critical.

The CCS 320 compliments the range giving lab to pilot scale processing with scalability to larger production units whilst offering a design that is easily integrated into glove box containment.

For more information please contact Ytron-Quadro, the UK agents for Fitzpatrick:

T 01494 792898sales@ytron-quadro.co.ukwww.ytron-quadro.co.uk

Contained Compaction Systems

More than 110 years’ experience manufacturing labeller and labelling machines

When a sweetener producer needed a quick, affordable and reliable new foreign object

detection system, Minebea Intec had exactly what they were looking for.

HCP (Health Care Products) produces sweeteners packaged in tubs which are sealed with a screw top and metal foil lid. Due to this packaging, the HCP team knew they could not detect the full range of metals.

This left them with two options – they could either metal detect before they finally close the package, which still leaves them open to a risk of contamination, or they could look at using a different technology.

HCP were soon impressed by the compact, well-priced, very effective and sensitive Minebea Intec X-ray, Dylight, as a solution to their packaging challenge.

The Dylight X-ray system was designed to fit into very small spaces, even when it works in combination

with a Synus checkweigher. The Dylight is also so competitively priced it is now very close to that of a metal detector. For approximately 25% more cost HCP could have an X-ray system with all its additional benefits.

HCP can now put the product in the final packaging, complete with the foil seal and still be able to detect the same or better contaminant levels than they previously could with a metal detector.

T +44 (0)121 779 3131cs.uk@minebea-intec.com

Minebea Intec

Founded in 1986, Process Automation Solutions (PA) is

a leading independent supplier of automation solutions for the chemical, pharmaceutical, automotive and other industries. We have built a presence in 21 countries, establishing 60 engineering offices with expertise in system engineering, integration, lifecycle management, process control, manufacturing execution systems (MES) and ERP integration.

PA is part of the Canadian based ATS Group and sits alongside, brands, such as Sortimat & IWK.

By combining the flexibility of a medium-sized company with the capabilities of a large enterprise, PA meets the needs of both large projects and small automation tasks.

With a skilled workforce of over 1200 engineers, our reassurance to our clients is that wherever they are based we have an engineering office not too far away to service their needs on a local basis. Our UK office is based in Manchester and we are currently expanding our engineering team to

meet the needs of the local market. PA Solutions Ltd is headed by Graeme Hartley, who has 40 years’ experience in the automation industry.

As an example, a recent project award included a framework agreement with a major global chemical manufacturer, where we are providing, Siemens PCS7 project delivery, TIA portal support, Functional Safety engineering services, E&I engineering, control room migration, alarm management, situational awareness HMI consulting and cyber security services.

If you require advice or assistance with your automation requirements, then please call 0161 302 2783, or email graeme.hartley@pa-ats.com

Process Automation Solutions

Redpack Packaging Machinery has been a leading manufacturer of flow wrapping machinery for over

40 years. With our customers at the heart of everything we do, we pride ourselves on supplying machinery of the best quality, backed up with first class service.

Redpack excels in manufacturing machinery for the fresh produce industry as our machines are robust and perform consistently in challenging environments, such as on field rigs. We

Robust and versatile, our machines are operating in multiple industries in over 35 countries worldwide, including the snack and hygiene industry.

The PPMA Show saw the launch of our HC65 High Care machine, possibly the most hygienic flow wrapper in the world. Its innovative design allows

the operator to wash down the whole machine with ease meaning maximum performance with minimum downtime.

The whole range of Redpack machines are designed to be intuitive and easy to operate, making installation and training simple and stress free.

For more information about any of our machines please contact us on 01603 722280 or visit our website at www.redpack.co.uk

Redpack Packaging Machinery

is sponsored by Curtiss Wright – see them on page 15 11

PPMA Show Review Top 30

Reducing your machinery down time, improving the wear of your production lines and increasing

productivity, Marcote UK precision apply a variety of non-stick, abrasion and corrosion resistant coatings by hand at their Staffordshire based plant.

By non-stick coating weigh machines, bagging chutes and heat seal bars Marcote have delivered the food and packaging industry a viable and economic option when it comes to machinery maintenance. Some of the industry’s biggest manufacturers now go to them to improve their cleaning processes instead of using off the shelf answers like Teflon tape and release sprays.

Established in the year 2000 they have consistently put research and development at the heart of their customer service led approach and Operations Director Sam Woodcock says “as the company moves forward we want to become the industry standard for coatings applications.”

Tailor making coating solutions to improve hygiene, product quality and line speed many of their systems are safe for use in a food environment. Offering complimentary site visits and a dedicated delivery service Marcote UK is always innovating it’s catalogue of coatings and as an independent business works with you from start to finish.

ContactT 01543 419904

Surface coatings improve productivity & down time

ATD has been developing, manufacturing and supplying industrial Coding and Marking systems

for over 25 years.

Our product range includes:

Leibinger continuous Ink Jet Printers. Suitable for direct marking any product material including: Plastics, Metals, Glass and Composites. A wide range of inks are available including high contrast pigment, sterilisable colour change and food grade inks.

ATD IP8000 High Resolution Ink Jet Printer: Suitable for direct printing onto construction products such as plasterboard and timber, outer cartons and web lines. Capable of printing from 2mm to 500mm high text, graphics, barcodes and real time information.

ATD IP500 and IP501 Thermal Ink Jet Printer: A low cost, entry level ink jet system suitable for general coding and marking applications. Up to 10 lines of text, real time information and counters with print heights from 2.5mm to 25mm.

Laser Product Range: Includes Co2 and Fibre lasers, suitable for permanent coding and marking most

product surfaces. Products can be marked stationary or moving.

ATD Systems Division: ensures our products are professionally integrated into customer production sites and all products are supported by fully trained sales and technical staff.

For further information please contact our sales team on T 01858 461014 mail@atduk.com

Industrial Coding & Marking

Nano Linear NT is a compact linear motor table, through design and research we have

arranged magnets, scale for optical linear encoder to the movable steel table, stator coil and head for linear encoder to the steel bed for an ultra-low profile unit.

For the guiding portion of the table, we adopted C-Lube Linear Way L which has a maintenance-free period of 5 years or 20,000 km and are

contributing to the reduction of maintenance man-hours. By adopting high performance neodymium magnets for the rotor, although the size is extremely small, a maximum thrust of 36N is exhibited, and it makes high-speed, high-response positioning possible.

Nano Linear NT is most suitable as compact positioning unit for industries such as Semiconductor / Liquid crystal related manufacturing equipment, Inspection Instruments and Assembly Equipment.

n Ultra Low Profile from 11mm n Excellent Positioning Repeatability +/- 0.0001 ~ 0.0005mm

n Positioning Accuracy and Straightness of 1µm or less

n High Speed up to 20G Acceleration

T 01908 566144 sales@iko.co.uk

IKO Nano Linear NT…V

Lenze served up a whole host of activity in September at the PPMA Show in September.

Visitors had the chance to network and interact with Lenze’s automation platform, where they could see for themselves what advanced automation could do for their business from geared motor to the cloud.

With a barista and coffee shop style seating area on the stand, Lenze provided opportunities for machine manufacturers to network and consult with experts in machine automation solutions.

“We wanted to give our customers the chance to strengthen their relationship and knowledge of Lenze as an automation solutions provider, our networking area enabled visitors to talk about both challenges and opportunities,” explains Neil Beaumont, Marketing Communications Manager at Lenze. Lenze is actively involved with PPMA BEST (Business Education, Skills and Training) and during the show, 60 students attended the Young Peoples’ skills seminar and workshop. New Business Automation Manager, Michael Sachpekidis, presented and discussed the latest automation technology innovations within the industry.

Michael says: “We’ve been working closely with schools and technical colleges providing both hardware and software products, including advanced motion control and automation systems and technologies. It’s vital we support and encourage our future engineers.”

T 01234 753200sales.uk@Lenze.comwww.Lenze.com

Lenze: Showcasing its automation platform at the PPMA Show

Hydraulics & Pneumatics News

Simmatic can often apply its expertise in pneumatic

and vacuum systems to enhance the safety of industrial processes, as was demonstrated in an application for a polyurethane moulding machine.

A large and heavy tool that it used to form sheets of polyurethane into panels, the machine is split horizontally into two halves. The top half is raised pneumatically to allow the insertion of a flat polyurethane sheet and then its removal after the moulding process is complete.

The moulded product is removed manually, meaning that the operator has to reach in between the two halves of the tool. If the top half were to descend unexpectedly at this point, the risk of the operator being injured would be high.

Simmatic suggested the use of fail-state rodlock cylinders from the Airwork range, which maintain their current position even if the air supply fails and can only be released by a separate pneumatic signal. The rodlock cylinders will, in fact, hold their position under twice the load they are rated to support when operating normally from a 6 bar compressed air supply.

