Industrial Process News Issue 751

IPN
INDUSTRIAL PROCESS NEWS
January 2026 – Issue 751
Tel: 0121 550 2086
www.industrialprocessnews.co.uk
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Fast deployment, real results:
Why electronics manufacturers embrace MRPeasy
Pages 10-11
IKO Nippon Thompson
Page 7
ystral
Page 14
COBA Europe
Page 16

DO YOU
KNOW YOUR
EXPLOSION
RISK?
No matter what you're processing – chemicals, food,
pharmaceuticals, biomass, wood products – if it produces dusts
or powders, there's a high probability you have an explosion
risk. All it takes to interrupt plant productivity is a combustible
material, oxygen and an ignition source.
For more than six decades, IEP Technologies has provided the
right explosion protection solution for every type of process
application. From cyclones and dust collectors to milling
equipment and dryers. We can design a protection
system and surround you with 24/7 service and support.
Protecting plant starts with knowing your explosion risk.
Passive Protection Devices:
Explosion
suppressor:
eSUPPRESSOR
The IEP
Technologies
eSUPPRESSOR
is a high-rate
discharge
suppressor used
for explosion
suppression and
isolation systems. Its
electro-mechanical
operation is unique
to the industry, as no
pyrotechnic devices are
required for activation.
The eSUPPRESSOR has
standard features that include
pressure monitoring, lock out tag out
capability and LED indication of device
status. A key benefit is that all the
safety functions are fully monitored,
which is not possible for any device
employing pyrotechnic actuators. The
eSUPPRESSOR design & manufacture
has SIL2 third party certification.
Spark Detection:
Atexon ®
The ‘Next Generation’ Atexon ® Spark Detection and
Extinguishing systems by IEP Technologies have recently
received third party approval by Factory Mutual (FM),
meeting the latest detailed requirement of FM3265:2020. For
UK users the equipment is also certified to UKCA, UKEX and
VDS certification is in the pipeline. The innovative Atexon ®
SD300-EX series spark detector is a world first being able to
detect visible light (VIS), near infrared light (NIR) and infrared
light (IR), with a 180° field of view. The benefit being it has
the ability to see different ignition sources though material
layers, even with dense material flow, with reduced hardware.
Typically, the most cost-effective explosion protection method in terms of
hardware, install and maintenance is IEP Technologies’ passive protection
devices. These include vents, flameless vents and isolation devices. Explosion
relief panels are calculated to vent a deflagration, and in doing so prevent the
rapid developing pressure. This reduces the chance of vessel rupture, and
structural damage. Similarly flameless vents work by the same principle, allowing
the heat and pressure dissipation but differ from a traditional vent by mitigating
the flame from passing into the atmosphere outside the flame arrestor. This type
of venting method has all the benefits of traditional venting but has the added
benefit of reducing the chance of possible injuries to personnel. Vent sizing is
based on several different factors, call us today to discuss your options.
IEP Technologies have been global leaders in providing
explosion protection solutions for many decades.
+44 (0)1242 283060
www.IEPTechnologies.com
IEP Technologies, Unit 1 Neptune Business Centre,
Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham GL51 9FB

Editor’s Notes
Welcome to our January issue of Industrial Process News.
This issue delves into the latest innovations, trends, and
best practices shaping the industry, offering valuable
insights for professionals navigating this complex
landscape.
Gina Burton
Editor
gina@industrialprocessnews.co.uk
In this issue, we bring you a full preview of Southern
Manufacturing & Electronics 2026. Taking place this
February, it is the UK’s largest annual industrial showcase, highlighting the latest innovations
in machinery, production equipment, electronic assembly, and more (see page 6).
If you are planning to attend Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2026, be sure to visit
Stand G240 to meet Vision Engineering. They will be unveiling their ProteQ VISO system, set
to be a key attraction at the show and marking a breakthrough in digital stereo inspection
(see page 8).
Contents
IPN
INDUSTRIAL PROCESS NEWS
Issue 751
In the world of premium shopfitting, precision is everything. On page 16, we feature
an insightful article exploring how anti-fatigue mats became a practical route to better
workdays. In search of a reliable solution, Clan Innovations partnered with COBA to introduce
Orthomat Premium Bubble Anti-Fatigue Mats across key workstations. Turn to the article to
discover how the mats delivered a noticeable boost in comfort, morale, and productivity.
Other topics covered: Test, Measurement & Laboratory, Pumps & Valves, Electrical &
Electronics, Machinery, Awards & Achievements.
Don’t forget to send us your latest Industrial news and updates and email us at:
info@industrialprocessnews.co.uk
SM&E 2026 6
Cover Story
HANSFORD SENSORS 18
MRPeasy
MRPeasy is gaining traction among mid-sized
electronics manufacturers thanks to its clean,
practical approach to production management.
10
KONTRON
20
Contacts
Publication Management
Fallon Waldron, Publication Manager
T 0121 550 2086
fallonwaldron@industrialprocessnews.co.uk
Production
Robert Sharp, Production Manager
production@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
Accounts
Paul Whitaker, Accounts Manager
T 0121 824 4742
accounts@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
Editorial
Gina Burton, Editor
gina@industrialprocessnews.co.uk
Industrial Process News 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.
Please contact 0121 550 2086
Email info@industrialprocessnews.co.uk
www.industrialprocessnews.co.uk
For more information on print or format
requirements, please see our Media Pack
Unless stated as news, the entire content of this publication is advertorial
based. To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 550 2086.
Find us on LinkedIn and follow
us on Twitter @ipn_uk
IPN is sponsored by Vision Engineering – see them on pages 6-7

Machining News
INVENTHOR 6.2 with DoppBasket
system redefines versatility
The INVENTHOR 6.2 from Doppstadt is a powerful
symbol of efficiency and flexibility. With the
DoppBasket system, customers can expand
their shredder’s range of applications. The newly
developed fine-shredding-basket enables users to
shred different materials into a defined target grain
size in just one work step. The DoppBasket system
is available in three different versions and can be
retrofitted to existing machines.
“Our new DoppBasket system offers our customers
even more efficient and versatile use of the
INVENTHOR 6.2,” says Dominik Niehaus, Product
manager at Doppstadt Umwelttechnik GmbH
Liebherr sees
further growth
The Liebherr Group ended 2024 with a revenue
of €14,622 million. Compared with the previous
year, the company recorded a revenue growth of
€580 million or 4.1%.
In the 2024 business year, Liebherr recorded its
highest ever revenue in the company’s history.
