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Best Practice Issue 688

Best Practice is a multi-media digital magazine which circulates directly to 25,000 targeted businesses per issue, and is downloadable from multiple digital news stands and via social media Twitter, LinkedIn and our iOS app.

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Issue 688 | April 2025 | 0121 824 4744 | www.bestpracticeuk.co.uk

Search for us on LinkedIn and follow us on X @best_pra_uk or download our iOS app

Monometer

see them on page.......... 3

Oriental Motors

see them on page..... 4-5

Unisig

see them on page .12 & 13

DMN Westinghouse

see them on page. 21 & 24

SPIROL introduces new precision

machined compression limiters

SPIROL introduces the Series CL6000

lightweight, lead-free, Aluminum Precision

Machined Compression Limiters, designed

to reinforce high-stress joints in plastic

assemblies. They protect plastics from excessive

compression by absorbing the load when bolts

are tightened, ensuring the joint’s durability

and reliability throughout the product’s lifespan.

The CL6000 is machined from 2024-grade

aluminum, offering an optimal balance of

strength, corrosion resistance, machinability,

and cost. These limiters are 40% stronger and

1/3 the weight of those made from brass.

For applications requiring extra bearing surface,

the CL6100 Headed Compression Limiter

offers the same features with the addition of

a head. SPIROL is also launching the CL8000

brass Compression Limiters and the CL8100

headed brass version for applications needing a

galvanic alternative to aluminum.

The choice of Compression Limiter significantly

impacts the assembly’s function and cost.

SPIROL’s Engineering team is available to help

select the most suitable limiter for specific

applications and requirements.

www.spirol.com


Contents

Best Practice

Reccomends

Driving

Training

Health & Safety

Facilities

Management

Industry

Deep Hole Drilling

Plastics

Software & IT

Drives, Controls &

Automation

Pumps

Testing &

Measurement

Valves

Sustainability

4-5

6-7

8

9

10

11

12-13

14-15

16

17

18

19

20-21

22

Editor’s Notes

Gina Burton

Editor

Welcome to our April issue, where we dive

into the latest advancements, practical

insights, and groundbreaking innovations

shaping the key sectors of UK industry.

Plastics recycling is growing within the

industry with many moulders increasingly recycling in-house.

On page 14, we spotlight Magog Industries, a Hertfordshirebased

engineering company at the forefront of bimetallic alloy

advancements and surface coatings. Led by Director and General

Manager John Allsop, the company is pioneering innovative

solutions with its expertise in refurbishment, custom screw designs,

and cutting-edge materials ensuring resilience in demanding

applications like blown film extrusion and recycling.

Ensuring machinery safety is a top priority across all industries

to protect workers and uphold safe practices. However, despite

stringent safety measures, the HSE reported a tragic toll of 135

workplace fatalities in 2022/2023 (RIDDOR), with the highest

incidents occurring in construction, agriculture, forestry, fishing,

and manufacturing. On Page 5, we speak with MachineSafe’s

Managing Director, Jon Rowen, about how the MachineSafe safety

and compliance software platform enhances the inspection process

for machinery safety engineers, improving efficiency and regulatory

compliance.

Contact

Publication Management

Thomas Reilly

Sales Manager

T 07539 070158

sales@bestpracticeuk.co.uk

Production

Robert Sharp

Production Manager

production@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

Accounts

Paul Whitaker

Accounts Manager

T 0121 824 4742

accounts@bestpracticeuk.co.uk

Editorial

Gina Burton

Editor

gina@freshmedia-uk.co.uk

Other topics covered: Machinery, Driving, Training, Health &

Safety, Facilities Management, Industry, Deep Hole Drilling,

Plastics, Software & IT, Testing & Measurement, Drives, Controls &

Automation, Sustainability.

Share any news to:

gina@bestpracticeuk.co.uk

On the Cover

SPIROL introduces the Series

CL6000 lightweight, lead-free,

Aluminum Precision Machined

Compression Limiters, designed

to reinforce high-stress joints

in plastic assemblies. They

protect plastics from excessive

compression by absorbing the

load when bolts are tightened,

ensuring the joint’s durability

and reliability throughout the

product’s lifespan.

Download our iOS app here

www.bestpracticeuk.co.uk

April 2025 | Issue 688

The entire content of this publication is advertorial based. To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 824 4744.


Product Innovation Award

The Art of Molten Might:

Monometer and the Mastery of

Industrial Metal Melting Furnaces

In the fiery heart of industry, where raw

materials are transformed into the sinews ofour

modern world, one technology stands as the

backbone of progress: the industrial metal

melting furnace. These towering machines of

heat and precision shape the steel

for our skyscrapers, the aluminum for our

aeroplanes, and countless other metals

essential to the infrastructure of civilization.

The mastery of industrial metal melting

requires more than just brute heat; it demands

precision, control, and relentless innovation.

In this highly specialized arena, one name

has risen above the rest for its unwavering

dedication to advancing the science of

metal melting: Monometer. More than just a

manufacturer, Monometer has spent decades

forging a legacy of excellence, redefining what

is possible in the world of industrial metal

melting.

The Monometer Difference: Mastery Beyond

the Flames

What sets Monometer apart is not just the

sheer power and efficiency of its furnaces

but its commitment to a concept known as

monometer technology. This principle goes

beyond a simple name—it embodies the

meticulous control Monometer achieves within

the furnace chamber.

By precisely regulating pressure, Monometer

creates an environment where metal purity,

integrity, and efficiency are paramount.

Minimized Oxidation: By controlling the

atmospheric conditions within the furnace,

Monometer significantly reduces oxidation,

resulting in purer, higher-quality metals. This

is critical for industries where even minor

impurities can compromise performance and

safety.

Preserved Metal Integrity: Maintaining

consistent pressure ensures even heat

distribution throughout the molten metal,

preventing weaknesses or inconsistencies

that could compromise the final product.

Maximized Process Efficiency: Controlled

combustion and optimized fuel usage translate

into lower operational costs and a reduced

environmental footprint, making

Monometer’s furnaces as sustainable as they

are powerful.

Engineering the Future: Innovation at the Core

At its core, Monometer is an innovation-driven

company. Its research and development teams

are continually seeking new ways to refine the

efficiency, safety, and environmental impact

of their furnaces. By incorporating advanced

materials, automation, and smart monitoring

systems, Monometer is shaping the future

of metal melting, ensuring that industrial

operations achieve higher performance levels

while reducing waste and emissions.

Automation and data analytics now play a

crucial role in the metal melting process.

Monometer has integrated cutting-edge

technology into its furnaces, allowing operators

to monitor and adjust parameters in real

time. This level of control ensures consistency,

minimizes downtime, and enhances safety—a

critical factor in an industry where extreme

temperatures and molten metals create

inherent risks.

A Global Vision with a Local Touch

Monometer’s expertise extends far beyond

its furnaces. The company understands

that industrial metal operations vary in

scale and complexity across the globe. With

an international presence and a team of

engineers who possess deep insights into

regional challenges, Monometer ensures that

every furnace is tailored to the specific needs

of its clients. Whether working with smallscale

foundries or large industrial operations,

Monometer’s solutions are designed to meet

the precise demands of each project.

