It has been reported that around 90 per cent of data generated in a manufacturing plant typically doesn't get used to build insights that can really help the business. Here, Beth Ragdale, product manager at automation specialist Beckhoff UK, explains the value of consolidating production line data.

Engineers may overlook fastener choice when designing their products, but fasteners are a key product design consideration, as the experts at Southco explain.

Plug and play connectorisation makes flexible manufacturing possible as machines can be disconnected and reconnected quickly, without the need for skilled labour and with no risk of miswiring. The experts at HARTING explain.

Ethernet is being deployed across more and more areas of industry and is the connecting element for both IT and OT (Operational Technology). HARTING is constantly developing and refining its Industrial Ethernet connectivity range so customers can implement robust and reliable networks for industrial use.

The past year and a half posed significant challenges for every aspect of the supply chain. As we gradually return to a state of normalcy, Stephen Hayes, managing director of Beckhoff UK, shares some of the trends that he foresees in 2024.

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

Motors, drives and PLCs are all key enablers for success when it comes to boosting machine performance, as Johann Arndt, global product line manager for automation at ABB Drives, explains.

Today, leading machine builders recognise that their machines are platforms for continuous value creation. Gradually we are leaving the era of ‘build, sell, and forget’ behind us, giving rise to a new imperative – to prioritise after-sales services. Machine connectivity is the foundation of this new imperative, as the experts at IXON explain.

The world of manufacturing continues to become ever more competitive as businesses strive to address multiple challenges such as maintaining their supply chain, mitigating rising energy costs, improving productivity, whilst enhancing their environmental credentials. The experts at Stäubli explain how effective training with robots can help deliver enhanced productivity.

Design improvements and data tools were two elements discussed during the keynote presentation of the OEM Leader to Leader Summit during Automation Fair 2023 as a means to tackle supply chain disruption.