At 4.1%, the growth was less pronounced than
the average growth of the past five business
years. In seven of its 13 product segments, the
Group achieved increases in sales. Trends differed
between the various product segments and sales
regions. The subdued demand in the construction
industry, especially in Germany, weighed on some
of Liebherr’s product segments. Nevertheless,
the declines could be offset by the successful
marketing of other products. Growth was primarily
driven by mobile cranes and components for the
aerospace product area, as well as healthy order
books for mining and gear technology.
In the area of construction machines and mining,
Liebherr grew by 3.5%, achieving revenue of
€9,891 million. This area incorporates the product
segments of earthmoving, material handling
technology, deep foundation machines, mining,
mobile and crawler cranes, tower cranes and
concrete technology. In the product segments of
maritime cranes, aerospace and transportation
systems, gear technology and automation systems,
refrigerators and freezers, components, and hotels,
Liebherr achieved total revenues of €4,731 million,
an increase of 5.5% compared with the previous
year.
The annual report of the Liebherr Group
can be found online at: www.liebherr.com/
annual-report
(DUG). “Users can shred various materials such as
commercial waste, green waste or waste wood to a
defined target grain size in just one work step.”
The new basket system is quick and easy to fit and
change. This allows users to react to changing
conditions with maximum flexibility. The basket
is movably mounted on the comb and opens
automatically when it comes into contact with
impurities to discharge them. Alternatively,
operators can open the basket manually at any
time.
Weymouth Manufacturing
company expands again
hriving machining and
Tfabrication company,
Titan Manufacturing, has
grown for the second time in
less than a year, following a
90k investment in additional
space and new technology.
Just nine months after taking
on a second £1.8 million
facility and creating eight
new jobs, the fast-growing
business has taken on a third
unit at the Granby Industrial
Estate in Weymouth.
The new 1,500ft 2 facility has undergone a £50k refit,
including extraction, new welding sets and a £25k
gantry – an overhead tandem lifting system which
increases Titan’s lifting capacity to six tonnes. The unit
will be used for mild steel welding and fabrication
operation, reflecting Titan’s ongoing investment in this
side of the business, while freeing up more space for
stainless steel fabrication operations in the main unit.
In addition, Titan has just
taken delivery of a £40k
state of the art articulated
measuring arm for making
3D measurements. The
Hexagon Absolute Arm
6-Axis can measure small
and large parts, including
fabrications of up to 3m,
with accuracy to 80 microns
– improving the speed and
precision of manufacturing
throughput.
Jon Higson, MD of Titan
Manufacturing, said, “This is a very exciting time for
our business, as we continue to invest in our facilities
and advance our technology. With a third unit now
operational and the new measuring arm in place, we’re
able to deliver even more for our customers, working at
a greater pace to continue to meet the rising demand for
our services.”
https://titanmanufacturing.co.uk
How manufacturers can turn realtime
data into productivity gains
very machine, line, and
Elogistics system across UK
manufacturing sites continuously
generates data, but despite the
scale of digital capture, much of
that information never translates
into action. Nearly half (46%)
of manufacturers report that
integration and data challenges
are holding back automation and
productivity, and while 74% of manufacturers consider
real-time data essential, many still struggle to act on it.
“The volume of available data isn’t the problem,” says
Alex Douglas, Client Development Director at Pulsant.
“The real challenge is knowing which datasets are
critical, processing them fast enough, and where that
needs to happen. Without that clarity, the system
becomes clogged and expensive, especially if Cloud
usage scales without control.”
Manufacturers under pressure to digitise every part
of the operation often end up with sprawling data
flows that are hard to act on. This article explores the
The fine-shredding-baskets are made of wearresistant
steel (hardox) with a high sheet thickness.
They are therefore particularly durable and robust.
If a mesh basket wears out, users only need to
replace the mesh plate and attach it to the existing
change frame.
www.doppstadt.de
importance of manufacturers
having the right digital
infrastructure to ensure timely
and efficient collection of
information from devices within
their facilities. This, in turn,
enables actionable insights
that drive value and boost
productivity.
In low-margin, high-pressure manufacturing
environments, timing dictates value. A deviation in
motor temperature, a stockout risk flagged by ERP, or
a sensor warning on packaging alignment only deliver
impact if processed and surfaced immediately.
Edge computing makes that possible. By handling
time-sensitive data locally, closer to the machines,
personnel, or product lines, it means manufacturers can
reduce latency and decrease dependency on distant
Cloud zones. This not only cuts bandwidth costs but also
enables action before problems escalate.
www.pulsant.com/colocation
4
IPN is sponsored by Vision Engineering – see them on pages 6-7

Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2026 Preview
One show,
a thousand solutions:
The UK’s number 1 annual industrial show
networking was facilitated than ever before,
including in-app prearranged meetings, the firstever
exhibitor networking drinks and more. 535
suppliers showcased their offerings on the event
floor at Southern Manufacturing & Electronics,
from sectors including Machining, Electronic
assembly, Automation and Robotics, Electrical/
Electronic Components and more.
Southern Manufacturing & Electronics, to be
held from 3-5 February 2026 at Farnborough
International Exhibition Centre, stands as the
UK’s most extensive annual industrial showcase,
spotlighting the latest advancements across
machinery, production equipment, electronic
assembly, and more. Dive into a world where
cutting-edge technology meets practical
solutions in tooling, components,
and subcontract services,
encompassing a vast array of
industries. Southern is the UK’s
largest annual industrial event,
where you can meet over 10,000
manufacturing, engineering and
electronics professionals.
The 2025 show saw the largest
number of exhibiting companies,
530+ suppliers in just under
10,000m 2 . Southern attracts visitors
across all manufacturing and
electronics sectors who are looking
to source and invest. In 2025, more
Situated at the birthplace and epicentre of the
UK’s massive £20bn+ aerospace and defence
industry, Hall 1 is a premier showcase for UK
manufacturing expertise and its diverse supply
chain. As the first large-scale engineering and
electronics exhibition of the year, Southern offers
the earliest opportunity for serious buyers to
explore the latest offerings from major machinery
companies. Many of these buyers attend ready
to make significant purchases, making this event
crucial for machinery vendors.
Southern Manufacturing & Electronics brings
together an exceptional cross-section of suppliers
from the UK’s engineering and manufacturing
industries. Whether you’re sourcing components,
exploring new technologies, or looking for
production partners, this event offers an
unmatched opportunity to connect with key
players across multiple sectors.
One of the benefits of Easyfairs as an organiser
is their proprietary technology. The introduction
of smart badges provides visitors with fuss-free
onsite registration, a daily summary of the stands
they have visited, plus automatic emails with any
leads sent to exhibitors at the end of the show –
no notebook required!