Furthermore, Monometer’s commitment

to sustainability aligns with global efforts to

reduce carbon footprints in heavy industries.

By developing energy-efficient furnace

technologies and alternative fuel solutions,

the company helps clients achieve their

environmental goals without compromising

performance.

Beyond the Brochure: A Partnership in

Progress

Monometer doesn’t simply sell furnaces—

it builds partnerships. From the initial

consultation, where Monometer’s team works

closely with clients to understand their unique

operational requirements, to after-sales

support and long-term maintenance,

the company takes a comprehensive approach.

This ensures that clients not only acquire the

right furnace but also receive the necessary

expertise and ongoing support to maximize

efficiency and productivity.

Training and education also play a key role

in Monometer’s philosophy. The company

regularly provides technical workshops, safety

training, and operational guidance to ensure

that customers can fully leverage their furnace

systems. This emphasis on knowledge-sharing

fosters long-term success and cements

Monometer’s reputation as a trusted industry

partner.

Innovation Never Sleeps: The Future of Metal

Melting

Resting on past successes is not part of

Monometer’s ethos. The company continuously

pushes the boundaries of furnace technology,

seeking ways to improve efficiency, reduce

emissions, and refine the art of metal melting.

As global demand for high-performance

metals continues to rise, Monometer remains

committed to pioneering advancements that

redefine the industry.

Recent developments in sustainable melting

technologies, such as hydrogen-powered

furnaces and closed-loop recycling systems,

are at the forefront of Monometer’s research

initiatives. By integrating these innovations,

Monometer is not only future-proofing its

products but also contributing to a cleaner,

more efficient industrial landscape.

The Custodians of Molten Might

Monometer is more than just a furnace

manufacturer—it is a guardian of molten

potential, a leader in precision and control.

With its unwavering commitment to

innovation, quality, and client partnership,

Monometer has solidified its position at the

pinnacle of the industrial metal melting

furnace industry.

As industries evolve and technological

advancements reshape the metalworking

landscape, Monometer stands ready to lead

the charge. With every furnace it builds, every

innovation it pioneers, and every partnership

it nurtures, Monometer continues to forge the

future of metal melting—one meticulously

heated furnace at a time.

For enquiries or further

information please contact

c.hall@monometer.com

sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 21 & 24 3


Section

Best Machinery Practice Recommends

4 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 12 & 13


Best Practice Recommends

Oriental Motor: Powering the

Future of Motion Control

In this issue of Best Practice, we have

chosen to recommend Oriental Motor,

manufacturers of high quality Japanese

electric motors for the UK market.

Founded in 1885, Oriental Motor is a

Japanese manufacturer of high-quality

electric motors and drives with vast

experience and expertise in supplying the

automation sector. Known as a global entity,

Oriental Motor is represented worldwide in

many countries with subsidiaries and sales

offices across Europe, America, Asia, Canada,

China, India, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia,

Thailand, and Singapore.

For decades, Oriental Motor has been

committed to a business style that involves

responding to the needs of engineers

around the world as they develop and

improve new products and equipment

in the industries of food, transportation,

industry, and medicine.

It’s mission, to provide support through

its motion control systems - via hardware,

software and human aspect - for engineers

who strive to take the first step to make

tomorrow better, reflects in the company’s

values, enabling it to deliver experiences that

excite and surpass expectations, providing

customers with the ‘WOW’ factor.

Alongside its extensive after sales support

to ensure smooth integration into its

customers manufacturing, the Oriental

Motor product range includes Closed loop

Stepper Motors equipped with multi turn

mechanical absolute encoders, Linear and

Rotary Actuators with absolute encoders for

high accuracy and sensorless positioning,

Brushless DC Motors that offer excellent

speed and torque stability in a compact

package, AC Induction Motors with high IP

ratings and high energy efficiency, Open

Loop Stepper Motors with industry leading

low vibration and noise levels, Industrial

Fans, and Servo Motors with tuning free

setup. All products are available in a

range of AC and DC voltages, with various

international safety standard certifications.

We spoke to Mike Larsen, UK Divisional

Manager at Oriental Motor who explained

some of the range in more detail:

“Brushless DC motor systems combine

compact yet powerful brushless DC motors

and high-performance drivers to offer

excellent energy savings and speed stability,

along with a wide speed control range. With

brushless DC motors, you can downsize your

application, as the motors have slim bodies

and provide high power due to the use of

permanent magnets in the rotor.

The αSTEP AZ Series stepper motors

offer high efficiency, low vibration,

and incorporate our newly developed

Mechanical Absolute Encoder for absolutetype

positioning without battery backup

or external sensors. These closed-loop

stepper motors provide performance

without hunting or gain tuning and are

available with a built-in controller or

pulse input driver, substantially reducing

heat generation through high-efficiency

technology.

Our Rotary Actuators - The DGII Series,

combines a high-rigidity hollow rotary table

with an αSTEP closed-loop stepper motor

and driver package. It maintains the ease of

use of a stepper motor while enabling highly

accurate positioning of large inertia loads.

The Linear Actuators are equipped with

a motor offering excellent controllability,

and provide advantages over hydraulic

and pneumatic actuators, including

stable operation at low speeds,

smooth acceleration and deceleration,

programmable motions with multiple

stopping points, and simple setup

adjustments via data changes.”

Since COVID-19, Oriental Motor has

recognised that many markets are moving

more quickly into automation including

robotics. As a result of this, Oriental Motor

has committed resource into developing a

range of 4, 5 and 6 axis robots, in particularly,

SCARA robots, which are one of the most

popular and easy-to-use industrial robotic

arms commonly used in a variety of

industries for manufacturing and assembly

applications.

Oriental Motor has range of Robot

Controllers to help with the easy

introduction of robots into existing

systems. The Robot Controller MRC01 for

example, is a controller that controls a robot

consisting of motors of the AZ Series and/

or motorised actuators equipped with the

AZ Series. When used in combination with

the programming software MRC Studio,

controlling a robot becomes easy. It features

two types of control methods: Operation

by Implicit communication (periodic

communication) of EtherNet/IP, and

operation by using I/O signals. Operation

programs and parameters are set using the

MRC Studio software or via EtherNet/IP.

Another product that is worth noting is the

750-watt Servo Motor, suitable for highspeed,

high-precision positioning over

long distances, allowing for positioning

operation with excellent acceleration and

reliability. Servo Motors are specialised for

high-response, high-precision positioning.

As a motor capable of accurate rotation

angle and speed control, it can be used for a

variety of equipment.

Sustainability practices are implemented

at every stage of Oriental Motor’s

product lifecycle. With a dedication to

reducing their company environmental

footprint, Oriental Motor is committed to

environmental conservation, believing

that innovation and sustainability go

hand in hand. This commitment is

engrained through a promise to provide

energy-efficient products, continue its

sustainable development, enhance its green

manufacturing, and expand on its global

responsibility, paving the way towards a

greener future.