Simmatic engineers also suggested that fitting shot-bolt cylinders would further enhance safety. When the tool is fully open, these pneumatically controlled devices shoot heavy-duty pins through apertures to act as physical restraints and prevent the tool from moving, even if all other safety measures fail.

www.simmatic.co.uk

Designed with safety in mind

is sponsored by Wolf Safety – see them on page 812

Engineering Design Show Review Top 10

CeraCon UK is a relatively new business having only been established 5 years ago and for 4 of

those years we have been exhibiting at the EDS. CeraCon offers a unique service in the UK for the robot application of liquid foam seals. This high performance technology has gained increased appreciation for the benefits it offers the UK manufacturing base. CeraCon’s number 1 priority in engaging with designers at an early stage of the

design process, as often when the process reaches the tooling stage of the product then it is too late to increase the sealing capabilities of the part.

During our 4 years at EDS, we often faced the same questions from designers regarding the use of our technology and the impact it can have of their products. Therefore, we produced a Design Booklet that had all the relevant information, with regard to the technology and the applications it can have. Along with the Design Guide we also offer companies support with prototype design and sealing solutions. We encourage designers to get in touch and send us their rapid prototypes to prove concepts at an early phase – a service that we generally provide free of charge.

For further information on CeraCon and for a copy of our Design Guide visit: www.ceracon.co.uk ContactT 01926 336231Uk@ceracon.com

CeraCon UK

Assembled Electronic Solutions is an innovative electronics design and manufacturing

company based in the Midlands. The vibrant and creative culture within AES attracts corporate clients seeking a focused design and manufacturing partner that is able to grasp complex requirements whilst remaining lean and responsive. This was demonstrated at the recent Engineering Design Show where our stand attracted great interest in our new collaborative

technologies, including a digital drinks display, sports team remote tracking technology and the very popular Donnington racing simulator.

“Frankly we were staggered by the constant stream of Would-Be-F1-Drivers to the stand that was relentless. We had an eclectic mix of products on display from medical diagnostics to wearable monitors and marketing display products. The driving simulator worked well, although I did have to test it a few times of course! What they had in common was in their creation; each was a collaborative project involving clients with complementary skills. AES provided the integration in the design along with the manufacturing chain and of course, the electronics and embedded firmware. We hope to work with the new contacts that we met at EDS and look forward to exhibiting again next year.” Nigel Maris, Managing Director AES

T 01789 204 879 info@assemtron.com http://assembled-electronics.com

Assembled Electronic Solutions

Located at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry, The Engineering Design Show launched this

year’s show on the 17th and 18th of October. Providing a platform for showcasing the latest product within the engineering industry, The Engineering Design Show features services and innovations for design engineers to benefit from direct access to the latest products. At the Engineering Design Show, they deliver engineering design aspects that cater for a diverse cliental base in an efficient and dynamic environment.

Featuring direct access to a range of workshops, feature zones and the latest products available, The Engineering Design Show gained over 4000 visitors this year.

A few notable highlights within this year’s show saw the return of the Innovation Zone, a feature area which focuses on introducing visitors to state-of-the-art technology. They showcased new additions including EDS TV – all designed to offer visitors a fully immersive experience of

innovation, inspiration, interaction and insight.

The Engineering Design Show also contained 25 conference speakers and over 220 exhibitors, all showcasing their products and services. The expert speakers at The Engineering Design Show explored the best practices for new design techniques and industry issues.

This is our pick of the best exhibitors from the show, listed here in alphabetical order: A2E, Assembled Electronic Solutions, Astute, CeraCon UK, CSA Catapult, Labtronix, Phoenix Contact UK, Plextek and Würth Electronics. Further details can be found on this page and the next.

www.engineering-design-show.co.uk

Engineering Design Show

CSA Catapult wants UK-based businesses to deliver the new products and services of

the future and to take advantage of world-class research in this country. End-user sectors can all grow and thrive if they have the right support to develop new products using compound semiconductor devices.

The Catapult’s aim is to grow the number of UK companies successfully developing compound

semiconductor applications and to see economic growth as a result. This will drive growth in the UK electronics sector, keeping more companies ahead of international competition and creating new highly-skilled jobs in the businesses they supply.

Its mission is to develop a nexus with the mix of expertise, skills, facilities, equipment and collaborations needed for UK businesses and services. We will operate at the heart of a south Wales-based cluster of businesses, research centres and universities with expertise in compound semiconductors, and will connect that expertise to the wider UK infrastructure including businesses, government departments such as health and transport, other Catapult centres and relevant agencies such as the Advanced Propulsion Centre and the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles.

So, please get in touch to discuss collaboration opportunities by calling 01633 373121 or emailing info@csa.catapult.org.uk

One of the mega trend applications of compound semiconductors is 5G

Traditionally the RS232 protocol has been the popular choice for communication

between devices, especially between Industrial machines. However, because of its limitation, it has fast been superseded by RS485 and now CANBUS both of which offer much faster transmission speeds.

A popular implementation is to use a Transceiver to transmit signals and Optocouplers to offer galvanic isolation. This is a cost-effective solution but in both the CANBUS and RS485 cases the Optocoupler can restrain the transmission speed and power loss is high. A solution to this is to replace the Optocouplers with an isolated dc/dc converter.

The transmission rates are higher and the power losses much reduced. That said this takes up much more board space and increases the number of components on the board.

Astute have launched a solution that takes the Transceiver and integrates it within an isolated dc/dc converter. This keeps the power loss low and the transmission speeds high but also greatly reduces the board space taken and components used. It makes it a far easier and more efficient way of implementing RS485 and CANBUS into applications.

Contact Astute for more information on the A4851-0505 and ACAN1-0505 series.

ContactT +44 (0)1438 909909power&semi@astute.global

Astute Power Solutions

Labtronix test and measurement solutions would like to thank the many

visitors to our stall at EDS2018 in October.

It was a fantastic platform to showcase the full range of electronics test equipment

available from Labtronix. In particular we introduced the new SVA1015X vector network analyser from Siglent Technologies, a range of very popular and affordable oscilloscopes, and DC electronic loads from Array which are increasingly popular with developers of battery powered technology and those involved with DC power supplies.

Other equipment on display included bench multimeters, signal generators, spectrum analysers, and bench power supplies.

Labtronix specialises in the UK distribution and support of 2 brands, Siglent and Array. Over the past 8 years we have sought to introduce very competitive solutions

for electronics testing/development/manufacturing compared to the features and costs of traditional names in this field.

Labtronix holds stock of all popular items in the Siglent and Array portfolio, usually available for delivery within a couple of days. Labtronix is committed to supporting its customers with applications advice and after-sales care. We would be very pleased to make a proposal for your next instrument acquisition and we have a fully functional website to facilitate quick and easy online purchases.

M +44 (0)7915 695867ipn@labtronix.co.ukwww.labtronix.co.uk/drupal/ipn

Labtronix

is sponsored by Curtiss Wright – see them on page 15 13

What’s New in Electronics Live Review Top 10

Uvox Ltd manufactures and supplies EMI Shielding, grounding and thermal

control components. EMI shielding includes numerous gasket materials, screening cans and shielded windows.

Whilst our heatsinks can be supplied in many formats and if required, we can also incorporate heatpipes into the design. These are all complimented by a range of Thermal Interface Materials.

Uvox’s in-house facilities include electro-conductive coatings, 3D Printing and Form-In-Place (FIP) gaskets. Electro-Conductive Coating (see picture) is used to provide EMI Shielding to plastic enclosures.

With careful mask design, we can rapidly

shield most plastics, including ABS, PC, PBT, PLA. With careful preparation, even low surface-energy materials like Polypropylene, and Nylon can be coated.

For more information visit our website at www.uvox.co.uk or call us on +44 (0)1746 769369

Uvox Ltd

Engineering Design Show Review Top 10

After a successful Engineering Design Show A2E have developed the electronics

and embedded software for a Nitrogen gas generator customer. Based on a remit to simplify and enhance the control and condition monitoring capability of the generator, A2E designed two new boards:

n A microprocessor board with Bluetooth and Ethernet connectivity

n A power board for controlling valves, fans and compressors as well as sensing temperature, pressure and flow.

The boards were designed to EN61010 ensuring product safety. Adding an LCD display facilitated a custom graphical user interface that simplified the operation of the generator as well as enabling diagnostic

capability, extensive condition monitoring including graphical data output and error logging.

Moisture elimination was achieved by developing a sophisticated drain valve

sequencing algorithm that resulted in increased Nitrogen output. An economy mode was implemented to minimise power and noise by managing a bank of compressors based on flow demand and tank pressure.

A2E’s customer has been impressed by the professionalism of the team and the on-time delivery of prototypes and product improvements.

Established in 2002, A2E delivers innovative hardware and software design services across a range of industries. Contact Steven McQuade on 01506 592237 or smcquade@a2etech.com quoting Industrial Process News for your free design consultation.

Gas Generation 2.0

Würth Electronics are one of the leading brands in the Electronic &

Electromechanical Components market in Europe. At our stand at Engineering Design Show we had some of our external business managers who look after each part range, as well as a Field Application Engineer, on hand to offer technical support for any projects or products our customers may be working on.

As one of the leading brands in the market, Würth Electronics is constantly expanding. Over the last year we’ve integrated IQD Frequency Products into

our company, with many of their parts entering the Würth catalogue. We have also recently unveiled our new Wireless Connectivity & Sensors range, increasing our already wide portfolio of products.