There is also a new app, Southern Connect, for
matchmaking with other visitors. The innovation
gallery was yet another new feature, designed to
steer the more than 10,000 attendees to some of
the most ground-breaking developments around
the show floor.
www.southern-manufacturing-electronics.
com/en
6
IPN is sponsored by Vision Engineering – see them on pages 6-7

Kernow Oils – Your Castrol Industrial
Ambassador Distributor, delivering performance,
protection and true operational value
hen your operation depends on absolute
Wreliability, the lubricants you choose make all the
difference. At Kernow Oils, we specialise in supplying
the full portfolio of Castrol industrial lubricant fluids –
engineered to enhance equipment performance, extend
component life and reduce unplanned downtime across
a wide range of industrial environments.
From high-performance greases designed for extreme
loads and temperatures, to advanced hydraulic, gear
and compressor oils, through to specialist metalworking
fluids and process oils, Castrol’s industrial range is built
on decades of research, OEM partnerships and proven
field results. Whether you run CNC machining centres,
automated production lines, heavy manufacturing plant
or precision robotics, using the right lubricant isn’t just
about protection – it’s about powering productivity.
But selecting the ideal product for each application can
be complex. That’s where Kernow Oils adds real value.
As Castrol’s Official Ambassador Distributor to the UK
Industrial sector, we offer a level of access, expertise and
support unmatched in the marketplace. This prestigious
status gives our customers:
■ A wider product range, including specialist and
advanced-technology formulations not readily
available elsewhere
■ Preferential pricing and commercial flexibility
■ Factory-level technical support from Castrol’s
engineering specialists
■ Diagnostics and analysis, including oil condition
monitoring and root-cause investigations
In the rapidly evolving landscape of 2026 industrial
automation, the demand for components
that balance high performance with extreme
weight efficiency has never been greater. Nippon
Thompson, under its globally recognised IKO
brand, has addressed this challenge with the
LCRB (Lightweight Crossed Roller Bearing) series.
Engineered to overcome the limitations of
traditional slim-type bearings, the LCRB
series represents a significant leap
forward in precision engineering and
manufacturing and offers some
key advantages through unique
features.
Revolutionary weight
reduction and design
The defining feature of the LCRB
series is its proprietary pressformed
ring structure. By moving
away from solid-mass designs, IKO
has achieved a weight reduction
of up to 60% compared to standard
slim-type crossed roller bearings. For
instance, a model with a 50mm outer
diameter weighs a mere 37 grams, making it
an essential component for engineers focused on
reducing the inertia of moving parts.
This weight saving does not come at the expense
of performance. The bearings are constructed from
high-hardness chrome-molybdenum steel, ensuring
they maintain the high rigidity and stability required
Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2026 Preview
■ Up-to-date data sheets, performance reports and
OEM documentation, ensuring total compliance and
confidence
Our team works closely with maintenance managers,
engineers and production leads to optimise lubricant
choice, helping streamline processes, reduce energy
consumption and protect critical assets. The result?
Higher efficiency, fewer breakdowns, improved
performance and a
meaningful reduction
in total cost of
ownership (TCO).
Whether you’re
looking to
rationalise your
lubricant inventory,
troubleshoot
recurring component
failures or explore
next-generation
fluids to modernise
your operation,
Kernow Oils delivers
solutions backed by
world-class Castrol
technology and
decades of practical
industry experience.
We’d love to
for complex industrial tasks.
Unmatched versatility and performance
Standard bearings often struggle with
multi-directional loads, requiring
multiple units to stabilise a single axis.
The LCRB series utilises an orthogonal
roller arrangement – where cylindrical
rollers are alternately
crossed at 90° angles –
allowing a single unit
to simultaneously
handle radial, axial,
and moment loads.
Key features of the
LCRB series:
■ Energy Saving – Up to 60%
lighter than standard crossed
roller bearings, directly
contributing to reduced power
consumption and lower inertia
in moving parts.
■ Integrated Flange Design –
Features a mounting-holed structure
that allows for direct bolt-on installation,
eliminating the need for complex housings and
further reducing the overall footprint of the
assembly.
■ Compact Footprint – Featuring a cross-sectional
height as thin as 5.5mm, the LCRB bearings help
to improve operating efficiency and downsizing.
■ Ease of Installation – Integrated flanges with
discuss how we can support your business. Visit us at
the Southern Manufacturing & Electronics Show in
Farnborough – Stand K225 – to meet the team, explore
the Castrol industrial range and discover how better
lubrication can transform uptime and profitability.
01736 75701
sales@kernow-oils.co.uk
www.kernow-oils.co.uk
IKO LCRB series: Redefining lightweight
precision for 2026 automation
pre-drilled mounting holes allow for
direct bolt-on installation, eliminating
the need for bulky housing and
reducing assembly time.
Strategic applications in 2026
As we move through 2026, the LCRB
series is finding widespread adoption
in sectors where every gram impacts
efficiency.
For engineers and manufacturers
looking to push the boundaries of what
is possible in 2026, the IKO LCRB series
provides the precision of a high-rigidity
bearing with the mass of a lightweight
alternative, serving as a cornerstone for the next
generation of machinery.
Why not come and see us at the Southern
Manufacturing and Electronics Exhibition on
3rd-5th February at Farnborough International
Exhibition Centre on Stand B290?
Tickets are free, just follow this link:
CLICK HERE
It’s the South’s premier industrial event and
the essential meeting place for the UK’s
manufacturing and electronics communities.
See you there!
www.iko.co.uk
IPN is sponsored by Vision Engineering – see them on pages 6-7 7

Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2026 Preview
Vision Engineering redefines collaborative
inspection with debut of ProteQ VISO at Southern
Manufacturing & Electronics (Stand G240)
Vision Engineering,
a leading global
manufacturer of
ergonomic inspection
and non-contact
metrology systems,
recently announced
its participation
at the Southern
Manufacturing and
Electronics trade
show, taking place
from 3-5 February
at the Farnborough
International Centre. The company will exhibit
its full range of award-winning technology,
headlined by the highly anticipated debut of the
ProteQ VISO digital stereo inspection system at
Stand G240.
The new ProteQ VISO system is set to be the
key attraction, introducing a
breakthrough in digital stereo
inspection. It delivers a highquality,
authentic 3D image
viewable comfortably on a flat
screen. Crucially, the ProteQ
VISO includes the innovative
capability to securely and
instantly share this highfidelity
3D inspection view
with other users, enabling
unprecedented levels of
remote collaboration and
collective decision-making
across quality teams.
Visitors to Stand G240
will have the opportunity
to experience Vision
Engineering’s renowned,
patented eyepiece-less
technology first-hand.