Having two UK offices located in

Basingstoke and Birmingham, allows

Oriental Motor to combine the strength of

global innovation with the power of local

expertise. Its UK team is uniquely positioned

to understand the specific needs of British

industries, offering tailored motion control

systems with quick, personalised support. Of

course, this service is fully backed by a global

network that ensures access to cutting-edge

technology and the insights of a worldwide

team of engineers and innovators.

By having this dual-approach, Oriental Motor

can deliver the perfect blend of local service

and global reliability, to help your business to

thrive, wherever you are.

For more information, see below.

T 01256 347090

www.orientalmotor.eu/uk

sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 21 & 24 5


6 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 12 & 13


Fleet Management from CheckedSafe

Driving

When it comes to the transport industry,

ever-changing legislation updates and

DVSA regulations can be a real minefield

for businesses of all sizes to stay on top of. If

you’ve found yourself with a headache when

it comes to managing your fleet effectively,

you’re certainly not alone. At the end of the

day it’s about safety you can have all the

rules and legislations that you need but

managing your fleet and your drivers safely

is the priority. CheckedSafe, celebrating

10 years has the toolkit in place to help

you manage all this through one unique

platform. Gathering data via the award

winning app to then fully managing via the

back office platform. Using CheckedSafe

to its fullest we can guarantee a compliant

paperless solution managed in realtime.

1) Daily Pre-Use Check, Preventative

Maintenance and Fleet Management

Managing commercial vehicle fleets (including

Grey Fleet Vehicles) comes with the legal

responsibility of conducting regular checks

to ensure vehicle safety and roadworthiness.

We can supply you with the full toolkit from

bespoke daily checks to full PMI’s, Schedules,

we are also an Earned Recognition supplier

(we can provide templates for ANY vehicle/

plant or machinery)

2) Verifying Driver Licences

We provide a full Driver Licence (DVLA) check

service inc. DCPC and Tacho card checks all

fully remote via our App our unique process

that has been audited by DVLA can provide

you the full remote package, If you have

staff driving for work in company or private

vehicles you are duty bound to ensure they

licenced and fit to drive.

3) Fatigue Management (GB Domestic Hours)

Do you manage driver fatigue? Are you

using Driver Hours Log Books? CheckedSafe

have developed via the award winning

app a GB Drivers Hours Module capable of

capturing live data and reporting on such

data including exception reporting no need

to wait for you driver to hand in his book

weekly it’s on the desktop and the driver can

have a copy on his phone if anyone wishes

to see the log book at any time, its real-time

dynamic reporting so aside from complying

with the GB Domestic Rules the system will

assist you in managing driver fatigue as you

can see in real-time the user driving/working

hours daily.

Are you intrigued and looking for cuttingedge

and innovative commercial fleet

management solutions? Get in touch!

T 01282 908429

info@checkedsafe.com

www.checkedsafe.com

sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 21 & 24 7


Training

FANUC Launches

Injection Moulding

Training Programme

FANUC UK has launched a

series of injection moulding

and robotics courses in

partnership with Sierra 57,

a leading plastics training

provider. These courses,

held at FANUC Academy in

Coventry throughout 2025,

offer hands-on experience

with FANUC’s ROBOSHOT

injection moulding machines

and cover plastic processing

and manufacturing methods.

The courses aim to close

the skills gap and promote

education in polymer and

automation, improving

precision and safety in

production. Andy Armstrong,

FANUC UK’s Vice Managing

Director, stressed the

importance of upskilling the

workforce. Sean LittleJohn,

an attendee, praised the

session for its valuable

insights into polymers,

waste reduction, and

polyoxymethylene.

For more information on

the FANUC UK & Sierra

57 training programme,

including upcoming course

dates and prices, visit the

website.

www.fanuc.eu

A.R.T. publishes new

content covering hand

soldering and rework

best practices

Advanced Rework Technology

Ltd (A.R.T.), a leading provider

of IPC-certified and bespoke

training for the electronics

assembly industry, has

released a new guide and

video titled ‘Hand Soldering

and Rework Best Practices’.

Created in collaboration

with Mike Konrad from the

Reliability Matters podcast,

the content delves into

essential strategies and

techniques for hand soldering

and rework, based on IPC

standards.

Debbie Wade, A.R.T.’s

Managing Director and Master

IPC trainer, comments, “In

PCB design and electronics

manufacturing, hand

soldering and rework are vital

skills that impact the quality,

reliability, and functionality of

the final product. Adhering

to best practices is crucial

for optimal results, whether

you're a novice or an

experienced engineer."

Mastering these skills

requires patience, practice,

and knowledge of industry

standards. By following the

techniques outlined in A.R.T.'s

bespoke and IPC-certified

courses, technicians and

engineers can ensure highquality,

reliable solder joints.

www.rework.co.uk

8 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 12 & 13


Health & Safety

Become A Certified Functional Safety

Expert With Wieland Electric

Wieland Electric has announced a

number of dates for its 2025 CFSE

- Certified Functional Safety Expert -

Electrics, Hydraulics and Pneumatics

course. The dates for 2025 are 28

April, 16 June and 3 November, and

each course is run over five days. (See

Wieland at Machine Building North, 10

April 2025, on stand 46)

The course provides the required

legal basics and understanding of

standards needed to properly evaluate

the functional safety of a machine

and to design and calculate safety

functions. This is a cooperative course

between Wieland and the ROSS

Group regarding functional safety of

machinery and equipment. This course

addresses Electrical, Pneumatic, and

Hydraulic safety-related parts of the

control system. It covers EU directives,

laws, and standards and details risk

assessment according to EN ISO 12100

and functional safety according to EN

ISO 13489-1 and -2.

Westley Lansdowne

Safety Consultancy

Fatal injuries are a relatively rare

occurrence and yet according

to RIDDOR, a staggering 135

workers were killed in work-related

accidents during 2022-2023 across

Great Britain. These were caused

by falling from height, being struck

by a moving object or moving

vehicle across construction,

agriculture, forestry and fishing.

The Health and Safety Executive

(HSE) is the national regulator

for workplace health & safety

and repeatedly stresses the

importance of H&S training

for the following reasons:

S Developing a positive H&S

culture, where best practices

are integral in all workplaces

S To prevent injury or illness

This applies to all businesses,

including small and mediumsized

companies and ranges from

cascading H&S policies, identifying

workplace hazards, to appointing

workplace first aiders.

Addressing H&S advice

Westley Lansdowne Safety

Consultancy is a Leicestershirebased

company headed by director

Thomas Sproston, with a mission to

provide expert H&S advice to SME’s.

Delegates will gain a full understandin

g of safety-related sensor, logic

and electric systems, as well as the

realisation of safety performance level

PL. Delegates will also learn about the

verification and validation of safety

systems.

A key element of the course is

pneumatic and hydraulic fluid power

safety system design. This course

expands on fluid power safety not

covered elsewhere. Participants

explore the intricacies of hydraulic and

pneumatic technologies, emphasising

their safe integration and operation.

Attendees are taught how validation

and verification of safety systems

are performed to verify the correct

performance levels are achieved.

