Intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) are ideal for the safe storage and transportation of liquids – but they raise a number of challenges for level measurement. They’re often located remotely, and several IBCs can be scattered over a wide area. ENDRESS+HAUSER says its Micropilot FWR30 radar sensor solves these difficulties by offering remote access to the tanks to provide complete asset and inventory information, including measured value, ambient temperature and container location.

HENKEL says when a repair needs to be made, every second spent searching for the right adhesive for the job, or waiting for it to set, costs money in downtime. To address these issues, it has developed its LOCTITE Universal Bonders, adhesives born out of hybrid technology, that will bond almost any material, with fast fixture and cure speeds, in all types of operating conditions.

The extensive range of proximity sensors available from condition monitoring specialists SENSONICS now includes its fully integrated PRI Series. Building on their established Senturion proximity probe range, the PRI Series offers a single probe assembly solution with direct processed outputs which eliminates the need for a separate driver.

Business couldn’t be further from normal right now but HENKEL reports it has a long-established online network for its customers to access support and instruction to ensure the wheels of industry keep turning. Take LOCTITE threadlocking, for example, there are now multiple ways for customers to learn more about the technology.

PEMAC Assets CMMS contains a customisable form design module enabling paperless working practices - supporting businesses as they aim to maintain social distancing. Using this software allows customers to remove the requirement for paper completely across all business functions, and increase visitor and contractor tracking by embedding new COVID-19 forms within not only contractor management workflows – but all workflows.

When used in combination with one of two smartphone apps, the SKF QuickCollect sensor can greatly simplify the collection and interpretation of balance of plant machine condition data.

BEHA-AMPROBE has introduced new ultrasonic diagnostic tools for HVAC/R, mechanical and electrical inspection and troubleshooting, the Beha-Amprobe ULD-400-EUR Series Ultrasonic Leak Detectors.

HUMIDITY SOLUTIONS has announced the launch of humiditydirect.co.uk - a new e-commerce site for the sale of humidification and dehumidification equipment and spares.

CAMOZZI AUTOMATION says being fully equipped for smart manufacturing whilst also delivering outstanding price efficiency, were key factors in the development of its new Series D Valve Island, which is Industry 4.0 ready thanks to Camozzi’s futuristic CoilVision innovation.

SICK has announced it has released safety-certified versions of its TTK70 and TTK50 magnetic absolute linear encoders with Hiperface interface, widening the opportunities for accurate, absolute motor feedback systems to be integrated into safe linear drives.

RADWELL reports it has compared its automation repairs against brand new replacement parts and has found that customers are saving up to 60%. The company says with a 2-year warranty, 2,600 global repair assets, hundreds of on-site technicians and all types of models and manufacturers repaired, it’s no wonder global brands rely on Radwell for HMI, PLC, Drive, Servo, Scanner and Robotic repairs.

SPM INSTRUMENT AB, Sweden, a leading provider of condition monitoring technology and products, has announced the launch of Condmaster Ruby 2020 and says the new version of this comprehensive condition monitoring diagnostics and troubleshooting software is the result of intensive development efforts to provide truly flexible software, offering capabilities unique to SPM as well as optimal digitisation and data exchange opportunities in IIoT environments.

EGE has announced it has developed a new compact, rugged MDVH amplifier with enhanced sensitivity for its System 3000 industrial metal detector. The company says the completely redesigned amplifier is characterised by higher adjustable sensitivity levels, reduced susceptibility to interference, and a more robust housing with IP67 ingress protection.

FLUKE has introduced the new TiS60+ thermal imaging camera and says it is the ideal troubleshooting and preventive maintenance tool for industrial maintenance technicians and engineers. The new Fluke TiS60+ features IR-Fusion technology, which blends visible and infrared images to varying degrees to help pinpoint exactly the location of a problem. The company says this model is ideal for users who are new to thermal imaging or if being used by a team with varying levels of thermal imaging experience as the TiS60+ offers easy-to-use fixed focus.

Shocks or vibrations occur wherever work is carried out with the help of machines. To a certain extent, these vibrations are acceptable but if they become too strong they can cause damage to machines and, in the worst case, even threaten people’s lives. For this reason, machines that are sensitive to shocks and vibrations should be monitored regularly.

By Jamie Mitchell, key account director, Brammer Buck & Hickman

SLG GROUP UK says when lifts fail, the issues can be severe – loss of operational continuity (potentially resulting in failed order deadlines or loss of contracts, with associated reputational damage) or even serious injuries or fatalities, with prosecution an all too likely consequence. Lifting gear plays a crucial role within the supply chain and its maintenance is a vital element in ensuring the ongoing performance and safety of lifting equipment. 