Featured inspection products
will include the latest Mantis 3rd Gen, the Queen’s
Award-winning Lynx EVO, and the ultra-highdefinition
EVO Cam HALO 4K inspection systems.
Beyond inspection, the stand will host an
extensive display of Vision Engineering’s precision
metrology solutions, including the versatile LVC
series, the robust Deltron
CMM, and the high-speed
Swift PRO EDGE zoom noncontact
measurement system.
Vision Engineering encourages
all trade show attendees,
particularly quality managers,
design engineers, and
01483 248300
enquiries@visioneng.co.uk
www.visioneng.com
production specialists, to bring
their own samples. The team
will provide personalised,
hands-on demonstrations
using their advanced
technology range for both
inspection and measurement
tasks.
Visit Vision Engineering at
Stand G240, 3-5 February,
Farnborough International
Centre.
8
IPN is sponsored by Vision Engineering – see them on pages 6-7

Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2026 Preview
Fast deployment, real results:
Why electronics manufacturers embrace MRPeasy
MRPeasy is gaining traction among
small and mid-sized electronics
manufacturers thanks to its
clean, practical approach to production
management. Built specifically for companies
that outgrow spreadsheets but don’t want the
cost or complexity of legacy ERP, the platform
brings together production, inventory,
purchasing, sales, and finances in one
lightweight system that’s easy to deploy.
Eliminating component shortages
For electronics firms where complex BOMs,
volatile lead times, and strict traceability are
everyday realities, MRPeasy offers a structured
way to plan production, schedule component
purchases, manage engineering revisions, and
keep costs under control. Its production scheduler
helps manufacturers balance workloads and avoid
bottlenecks, while automated inventory control
keeps critical parts available when needed.
“We’ve never had a material shortage
after adopting MRPeasy,” says Colin Hart,
Managing Director at Poweronics, a gate driver
manufacturing company from St Neots.
Advanced bill of materials features for
complex products
MRPeasy’s bill of materials features consistently
stand out among other solutions of a similar
calibre. In addition to simple single-level bills
of materials, the system allows users to create
and manage multi-level and configurable BOMs,
as well as manage BOM versions and revisions.
Advanced BOM functionality like this is essential
for managing the production of complex
products such as electronics.
“Our product set is large and complex,” says Chris
Landen, Chief Operations Officer at Bristol-based
Exacta Technologies. “MRPeasy allows us to
manage multi-level and configurable BOMs while
controlling revisions and engineering changes
properly.”
Full traceability with lot and serial numbers
Another vital benefit MRPeasy provides customers
is full traceability. Stock lots and components can
be tracked using lot or serial numbers, with all
events related to a product recorded and easily
accessible.
“With the software, I’m able to track components
and achieve traceability throughout the order
chain,” says Ralph Jones, Director at Britannia 2000
Holdings, an aerospace electronics manufacturing
company from Windsor.
“So, if we have a bad batch, we can find out which
MOs and POs they were part of. Everything we
manufacture is serial numbered and MRPeasy
helps us track these as well.”
Implementation times drastically reduced
compared to traditional solutions
Apart from its robust functionality, a big part
of MRPeasy’s value lies in its accessibility: fast
implementation, clear workflows, and a price
point designed for SMBs. For power electronics
companies looking to scale production capacity,
reduce manual work, and improve delivery
reliability, it offers a straightforward path to
operational discipline without the complexity
commonly associated with ERP.
“The implementation was very straightforward
– setting up MRPeasy only took me about
three hours,” Colin Hart says, “that’s 1,500 SKU
lines, all the bills of materials, existing sales
orders, purchase orders, manufacturing orders,
everything!”
Growth without unnecessary complexity
Perhaps most importantly, MRPeasy
provides electronics manufacturers with
the operational backbone and focus
that supports their rapid expansion
and increasing order volumes. Instead
of spreadsheets that quickly start to
encumber manufacturers as their products
and processes grow in complexity, smart
manufacturers implement a solution that
grows alongside them.
“Since we started using MRPeasy, we have
achieved over 100% growth in revenue,”
says Chris Landen from Exacta Technologies.
“And we have almost tripled our employee
count from 25 to 70 without adding the
same proportion of administrative overhead.”
Recognised as Best Manufacturing Software
of 2025
MRPeasy’s commitment to usability and value has
been widely acknowledged. The company was
recently named ‘Best Manufacturing Software of
2025’ and ‘Best Value for Money MRP Software’
by Software Advice, part of the Gartner review
network, earning a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Speaking on the Industry Excellence Award,
UK Business Development Manager, Sara Duff,
said, “We are delighted and honored to receive
Industry Update’s Industry Excellence Award as
an endorsement of the significant contribution
we are making within the manufacturing and
distribution SME market.”
MRPeasy at Southern Manufacturing &
Electronics in Farnborough
MRPeasy is excited to be exhibiting at the 2026
Southern Manufacturing & Electronics Expo in
Farnborough, from February 3rd to 5th. Whether
you’re completely new to MRPeasy or an existing
customer or partner, come say hi to us at Stand
B210.
We can answer questions like:
■ Is an ERP worth it for a small or growing
manufacturer?
■ When do spreadsheets stop being enough?
■ What should you look for in a manufacturing
ERP?
Come by to learn more about manufacturing
ERP software, discuss possible solutions for your
business, and see MRPeasy in action through a
live demo.
Find out more about MRPeasy at:
www.mrpeasy.co.uk
10
IPN is sponsored by Vision Engineering – see them on pages 6-7

Awards & Achievements News
IG Masonry Support achieves
ISO14001 Accreditation
G Masonry Support, a market
Ileader in innovative masonry
support systems, has announced
it has secured ISO 14001:2015
Environmental Management System
certification, marking a significant
milestone in its ongoing commitment
to reducing its environmental
footprint.
Health and Safety Officer at IG
Masonry Support. “Sustainability is
not just a corporate responsibility for
us – it’s a core part of how we operate.
This accreditation demonstrates
our commitment to protecting the
environment while continuing to
deliver the highest quality products
and services to our customers.”
EcoVadis: KHS
wins platinum
ISO 14001 is the internationally
recognised standard for
environmental management,
providing a framework for
organisations to improve performance through
more efficient resource use and waste reduction.
This achievement underscores IG Masonry Support’s
dedication to embedding sustainable practices across
its operations.
Previously covered under the wider Keystone Group’s
ISO 14001 certification, IG Masonry Support sought its
own accreditation to ensure the standard reflected the
environmental performance of its sites directly.