The CFSE training course is aimed at

designers, developers, maintenance

personnel, safety engineers and

engineers responsible for safety in

machine building, who have at least

With targeted expertise in complex

safety in applications such as

defence, aerospace and transport,

Tom has brought his knowledge to

the forefront and provides robust

support within occupational safety.

Products, processes and premises

Clients of Westley Lansdowne

can receive support with any of

the three P’s, with Tom offering

particular guidance for nuclear,

rail, aerospace and instrumented

safety system standards.

To find out more today about

safety consultancy, contact

Tom on the details below

and quote WLSC BP682:

Contact 07476 245559

www.westleylansdowne.co.uk

A-SAFE caps off UKWA

2024 Roadshow

A-SAFE, a leader in

workplace safety

solutions, hosted the

UK Warehousing

Association (UKWA)

Roadshow’s final event

on October 3 at its

Fathom3 R&D facility

in Elland, Yorkshire.

The event, attended

by 40 industry leaders,

included presentations, panel

discussions, and site visits.

James Smith, co-CEO of

A-SAFE, celebrated the

company’s 40th anniversary,

emphasizing the role of

innovation in manufacturing.

He also thanked the UKWA

and its CEO, Clare Bottle, for

their work in raising sector

awareness.

The UKWA Roadshow,

part of the association’s

80th anniversary, visited

80 warehouses across the

UK and Ireland in 2024,

highlighting the sector’s

technological advancements.

See Wieland at Machine Building North,

10 April 2025, on stand 46

2 years' professional experience in the

areas of development, construction

and maintenance of functional safety

systems.

Click here for more information and to

book a place on the course.

Clare Bottle praised A-SAFE

for supporting the Roadshow,

stressing the importance of

smart warehousing in the

economy and supply chains.

At the event, A-SAFE’s Lisa

Ramos discussed “The Hidden

Cost of Industrial Workplace

Accidents,” focusing on the

value of PAS 13:2017-certified

safety solutions. A-SAFE

continues to lead in

workplace safety, driven by

research and development,

with a global presence in 65

countries.

For more information, visit

www.asafe.com.

sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 21 & 24 9


Facilities Management

Just 26% of FMs know

how the Building Safety

Act impacts their role

Carlisle Support Services

secures Hard FM

contract with ARL

New research from Watco reveals

challenges faced by facilities

managers (FMs) in the building,

construction, and refurbishment

sectors, particularly around

legislation and maintenance. The

survey found that only 34% of FMs

are aware of the Building Safety

Act, and just 26% understand its

impact on their role. Less than half

(40%) have a solid understanding

of the relevant industry

regulations.

The research follows updates to

the Building Safety Act, which

requires a "Golden Thread" of

information to be maintained

throughout a building's lifecycle.

This includes reliable, secure,

and accessible data, which FMs

may need to contribute to. Scott

Saunders, Watco’s technical

service manager, highlighted that

FMs now face the dual challenge

of compliance and an increasing

workload.

The research also identified

several risks to health and safety,

including maintenance backlogs,

wet surfaces, downtime, and

waterproofing issues. Only 28% of

respondents conduct regular site

audits, and just 24% are aware of

how to report or control risks.

To help address these issues,

Saunders recommended sourcing

training and product information

from suppliers and using tools

like checklists to ensure thorough

site inspections. Educating teams

on company processes can also

reduce the burden on FMs and

ensure compliance.

For more information on the

challenges facing the building

construction and refurbishment

sector and tips from the experts,

download Watco’s free one-page

report here: www.assets.watco.

co.uk/files/LiftingTheLid/Lifting_

The_Lid_Construction.pdf

Carlisle Support Services has

secured an additional contract

to provide Hard FM services

across stations managed by

Arriva Rail London, which

operates the London Overground

for Transport for London

(TfL). This follows five years of

delivering Soft FM services.

Carlisle will now handle planned

preventative maintenance,

reactive maintenance, and station

improvements, covering areas

such as electrical, mechanical, and

fabric services.

To streamline operations, Carlisle

has introduced new technologies,

including a Computer Aided

Facilities Management System

(CAFM) for monitoring and

maintaining assets. They have

also established a new office

in Hackney Wick to support 18

network engineers and staff.

Richard Jenkins, Managing

Director for Carlisle’s cleaning and

facilities division, highlighted the

successful expansion into Hard

FM services, emphasizing their

commitment to diversifying their

offerings and providing highquality

services. CEO Paul Evans

added that this move is key to

establishing Carlisle as a leading

facilities management provider.

Steve Moran from Arriva Rail

London praised Carlisle's

innovative approach, noting the

reliability and cost-effectiveness

of their Hard FM services, aligning

with their core business goals.

For further information, please

contact: Alex Sipos, Head of

Marketing for Carlisle Support

Services

M: 07759 526944

alex.sipos carlislesupportservices.

com

www.carlislesupportservices.com

10 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 12 & 13


Industry

Importance of machine

checks for managing

costs & welfare in the

marine sector

The marine sector faces

unpredictable challenges due

to its turbulent environment,

making regular machinery

checks essential for long-term

success, cost reduction, and

improved safety. Paul Taylor,

Machined Seals Product Manager

at FPE Seals, highlights the

importance of routine inspections

for maintaining equipment

and minimizing repair costs.

Proactive maintenance helps

avoid expensive emergency

repairs and extends the lifespan

of machinery, ensuring financial

sustainability.

Regular checks also enhance

safety by identifying potential

hazards, preventing accidents,

injuries, and environmental

damage. This approach protects

both personnel and the marine

ecosystem. Routine inspections

foster accountability, encouraging

a culture of responsibility and

teamwork among crew members,

which improves operational

efficiency and promotes safety.

Compliance with regulations

is another crucial factor. In

the UK, maritime equipment

must meet government

standards, and keeping up

with maintenance schedules

ensures legal compliance,

avoiding penalties and machinery

damage. Additionally, embracing

emerging technologies like

AI and machine learning can

optimize maintenance practices,

reducing disruptions and

ensuring reliable equipment.

Ultimately, regular machine

checks are vital not only for

cost management but also

for ensuring safety, regulatory

compliance, and environmental

protection, allowing maritime

companies to navigate challenges

confidently while protecting

workers and the planet.

For more information see below.

www.fpeseals.com

Radwell launches

Punchout Portal for

European customers

Radwell International, a global

leader in industrial spare parts

and repairs, has launched a

punchout portal in Europe,

allowing eligible customers to

integrate their procurement

systems with Radwell’s inventory

of over 35 million spare parts.

Used by Radwell’s U.S. clients

for years, this portal connects

with the SNAP (Strategic

National Account Partner)

program, which offers dedicated

account managers and a

partnership approach to spares

management. The portal

supports systems like SAP Ariba,

Oracle, and Coupa, extending

Radwell’s inventory to customers’

internal systems.

Stephen Yates, Radwell’s

National Accounts Manager,

emphasized that the SNAP

program helps national accounts

quickly and efficiently source

spares, saving up to 75%

compared to traditional supply

chains. The punchout portal

further enhances this by allowing

seamless integration of Radwell’s

inventory with partners’

eProcurement systems.

