Machine Building

ESAB Rebel is a game-changer for welding services company

ESAB has recently introduced a 1.0mm version of its FILARC PZ6113 flux-cored arc welding (FCAW) wire. Combining this smaller wire with the Rebel multi-process machine creates new opportunities for welding thinner plate. Bob Evans of RW Evans Welding Services has described the pairing as a "˜game changer' for his business because it enables him to use MIG welding instead of MMA (manual metal arc) welding for many fabrications, so he can improve his productivity and profit margins while still achieving high-quality welds.

1st July 2019

Automation innovation in cheesemaking

Dewlay Cheesemakers has commissioned a new automation system to help apply the expertise of its finest cheesemakers to a wider range of cheeses. The challenge was to introduce new varieties while continuing to deliver exceptional batch quality and consistency. Tritec Developments Ltd has provided a solution incorporating hardware from Mitsubishi Electric to develop an advanced tracking and monitoring system to help supervise and manage the individual processes.

1st July 2019

Thermal imaging identifies freezer insulation faults

As important as they are for storing quantities of foodstuffs, commercial walk-in freezers use a lot of energy. So, it is imperative that this consumption is kept to a minimum by ensuring the temperature inside the freezer is not compromised by any breach in the freezer's insulation.

27th June 2019

Additive manufacturing improves speed and cuts costs

After investing in a Renishaw AM 400 additive manufacturing (AM) system, Frazer-Nash has produced a novel fastener for its customer, Kwikbolt, for use during aircraft assembly. The new component can be made quicker and at a lower cost when compared with traditional subtractive machining methods.

27th June 2019

NUM Flexium+ CNC: micron-level accuracy on laser cutting machine

In collaboration with NUM Taiwan, the Taiwanese laser machine manufacturer Legend Laser, Inc., has developed a multi-axis system for the precision cutting of thin sheet metal parts. Based on NUM's latest-generation Flexium+ CNC platform, the system combines high dynamic performance linear motors with a pulsed fibre laser, and is expressly designed for 24/7 operation in a standard production environment.

13th June 2019

Laser profile sensors measure conductor rail wear, track gauge

In the railway industry, an important aspect is the aftermarket rail inspection for wear monitoring, recording and track bed geometry. Donfabs & Consillia Ltd provides complete systems for railway monitoring, producing a full range of equipment for the measurement of a wide variety of track parameters. The company's product portfolio covers everything from unattended units for recording ride comfort, through to track parameter measurement together with vehicles for rail inspection and maintenance.

11th June 2019

Elecolor machine tool components selected by Top Automazioni

The Elesa Elecolor programme offers corporate compatibility for machine tools and other OEM machinery. For example, Top Automazioni, a mechanical company based in Poggio Torriana (Rimini - Italy), is today the most innovative company in Italy in the production of bar feeders. To assist them in maintaining this leadership Top Automazioni have chosen a selection of Elesa standard components with yellow inserts to represent its corporate colour, as well as to improve the aesthetics of its range of machines.

10th June 2019

Low-maintenance bearings for rail vehicle door systems

In rail passenger vehicles and freight cars, door systems are complex sub-systems that are subject to high loads and stresses. Door components such as bearings therefore need to be reliable to ensure long maintenance intervals. Schaeffler offers a wide range of rotary and linear bearings for door systems that meet all of these high requirements.

10th June 2019

Integrated water quality monitoring for water treatment service

Providing high-quality water supplies is an essential service delivered by municipal authorities and utility companies around the world. Maintaining water quality requires constant monitoring and testing to ensure accurate measurements are being taken. Traditionally this has involved time-consuming calibration and maintenance. A shire council in New South Wales, Australia, however, has decided to do things differently and turned to Bürkert Fluid Control Systems for an automated precision monitoring system that saves them time and money.

6th June 2019

Ball screws for servo-electric actuators in powder presses

S-HTF series ball screws from NSK are for the first time enabling powder-press manufacturer Osterwalder AG to employ servo-electric drives on its larger machines, rather than conventional hydraulic drives. As a result, new systems such as the Osterwalder OPP 2000 multi-level machine with 2000kN press force, use around 80 per cent less energy than hydraulic counterparts of equivalent power output. In addition, pressed parts are produced with significantly higher dimensional accuracy, which reduces the amount of reworking and substantially lowers process and material costs.

5th June 2019