“We are incredibly proud to have achieved our own ISO
14001 certification,” said Judith Mitchell, Environmental,
EXPLAIN wins prestigious AI innovation award
BB’s Corporate Research Centres in Germany and
ASweden have been awarded the prestigious ITEA
Award of Excellence 2025 in the Innovation category at
a ceremony in Portugal on 16th September 2025. The
award recognises the international EU-funded research
project EXPLAIN, in which ABB collaborated with
partners from three countries to develop pioneering
methods aimed at making artificial intelligence (AI)
transparent, reliable, and understandable for end users
in process industries.
As part of the project, ABB’s Corporate Research Centres
have demonstrated capabilities in managing complex
AI technologies, highlighting the potential to translate
advanced research into impactful solutions for the
industrial partners in the future.
By combining cutting-edge AI research with strong
industrial collaboration, the project has demonstrated
The certification follows a rigorous
independent audit, confirming that
IG Masonry Support has robust
environmental management systems
in place – from waste reduction and energy efficiency
initiatives to sustainable sourcing and continuous
performance monitoring.
This milestone supports the company’s broader ESG
(Environmental, Social, and Governance) objectives
and its mission to lead the construction sector in
environmental innovation. IG Masonry Support
continues to invest in eco-conscious technologies,
materials, and processes that contribute to a greener
built environment.
https://igmasonrysupport.com/resources
Pfeiffer Vacuum’s Yreka facility
receives Blue Sky Award
feiffer Vacuum’s Yreka
Pfacility participated in
the prestigious Blue Sky
Business Partner Program.
It awards companies that
cover 100% of their electric
usage with renewable
energies. In honour of the
award presentation, an event
was held on the premises
of Pfeiffer Vacuum Valves &
Engineering.
In a short presentation,
Bryan Strait, General Manager of Pfeiffer Vacuum
Valves & Engineering, outlined the company’s 60 year
history as well as the plans to expand the warehouse
and cleanroom of the facility to support growth in the
valve sector. He was then presented with the award by
Jill Drinkwater, California Regional Business Manager
of Pacific Power – an electric utility company focusing
on reliable and sustainable
energy delivery that serves
customers in Oregon,
Washington and California.
In addition to Pfeiffer
Vacuum employees,
members of Pacific Power’s
management team,
representatives from Siskiyou
Economic Development
Council – an organisation
that focuses on fostering
economic growth and
development in Siskiyou County, where Yreka is located
– the City Manager, and the City Planner of Yreka were
also present at the award ceremony. All participants
were very proud, creating an atmosphere of recognition
and appreciation for this great achievement.
www.pfeiffer-vacuum.com
how human-centred explainable AI (XAI) can empower
operators and experts to trust, interact with, and even
provide feedback to AI systems. This approach ensures
that AI becomes a reliable and intuitive part of daily
For the first time in its company history, KHS
GmbH has been awarded a platinum medal
by EcoVadis. The rating platform thus certifies
the system provider’s excellent achievements
with respect to sustainability and the progress it
has made in this field. Compared to the previous
year, KHS has improved further and now
received 86 out of 100 possible points.
The Dortmund turnkey supplier is thus among
the top 1% of the companies rated by EcoVadis
– with this figure currently at over 150,000.
Depending on the size of the company and
the branch of industry, the rating includes up
to 21 different sustainability criteria. These are
based on various ESG topics and split into the
categories of environment, labor and human
rights, ethics and sustainable procurement.
Last year, KHS scored 75 points and won a
gold EcoVadis medal; this time around, the
engineering company upped its rating by
eleven points. One reason for this was the
company’s extended guideline and certification
management program that considerably helped
to better KHS’ achievements in the ethics and
labor and human rights categories in particular.
Moreover, as in previous years KHS was able to
further improve in the sustainable procurement
section and more or less keep its magnificent
performance to date in the environment sector
at the previous year’s level. What’s particularly
pleasing is the recognition given to KHS’
reporting across all four topics that has been
steadily further developed over the years.
www.khs.com/en
operations – not just a technical innovation, but a
practical tool for real-world decision-making for industry.
ABB-driven use cases, developed within the EXPLAIN
consortium and validated together with industrial
partners, brought explainable AI into real-world
operations:
In mining, ABB worked closely with Boliden to design
and pilot AI solutions for flotation processes, targeting
higher harmonisation and efficiency. “By involving
industry experts throughout the development process,
EXPLAIN has delivered concrete results,” said Rasmus
Tammia, Program Manager – Artificial Intelligence in
Mining, at Boliden. “The project has demonstrated in
a new way how AI can be applied in industry – and we
look forward to taking the insights further.”
www.abb.com
12
IPN is sponsored by Vision Engineering – see them on pages 6-7

EnerMech secures two
major pipeline contracts
nerMech has been awarded
Etwo significant pipeline precommissioning
contracts in offshore
East Malaysia, marking a substantial
milestone in the expansion of its critical
pipeline and subsea activities within
the region in both deep and shallow
water environments.
These contracts have been
secured with two tier-one
contractor clients,
both of which are
supporting the
same multinational
operator’s
developments in
the region.
The first scope
of work involves
pre-commissioning
operations at a depth
of 1,300 metres in deep
water, and the second scope
takes place in shallow waters.
EnerMech’s multi-skilled team will
carry out a range of highly specialised
services for both clients including
flooding, cleaning, gauging and
testing, dewatering and nitrogen
packing of subsea umbilicals, risers and
flowlines.
The company has extensive experience
in the region having successfully
supported its customers’ needs since
its establishment in Asia in 2009. Over
the last 15 years, it has expanded
its geographical presence in Asia
with subject matter experts located
at its operational bases in Asia and
further afield in Americas, Europe,
Australia and AMEC regions.
In Asia, EnerMech’s focus
countries are Singapore,
Malaysia (regional
HQ), Indonesia and
China.
Charles ‘Chuck’
Davison Jr,
EnerMech CEO,
said, “Asia is a
key geography
for the business
as it has significant
offshore oil and gas
reserves that continue to
attract investment. These two new
contracts align with our strategic vision
to expand our pipeline and subsea
capabilities in the region to support
the current sector’s needs and the
anticipated larger projects on the
horizon.”
www.enermech.com
Motive Offshore acquires
Acteon Group’s Aquatic
otive Offshore Group, which
Mspecialises in rental, inspection
and engineering equipment for
the energy sector, announces its
acquisition of Aquatic, a global
leader in laying and retrieving
flexible products from the seabed,
previously owned by marine energy
and infrastructure services company
Acteon. The deal will increase Motive’s
rental fleet and provide a full backdeck
offering globally.