FLUKE says its 87V MAX true-rms Digital Multimeter (DMM) defines a new standard for operating in extreme conditions with the features and accuracy to troubleshoot most electrical problems. A development of the popular Fluke 87V, the 87V MAX is ideal for use in harsh environments with an IP 67 (waterproof and dustproof) rating, an extended operating temperature range of -15°C to 55°C (-40°C for up to 20 minutes) and up to 95% humidity, and has been designed and tested to withstand a 4m drop in its removable holster. It offers CAT III 1000V, CAT IV 600V safety ratings.   

The construction industry is getting behind a new scheme designed to simplify and strengthen the construction prequalification process.

Over the last four decades more women have entered into STEM careers than any other, according to data analysis by LinkedIn. Philanthropist and former general manager at Microsoft, Melinda Gates, said: “Innovation happens when we approach urgent challenges from every different point of view. Bringing women and underrepresented minorities into the field guarantees that we see the full range of solutions to the real problems that people face in the world”. Contributing to this positive change, Lookers, who offer a range of car service plans, launched a female apprenticeship scheme back in 2018.

Hills Quarry Products says it has reduced pump failures and cut maintenance and energy costs using an ABB variable speed drive.

AIRBENCH has announced an upgraded range of AOF oil mist filters. The AOF range is designed for extraction of oil mist and smoke from machining applications. AOF units can be machine-mounted, or supplied with separate stands where required.

Final tickets are still available for the CEA’s Senior Managers’ conference this month. The event is at The National Motorcycle Museum on October 30th and includes talks from members of the CEA as well as technical specialists and chief engineers. Confirm your place today via www.cea.org.uk/events-archive/senior-managers/ or contact info@cea.org.uk for all further information

SPM INSTRUMENT UK has announced a new addition to its Intellinova suite of systems for continuous monitoring of rotating machinery, and says the high-performance online system Intellinova Parallel EN is its most advanced.

METREL,  test equipment manufacturer, says the unreliable charging infrastructure is preventing the EV (electric vehicle) roll out, according to an article in Autocar and this is hardly surprising given the ad hoc manner of the development of the infrastructure and the lack of strategic control.

The company’s calibration laboratory has been recognised by the sole national accreditation body for the United Kingdom

The New BD1000 from AIRBENCH helps control coolant problems. The company says AirBench BD is a self-contained blowdown station for the removal of coolant and swarf from machined parts. An operator can simply place parts in the cabinet, lower the screen, and use the integral blow gun to clean parts using factory compressed air.

No matter what industry you’re based in, a business success thrives on improvements being made and one of the most effective ways to do so, would be to appoint an internal auditor out of one of your staff, or hire a third-party internal auditor. The job of an internal auditor is to act as a fresh pair of eyes on your business processes, reviewing the behaviour of them on a daily basis to see whether:

Until 31st December 2019 and while stocks last, FLUKE has announced it is offering the Fluke 87V Industrial Multimeter, which provides accurate measurements on variable frequency drives (VFDs) and other electrically noisy equipment, together with a FREE i410 AC/DC current clamp and free Fluke L215 SureGrip Kit which includes a probe light and probe extenders. This Fluke 87V offer – Fluke 87V/i410/L215 - and other Fluke Specials can be seen at www.fluke.co.uk./promotions   

The SKF QuickCollect simplifies the collection and interpretation of critical machine condition data, when used in combination with one of two apps. Simple and robust, the sensor monitors both vibration and temperature, transmitting this data wirelessly to a mobile device, where an app is used to provide machine diagnostics for analysis. Designed to be used as part of a walk-through data collection routine the SKF QuickCollect require no special skills to use, yet it can monitor many assets quickly and efficiently, providing an analysis of each asset's condition in real time. Click here for the full release.

Electro mechanical engineering specialist HOUGHTON INTERNATIONAL has appointed Chris Weston as its new pump sales engineer. Highly experienced with an excellent track record within the pump industry, Chris will support the existing pump services team as it continues to develop its service offering to reflect the evolving needs of the market. Offering hands on technical sales support, Chris will work with customers throughout the UK providing responsive solutions to their maintenance issues and pump needs.

SNICKERS says its new range of hoodies and sweatshirts for craftsmen and women are probably the most comfortable it has ever designed.

Global engineering group SANDVIK has announced it will showcase its cutting-edge 3D-printed stainless steel guitar at the upcoming Engineering Design Show on 16 October 2019 in Coventry.

