Machine Building

White paper: is it better to build or buy linear actuators?

This White Paper from Misumi considers the various options available to engineers sourcing a single-axis linear actuator and discusses whether it is better to build a unit from discrete components or buy one ready-assembled.

11th December 2007

Change to EN 1088 tightens guard interlocking requirements

Kevin Ives, a consultant with Pilz Automation Technology, explains the new addition to EN 1088 that makes important recommendations relating to the specification and installation of guard interlocks.

2nd December 2007

Beware of changing regulations for electrical equipment

Terry Spriggs, a product specialist at Hylec-APL, explains why designers operating in the industrial sector should take note of changes to European regulations covering domestic appliances.

22nd November 2007

How the EU can lead the way on climate change

Jeff Whiting, Energy Spokesman for Mitsubishi Electric, believes that recent developments mean the EU will lead the way on climate change and reap major benefits.

15th November 2007

An introduction to hazardous areas, ATEX and IECEx

This article from Kopex International explains the different types of hazardous areas, the European ATEX Directive and the similar international IECEx scheme.

13th November 2007

Looking ahead to the new Machinery Directive

TRL Compliance offers some pointers towards the forthcoming changes to the European Machinery Directive.

11th November 2007

Beware of the pitfalls of buying grey market bearings

Schaeffler (UK) Ltd is concerned that the grey market for bearings is putting distributors and end users at risk from breakdowns, litigation and void warranties.

8th November 2007

How to build a stepper motor control system

This article from National Instruments explains how a stepper motor control system can be built in just three easy steps.

8th November 2007

Forecasting the future of machine-to-machine communication

This article from Lantronix looks at what is needed to bring about wider acceptance of machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, and how M2M will evolve in the not-too-distant future.

19th October 2007

Why machines should have built-in condition monitoring

Jon Severn, Editor of MachineBuilding.net, outlines the arguments in favour of installing condition monitoring equipment on new machinery - as well as the benefits of retrofitting such systems.

11th October 2007