Motive will undertake Aquatic’s
operations in the UK, Singapore, the
US, Australia, and Norway, marking
a significant milestone in its global
growth strategy. The deal, in response
to burgeoning market demand, will
provide customers with access to a
wider range of flex lay equipment
for offshore telecoms, offshore wind
farms, and oil and gas fields. Bolstered
by investment from H2 Equity Partners
in 2022, the acquisition aligns with
Motive’s continued ambitions to
target strategic locations, diversify
its rental fleet, and generate 75% of
revenue from renewables by 2025. The
business is on track with this target,
achieving 50% of renewable revenue
YTD in 2024.
As part of the agreement, Motive will
Oil, Gas & Offshore
also acquire and invest in Aquatic’s
facility in Peterhead, Scotland. The
hub will become an additional base
in Scotland for Motive, alongside its
Boyndie and Kintore facilities.
This marks the latest in a series of
strategic acquisitions by Motive,
including growing its team to a
headcount of now 335 people and
operating in over 52 locations. The
combined business will generate
revenues of over £65m, a 97% increase
since the time of H2’s investment in
July 2022, further showcasing Motive’s
commitment to its international
growth and diversification plans by
applying offshore resources, crosssector
collaboration, and innovation to
the energy sector.
www.motive-offshore.com
IPN is sponsored by Vision Engineering – see them on pages 6-7 13

Industrial Process Technologies
ystral expands strategic presence in India
with new Bangalore facility site to evolve into
regional service hub for Asian markets
ystral, the German specialist in mixing,
dispersing and powder-wetting technologies, is
significantly strengthening its operations in India
with the opening of a new facility in Bangalore.
The expansion, which includes a larger technical
and service team as well as increased local
procurement, underscores the company’s longterm
commitment to the Indian and Southeast
Asian markets.
For decades, ystral has been a global leader in the
design and manufacture of high-performance
mixing, dispersing and powder-wetting machines,
as well as turnkey process systems serving the
chemical, pharmaceutical, coatings and paints,
food, home and personal care, and battery
production industries. The company has operated
in India since 2013
through its wholly owned
subsidiary, ystral india
pvt ltd.
The relocation to the
new Bangalore site will
enable the Indian team
to expand from nine to
fifteen specialists across
process engineering,
electrical engineering,
The future of welding
The UK is facing a crisis in its
welding workforce and the
numbers are alarming. WorldSkills
UK estimates a shortage of more
than 35,000 skilled professionals.
The UK’s 2025 industrial strategy
green paper specifically states, “The
UK has a lack of technical skills –
such as in electrical, mechanical, and
welding trades.”
So how does an entire
industry change
its image and its
future...
For Chris
Houston,
Managing
Director of
Tadweld, a
leading steel
fabrication
company, it feels like
not enough is being
done. “Our welding industry
is facing a cliff-edge moment,
where skills shortages are going to
cripple our ability to manufacture
steel structures here in the UK.
We all have a role to play, with
action needed across Education,
Government and Industry.”
For the government, there needs
software development,
sales, and service.
“This move reflects
our continued
commitment to
enhancing operational
efficiency and delivering
world-class service
to our customers,”
said Srirangarajan
Santhanam, Director of
ystral india.
Strengthening competitiveness through
localisation
As part of its strategic growth plan, ystral will
further increase the
degree of component
manufacturing
undertaken within
India while continuing
to produce key highprecision
components in
Germany.
to be far more deliberate attention
on our nation’s manufacturing
capability. The recently published
industrial strategy is a start in
recognising that we have a problem,
but it falls way short of identifying
the solutions to skills shortages like
welding.
One immediate action could
be the incentivisation
of welding
apprenticeships.
While
apprenticeships
themselves are
95% funded
through the
Apprentice
Levy that
began in 2017,
the cost of an
apprenticeship
to employers
has soared in recent
years with a 66% increase
in national minimum wage for
apprentices between 2023 and
2025.
To find out more about the history
of the welding industry in the UK,
visit: https://tadweld.co.uk/fromthe-golden-era-to-an-acute-skillsgap-the-story-of-uk-welding
“Through increased
localisation, we are
confident that we
technotrans sets course
for accelerated growth
At its Capital Markets Day in
Sassenberg, technotrans SE
unveiled its new strategy ‘Ready
for Growth 2030’, setting out a
clear roadmap for long-term,
profitable growth and sustainable
value creation. The declared goal
is to position technotrans as a
globally leading provider of thermal
management solutions in the
Technology and Services segments,
while growing significantly faster than
its relevant markets. Key drivers are
the megatrends artificial intelligence,
electrification, decarbonisation,
digitalisation, and medical progress.
technotrans is already active in these
application areas with intelligent,
state-of-the-art thermal management
systems.
“The title of our strategy, Ready
for Growth 2030, emphasises: we
are ready for accelerated growth!
technotrans today has a strong
structure and organisation as well
as a resilient business model with
four divisions including service. We
are excellently positioned in growth
markets and benefit from global
megatrends. Thanks to our unique
range in thermal management, we
are growing faster than the markets
will remain highly
competitive in the
dynamic Indian market.
Local sourcing enables
us to reduce lead times,
offer delivery in INR,
and accelerate project
execution – speed being
a decisive success factor
in India,” said Dominik
Seeger, Senior Vice
President Sales at ystral.
India as a high-growth strategic market
India is currently ystral’s fastest-growing market
worldwide. The new Bangalore facility is expected
to evolve into a regional service hub supporting
neighbouring Asian markets, and to complement
operations in China and Singapore by taking on
additional service responsibilities. In addition,
ystral india is expected to contribute software
development services to the company’s global
headquarters in Germany. With this expansion,
ystral reinforces its strategic commitment to India
as a core market and positions itself to meet the
increasing demand for advanced mixing and
process technologies across Asia.
www.ystral.com
and, on the basis of economies of
scale, operational excellence, and
sustainable financial stability, we
are creating long-term value for our
shareholders,” says Michael Finger,
CEO of technotrans SE.
The financial objectives of the new
strategy underline the company’s
growth potential and earning power:
technotrans aims to achieve Group
revenue of more than €350 million by
2030 and an EBIT margin between 9%
and 12%. At the same time, the focus
is on sustainably increasing free cash
flow in order to finance future growth
investments and deliver attractive
returns for shareholders.
www.technotrans.com
14
IPN is sponsored by Vision Engineering – see them on pages 6-7

Health & Safety
COBA Anti-Fatigue Mats lift productivity in
high-demand shopfitting environments
The hidden strain slowing down
skilled shopfitters
In the world of premium
shopfitting, precision is
everything. Clan Innovations, a
respected manufacturer within
the retail and creative sectors,
relies on a highly skilled workforce
operating CNC machinery,
fabricating timber and solid
surfaces, and delivering fine
craftsmanship for branded environments. Yet
behind the quality and speed of their production
was a daily challenge that shaped how teams
worked.