Radwell, Europe's largest

provider of surplus industrial and

electronic control equipment,

specializes in hard-to-source

parts and repair solutions for

critical components. With over

2,000 employees across 80

global sites, the company serves

industries like manufacturing,

chemicals, food processing, and

more. The new punchout portal

offers an advanced solution for

sourcing spare parts during

critical breakdowns.

Experts in stainless

steel fasteners

Precision Technology Supplies (PTS)

was established in February 1988

by Stephen Edwards. Based in East

Grinstead, West Sussex, PTS is a

stockist and distributor of stainless

steel fasteners, offering a one stop

shop for a wide range of quality

products, with fast delivery times

and efficient customer service.

“Our whole ethos is about offering

a quality product and service to our

customers,” said Andy Knight, Sales

Director.

With over 30 years of experience

in managing a growing number of

customer production lines on-site,

PTS can be counted on to deliver

‘just in time’ delivery to their OEM

customers in 90 countries across

the world. Within the UK, PTS

provide numerous variations of

Direct Line Feed management to

suit individual needs. PTS has the

facilities to plate standard and special

screws. One of their most popular is

the ‘Touch-Dry’ Chemi-Black process,

also known as Black Oxide. With this

method, the finish is so thin that

it doesn’t affect any dimensional

tolerances. In addition to this, PTS

also offers finishes in gold, nickel,

silver and zinc. What’s more, PTS

provides patchlocking, ideal for

vibration resistance and added

torque performance, and offers

screw modifications.

PTS always makes sure to exhibit

at the bi-annual Fastener Fair in

Stuttgart, and were in attendance

during the event in March this year.

If you would like to find out more

information on their full range of

products and services, head to their

website or use the contact details

below.

T 01342 410758

www.pts-uk.com

sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 21 & 24 11


Drilling

12 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 12 & 13


Gundrilling Cell with

Flexible Automation

The UNISIG 4-Spindle Gundrilling Cell

with flexible automation simplifies

rapid parts gundrilling. This system

employs two UNISIG UNE20-2-

1000-CR dual-spindle gundrilling

machines, enabling 4x drilling of one

part or 2x drilling of two different

parts quickly and efficiently. These

machines can drill up to 20mm

diameter holes to a maximum depth

of 1,000mm, while counter-rotating

the workpiece for maximized hole

concentricity.

Deep Hole Drilling

In this cell, a 6-axis robot picks two

parts at once to load or unload,

utilizing dual parts staging stations

to maximize spindle uptime. Laser

verification technology assists the

robot’s use of dual sets of pallets.

UNISIG’s Automated Cell Controller

(ACC) centralizes the controls for

both machines, and a moveable

inspection station allows for on-call

part inspection. Variations of

this manufacturing cell can be

configured as needed.

The versatile UNE standard

gundrilling machines balance highperformance

components with a

lower overall investment, making

it easy for machine shops to bring

their deep hole drilling operations

in-house. Machine models have

maximum drilling diameters ranging

from 12 to 40mm and depths up to

3 meters, with the horsepower and

coolant control to efficiently run

indexable, brazed or solid carbide

gundrills.

Twin spindle UNE machines can be

configured as independent spindles,

allowing two drilling operations to be

run on a single machine. Available

counter-rotation of cylindrical

workpieces minimizes hole drift and

ensures drilling accuracy. Engineered

for automation, these precision

deep hole drilling machines bring

next-level productivity to any shop

floor. UNISIG UNE manufacturing

cells with flexible automation

combine precision, repeatability,

and reliability for an unbeatable

machining resource.

UNISIG applies decades of

engineering expertise to create

deep hole drilling solutions specific

to its customers’ requirements.

Browse: www.unisig.com to

learn more about the realm

of possibilities.

Link: https://unisig.com/news-andevents/technical-articles/gundrilling-cellwith-flexible-automation

Further information on all

machines of the UNE series and the

complete UNISIG machine program

is available at: www.unisig.de or

follow the company on LinkedIn

and Twitter (@UNISIG).

sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 21 & 24 13


Plastics

Processing & Conveying

Components and Equipment

Magog Industries are long established

UK designers, manufacturers and

suppliers of processing, mixing and

conveying screws and barrels. Based

in Hertfordshire, the company operate

across the UK, Ireland and Europe.

Coatings and materials available

are designed to enhance longer life

and greater wear resistance in for

increasingly demanding processing

using recycled material.

“We constantly strive to offer solutions

from optimal design to reduce wear

to offering a wide range of surface

technologies, explained Michael Bate,

General Manager.

“We design everything in-house

but also work closely with specialist

partners to meet our customers’

specific processing and production

requirements. Our three core

competencies run through

everything we do: process experience,

manufacturing expertise and

engineering excellence”

Enhanced coatings include: Thin Dense

Chrome (TDC) to enhance wear with

low friction and is FDA Approved for

food process environments. Ceramic

Seal coatings reduce porosity and

increase plating/coating life 4 to 10

times longer in corrosive environments,

HVOF (High Velocity Oxygen Fuel)

provides a crack-free 98 per cent

density with hardness of 62 to 72 HRC.

This scratch-resistant tungsten carbide

coating has gained much interest

among plastics moulders.

Magog also specialise in refurbishment

of pre-used parts which extends the

life of screws and barrels by re-honing,

partial re-line of barrel bores and hard

welded re-build of screw flights in bimetallic

alloy as standard. This provides

a cost-effective option and ensure lower

operating cost.

For more information contact Magog

Industries: enquiries@magog.co.uk,

Tel: 01920 465201 or visit:

www.magog.co.uk

Banning and taxing

plastics is gesturepolitics

and is not

solving the problem

Governments and industries

must collaborate to reduce

plastic's environmental

impact. UK households discard

100 billion pieces of plastic

packaging annually, and in

2021, 2.5 million metric tons of

plastic packaging waste were

generated. Michael Laurier, CEO

of Symphony Environmental

Technologies, states that while

individuals and businesses must

address plastic waste, banning

plastic is not a solution. Even

in Switzerland, where waste

management is advanced,

14,000 tonnes of plastic pollute

the environment each year due

to slow degradation.

Oxo-biodegradable plastic was

developed to address this issue.

Unlike traditional plastic, it

breaks down into biodegradable

material, consumed by bacteria

and fungi. Laurier emphasizes

that this plastic is not designed

to end up in nature but

is meant to biodegrade if

accidentally released into the

environment. He clarifies that

oxo-biodegradable plastic

differs from oxo-degradable

plastic, which contributes to

microplastic pollution.

Oxo-biodegradable technology

has been in use for over 25 years,

with significant applications like

Grupo Bimbo’s bread wrappers.

It has been scientifically studied

for over 50 years and proven

to biodegrade more efficiently

than conventional plastic, even

in seawater. The technology’s

standard was developed

by ASTM and is recognized

worldwide, including by the UK

government.

symphonyenvironmental.

com

14 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 12 & 13


Plastics

Corporate growth

without destroying

the planet

FreshBritain has launched

a new regenerative brand

design approach aimed at

transforming how brands

think about sustainable

growth. Founder Bob

Sheard believes that brands

must shift away from

the destructive cycle of

consumption depleting the

earth’s resources. Sheard

explains that growth must

be redefined in a way

that acknowledges finite

resources, advocating for

a long-term, collaborative

approach led by brands, not

politics.