Over the next year, we will be attending multiple tradeshows, including a revisit of Engineering Design Show. We also bring Lunch & Learn sessions to companies with our Field Application Engineers, bringing a range of topics to your engineering team and free lunch!

We also host seminars around the UK

throughout the year in partnership with various companies.

To find out who your local sales representative is, just get in touch and WE will be happy to help and provide more than you expect!

T +44 (0)161 872 0431sales-uk@we-online.com

Würth Electronics UK

As a design consultancy, we successfully translate our client’s ideas into robust, scalable, tested and

approved products by ensuring our manufacturing team works to a number of market specific standards and processes.

Our design process meets the quality standards of ISO13485 and ISO9001 and we ensure that our selected third party suppliers also meet these standards throughout the entire process.

Taking ownership of our client’s product manufacture into market, our in house PCB, mechanical and manufacturing teams share data to allow an agile approach, responding to inevitable changes in requirements and specifications. This also allows our manufacturing team to contribute from concept phase onwards to implement manufacturable designs of appropriate cost whilst addressing any potential conflicts with performance requirements.

Supplier selection is decided with our clients from the outset and leverages our detailed network of

contacts with specialisms ranging from additive manufacturing and demanding PCB creation through to high volume commercial plastic mouldings and metalwork.

Plextek works to anticipate and circumvent manufacturing or design problems by testing final products in house before manufacturing in volume. This extends to our management of every stage of the entire supply chain, delivering a solution that provides exceptional value whilst meeting our client’s requirements.

ContactT 01799 533200contact hello@plextek.comwww.plextek.com

Plextek’s industrial process

Phoenix Contact UK exhibited at the

Engineering Design Show on the 17th-18th October 2018 taking place at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry.

Phoenix Contact’s position as a global market leader in device connection technology, industrial control and automation solutions is achieved by developing “Inspiring Innovations”.

With thousands of new products launched each year, Phoenix Contact lead the way in product development and innovation.

This year’s highlight products at the show included the TDPT Twin PCB terminal block, LPC / LPCH 6 series tool free plugs and headers, FDX 20 series compact fibre optic slice box, and the award winning ICS

Industrial Case System with module connectivity.

EDS 2018 was an exceptional show for Phoenix Contact and a great opportunity to meet with existing and new customers.

The exhibition had a real energy and plenty of new technologies and applications on show. The UK electronics market is in great shape and we look forward to another exceptional year in 2019.

ContactT 0845 8812222info@phoenixcontact.co.ukwww.phoenixcontact.co.uk

Phoenix Contact UK

This year, the UK’s biggest event solely for electronics and the electrical industry, took

place in the NEC Birmingham from the 25th to the 26th September 2018.

Running alongside other industry events such as EMC UK, Embedded Live, Sensors & Instrumentation, PPMA and TCT show, visitors signing up to one of the events gained access to all five!

What’s new in electronics Live hosted a huge range of entertainment from conferences and seminars to debate sessions and multiple live features. Everyone from the world of electronics attended this show.

Visitors included Engineers, Designers, Technicians, Directors, CEO’s and more – all receiving valuable industry knowledge and updates.

Exhibitors of the show were offering supplies and services to help improve businesses and had many new products on show. Networking seemed to be a key element of the event, with facilities such as the central hub encouraging attendees to meet industry peers.

This electronics trading event will be returning in September 2019, once again bringing the world of electronics together.

This is our second pick of the best exhibitors from the show, listed here in alphabetical order: Uvox Ltd. Further details can be found on this page.

Contactwww.wnie.co.uk/live

What’s new in Electronics Live 2018

is sponsored by Wolf Safety – see them on page 814

Robotics & Automation Show Review Top 10

Guidance Automation has 25+ years’ experience in developing advanced Guidance, Navigation

and Control solutions for the global robotic vehicle market and thousands of systems in service.

Our Collaborative Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), briNgbot™ and iNcaart™, minimize repetitive and unproductive tasks in pick and place applications including e-commerce fulfilment, warehousing, distribution and production.

briNgbot™ and iNcaart™ can easily be deployed to enhance existing operations without disruption or reconfiguration and contribute an immediate and significant improvement in throughput efficiency and error reduction.

briNgbot™ is a pick-assist AMR, used for tasks such as transporting from Pick-to-Light to packing stations.

iNcaart™ is a mobile elevator conveyor AMR capable of loading boxes, totes, or similar onto briNgbot™ or to/from conveyor systems.

Our scalable traffic management system, moNitrav™, manages the movement of the AMRs around the work environment to ensure optimal process

throughput and effective use of resources.Optimize your material handling processes with Guidance Automation’s Autonomous Mobile Robots:

n REDUCE time operatives spend DRIVING/WALKING

n REDUCE pick/place ERRORS n OPTIMIZE throughput with INTELLIGENT task ordering/route selection

n FOCUS operatives on VALUE-ADD work n ADAPT to fluctuating demand

Contact our experts on +44 (0)116 243 6250 or email enquiries@guidanceautomation.com

Autonomous Mobile Robot material handling solutionsThe Robotics & Automation Show explores and

showcases future technologies, automation and the latest robotics. The Robotics & Automation exhibition took place at Arena MK, Milton Keynes on the 10th and 11th October 2018 and was a great success. The exhibition is designed and tailored for professionals, who are looking to expand their operations offering visitors the opportunity to discover how the latest robotics, automation and future technologies can improve efficiency, reduce costs and give them the competitive advantage.

Containing visitors within, retail, manufacturing, automotive, distribution, warehousing and pharmaceutical industry sectors, the Robotics & Automation Show catered for many industries and decision makers. Among the visitors was decision making job title holders such as; Engineer, Director, MD / Owner, Operations, Heads of Supply Chain, Head of Logistics, Manager, Technical Managers.

Due to the success of the 2017 and 2018 shows, the organisers are pleased to announce that the

Robotics & Automation Show 2018 exhibition is moving to the larger Ricoh Arena in Coventry, on the 29th and 30th October 2019.

This is our pick of the best exhibitors from the show, listed here in alphabetical order: AutoStore, Guidance Automation, ICS Robotics, Kasto and Logistics Improvement Group. Further details can be found on this page.

If you would like any further information or to attend next year’s show, please visit the website below.

Contactwww.roboticsandautomation.co.uk

Robotics & Automation Show

AutoStore, the Cube Storage Pioneers, reflect on the success of the Robotics and

Automation exhibition, held in October.

James Smith, UK Business Director commented, “exhibiting at Robotics and Automation, gave AutoStore an excellent platform to demonstrate how our solution solves the challenges of space and labour availability being faced by businesses today.”

“AutoStore typically uses 75% less space than shelf-based storage solutions, allowing businesses to increase inventory by up to 4x in the same footprint. Our modular design enables all available storage space to be fully utilised, with robots retrieving bins and delivering them to ports, in a true goods to

person solution. Picking is often 2x faster than manual methods, with significantly reduced errors.”

“With implementation times of 5-6 months and availability in excess of 99%, AutoStore is one of the fastest and most reliable ASRS systems in the market. Once integrated, businesses can continue to operate from existing premises, retain existing workforce and increase overall efficiency, resulting in increased growth and profitability.”

AutoStore has been recognised as a green, low energy solution, which supports sustainability strategies of businesses. Having 25 years’ experience and over 300 systems operating in 27 countries the solution is proven, reliable and cost efficient.

www.autostoresystem.com

AutoStore

KASTO manufactures fully automated bandsaws and circular saws, with manual

and semi-automated options and hacksaws. It also builds industrial warehouses based on automated computer-controlled storage and retrieval of long stock and sheet, which can be either stand-alone or linked with machine tools.

Ernst Wagner, managing director of the German firm’s UK and Ireland subsidiary based in Milton Keynes, quotes a recent International Federation of Robotics report stating that more than four times as many robots per capita are used by manufacturers in Germany than in the UK, which is the only G7 country below the global average for robot density.

It is therefore clear, he reasons, that there an urgent need for UK manufacturing to embrace automation to increase productivity and raise competitiveness.

He says, “Kasto is passionate about manufacturing, and automation is the key to success. Trying to pare back raw material costs will only get you so far. It is in reducing the labour overhead where the real opportunity

lies. From our analyses for customers, a cost-saving solution emerges.

We show them how their investment in automation will pay for itself in typically six to 12 months and increase productivity for many years after that.”

www.kasto.com/en/products/systems/systems-detail-page/s-machines.html

ContactT +44 (0)1908 571590sales@uk.kasto.comwww.kasto.com

Kasto

ICS lead the way in providing Standardised, Modular, Cost-Effective Robotics Platform for

users that may be completely new to Robotic Automation.

The growth of Robotic Automation in the UK’s manufacturing industry will prompt an inevitable rise in new robot users nationwide. A smooth transition to more modernised manufacturing processes can only be achieved by considering the needs of the industry.

Reliability, Ease of use, and Return on Investment are top of the priority list for any company on the verge of modernisation.

Embracing this ethos ICS has continued to build on their recent success, releasing their latest range of standardised Robot cells dubbed the ProCell.

The Procell’s many available options allow it to be configured for a multitude of tasks such as handling, assembly, Vision Inspection, Mig/Tig Welding, Glue application and much more.

