Machine Building

What are the requirements for machinery CE marking plates?

Owen Kennedy of nameplates365.co.uk explains the requirements relating to CE plates affixed to machinery to indicate compliance with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC.

11th March 2016

Increased connectivity with digital twins

Until the beginning of the 21st century, the only way to get information about the status of operating industrial equipment was to inspect it. Today, increased computing power and connectivity are making it possible to virtualise this task by creating and maintaining a digital twin of anything from electric motors to PLC systems. The concept doesn't stop at industrial facilities. It's predicted that by 2018, we will begin to see the first stages of digital twins for entire cities being developed. Here Jonathan Wilkins, marketing director of European Automation explains the concept of digital twins and the impact it will have on industry.

10th March 2016

Root cause analysis benefits end users and machine designers

A robust root cause analysis (RCA) process is an essential tool for any effective reliability or maintenance improvement program. As Phil Burge, Country Communication Manager at SKF, explains, it can provide useful insights for machine designers too.

8th March 2016

The fight against food contamination: metal detectors vs. X-ray

Sarah Ketchin, Managing Director at Fortress Technology, tackles the equipment options in the most widespread food and packaging application scenarios, cuts through the confusion on the pros and pitfalls of metal detectors versus X-ray, and highlights the importance of arming yourself with all of the facts to make an informed decision based upon the most prevalent contaminant risks.

8th March 2016

The delicate balance of costs versus productivity

European manufacturers are estimated to spend over EUR400 billion every year on maintenance activities. Studies show that about 30 per cent of failed machinery can be repaired at half the cost of buying replacements, which suggests a potential 15 per cent saving. John Mitchell, business development manager at CP Automation, discusses the issues that stop manufacturers cutting costs and improving productivity - the essence of lean manufacturing.

3rd March 2016

When to use red laser and blue laser displacement sensors

This article from Micro-Epsilon explains how to decide when to use red laser and blue laser displacement sensors to ensure measurements are accurate, reliable and cost-effective.

2nd March 2016

Lockout/tagout: prevent 15-20 per cent of workplace accidents

Lockout/Tagout can save lives during machine maintenance and interventions in production facilities. Some 15-20 per cent of workplace accidents can be avoided with Lockout/Tagout, which is why the procedure should be part of any ambitious go-for-zero programme that bans accidents from the workplace.

1st March 2016

How to specify simple, reliable and adaptable screw jacks

Screw jacks are often the right approach for precise linear motion and positioning applications; they can even be supplied as a bespoke system complete with their own dedicated control system for particular applications. However, without proper consideration during the specification stage, it's possible to miss some of the design advantages that the latest technology offers. Ian Carr, Managing Director of Drive Lines, explains the key considerations that should be made when specifying screw jacks.

26th February 2016

Sensors and systems for intralogistics

Intralogistics require a variety of different sensors, all optimized to suit the different operating requirements. This article looks at some of the applications in this sector and some products that meet the needs - all of which are available from a single source.

24th February 2016

Precise thickness measurement using laser displacement sensors

If measurements from two non-contact laser displacement sensors are evaluated together, the thickness of an object can be determined. However, the accuracy of thickness measurements is determined by a number of important factors and not just linearity, says Chris Jones, Managing Director at Micro-Epsilon UK.

24th February 2016