The agency has developed

new protocols to

guide brands on their

regenerative journeys,

addressing key questions

and providing solutions

to help companies move

away from overproduction.

These protocols are built

on knowledge, intelligence,

and experience, forming

the core pillars of purposedriven

growth. Developed in

partnership with Central Saint

Martins and the University

of the Arts, the protocols

will remain adaptable and

continuously updated.

Sheard emphasizes the

urgency of this shift, noting

that in five to ten years, it

may be too late to act. The

initiative, named "The Future

of Everything," aims to

revolutionize consumerism by

focusing on positive impact

and changing how brands

define growth. FreshBritain's

regenerative principles have

been tested through the Mad

About Land garden wear

brand, with insights from

these efforts set to guide

future clients.

www.freshbritain.com

1% of UK wind energy

firms have adequate

cyber protection, warns

Cyber Energia

Cyber Energia, launched by

CFP Energy, addresses growing

cyber security risks in the UK's

renewable energy sector. With

up to 1,000 cyber attacks per

day and an estimated 880

million risks across the industry,

renewable energy companies

face increasing threats. In

response, Cyber Energia offers

a unique portal providing

real-time visualisation of cyber

attacks, threat levels, and

remedial recommendations.

This system tracks all devices

and network communications to

identify security gaps.

Despite advancements in

renewable energy technology,

such as grid innovations, these

have exposed firms to greater

cyber risks. Only 1% of wind sites

have any form of cyber protection,

highlighting the sector’s

vulnerability. Cyber Energia’s

solution helps firms protect

their assets and avoid severe

consequences like revenue loss,

damage to infrastructure, and

reputational harm.

Additionally, non-compliance

with UK regulations, like the NIS

Regulations 2018, could result

in penalties up to £17 million. As

the EU introduces stricter cyber

regulations (NIS2.0), companies

must act quickly to safeguard

their operations. Cyber Energia’s

services integrate seamlessly with

both new and legacy systems,

emphasizing the urgency of

enhancing cyber security in the

renewable sector.

www.cyberenergia.com

sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 21 & 24 15


Software & IT

Advantex delivers

cutting-edge IT

infrastructure and

security upgrades

Advantex, a tech specialist,

successfully completed a major

IT infrastructure and security

overhaul for PCCA, a global

manufacturer of personalised

medicines. This project enhanced

PCCA UK's cybersecurity and

provided the UK operations with

greater IT autonomy, boosting

resilience and efficiency in a

challenging digital landscape.

PCCA, a long-time Advantex

client, sought a solution to

decentralise operations from

the US. Advantex collaborated

with PCCA’s US-based IT team to

design a strategy tailored to the

UK’s specific needs. Key elements

included creating a new Active

Directory domain, migrating

Office 365, and implementing

advanced security measures like

Multi-Factor Authentication and

Cisco Secure Email.

The project also upgraded

legacy hardware to HPe systems,

re-platformed server operating

systems, and enhanced disaster

recovery with Zerto and Azure.

These improvements have

created a robust IT environment

for PCCA’s future growth.

Siobhan Toner from PCCA praised

Advantex for the cost-effective,

on-time solution, which improved

operational efficiency, security,

and data protection. Scott Duncan

from Advantex highlighted the

rewarding collaboration and the

creation of a secure, autonomous

IT environment for PCCA UK's

continued success.

Advantex, an accredited partner

in several industry standards,

continues to deliver tailored IT

solutions for clients.

www.advantex.uk.com

Eschbach launches

Shiftconnector ®

Global software

developer eschbach

has introduced the

Shiftconnector ®

Equipment Hub, a

module designed for

the pharmaceutical

industry. This solution

ensures data integrity,

simplifies the retrieval

of logs for audits,

and streamlines

compliance reporting.

“The pharmaceutical industry

must maintain strict data

integrity to meet regulatory

standards,” said Andreas

Eschbach, CEO of eschbach.

“This module enhances data

management, production

efficiency, and quality in GMP

environments.”

The Equipment Hub follows

eschbach's Tier Collaboration

Dashboard, which improves

communication transparency

in pharmaceutical operations,

bridging gaps between shifts

and layers of manufacturing.

“The Shiftconnector

Equipment Hub eliminates

paper-based logs, providing

operators with accessible,

transparent data to ensure

quality and regulatory

compliance,” added Eschbach.

The module is GMP-compliant

and adheres to FDA 21

CFR Part 11 regulations. It

standardizes logbooks across

facilities and global enterprises,

promoting first-time-right

approaches and enabling

release-by-exception processes.

www.eschbach.com/en/

16 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 12 & 13


Drives, Controls & Automation

ABB Robotics boost Innovation in

Robotics and AI

ABB has launched its 2024 Robotics AI Startup

Challenge, a global competition aimed at

accelerating AI solutions in robotics. The

challenge invites startups and scaleups to

submit ideas focused on natural language

programming, skill learning, and autonomous

decision-making. Winners will gain access

to ABB’s global network, cutting-edge

technologies, and long-term partnership

opportunities.

ABB Robotics, with 50 years of innovation, seeks

to collaborate with creative minds in AI and

robotics to shape the future of automation.

The challenge aims to develop more intuitive,

adaptable, and efficient robots that transform

industries and improve employee satisfaction.

Participants will have the chance to work

closely with ABB’s engineers, access advanced

robotic technologies, and collaborate with the

company’s extensive network of customers

and partners. The winning team will receive

a $30,000 cash prize and the opportunity

to form a long-term partnership with ABB,

including exploring joint market strategies and

investment options.

Applications are open to startups and scaleups

with expertise in AI and robotics. Submissions

are due by June 12, 2024. The challenge is part

of ABB’s broader Innovation Ecosystem, which

fosters collaboration to bring new solutions

to market and create a more sustainable and

productive future. For more details, visit the

official website.

www.collaborateandcommercialize.com/abbrobotics-ai-startup-challenge-2024

ABB control room, power

distribution, robotics boost Metsä

Fibre mill efficiency

Kivnon

Teams Up

with AER

for Hannover Messe

2024 Showcase

Kivnon, a global leader in Autonomous Mobile Robots

(AMRs) and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs),

has announced its participation in Hannover Messe

2024 alongside the Spanish Association of Robotics

and Automation (AER). This collaboration highlights

Kivnon’s commitment to promoting mobile robotics

innovation to a global audience.

Known for its advancements in AGV technology,

Kivnon offers tailored automation solutions

across various industries. Partnering with AER,

an organization dedicated to advancing Spanish

robotics, Kivnon aims to showcase its expertise and

vision for the future of industrial automation.