The ProCell has changed the way companies are thinking about their automated processes. The ability to quickly and effortlessly reconfigure, repurpose, and reposition the robot cell have been key to the ProCells popularity.

ICS has been working closely with many

manufacturing companies to advise on the best automation solutions available to them.

Concept Trials, Labour Savings, and Throughput Calculations are among many criteria ICS will consider to provide justification towards modern automated manufacturing processes.

info@ICS-Robotics.co.ukwww.ics-robotics.co.uk

ICS Robotics & Automation Ltd

Attending the Robotics and Automation show for the first time was a success for Logistics

Improvement Group (LIG). The best way to tackle automation was a hot topic of conversation at this year’s show and being specialist automation integrators working with clients in the UK and internationally, LiG were ideally placed to advise.

A recent Gartner survey revealed that operational scalability is the top priority for 58% of enterprises around the world. Technology and IT, process automation and robotics will all play a part in enabling business efficiency and increasing capacity for growth.

Making the decision to automate is all about getting the scale right and LIG’s expert team provides support for each step of the journey, from helping the client identify opportunities to producing a robust business case, from training and communications planning through to final testing and review.

For companies seeking to transform their logistics and supply chain operation, LiG offers much

more than straightforward project management. With hands-on business process improvement, transition to an automated operation is easier and faster, saves money and quickly delivers benefits.

LiG has developed a reputation for success and for working openly with clients. If you have a project in mind, call LIG Director Ellis Williams on 07968 308393.

www.logisticsimprovementgroup.com

Automation – Go or no go?

is sponsored by Curtiss Wright – see them on page 15 15

Machining News

UNISIG presents new manufacturing solutions for mould makers UNISIG adds five new models to its proven range of deep drilling and milling centres

With the new range of UNISIG’s USC-M deep drilling and milling centres, mould makers

now have seven powerful and versatile solutions for workpiece diameters of up

to 3,600mm and workpiece weights of up to 30t. All machines combine several processes in one machine: the deep hole drilling and milling on all four sides of a workpiece, while at the same time reducing setup times and increasing accuracy for mould makers. All machines support the high feed rates of modern

indexable gundrill tools.

In addition to the use of gundrill deep hole drilling tools, some models can even support the more effective BTA deep hole drilling tools for the high performance drilling of waterline holes. A CAT50 quill allows you to perform all deep hole drilling

and machining operations within the machine’s working range. The machines are equipped with a 360° rotary work table and a programmable deep drilling and machining spindle. These can be aligned via a pivot axis with 30 degrees down and 15 degrees upwards. The latest Heidenhain TNC 640 CNC controller and Heidenhain motors and drives are used. A full guarding with oil mist extraction completes the equipment.

This machine series has now been extended by 4-6 axis machines, for deep hole drilling with gundrilling tools and milling, with a universal spindle and a short changeover between deep drilling and milling operations for the efficient production of small to medium sized workpieces.

In addition, 5-7 axis machines are available for the use of gundrilling and more efficient BTA deep hole drilling tools, each with a dedicated spindle for deep drilling and milling, to dramatically increase performance for mould makers.

High-end solutions include 7-axis machining centres for highly dynamic motion control, powerful milling spindle with gear reduction and optional pallet changer.

With the model USC-M38, workpieces with a length of up to 2,000mm can be conventionally machined and deep-drilled in one clamping. The larger USC-M50 can handle up to 3,000mm long workpieces.

The machines can be equipped with an automatic tool changer with up to 120 tool positions, a laser tool presetter, workpiece probes, Heidenhain glass scales for increased accuracy, as well as an automatic pallet changer.

Further information on the USC-M series and the complete UNISIG machine program available at: www.unisig.com

Surface Finishing & Grinding News

is sponsored by Wolf Safety – see them on page 816

Torque Expo Review Top 10

Bollhoff Direct is the UK sales

division of Bollhoff GmbH, with over 100,000 DIN and ISO Standard parts available from our German stocks and

delivered direct to our UK customers.

Specializing in the more difficult to obtain parts, such as fine pitch bolts, non-preferred lengths etc. in Steel, Stainless steel, Brass and Nylon, Bollhoff Direct combines the benefits of buying from a major European supplier with the convenience of a local distributor.

Bollhoff Direct now also offers a new range of anti-vibration and locking elements such as Ripp-Lock® and Twin-Lock®.

Ripp-Lock® is available in Hex flange screws, Socket flange screws, Flange nuts and washers in steel Class 100 and in plain, zinc plated or zinc flake finish. Ripp-Lock® washers are also available in stainless steel.

Twin-lock® is our brand of wedge locking washers; however we also stock the Nord-Lock® brand of wedge locking washers too.

Both ranges are available in steel, zinc flake or stainless steel. Using our live computer link, direct into our German stocks, we can quote price and availability immediately. Stock is shipped via UPS 2 / 3 day service.

So call Bollhoff Direct today. We hold the stock so that you don’t have to.

T +44 (0)1902 603934www.bollhoff.com/uk

Bollhoff Direct

Brought to you by Advanced Carbide

Tooling LTD, this innovative design gives a range of Pre-set torque adaptors from

0.1nm to 18nm designed exclusively for the hand tool

market.

What makes the SLOKY brand really stand out most is its interchangeability. As well as

the range of internationally patented adaptors, SLOKY also offer a range of Handles to suit the various Torque adaptors available, and by adopting the standard ¼’ hex socket in the front end of the adaptor, they can take almost any driver bit you need.

Of course, SLOKY also offer their own range of Torx, Torx Plus and Allen key bits, cleverly colour coded with the recommended corresponding Torque adaptor, and with each Sloky adaptor hand assembled and Torque tested to DIN EN ISO 6789 both accuracy and quality are assured.

In use, when the required torque is reached, there is an audible ‘Click’ and whilst the handle can still be turned, drive through the SLOKY Adaptor ceases, preventing any accidental over tightening beyond the set torque.

The same tool can be used for undoing screws as the Adaptors have a 30% higher reverse torque threshold.

Contact our sales team directly on sales@advancedcarbidetooling.co.uk or Tel. 01455 234000

SLOKY: The world smallest Torque wrench adaptor

Torque-Expo 2018 is a leading international industry show that combines fasteners,

fixings, tools and related industries. The internationally focused Torque-Expo took place in Coventry, featuring excellent networking opportunities and the return of the ever-popular Gala Dinner, as well as seminars, the Innovation Zone which displays new and unusual products, and more.

The Ricoh Arena in Coventry debuted Torque-Expo for the first time, on the 3rd of October

2018. The highly famous complex includes a 32,609-seater stadium, 6,000 square metres exhibition hall, a hotel and a casino. Ideally located and suited, The Torque-Expo Coventry was the perfect location for industries key decision makers, senior buyers and importers within stockist and distribution companies looking to renew existing contacts and source new products.

The exhibit enabled Exhibitors to be face-to-face with a targeted audience of wholesalers,

distributors, stockists and manufacturers from both the UK and internationally. In this year’s show, some major notable businesses were featured, among these best named businesses, included: Harrison & Clough, Martyn Price Fasteners, STANLEY, DeWalt, Stahlwille, Brighton Best, Bollhoff, Fabory, FEIN and many more.

This is our pick of the best exhibitors from the show, listed here in alphabetical order: Advanced Carbide and Bollhoff. Further details can be found on this page.

If you would like any more information please visit their website:www.torque-expo.com

New venue for leading international expo

is sponsored by Curtiss Wright – see them on page 15 17

Food Processing & Manufacturing News

In 2018, some of Britain’s biggest supermarkets removed dozens of frozen items from their shelves due to a deadly outbreak of listeria, costing the

market thousands in recalls. But it’s not just bacteria that poses a risk. Here, Chris Johnson, managing director of food grade bearing supplier SMB Bearings explains the importance of food safe lubricants in food processing equipment.

On average, product recalls cost food and drink manufacturers $10 million in direct costs. This does not include immeasurable losses, such as those caused by delayed orders, inventory losses and any profit reduction

caused by reputational damage. Following a recall, manufacturers are required to assemble a crisis team, remove the product from the shelves, investigate the cause and of course, manage the media.

The listeria outbreak was identified by European Food Safety Authority. Due to the high-risk nature listeria, consumers were advised to return the products to retailers immediately, while the factories affected halted production. However, not all recalls are caused by breaches in health and safety in processing. In fact, some manufacturers may be entirely unaware they are putting their consumers at risk through chemical contamination.

According to data from Australia’s Food Standards Agency, chemical contaminants and biotoxins accounted for 55 per cent of product recalls between 2008 and 2017. A potential cause this this contamination is due to unwanted contact with unsafe lubricants and greases used in machinery. Back in 2000, tests of a Heinz baby food product revealed it contained a toxic substance. Further tests clarified that the food has encountered a mineral oil lubricant during the manufacturing process. But, this was almost two decades ago, and a lot has changed regarding regulations and legal requirements since then.

Lubricants used in food processing machinery must be

formulated to be innocuous in taste and odour, and should not pose any kind of health risk to consumers should contamination occur. Currently though, there are currently no pan-European regulations for the formulation of lubricants use in food processing facilities. However, most lubricant manufacturers abide by rules set by the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which lists acceptable lubricant components in its Title 21 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).

