MU_2018_JulyAugust-HR

www.machineryupdate.co.uk MACHINERY UPDATE 5
PPMA matters
Embracing the
benefits of
digitisation
E Series FRL
Filter, Regulator, Lubricator
Easy assembly, durable design, high flow
Mark Williamson
CHAIRMAN PPMA GROUP OF ASSOCIATIONS
(INCORPORATING PPMA, BARA AND UKIVA)
Welcome to this bumper edition of Machinery Update
featuring our annual automation, robotics and vision
systems feature (it starts on page 36). With the ever
growing pressure for efficiency, these technology sectors deliver
the key to developing solutions in reducing production costs
in all application segments. They are also critical in the era of
digitisation and Industry 4.0 as they help to facilitate this new
way of working. In fact, industry surveys show above average
growth in these sectors and in particular an annual growth rate
for vision systems exceeding 10% per annum.
The feature covers 40 pages and includes details on a diverse
range of new technologies and the ways they are being used in
industry. For instance, we even cover a story from Norway that
sees machine vision being used to ensure salmon are killed
humanely as well as an interesting piece about how robotics can
attract tech-savvy youngsters to the manufacturing sector.
Our new machinery finder app
will allow you to answer your
supplier needs quickly and easily
Another good indication of how much interest there is in
the technology is the exceptional attendance of the recent
Machine Vision Conference run by the UKIVA. With visitor
numbers up 17% over last year’s inaugural event, it’s another clear
indication that this technology is growing in importance.
More details on this event can be found on page 9.
Internally, the PPMA is in the midst of our own phase of
digitisation with the development of a new website and other
digital services to help members and also you, the reader of this
magazine. The first of these projects to launch is a new machinery
finder app, which is a brand new digital version of the wellrespected
printed annual directory. More detail of this app,
which is available from August, free of charge through
Google Play or the Apple App store, is on page 7 of this issue.
The association has also been busy enhancing member services
with a number of new training courses, more networking events
with many hot topics discussed. One event covered the PackML
open standard which makes machines on a production line talk
to each other more easily. Hosted by Lenze, the event was as
useful to end users as well as to machine builders (see page 8).
As the holiday season is upon us I wish you all a great
summer and come back ready to attend our ever-expanding
PPMA Show in September (25 - 27 at the NEC, Birmingham). n
FEATURES
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Modular, robust design
Manual/semi/automatic drain
Port size options 1/8” – 1”
Reliable and energy saving
The E Series FRL design is a reliable, robust, modular
construction which is easy to assemble. Advancements
to the construction of the regulator mechanism have
given extra sensitivity on the control. This helps to ensure
the system is working to the optimum pressure. They can
be supplied as units fully assembled, or we offer users
the ability to assemble their own bespoke modular units
with the use of connectors and wall mounting kits. All
units 100% pressure tested and inspected.
BENEFITS
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High flow rates
Simple assembly
Easy maintenance
Sales: 01772 255109 | Online: tom-parker.co.uk
Request a catalogue: marketing@tom-parker.co.uk