Thierry Delmas, Managing Director at Kivnon,

expressed excitement about debuting the

collaboration at Hannover Messe. He emphasized

that, like in Germany, the Spanish market heavily

relies on the automotive industry, and their combined

expertise will foster growth in Germany. This

partnership emphasizes Kivnon’s commitment

to driving innovation in the competitive industrial

landscape.

ABB’s technologies have played a crucial role

in Metsä Fibre’s advanced sawmill in Rauma,

Finland, which represents the country’s largestever

sawmill investment at €260 million. Utilizing

machine vision, AI, and integrated systems, the

sawmill achieves high productivity and cost

efficiency.

ABB has provided key solutions, including

Extended Operator Workplace (EOW) tables

for ergonomics and communication, as well as

power distribution, transformers, and robotics.

Since commissioning a year ago, the mill

processes 40 logs per minute on a 130-meter

sawline, with a sawing speed of 250 meters per

minute, all managed from an ABB-designed

control room. The sawn timber is exported

globally and used in various construction

applications.

Jaakko Vierola, Technical Director of Metsä

Fibre’s Rauma project, emphasized the sawmill’s

productivity is three times higher than typical

European mills, thanks to ABB's support. ABB's

electrical distribution system and over 1,000

variable speed drives, along with robots equipped

with machine vision, ensure automation

optimization.

ABB's focus on high-level monitoring, waste

minimization, and 24/7 automation has

contributed to the sawmill’s success. The

by-products are used to produce pulp and

bioenergy. ABB also provides spare parts,

equipment services, and technical support to

keep operations running smoothly.

For more information, please visit

www.global.abb/group/en

Scape Technologies Introduces SCAPE

CoCreator at Hannover Messe 2024

no-code robot programming for users of all

skill levels. The platform allows for the creation

of robotic automation applications without

requiring extensive technical expertise,

making automation more accessible to a wider

audience. "Our journey from bin-picking to

the SCAPE CoCreator platform showcases

our commitment to innovation," says René

Dencker, CTO of Scape Technologies.

Visitors at Hannover Messe will discover Kivnon’s

AGVs, designed to optimize material handling and

streamline operations. Supported by AER, Kivnon

seeks to enhance its regional expansion and

technology offerings in Germany.

Alex Salvador, Manager at AER, shared enthusiasm

about showcasing the strength of Spanish robotics,

aiming to drive advancements that benefit both

businesses and society.

Attendees are encouraged to visit the Kivnon and

AER (Hall 5 Booth D07) at Hannover Messe 2024 to

learn and explore the possibilities of next-generation

automation.

For more information, please visit

www.Kivnon.com

In addition, Scape Technologies is expanding

its 3D vision solutions with the launch of the

SCAPE 3D scanner family in Europe. This

includes the Pro Industrial 3D stationary

scanners and the new robot-mounted SCAPE

Mini Scanner. These products, alongside the

CoCreator platform, offer cost-effective, highquality

solutions for automation.

To further support manufacturers, Scape

Technologies is providing competitively

priced components for robot cells, including

3D scanners and a Vision Controller. The first

standardized SCAPE Robotic Workcell will

focus on CNC machine loading and unloading,

especially for cylindrical parts.

Scape Technologies is revolutionizing industrial

robotics with its SCAPE CoCreator platform,

introduced at Hannover Messe 2024. This 3D

robot guidance platform integrates advanced

AI and 3D Vision technology, enabling intuitive,

The SCAPE CoCreator platform also offers

an API for external contributions, driving

innovation. Scape Technologies is paving the

way for more accessible and efficient robotic

automation, marking a new era in the industry.

www.scapetechnologies.com

sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 21 & 24 17


Section

18 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 12 & 13


Testing & Measurement

MS5547 - Digital gel-protected

gauge pressure sensor

Gel-protected pressure sensors in SMD

housings are widely used in pneumatics,

wearables, and medical technology. These

durable, cost-effective sensors are now

available for relative pressure up to 2 bar.

The MS5547 media-resistant gauge pressure

sensor is used in diverse fields like medical

technology and e-cigarettes. It comes with

biocompatible silicone gel or robust Flour gel

options. The sensor delivers high accuracy

in the range of -200 to +2200 mbar. Pressure

and temperature data are accessible in 24-bit

format via I²C or SPI. With 11 stored correction

coefficients, it provides external compensation

to an accuracy of less than 5 mbar (TEB).

Atmospheric pressure is measured through a

small hole in the ceramic under the sensor. The

sensors are suitable for reflow soldering and are

RoHS and REACH compliant.

Multifunctional

sensors

Multifunctional sensors offer several

advantages, including eliminating the need

for additional connection interfaces, both

mechanically (flange pattern or threaded

hole) and electronically (connector and cable

harness). This leads to space savings, a more

compact design, and reduced installation

time.

The biocompatible plastic housing is sealed

with a 2 x 1 mm² O-ring, and the sensor's

compact size is only 4 x 4 x 4.4 mm³.

Visit us at the Sensor + Test trade fair in

Nuremberg, June 11–13, 2024, at booth

340, hall 1.

AI supports the monitoring of

amusement park rides

DMT GmbH & Co. KG, a TÜV NORD GROUP

company, is launching the world’s first AIsupported

real-time monitoring system for

amusement rides, DMT RideGuard, just in time

for the new season. Already in use at Movie

Park Germany, the system enhances safety

and efficiency by optimizing maintenance

processes.

As the first fully automated real-time

monitoring system, DMT RideGuard tracks

vibrations, shocks, and movements, providing

park operators with continuous, cloudbased

data. This enables early identification

of potential risks and supports targeted

maintenance planning, reducing downtime

and improving attraction availability.

“DMT RideGuard allows for real-time

monitoring, improving safety standards and

fostering visitor trust,” says Konrad Widera,

Product Manager. The system has been

successfully tested on two rides at Movie

Park Germany since August 2023, where it

has proven valuable in daily operations by

automatically notifying operators of deviations.

Amusement parks already follow strict safety

regulations, including daily visual inspections

and regular maintenance. DMT RideGuard

complements these processes by continuously

monitoring attractions and providing alerts via

email or SMS, ensuring that safety standards

are upheld and enhanced.

www.dmt-group.com

RHEINTACHO provides a variety of

multifunctional sensors, including:

S 2-channel speed sensors: These sensors

generate two phase-shifted frequency

signals (A and B) to detect rotation

direction. In safety-critical applications,

both signals provide redundancy for

increased safety.

S 1-channel speed sensor with digital signal:

This variant includes a HIGH or LOW signal

to indicate rotation direction.

S Position detection sensors: These sensors

can also detect position using extended

electronics, important for controlling

modern electric motors.

S Temperature sensors: Temperature can

also be measured, with sensor placement

affecting the readings. For instance, in

electric motors, temperature sensors are

typically inside the windings, while in

hydraulic motors, the hydraulic fluid aids

heat transfer.

RHEINTACHO’s multifunctional sensors

combine multiple capabilities into one unit,

optimizing space and reducing installation

time. Further development is underway to

include more measurement parameters,

though details are not yet available.

www.rheintacho.de/en/home

Pickering Interfaces delivers highest

channel count microwave multiplexer switches

Pickering Interfaces has launched the 40/42-

788 family of high channel count PXI and

PXIe microwave multiplexer (MUX) modules.