In fact, there are now classifications of different food-grade lubricants, including the H1 and H2 standards set by public health and safety organisation, NSF International.

H1 lubricants describe greases that be used in applications where accidental food contact may occur but would be limited to a trace amount. This is the classification usually referred to when opting for a ‘food-grade’ grease. These lubricants can only contain certain bases and thickeners that are pre-defined by the FDA’s regulations.

H2 lubricants on the other hand can be used in a food processing facility if there is no possibility of contact with a food product. While these lubricants should not encounter a consumable product, their ingredients are still heavily restricted by the industry. These lubricants cannot contain any carcinogens, mineral acids or intentionally heavy metals.

Choosing a H1 or H2 lubricant will depend on the application. For example, if the lubrication will be used in a sealed bearing, which should have no direct contact with food, a H2 lubricant could suffice. In fact, SMB Bearings provides a re-lubrication service to clean and refill bearings for the food and beverage industry to ensure they contains the right grease for the job. Stainless steel ball bearings, for example, can be supplied with either H1 or H2 non-toxic lubricants, on request.

Food manufacturing can create a harsh environment for lubricants and greases, and this should also be considered when choosing H1 or H2 lubricants. The lubricant will need to withstand the ingress of water and steam cleaning, not to mention the cleaning chemicals that are often used in food manufacturing. In these instances, it is advisable to speak to an expert in food grade bearings and lubricants, before simply opting for a H1 grease.

Bearings may seem like a small consideration when you consider the mass issue of recent food recalls, but the message is clear. When manufacturing food and beverages, every component in the facility should be chosen to create a risk-free manufacturing environment. This includes the smallest parts, including every bearing and its lubricant.

Product recalls are estimated to cost $10 million in direct costs. While not all product recalls can be anticipated or avoided, investing in food-safe lubricant for your machinery and bearings is a small price to pay to avoid the potential financial turmoil of product contamination. SMB Bearings can advise on choosing the correct lubrication for your food industry bearings. The company’s relubrication service also provides the opportunity to re-lubricate existing bearings that do not meet the industry’s requirements.

For more information, speak to the team directly on +44 (0)1993 842555 or visit www.smbbearings.com

Food-safe lubricants: Avoiding recalls

is sponsored by Wolf Safety – see them on page 818

Premises & Facilities Management News

Lorien Engineering Solutions is supporting the construction of a

new distribution centre for Marks & Spencer (M&S).

As part of its five-year transformation plan, M&S will open a 495,000 sq ft Clothing & Home distribution centre in Welham Green, Hertfordshire, early next year. The site, which was acquired from Tesco, is being upgraded utilising proven technology.

Lorien, a multi-disciplined engineering and project management business, is supporting the construction of the new centre by fitting mezzanine floors for storing boxed and hanging merchandise ready to be picked for customers. It is also providing seven-days-a-week health and safety guidance across all construction work.

Once fitted out and fully tested, the Welham Green centre is expected to start operations early next year. It will serve 150 stores in the South East and

employ more than 500 people.

Phil Colquhoun, Head of Projects at Lorien, said: “The logistics industry is evolving. Companies need supply chains that meet the needs of demanding consumers. We’ve developed our expertise in this area and are well placed to help companies to harness automation technology and design distribution facilities that are fit for the future.”

A spokesperson for M&S said: “The retail industry is fast moving and we must be agile to stay competitive. The new site in Welham will enable us to deliver even better service for our customers.”

Lorien Engineering Solutions, a division of GP Strategies Corporation, is based in Burton-upon-Trent. It specialises in capital projects for food, brewing, drinks, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, logistics and safety compliance.

Lorien’s revenues in the UK and Poland increased by 11% during 2017, and with a best-ever sales performance, it was the most successful year in the firm’s 33-year history.

www.lorienengineering.comwww.gpstrategies.com

Lorien supports distribution centre for M&S

TC Specialist Services bringing an extra sparkle to Poundland stores

TC Facilities Management (TCFM) have secured the

contract to deliver window and external signage cleaning across the country.

The contract being delivered by a team from TC Specialist Services, part of TC Facilities Management (TCFM), started Last month. It provides window

cleaning services to every Poundland store, 4 DCs and their admin offices in the UK along with each Dealz store in the Republic of Ireland.

The team from TC Specialist Services are ensuring that the standards of appearance to the windows and external signage of each site will help to create a welcoming, fresh and engaging environment for Poundland’s customers and suppliers.

The contract utilises innovative software which will help to deliver robust scheduling, monitoring and management reporting to Poundland. Eric Dawson, Business Manager, TC Specialist Services said, “Having previously provided

services to about half of Poundland sites, we are delighted to now be providing our services to their complete portfolio. This award of contract has been as a result of us building relationships over a 5 year period that demonstrates our efficient and proactive response to Poundland’s needs, particularly by our helpdesk, led by Abby Tordoff.”

Steve Wengrow, Divisional Director, TCFM added, “Our team have worked incredibly hard to secure this win and are looking forward to demonstrating to Poundland our innovative approach to delivering a great service.”

In addition to this contract win, TC Specialist Services have also secured an extension to the contract to clean the windows at 678 pubs and restaurants from Mitchells and Butlers’ portfolio which includes Harvester, Ember Inns, Vintage Inns, Toby Carvery and Miller & Carter to name a few. This takes the total number of sites cleaned by TC Specialist Services to 2390.

ContactT +44 (0)1737 814016info@tcfm.co.ukwww.tcfm.co.uk

Steve Wengrow, Divisional Director, TC Facilities Management

TC Facilities Management (TCFM) has created a national charity

partnership to help the British Heart Foundation achieve its aim of beating heartbreak forever. The partnership commenced 6 weeks ago and has set its sights on raising £5K of funds for the charity that conducts ground-breaking research in to heart and circulatory diseases and their causes.

Heart and circulatory diseases kill 1 in 4 people in the UK, causing heart break in every street. Fiona Ellingham, Marketing Manager, TCFM has had a number of family members affected by heart conditions including a niece who required a heart transplant aged just 5 and a brother who thanks to a special pacemaker, his heart is able to maintain

a stable rhythm to keep him alive.

“Speaking with other colleagues at TCFM, it became very apparent that I was not alone in having family members affected and so the partnership was born. At the moment, our colleagues are busy having clear outs at home and filling bags with unwanted items that can be sold in the BHF stores across the country. In the last 6 weeks colleagues from all over the country have collected more than 50 of the 300 (minimum) bags of items we’re aiming for. We have a number of other activities planned through the year that will not only raise funds for BHF but will also train people in how to do CPR, something which saved my brother’s life over 2 years ago.”

Tony Reed, CEO of TCFM said, “We are delighted to have formed this charity partnership with BHF. Having helped them raise funds for their life-saving research through the specialist cleaning services we offer in their Furniture and Electrical stores, we wanted to be able to do something

more by our whole team getting involved. It’s been particularly pleasing to see how some of our customers have committed to get involved with us too. We’re confident that we will be able to meet our TCFM £5K challenge target for this year and are proud to be playing our part in helping the BHF beat heartbreak forever.”

T +44 (0)1737 814016info@tcfm.co.ukwww.tcfm.co.uk

Donations are in the bag for British Heart Foundation

Trime UK has had the environmental qualities of its X-Splash Wash Bay formally recognised

by The Green Organisation and three senior representatives from the Cambridgeshire-based company, and have been invited to a presentation hosted at the Houses of Parliament, where they will receive their award.

The X-Splash Wash Bay is an ecological, flexible cleaning system for plant and machinery which prevents soil pollution and contamination of drains from oil, grease, and similar chemical contaminants.

Trime UK says the X-Splash has four factors that distinguish it from other washing systems; a recycling process so that the water is contained and reused, a filtering system that ensures no contaminates are discharged accidently, overall water usage reduction and a fully portable/relocatable set-up.

Several UK-based hire firms have already installed an X-Splash on their premises. Trime UK offers a delivery, installation and training programme for all purchasers of the X-Splash system and has recently produced a training video, which details all the features and benefits of the X-Splash.

T 01480 220500

Award for Wash Bay

Here at Industrial Process News, we are happy to shine our Facilities Management feature on the much

deserved TC Facilities Management (TCFM) company.

TC Facilities Management is a family-owned business based in Tadworth, Surrey that specialises in providing bespoke solutions for businesses up and down the country, covering everything from Cleaning to Catering to Security.

Working across a cross-sector of industries, TCFM are able to get a deep understanding of the customer’s business, their premises, their own clientele and their needs, and from there implement a tailor-made strategy that will keep their building looking polished inside and out, or ensure top-notch catering or effective security solutions.

For this issue we spoke to Marketing Manager Fiona Ellingham about who can most benefit from their range of services. She explained, “We work with a mix of companies including 3 of the top 5 supermarkets in the UK. Not only that, but we have also worked with the largest online

retailers, automotive companies, and are soon to mobilise a contract for the financial sector. We treat each client individually, listening to their needs and offering customised solutions that address all their existent and potential risks.”

When it comes to cleaning, TCFM provide daily cleaning, sanitation and hygiene, housekeeping, washroom services and much more. Their security service has also been highly lauded; using both manned guarding and state of the art technology, including CCTV, access control, automatic number plate recognition, alarm response and much more.