Among the many performance and monitoring tests required to ensure dependable and durable engine performance across a wide range of power applications is the need to measure relative shaft vibration in dynamometers. This is where condition monitoring specialist SENSONICS says it excels with a range of proximity probes which make an essential contribution to overall engine performance.

Plant reliability specialist AVT RELIABILITY has announced it will demonstrate its ground-breaking intelligent condition based maintenance (CBM) expertise at an event for the maintenance engineering community in October.

TOTAL UK says its unique new service enables open gear drives to be cleaned in as little as one hour, without the need to shut down equipment, saving up to 48 hours of downtime.

FLIR SYSTEMS, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLIR) has announced the FLIR TG297 industrial thermal camera, which provides non-contact high-temperature measurement and thermal imaging for professionals in one tool. The company says this versatile camera for industrial troubleshooting boasts a unique filter that enables maintenance, repair and operations inspectors to visually identify and find the source of many common issues in high-temperature applications, including kilns, furnaces, refractory and manufacturing.

FLIR SYSTEMS, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLIR) has announced the FLIR CM94 2000-amp AC/DC electrical utility clamp meter. The company says designed to tackle high current electrical measurements in demanding utility and industrial job sites, the CM94 features an oversized jaw to easily manage larger conductors and busbars.

FLIR SYSTEMS announces the FLIR T860, the latest addition to the high-performance T-Series family. The company says this new thermal camera is the first to feature onboard Inspection Route software, ideal for streamlining inspections of critical assets, including power substation components, distribution lines, manufacturing equipment, or facility electrical and mechanical systems.

With the latest sound level meter PCE-430 from PCE INSTRUMENTS, sound level values can be measured and saved.

An important event in the diaries of both politicians and business leaders, the September release of The Parliamentary Review highlights the best practice of organisations across the private and public sectors. The document shares some of the most exciting and forward-thinking work that has occurred in the country over the last year and is edited by former minister The Rt Hon David Curry.

Until 31st December 2019 and while stocks last, FLUKE has announced it is offering a DMM Safety Bundle consisting of a Fluke 179 Digital Multimeter (DMM) with a free Fluke TLK-225 SureGrip Master Accessory set of leads and connectors representing a discount of over 20% (manufacturer recommended prices) on the items purchased separately. Said to be ideal for electrical and electro-mechanical applications, this Fluke 179/TLK225-1 offer and other Autumn Specials can be can be accessed via the Fluke home page at www.fluke.co.uk. 

PCE INSTRUMENTS says the category condition monitoring in its online shop keeps growing and this category includes various types of tachometers / rotation meters, inspection cameras, thermo hygrometers, contact and non-contact thermometers, infrared thermometers, environmental meters, noise meters / sound level meters, stethoscopes, phase rotation meters, strobe rotation meters / stroboscopes, ultrasonic thickness gauges, UV lamps / UV lights, shaft alignment tools as well as vibration meters and sensors. Some of these meters have a data logging function, some do not.

SICK reports it has launched the smallest industrial UHF RFID read/write device of its kind, the RFU610, creating new opportunities to integrate RFID track and trace capability in automated machines and mobile vehicles across production, materials handling, and logistics environments.

AIRBENCH has announced that Ryan Yates has joined the team as business development manager and says Ryan brings a wealth of experience from previous roles in the extraction industry and specialises in technical solutions to oil mist issues.

By Karl Lycett, Rittal’s product manager for climate control

DAWSON SHANAHAN will be exhibiting at this year’s Cenex - Low Carbon Vehicle Show 2019 from the 4-5th of September on stand C3- 117, in collaboration with the Welsh Assembly. Dawson Shanahan, a cold-forming and machining specialist based in Welshpool, says it will be showcasing a variety of new components, as well as its expertise on connectors for the electric vehicle market.

Proper dismounting of damaged bearings – using one of four proven techniques, and the correct tooling – is as important to machine lifetime and performance as the initial installation, Phil Burge, marketing and communications manager of bearing specialist SKF explains.

Generating your own power makes business sense. But there are many barriers to overcome. Payback periods are long and capital expenditure is high. Recruiting in-house technical expertise isn't easy, and choosing the right technology is more challenging still.

As part of ongoing work to replace roof trusses in a Potash Storage Shed, A-V Dawson, a Middlesbrough based freight-logistics provider reports it has again used WINN & COALES (DENSO) Steecoat 100 SystemTM to protect the roof trusses from the aggressive materials being stored in the shed.