These modules expand Pickering's RF

and microwave switching range, featuring

Radiall mechanical microwave switches with

bandwidth options from 8GHz to 40GHz. They

offer versatile configurations, including single

or dual SP8T, SP10T, and SP12T multiplexers,

ideal for complex microwave switching

networks.

The modules are designed for applications in

both microwave and RF spectrums, where low

insertion loss and high isolation are crucial.

They are commonly used in communications

testing, routing measurement instruments or

antennas to multiple unit-under-tests (UUTs)

in ATE systems.

The 40-788 (PXI) and 42-788 (PXIe) modules

support 50 Ω signals from 8GHz to 40GHz and

are available in terminated and unterminated

versions. They come in single and dual

configurations with relays mounted on the

front panel. The remote mount versions

allow flexible switch positioning, occupying

less PXI chassis space and improving system

performance.

These modules feature a switch cycle counting

function for test system health monitoring,

with LED indicators for RF path status. They

support all popular software environments

and include a three-year warranty.

For pricing and availability, visit

www.pickeringtest.com.

sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 21 & 24 19


Section

20 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 12 & 13


Valves

The DMN-WESTINGHOUSE

PTD plug diverter valve:

The fastest way to efficiency

What if speed isn’t just an advantage

but the new standard in servicing?

Every second counts – and downtime

counts tenfold.

As an established supplier of rotary

and diverter valves for a large range of

dry bulk solids processing industries,

DMN-WESTINGHOUSE is committed to

providing future-proof value. This is why

we launched the improved PTD plug

diverter valve.

The PTD plug diverter valve at a glance

The PTD is designed to route powders

and pellets in pneumatic conveying

systems with minimum degradation.

This diverter valve minimises service

time, ensuring more uptime and lower

costs. This isn’t just servicing – this is

efficiency. Every single time.

S Aluminium housing & end covers,

dual-pipe plug

S Stainless steel product contact

surfaces

S No outside moving parts, no

atmospheric leakage

S Suitable for systems with positive

pressures 3–6 barg, pressure shock

resistant up to 10 barg*

S Static belly seals with solenoid valve

& inductive position sensors; optional:

terminal box

S Inflatable belly seals with electropneumatic

control system (inc.

solenoids, terminal box, inductive

position sensors)

S Standard version suitable for product

temperatures -25–80°C (ambient

temperatures -10–40°C); versions for

higher temperatures available

S Versions with electrical drive and/or

wear-resistant pipes available

S EC 1935/2004 compliant; ATEX

2014/34/EU certification available

*Size 200 excluded

The PTD plug diverter valve is suitable

for a range of dry bulk solids processing

industries:

Aquaculture • Animal feed • (EV)

Batteries • Biomass • (Petro) Chemicals

• Cosmetics • Dairy • Food • Infant

formula • Minerals • Paint • Pet food •

Pharmaceuticals • Plastics • Recycling •

Rubber

Benefits of the PTD plug diverter valve

These features help your operators work

smoother and faster, leading to minimal

downtime:

S Easy, two-sided access – service from

the most convenient side

S Adhesive-free belly seals

S Quick-connection position sensors

S Easy-release actuator linkage

S Reinforced jacking points

S Minimal service required

Your benefits? The PTD sets a new

standard in servicing efficiency,

ensuring more uptime and reduced

costs.

Conclusion

The PTD plug diverter valve exemplifies

DMN-WESTINGHOUSE’s commitment

to providing dry bulk processing

industries with future-proof value.

It slashes servicing time and offers

unparallelled ease of use. The PTD

provides the fastest way to efficiency.

www.dmnwestinghouse.com

sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 21 & 24 21


Sustainability

Essentra first to

publish climate

transition plan

Annual report shows

significant progress

in reducing carbon

emissions

Essentra PLC, a global

manufacturer of industrial

components, has published

a Climate Transition Plan,

becoming one of the first

FTSE250 companies to do so. This

plan outlines Essentra's net-zero

emission targets and strategies

for reducing Greenhouse Gas

(GHG) emissions across its

operations and value chain,

including actions, timelines,

costs, and responsible teams.

A key focus is transitioning to

100% renewable energy across

all sites by 2030 and ensuring

50% of the polymers used in

new products are sustainable by

2030, rising to 100% for specific

products. This will be supported

by ongoing investment in its UK

Centre of Excellence, testing lowemission

materials.

Essentra is also exploring ways to

publish carbon data for all 45,000

products on its website due to

increasing customer demand.

The company has already

reduced scope one and two

emissions by 38% since 2019 and

diverted 94% of solid waste from

landfills, an 18% improvement

from 2022. Additionally, 7,981

products now have sustainability

attributes, with 750 launched in

the past year.

ESG Director Jennifer Spence

highlighted 2023 as a year of

progress, emphasizing Essentra’s

commitment to building

a sustainable future for its

customers.

For further information, please

visit, www.essentracomponents.

com or www.essentraplc.com.

Grundfos celebrates

60 successful years

Grundfos, a global leader in

pump solutions and water

technologies, marks 60

successful years in the UK.

Since establishing its UK sales

company in 1964, Grundfos has

grown into one of the country’s

leading suppliers of pump

solutions, doubling revenue

from 2005-2023, focusing on

commercial buildings and the

food and beverage industries.

Significant Investment in the UK

The UK remains a key market

for Grundfos, and the company

has consistently invested in

expanding its operations. In

2023, Grundfos acquired British

company Metasphere, enhancing

its portfolio with telemetry and

analytics solutions for managing

sewer network overflows.

Commitment to Addressing

Climate Challenges

Grundfos supports energy

savings and water conservation,

with notable installations at

landmarks like The Shard and

Canary Wharf. It also supports

British brands such as Britvic

and Arla. Grundfos’ focus on

sustainable, energy-efficient

solutions is key to its success

in addressing global water and

energy challenges.

Customer Collaboration and

Success

UK Managing Director Glynn

Williams attributes the

company’s success to strong

customer collaboration, tailored

solutions, and a culture of

sustainability. Grundfos UK

boasts a loyal customer base and

high employee retention, with

some employees celebrating over

30 years of service.

Dedication to People and

Innovation

CEO Poul Due Jensen

highlighted Grundfos’ dedication

to people, sustainability, and

innovation, which has driven the

company’s ongoing success in

the UK.

www.grundfos.com/uk

Classifieds

Steam Cleaning

Water Technology

Pumps

22 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 12 & 13


Auctions

Pollution Control Systems

Classifieds

Engineering

Contact 01202 942637

info@indusengineering.co.uk

Hinges

Valves

INDUS Engineering Services are a small

and energetic company offering

a range of industrial engineering

services to clients across the South

Coast: Our services include:

4 Control Panels

4 Electrical Contracting

4 Emergency Breakdown

4 Special Purpose Machinery www.indusengineering.co.uk

Lighting

Force Measurement

Electric Vehicles

Manufacturing

Grinding

Health & Safety

Valves

sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 21 & 24 23


24 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 12 & 13

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