Better yet, TCFM also offer a consultancy service so that all risks and blind spots can be properly mapped out to create targeted solutions.

As a result of their dedication to providing only the best services, TCFM have built up a number of accolades over the years. Fiona continues, “We

are incredibly pleased to announce that over the past 4 years, we have been consistently ranked among the Top 2% of SIA audited companies in the UK, proving our position as a top provider of security services.”

This year, TCFM welcomed on board a new CEO, Tony Reed, who has created a brand new vision and strategy for the company that will see them prioritising improved engagement with customers, striving for growth, and developing a keener eye for spotting market wide trends and identifying new services they can add to their portfolio.

The team are determined to continue their originally established dedication to core family values, with a focus on Respect, Care, Expertise and Initiative. These four values, championed by every staff member from customer facing members to senior leaders, is what has allowed TCFM to grow into one of the UK’s leading

providers of facilities services.

Fiona explained, “Here at TCFM, we act as more of a ‘silent force.’ We take care of all the cleaning, catering and security, so clients can get on with their actual task at hand whilst still knowing that their company is shining, well provided for, and secure.”

If you would like to find out more about TCFM, don’t hesitate to get in contact using the details below or check out the website for more information.

ContactT +44 (0)1737 814016info@tcfm.co.ukwww.tcfm.co.uk

TCFM: The Silent Force

is sponsored by Curtiss Wright – see them on page 15 19

RCM has an outstanding record in the civil aviation, nuclear power and the defence

industries – so why has it not been more widely used by the manufacturing and process industries in the UK?

The main reasons include: n It takes a great deal of time and resource to undertake

n It does not address many of the issues which affect plant performance in these industries, e.g. changeovers, raw material issues, process control, design limitations, operator procedures,

start-up problems, training issues, spares availability, etc

n The process is complicated and the terminology ‘unfriendly’

n 2-3 day training courses are necessary for all those involved in an RCM programme

n It is not practical unless there are large populations of identical equipment or it is a safety critical industry. GGR, working closely with a number of household-name companies, have developed three derivatives of RCM which address these issues. These are:

n Fast-track RCM which is focused on performance improvement. It addresses all the factors which impact plant performance – not just maintenance. The front end is a very streamlined version of FMEA, and the RCM logic chart is greatly expanded to cover all the other factors which affect performance. The terminology is much more user-friendly and only half a day’s training is required for the participants. It takes about one third the time of conventional RCM to complete an analysis.

n Review RCM is used to optimise existing preventive maintenance routines. Our experience is that a significant percentage of PM routines are not value adding or appropriate as they do not meet the RCM criteria. Reductions in PM workload of 15-30% are typical together with significant improvements in plant performance due to the wider use of condition-based maintenance with corresponding reductions in intrusive maintenance.

n Generic RCM can be used where there are large numbers of similar but not identical equipment. Fast-track RCM is used to develop a

template which is then ‘tailored’ for differences in operating context, duty and technical differences.

These derivatives have been used across a wide range of manufacturing and process industries including chemical, pharmaceutical, food & drink, paper & packaging, mineral processing, steel forgings, medical equipment and electronics.

ContactT 01227 477186www.ggrassociates.co.uk

Maintenance & Engineering News

GGR Associates Limited

Michael Dixey, GGR Associates Ltd

Faraday Predictive will be showing two new products at Maintec 2018 – a portable

equipment health assessor, and a permanently installed continuous on-line monitoring system.

The P100 series Equipment Health Assessor and Energy Monitor is a portable device that gives a snap-shot assessment of equipment health, including mechanical, electrical and operational aspects, using a Model-Based Voltage and Current (MBVI) technique. It also measures energy consumption and identifies a range of energy wasting parameters.

Testing takes just a few minutes at the end of which the device creates an automatic written and graphical report that can be edited and then emailed to whoever you choose.

The S200 permanently installed range provides all the above and more, giving 24/7 monitoring of equipment, and continually forecasting the need for maintenance work up to three months in advance.

ContactT 0333 772 0748

Machine Health Assessor

The unique Roto-Clean 4900 from

Fraser eliminates static electricity and provides more effective cleaning in injection moulding environments, enhancing production efficiency and reducing costs. Incorporating patented technology,

the Roto-Clean blasts pulsating ionised air from single or multiple rotating heads onto the product surface, cleaning complex shapes and crevices with ease.

This makes it ideal for use in highly automated workflows, where items are bulky or need a superior level of cleaning, and particularly when substrates need to be free of dust before moving on to secondary processes such as painting, decoration or labelling.

Complementing Fraser’s traditional range of air guns, air knives and nozzles, the versatile Roto-Clean consists of a dual rotary nozzle driven by a centrifugal control integrated into a circular static eliminator.

Shockless and suitable for tough industrial processes, the compact Roto-Clean is available in diameters of 112mm or 178mm and can be mounted onto a robotic arm or fixed array over a conveyor to assure a dust-free product that won’t re-attract contaminants.

Using less air delivered at a lower pressure than air knives but at a greater intensity of ions per cubic centimetre, the Roto-Clean reduces compressed air costs whilst ensuring higher quality output with less rework.

T +44 (0)1398 331114sales@fraser-antistatic.co.ukwww.fraser-antistatic.com

Static neutralisation & cleaning – the Roto-Clean 4900

is sponsored by Wolf Safety – see them on page 820

Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning News

Print & Packaging News

Samuel Grant Packaging, the North’s largest packaging distributor, have

become the UK arm of PackSynergy, a network of 17 leading European packaging materials distributors. Joining the group of equally innovative and entrepreneurial companies will give Samuel Grant Packaging the opportunity to mitigate the risk of supplier challenges that could be caused by Brexit, expand their distribution network further into Europe, and swap best practice with their European counterparts.

The group meet regularly to discuss trends and innovations in the world of industrial packaging, to share their knowledge and expertise in a collaborative way. They are also able to pool their experiences in warehouse and logistics management.

“At a time when the UK is reducing its integration with the EU, it is essential for our business to keep at the forefront of innovation,” says Andrew Grant, Managing Director. “This network allows us to manage the risk of supply problems from a poor Brexit deal, especially for our UK customers with European operations.”

The key focus for current discussions is the pressure against the industry to reduce plastic use, and move towards biodegradable packaging, therefore helping customers to achieve their environmental

goals, and in turn protect the marine environment, without compromising on quality or efficiency of service.

“This is an enormous move for Samuel Grant Packaging,” continues Andrew Grant. “As part of this network we are as strong on a European stage as any of our global competitors. It allows us to retain all of the agility and innovation of mid-sized companies whilst gaining the best of innovation and cooperation.”

“The UK is a very important market and the Samuel Grant Group is a heavyweight and a regional market leader within the UK,” states Thomas A. Baur, CEO of PackSynergy. “We are absolutely delighted to welcoming Samuel Grant as a member of the PackSynergy network and we are convinced that it is a win-win situation for both, network partners and customers”

T 0113 270 7221www.samuelgrant.co.uk

Samuel Grant to combat Brexit and European challenges through PackSynergy

The Matelex DNI is a next generation, innovative leak

detection system for refrigeration installations, sold in the UK by Climalife. It offers a reliable solution that fulfils Article 5 of F-Gas Regulation No EU 517/2014, to install continuous leak detection for installations containing more than 500 Tonnes

of CO2 equivalent. It also enables a reduction in leak check frequency in systems with less charge.

Many leak detection systems monitor the liquid level in the receiver and send out an alarm when the level gets below a pre-defined point. Matelex takes this concept a stage further, taking measurements every two to three seconds; it learns how the system works and what levels should be expected in the receiver at a given point. It can then accurately predict when a system is starting to lose some of its charge, enabling an engineer to react quicker when a leak is detected.

The DNI also offers two complementary modules. The Energy Module calculates the energy consumption of different components and calculates the installations actual COP, whilst the Floating HP Module helps save energy. Sentinelle, the online interface for DNI management, is a complete monitoring and traceability tool for refrigeration installations.

When used in Europe across a number of supermarkets and hypermarkets, the DNI has shown a saving of up to 79% in refrigerant.

Full product specifications and advice are available from Climalife UK.

www.climalife.co.uk www.matelex.fr/en/

Matelex – Refrigerant leak detection solution

Grotech Production Ltd mixes and

packs agrochemical and general chemical products. We handle both liquid and dry products and,

depending on the nature of the product, we can process 2-10 tonnes per day using our experienced staff of thirty and our purpose-built factory and warehouse at Goole in East Yorkshire.

We mix and pack liquids and solids to meet

customer needs and we support customers in the development of their formulations and packaging as well as the production processes to meet their sales requirements.

Liquid formulations include aqueous recipes to customers’ specification or bespoke designs against a client brief. Special emulsified suspensions are a particular forte.

Solid formulations include powder blends, including the dispersion of liquids, as well as granule impregnation or coating. We have a range of different

dry blending equipment as well as sieving and pilot units.

Our production is supported by a control and development laboratory equipped with an NIR spectrometer, tensiometer and as well as conventional pH, density and viscometry equipment.

