Machine Building

HIMA assesses new cyberthreat after safety controller hack

In late 2017 the ICS cybersecurity specialist Dragos announced that a safety controller (SIS) of a HIMA competitor in a process facility in the Middle East had been targeted by a new malware attack and successfully hacked. The SIS was compromised, leading to a shutdown of the facility. The professional execution of the attack again clearly shows that facility operators need to take the subject of cybersecurity very seriously. HIMA therefore offers to provide expert consulting on the subject of cybersecurity in safety-critical systems.

12th January 2018

Counterfeit bearings puts end users and distributors at risk

The best way for buyers to protect themselves and their customers from counterfeit bearings is purchasing only from a reliable source - such as direct from the manufacturer or through a certified distributor, says Martin Ryan, Industrial Distribution Director for Schaeffler UK.

9th January 2018

Precise flow control for efficient, accurate pneumatic conveying

Pneumatic conveying provides an effective, enclosed transport system for manufacturing, handling and processing applications where small particles, grains, pellets or powders are required. These flexible transport systems offer a number of handling advantages over more conventional mechanical systems, as well as being able to deliver precision flow control.

28th December 2017

How to choose an automation partner

Machine builders are increasingly thinking of their components suppliers as project partners and making extensive use of their system design and support capabilities. Derek Jones of Lenze UK offers some advice on how to select an automation partner.

21st December 2017

Machine building, data, the IIoT and Industry 4.0

Dave Randall, Business Development Manager at Lenze UK, explains why machine builders and end users need to start thinking about the future by making sure the Industrial Internet of Things, Industry 4.0, networking and big data are built into machines and components from the outset for the best results.

21st December 2017

Top-three requirements for machine control systems

David Randall, Business Development Manager at Lenze UK, offers three key requirements for modern industrial control systems as seen from the viewpoint of machine builders and OEMs.

21st December 2017

How to adopt modularisation in the Industry 4.0 era

Neil Beaumont of Lenze discusses the challenges and offers some solutions for integration and communications when adopting modularisation, particularly in the context of Industry 4.0.

21st December 2017

Burkert: managing a culture of innovation

Many businesses dream of being led by innovation, yet struggle to generate the revenues that only large-scale manufacturing can deliver. Bürkert Fluid Control Systems appears to have achieved both, so how is a genuine culture of innovation balanced by commercial pressures? In a candid interview Bürkert CEO Heribert Rohrbeck explains his outlook and how a "˜techie's' take on the world can make for good business"¦

1st December 2017

Bolt-on strain gauge sensors are versatile and cost-effective

Bolt-on strain gauge sensors are extremely versatile for industrial applications. The following article outlines some of the diverse applications for which these sensors are suitable.

28th November 2017

Using 2D and 3D sensing technologies to safeguard machines

Compared with fixed and movable machine guards, some applications can benefit considerably from two- and three-dimensional safety sensors, with both optical and pressure-sensitive types of sensor having roles to play.

24th November 2017