These facilities are all available to support the ongoing manufacturing operations and the development of solutions for customers’ needs. We have experience with, viscosity modifiers, powder flow improvement, wettable powders, dye solutions

and the development of hard surface cleaners and tyre sealants.

We have experience with export shipments both large and small and we can provide a fulfilment service for selected clients.

We are members of the BCMPA, certified by the Soil Association for the production of their certified products and our quality management system is approved to ISO 9001:2015.

T 01405 761746

Grotech help other businesses to save money and improve their performance

is sponsored by Curtiss Wright – see them on page 15 21

Fastenings & Adhesives News

Pumps, Valves & Flow Control News

Hydra-Cell High Pressure Coolant Pumps from

Wanner are claimed to be the most energy efficient, machine tool coolant pumps available, measured at upwards of 80%, pump shaft to hydraulic power.

Being true positive displacement pumps, they maintain this exceptional efficiency virtually irrespective of coolant viscosity and system pressure whereas screw and gear pumps, that rely on the pumped coolant for internal sealing, suffer a marked fall-off in efficiency as system pressure increases or fluid viscosity is reduced.

With a Hydra-Cell pump, flow rate is directly proportional to input shaft speed, enabling a variety of accurate control options to be employed.

Of great benefit in metalworking is Hydra-Cell’s ability to handle fines entrained in the coolant that can cause major wear problems in pumps with dynamic seals, have bearings immersed in the pumped coolant or have close internal tolerances to maintain efficiency. With no close internal tolerances, no dynamic seals and no bearings immersed in the coolant, Hydra-Cell pumps are not prone to wear, minimising the need for maintenance and guaranteeing efficiency over a long life.

With high pumping efficiency, long service life and minimal maintenance requirement, Hydra-Cell seal-less, coolant pumps can truly be considered to be the high pressure coolant solution with lowest cost of ownership.

www.hydra-cell.eu/machinetool

High pressure coolant efficiency

A new TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) calculator offers proof that Bredel hose pumps can save time, money and

materials in challenging, abrasive fluid handling applications.

Developed by Bredel, a brand of Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Group, the new Bredel TCO calculator supports existing users and new customers in the hose pump specification process – thereby ensuring ‘right pump, right application’.

It also offers business-critical insight into the long-term cost benefits of Bredel technology when compared with air operated double diaphragm and progressive cavity (AODD and PC) pump types.

Designed for use on a mobile device, the Bredel TCO calculator is easy to operate. Users simply enter the necessary parameters including the flow rate and pressure;

Once the essential information is entered, the user will be given a direct comparison to show which model and size of Bredel pump will deliver optimal pumping and cost savings.

Commenting on the launch of the Bredel TCO calculator, Rolf Sterken, Managing Director at Bredel said: “Handling abrasive fluids is challenging for most pumps because particles in the fluid can quickly wear the pump components – and the wrong choice of pump can result in downtime, lost production

revenue and high maintenance costs. Our new tool removes this issue.”

Established process benefitsBredel hose pumps offer a host of benefits over other pump types: they have no valves or seals to leak, clog or replace and provide flow rates to 108,000 litres/hour (475 USGPM) and pressures to 16bar (232psi). They are capable of pumping viscous and abrasive slurries, pastes and sludge, with up to 80% solids in suspension. In addition, a simple hose change takes only minutes and can be performed on site.

www.wmftg.com

Long-term cost benefits of Bredel hose pumps

Robnor ResinLab launches its safest resins yet Robnor ResinLab,

leading formulator of epoxy and polyurethane resin systems, has today announced the launch of two safety-focused resins.

New for 2017, GR100 and GR200 are both non-hazardous and have hazard free labelling, making them the safest resins ever manufactured by the formulator.

Free from Isocyanate or Plasticiser, Robnor ResinLab materials GR100 and GR200 have been designed as an alternative option to polyurethanes, for applications such as potting, encapsulation and cable jointing. Easy to mix and pour, GR100 and GR200 provide good electrical resistance and excellent water resistance – offering a quarter the absorption time over the same exposure time. With a cure temperature of just 0˚, GR100 and GR200 offer good low temperature flexibility, curing at a much lower point than many competing epoxies and polyurethanes.

Both new products have fast gel and demould times – GR200 cures after only 1 hour while GR100 has a cure time of 3 hours. Furthermore, these materials have the additional benefit of curing without exotherm, meaning that curing is possible in thick or thin sections. GR100 is the softer of the two materials with a hardness of A10, compared to GR200 with a shore classification of A30–35.

Robnor ResinLab GR100 and 200 are available to order now and can be purchased in bulk, as a twin pack or as a kit. To make an enquiry about either of these products please email info@robnor.co.uk.

For more information, visit our website: www.robnor-resinlab.com

is sponsored by Wolf Safety – see them on page 822

RTITB has launched an updated Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) training course to ensure

operators have the skills and knowledge to work safely and efficiently at height.

The Accrediting Bodies Association (ABA) categorises MEWPs, sometimes referred to as cherry pickers or access platforms, into 4 main groups; 1a, 1b, 3a and 3b, which classify the different capabilities of the machines. Machines can differ significantly in weight, height, dimension and capacity, and the operating environment can also vary significantly.

“For both safety and compliance, employers must ensure that operators undergo suitable and sufficient training for the machine type they are required to operate so we’ve re-developed this course to cover a wide range of vehicle mounted, scissor, telescopic and articulated machines plus the

Crown Wave range,” says Laura Nelson, Managing Director for RTITB.

“Other MEWP courses cover multiple machines in a short space of time,” Laura continues. “Our courses are slightly longer but focus on ensuring the trainee gets sufficient time to practise using the work platform so that they leave the course proficient in the use of a MEWP and ready to go on to Specific and Familiarisation training with their employer.” The course includes an introduction to the machinery and its controls, machine stability, setting up the working area and working with site conditions. Environmental awareness, safe use of hydraulic systems, weight assessment, emergency actions and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are also covered.

“As MEWPs are commonly hired in for one-off tasks, pre-use inspections during the period of hire period

are critical for safety, so the course covers this important area, plus how to prepare and secure the machine for transport,” says Laura.

The training can be delivered at an RTITB accredited training centre in the UK, Ireland and Gulf, or by qualified in-house Instructors by purchasing the ‘Instructor Guide for Mobile Elevating Work

Platforms’. As with all RTITB trainers’ guides it includes both an extensive printed manual and USB stick containing helpful resources, theory test papers and a PowerPoint presentation so accredited organisations can be confident that Instructors are supported with everything they need to deliver compliant training.

The Instructors guide can be tailored for use with novices and experienced (but untrained) candidates, as well as for refresher or conversion training. Regardless, the new guide has been designed to ensure Instructors can deliver a thorough and detailed course which places the candidate at the heart of the training. Using different learning methods such as quizzes and discussions, to make learning as engaging and beneficial as possible for operators.

Laura says “MEWP operator training is needed for legal compliance, but also to ensure operators can keep themselves and their colleagues safe. This moral obligation will often supersede the legal demands for responsible employers.”

The new RTITB ‘Instructor Guide for Mobile Elevating Work Platforms’ is available now from www.rtitb.co.uk/assist/training-documents.html

For more information, visit www.rtitb.co.uk or call 01952 520203

Handling, Storage & Logistics News

New ’MEWP’ operator training course for safe working at height

Workplace safety innovators, A-SAFE, have been recognised for their achievements in export at

the annual TMMX Awards delivered by leading industry publication The Manufacturer in association with the Institute of Mechanical Engineers.

“We’re delighted to receive recognition of our passion for international trade. We’re very much a local company; a family-run business with a commitment to our local area and local community. However, with more than 76% of our sales being sold around the world, it is clear that our horizons are far-reaching” says Co-Owner James Smith.

Since 1984 – when the company was founded – the international community has played a big part in A-SAFE’s success. With 16 international subsidiaries and 40 trusted partner resellers across the globe the company’s commitment to global trade is evident. “Whilst at our heart we are a proud Yorkshire manufacturer, this award epitomises our focus on exploring wider markets to ensure business success; breaking down the barriers (no pun intended) imposed by the global recession of 10 years ago, and the uncertainty posed by Brexit” adds Co-Owner Luke Smith.

The TMMX awards are recognised as having possibly the most rigorous judging process. It is not all about a nomination form; shortlisted entries are followed up with a series of judging panels where the business is put through its paces by a team of industry experts. Neither is it all about a trophy; participating in the process opens up the opportunity for entrants to gain valuable business

improvement advice and industry-wide recognition for an organisations’ achievements, employees and business practice.

Being open to learn and develop is key to A-SAFE. Their constant innovation and product development from their state-of-the-art Design Centre drives the business forward. It is obvious that A-SAFE is excited for the future and the company us keen to pass on their enthusiasm and experience to others in their region, their country, and around the world.

ContactT 01422 331133www.asafe.comsales@asafe.com

Prestigious Manufacturing Award win for West Yorkshire manufacturer

Automated storage and retrieval is key in storing a wide range of parts of different size and

weights. Automation offers benefits such as the goods-to-person principle, which is not only labour-saving and ergonomically designed but delivers higher production efficiencies. In addition to this, businesses need highly flexible processes so that new product lines can be freely brought to market.

Kardex Shuttle XP 1000 delivers storage of up to 1,000 kg per tray (internal tray size up to 4050mm wide and 864mm deep). This size is also suitable

as a pallet shelf. The model can store side-by-side pallets which can be loaded/unloaded with a forklift with the use of the tray extraction system. There is also an integrated hoisting crane option. This addition can significantly improve productivity and save footprint without the need for another lifting device.

To keep control of the cost of the machine, Shuttle trays of different load-bearing capacities can be used within a single machine allowing the simultaneous handling of heavy storage items and

large quantities of small parts.

Kardex Shuttle XP vertical lift systems come in a variety of models. The combination of flexible storage strategies and safety makes the Shuttle XP series a unique storage solution.

You can learn more about the Shuttle XP series by visiting our website www.kardex-remstar.co.uk or visit us at this year’s Southern Manufacturing & Electronics event on stand G255.

Store light to heavy loads in one machine

Liverpool-based industrial load system specialists, Joloda International, has acquired the service

division of Sovex for an undisclosed sum, creating Joloda Conveyor Services and becoming one of the largest aftercare providers for conveyor and materials handling products in the UK.

As an established player in the design and manufacture of specialist loading systems, the next phase of Joloda International’s growth strategy was to expand its service and maintenance capabilities and

enhance the aftersales service for its customers.

The acquisition expands the team of engineers, who will provide planned preventative maintenance, on-demand callouts and spare parts to more than 400 customers nationwide – including some of the largest warehouse and distribution facilities in the country.

Sovex has been manufacturing loading and unloading modules and components since 2002 and was itself taken over by German conveyor specialists Transnorm Group in 2015. When Transnorm set out to find a way to facilitate improved maintenance and servicing across Sovex’s UK network, Joloda International provided the ideal solution.

Existing Joloda and Sovex customers will now benefit from Joloda Conveyor Services’ expanded capabilities, offering faster response times thanks to the team’s increased footprint, improved technical knowledge and experience from the company’s combined team of engineers.

T +44 (0)151 427 8954 https://joloda.com/

Joloda International acquires service arm of Sovex to become one of the largest service providers in the sector

is sponsored by Curtiss Wright – see them on page 15 23

Demolition Services

Control Equipment

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Controls

Integrated Systems

Visit: www.pts-uk.com or contact:01342 410758, fax: 01342 311464 or email: sales@pts-uk.com

• Kawasaki Robotics (UK) Ltd is the UK robotics division of Kawasaki Heavy Industries Japan.

• Kawasaki Robotics (UK) Ltd is the UK robotics division of Kawasaki Heavy Industries Japan.

• Over 2,300 machines are now operating in a wide range of industries and applications throughout the UK.

robotics.kawasaki.com

Soldering Systems

Europe’s most experienced Electron Beam Welding Specialist, capable of carrying

out Precision Machining, EB Welding, TIG Welding & Non-destructive testing

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Engineering

Total Clean is a commercial contract cleaning company with 30 years’ experience in delivering expert services to a wide range of customers in

London and across the UK.

0207 935 5088enquiries@totalclean.co.uk

www.totalclean.co.uk

Interconnection Solutions

Measurement & Control

DDS a fast growing sensor manufacture. Founded by Daniel Davies in 2011, now producing well over 500,000 units per year. Our manufacturing site is located in Fareham on the south coast of the UK.

The goal from the start is to bring sensors of high quality and consistent performance at competitive prices to the market place. We achieve this by investing in new technologies and manufacturing equipment, and designing sensors from the start as simple to manufacture as possible while not sacrificing on performance.

T +44 (0)2392 381249info@ddscientific.comwww.ddscientific.com

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For this issue of Industrial Process News, we are pleased to present Datasound Laboratories with our esteemed Industrial

Computing Company of the Month profile as a result of their outstanding array of solutions.

Datasound Laboratories was first set up back in 1991, based in a business technology park in Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire. Here, the company supply a wide range of Panel PCs, Industrial PCs, SBCs and many other innovative off-the-shelf and customised industry products.

Over the past two decades, the company have managed to build up a reputation as a leading specialist of embedded and industrial computing solutions, distributing on behalf of world renowned Taiwanese manufacturers including ICOP and Aplex Technology. DSL themselves specialise in the design of solutions, commonly featuring x86 and ARM architecture processors down to microcontroller based solutions.

The company is evenly split amongst its

specialisms, with distribution and design having their own key teams that operate across the whole of the UK, whether it’s supplying or providing bespoke design services. The company boast an excellent in-house design team that works with clients, both large and small, to provide a cost-effective product with a rapid turnaround.

Clients are also appointed a dedicated technical account contact that specialises in that particular client’s field. Better yet, should a client need an additional design team member, a collaborative partner, or an outsourced design service, the DSL design team can fill any role in order to assist with the creation of the perfect solution.

Bespoke design is just one of the many reasons DSL have managed to catapult to the top of the industry, particularly with the revolution of IoT now forming the basis of most client design projects. For this issue we spoke to the new Managing Director Rory Dear, who, after 15 years of service fully took over the business in early 2018.

He explained, “As opposed to our competitors, who by and large offer off the shelf products, we are able to provide a full turnkey service, from design conception through to production, approval and distribution. In addition, all of our products are fully customisable in order to suit client needs. One

of the best things we offer is our unique 5 years warranty and lifetime project support, with our engineering team on standby to assist with any issues. All aspects of customer service are critically important to us, and we’re very proud of our reliable delivery too.”

Their Panel PCs are among their most highly sought after solutions, with a wide range of products available. Panel PC’s are used in motherboards and electrical components, most typically for use in touch screens or interactive devices. A key feature in the world of Industry 4.0, DSL’s many different Panel PCs have a range of different benefits between them, such as Intel Atom Quad Cores, ARM® technology, stainless steel fronts, high brightness and much more.

With never ending innovation, DSL’s latest launch includes the Virtual SoM, a highly advanced alternative to System-On-Module (SoM) design. Offering far faster, more cost-effective and non-complex interfaces, the Virtual SoM is an extension of the Functional Building Block design concept,

allowing designers to bring their ideas to life with incredibly easy to utilise software.

Moving into the future, Rory has big plans for the company. The new Managing Director, has already completed an update of their entire internal software system, optimising efficiency for staff and customers. Next on the agenda is a redesign of the website to better reflect their wide range of services.

If you would like to find out more about Datasound Laboratories and what they can do for your project, be sure to get in contact using the details below. More information is also available on the website.

ContactT 01462 675530www.dsl-ltd.co.uk

Specialist Valves Company of the Month

Industrial Computing Company of the Month

Within this issue, we are featuring Avalco Ltd as a profiler for Specialist Valves Company of the Month. Avalco

Ltd supplies a comprehensive range of solenoid valves to all types of industry throughout the UK. Based in Nuneaton and first established in 1996, Avalco has been in association with their manufacturer ODE Srl from the beginning, enabling the company to go from strength to strength.

ODE Srl design and produces complete lines of solenoid valves for machine and plant manufacturers, and through their designs they offer customised bespoke solutions in accordance to their fundamental principles of high quality, adaptability, product reliability and excellent after-sales service.

Avalco is proud of its Italian background and

their founder and Managing Director, Brian Ross states that, “Avalco focuses on its Italian working principles and we are proud to work with ODE Srl, a specialist within Italian manufacturing of solenoid valves. The ethos that we adhere to throughout our operation is to meet specific requirements of our customers, with a friendly efficient approach. We take pride in excelling in everything we do, so that our customers can too.”

Manufacturer ODE Srl is one of the largest European manufacturers of solenoid valves. Ever expanding and developing, ODE has recently made further investment in new plant and equipment to accommodate the worldwide demand for their products. ODE Srl’s products are renowned for reliability as all valves and coils are 100% tested. ODE SRL, are also ISO9001:2008, ISO 14001 and 18001:2007 certified.

With an extremely diverse customer range, Avalco produces an adaptable service for a range of industries. Through their range of products, Avalco

delivers a variety of solenoid valves through their selection of chemical, steam, air, water and vending products.

Clearly driven by the satisfaction of the customer, Avalco also provide a next day delivery service, in most circumstances, from their extensive range, completely manufactured in Italy by ODE Srl.

A few notable highlights for Avalco within the last couple of years, has been the expansion of their product range. ODE has recently developed

upon their range of servo-assisted solenoid valves, constantly updating and producing new products. They adapted to be able to supply 2 1/2” and 3” servo-assisted valves for use up to 5 bar and up to 15 bar with the high pressure versions.

In addition to their new developments, in February this year, Avalco was able to move to their new premises for their offices and warehouse. With this move of location, it has enabled Avalco to carry much larger quantities of stock.

Developing upon their success, Avalco are now promoting a note-worthy state-of-the-art product, their wireless system of valve controlling. With this new technology, industrial wireless devices produce an optimization process for production and give the consumer further freedom with the valve control and an additional hassle-free approach to cables/data collecting.

For any further information on the company’s product range and service please feel free to visit their website, or to speak to them directly please call the number stated below.

ContactT 024 7635 0958www.avalco.co.uk

Specialist Valves

Datasound Laboratories: Leading the UK industry in design and distribution