Hours of standing on cold concrete floors had
begun to take a toll. Discomfort grew, fatigue
increased and the physical strain of long shifts
started to affect focus, efficiency and overall
wellbeing. Clan Innovations
recognised that even the most
talented teams perform at their
best only when their environment
supports them. The right
ergonomic foundation was missing.
How anti-fatigue mats became a
practical path to better workdays
Seeking a reliable solution, Clan
Innovations partnered with COBA
Tyron Runflat raises
awareness of road safety
Tyron Runflat, inventor of the
world’s only multi-piece rubber
Runflat system, is raising awareness
of the life-saving importance of road
safety.
National Highways reported earlier
this year that there were 5,934 tyrerelated
incidents on the Strategic
Road Network (SRN) in 2021, rising
to 7,095 in 2022
and 7,762 in 2023
– rising figures
which include
incidents where
blowouts led to
serious collisions.
During Road
Safety Week
(17th-23rd
November), the
specialist team at
Tyron Runflat is urging all road users
to take the maintenance of their tyres
seriously to prevent serious road
traffic accidents this winter.
The theme for this year’s Road Safety
Week is ‘After the Crash – Every Road
Victim Counts’, but Tyron is advocating
for individuals to remain vigilant
and avoid road traffic accidents all
together.
to introduce
Orthomat
Premium
Bubble Anti-
Fatigue Mats
across key
workstations.
These mats
were chosen
for their strong
fatigue-relief performance and
long-lasting durability, making them ideal for
busy manufacturing floors.
The raised bubble surface encourages subtle
movement, helping circulation and reducing
the heavy-legged feeling workers experienced
on concrete. A cushioned underlayer provides
essential insulation and comfort, while tapered
edges and optional high-visibility borders
support safety in busy workshop
areas.
Raising awareness for the importance
of road safety and tyre maintenance
this winter, Peter Simson, Director at
Tyron Runflat, comments, “Year after
year we are seeing an increase in the
number of road traffic accidents, so
it is more important than ever that
people take their safety, whether
they are behind
the wheel of
a commercial
vehicle or a
civilian vehicle,
seriously. As
the icy weather
conditions loom
and the dark
nights are upon
us, it is vital that
all road users take
action to ensure
the safety of their vehicle and those
around them.
“From commercial vehicle drivers
and police vans to families in their
motorhomes, everyone needs to be
aware of the catastrophic impacts of
poor tyre maintenance.”
www.tyron.co.uk
By implementing fatigue mats
into standing zones such as
workbenches and machine
stations, Clan Innovations aimed
to reduce strain and create a
more supportive environment
that matched the skill and
intensity of their work.
A noticeable lift in comfort, morale
and productivity
Once the COBA anti-fatigue mats were
installed, the impact was immediate.
Managing Director, Nathan Keightley,
shared his team’s response. “The team
have noticed a real improvement from
standing on the anti-fatigue mats.
They are on their feet for most of the
day, so comfort is essential. We are
extremely happy with the matting from COBA.”
Workers echoed the sentiment. “I used to work
on concrete for years. Since using the anti-fatigue
mats, the difference is massive. I feel more
comfortable and far less strain at the end of the
day.”
What began as a simple upgrade has reshaped
how employees feel throughout their shift. Clan
Innovations now benefits from a more energised
workforce, improved focus and a smoother
workflow.
When people feel better, they work better.
COBA anti-fatigue mats turned that belief into
measurable momentum for a business built on
precision and quality.
+44 (0)1788 228555
www.coba.com
Arburg has got the
hang of it
More occupational safety and
greater efficiency when
handling tools weighing several
tons: this is now the current
situation at Arburg. The leading
machine manufacturer for plastics
processing is using the RUD Tecdos
TM Tool Mover at its headquarters
in Lossburg (Baden-Württemberg)
and now moves tools safely and
efficiently. The RUD Tool Mover turns
and rotates tools in seconds at the
touch of a button. The Tool Mover
has the Arburg employees ecstatic
because it optimises work safety and
ergonomics on the floor.
Arburg offers trials and tool tests
together for its customers in its
2,100m 2 customer centre at its
Lossburg head office. It has more
than 30 Allrounder injection
moulding machines, 3D printers
for additive manufacturing and
laboratories for special processes.
This facility benefits customers to
test tools and machines and optimise
processes in a practical & professional
environment. The added benefit for
the Arburg team is that the RUD Tool
Mover looks aesthetically pleasing on
the turnkey floor.
“When tools arrive at our premises,
they are usually ‘inverted’ so that
they must be turned 90 degrees
for testing. This is now done by
the RUD Tecdos TM Tool Mover,”
explains Roland Gruber, Group
Manager Application Programming
& Commissioning in the Automation
& Turnkey department at Arburg.
The injection moulding machine
manufacturer also uses the tool
mover during the commissioning of
turnkey projects, ie, when a customer
uses a machine and mould before
delivery. Arburg uses the RUD Tecdos
TM 13/13-10, which rotates moulds
weighing up to 10 tons safely and
efficiently.
www.moldhandling.rud.com
www.arburg.com
16
IPN is sponsored by Vision Engineering – see them on pages 6-7

Test, Measurement & Laboratory
The role of radar in
modern sensing
n today’s rapidly advancing
Itechnological world, radar has become
an essential part of modern sensing
systems. Its robustness and reliability in
challenging environmental conditions,
such as fog, rain, snow, and darkness,
make it an indispensable component
across many industries.
Radar technology is recognised for
its unique capabilities, particularly in
applications requiring continuous,
long-range, and accurate detection.
However, radar alone cannot always
provide a complete picture. This is
where sensor fusion, integrating radar
with cameras and lidar, emerges as a
powerful solution. Combining these
different modalities allows systems
to compensate for each sensor’s
limitations, resulting in a more complete
and reliable understanding of the
environment. As Dr Damien Clarke from
Plextek explores…
Radar functions by transmitting radio
waves and analysing their reflections
from surrounding objects. This process
enables the detection of an object’s
distance and relative velocity. Since
radio frequency signals can operate
in adverse weather and low visibility,
radar maintains its performance where
optical sensors might fail. Radar systems
are also capable of detecting motion,
estimating speed using the Doppler
effect, and classifying targets through
unique micro-Doppler signatures caused
by movement patterns like walking or
rotating wheels.
MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output)
radar, a more advanced form often
developed for compact platforms, uses
multiple transmitting and receiving
antennas to estimate direction as well as
range and speed. By processing signals
from different antenna elements, MIMO
systems can perform beamforming
to determine target direction more
precisely. When implemented at
millimetre-wave frequencies, these
systems achieve high angular resolution
within small form factors, making them
suitable for applications like automotive
safety and drone navigation.
www.plextek.com
Excellence in vibration
monitoring
aintec is the longest standing
Mexhibition for the predictive
maintenance, reliability and asset
management industry, and Chris
Hansford, Managing Director of
Hansford Sensors Ltd, has been
attending the show for almost 40 years.
As a globally recognised leader in
industrial vibration monitoring,
Hansford Sensors designs &
manufactures a broad range of highperformance
equipment. Its offerings
include accelerometers, vibration
sensors, 4-20mA transmitters, cable
assemblies, and industrial enclosures.
At Maintec 2024, Hansford Sensors
highlighted key products like its
Accelerometer Power Supply Modules
and Vibration Sensors, showcasing
its commitment to delivering reliable
solutions for industrial applications.
Vibration monitoring products are
crucial in industry because they
help detect early signs of machinery
malfunction, such as misalignment,
imbalance, or bearing failures. Hansford
Sensors systems are ideal to support
various outputs like AC acceleration
and velocity, ensuring versatility in
usage. Its products are designed for
robustness with IP ratings suitable for
harsh environments, making them ideal
for industries such as manufacturing,
power, and mining.
As well as Vibration Systems and
Switches, Hansford Sensors also offer
a range of accessories for vibration
monitoring that include DIN rail
mounted monitoring and protection
modules, vibration switches and charge
amplifiers.
What’s more, Hansford Sensors also
provide an online calculator designed
to simplify your vibration analysis. From
an input of acceleration, velocity or
displacement the Vibration Calculator
converts the amplitude and frequency
into a range of engineering units to
optimise analytical performance.
For more information on all
products, or to use the calculator,
please see below:
0845 680 1957
sales@hansfordsensors.com
https://hansfordsensors.com
Hansford Sensors is a leading global
manufacturer of industrial vibration
monitoring equipment. We design, develop
and manufacture a range of high-performance
industrial accelerometers, vibration sensors,
4-20mA transmitters, cable assemblies,
industrial enclosures and ancillary equipment.
These products can be used in a wide range of
industries including petrochemical, metal,
paper & recycling.
Visit hansfordsensors.com,
contact 0845 680 1957 or email
sales@hansfordsensors.com
18
IPN is sponsored by Vision Engineering – see them on pages 6-7

BPMA welcomes latest
members
The British Pump Manufacturers
Association (BPMA) is delighted
to announce that H20 Pumping
Solutions Ltd and Vulcan Seals have
become the latest companies to join
its distinguished roster of members.
Both organisations bring a wealth of
expertise, innovation, and dedication
to the pump industry, further
strengthening BPMA’s commitment
to promoting pump engineering
excellence across the sector.
H20 Pumping
Solutions Ltd
Based in
the UK, H20
Pumping
Solutions Ltd
specialises in
the supply, installation, maintenance,
and repair of pumps and pumping
systems across a broad range of
industries. Known for their tailored
approach, the company provides
bespoke solutions to meet the
diverse needs of its customers,
ensuring efficient and reliable
performance in critical applications.
With a strong focus on customer
satisfaction, H20 Pumping Solutions
Ltd has established itself as a trusted
partner in the pump industry. Visit
the website for more information:
www.h20pumpingsolutions.co.uk
Vulcan Seals
Vulcan Seals is one of the world’s
leading manufacturers and suppliers
of mechanical seals, offering a
comprehensive range of sealing
solutions to a global customer base.
With a commitment to innovation,
quality, and customer service, Vulcan
Seals supports
the pump
industry with
products
that enhance
efficiency,
reliability, and
sustainability.
From standard designs to customengineered
solutions, their expertise
helps businesses tackle even the
most demanding sealing challenges.
For more details, please visit the
website: https://vulcanseals.com
For more information on the
commercial and promotional
benefits of becoming a BPMA
Member, please visit:
www.bpma.org.uk
Oliver Valvetek wins
OneSubsea ‘On-Time
Delivery’ Supplier Award
liver Valvetek has been recognised
Oby Schlumberger OneSubsea with
the Best Supplier – On-Time Delivery
Award, presented during the annual
OneSubsea Supplier Day in Oslo. The
award highlights Valvetek’s consistent
reliability in subsea valve supply and
marks the second time in three years
that the company has received this
distinction.
Representatives Daniel Oliver and
Colin Wood attended
the event on behalf of
the Oliver Valves Group,
joining senior figures from
OneSubsea’s global supply
chain, including Victor
Ferreira (Head of Global
Category Management),
Robert Chenery (Global
Category Manager) and Daniel Hayles
(Global Category Manager). This year’s
Supplier Day focused on the new subsea
era, exploring innovative approaches
to supply chain efficiency and future
collaboration across major global energy
projects.
Throughout the event, OneSubsea
shared market insights covering key
operators such as Equinor, Chevron,
Phoenix Fluid Power
showcases fluid control
technology
eterborough-based manufacturer
PPhoenix Fluid Power, which has
worked on major projects for top
tier motorsport teams, is set to make
its debut at the London EV Show,
presenting its proven fluid control
technology for the electric vehicle (EV)
industry.
The company’s
high-performance
systems are
bespoke built
to suit the
requirements
of the rapidly
growing EV market,
spanning the
passenger car,
commercial vehicle
and motorsport
sectors. To date,
they have been
widely used to ensure the safe and
precise stress and performance testing
of critical components like batteries,
inverters and electric motors.
With a history of more than 40 years in
fluid power, Phoenix brings a wealth
of experience to EVs from its work in
Pumps & Valves
Woodside, Petrobras, TotalEnergies,
Eni, ExxonMobil and CNOOC, outlining
expected growth in oil, gas and LNG
markets through to 2030. A strong
emphasis was placed on innovation
to reduce cost while maintaining the
highest performance standards across
subsea operations.
OneSubsea reiterated its confidence
in Oliver Valvetek’s product quality,
communication and responsiveness,
noting the strength of the
long-standing relationship
between the two
companies.
The evening concluded
with the awards ceremony,
where Oliver Valvetek was
presented with the Best
Supplier – On-Time Delivery award. The
achievement reflects the dedication
and expertise of the entire Valvetek
(TEK) team, whose work continues to
uphold the company’s reputation for
dependable, high-integrity subsea
engineering.
+44 (0)1565 632636
sales@valves.co.uk
www.valves.co.uk
aerospace, oil and gas, and the marine
sectors.
Elizabeth Noles, General Manager &
Director of Phoenix Fluid Power, says,
“Our fluid control solutions have already
been used by teams in both Formula
One and Formula E – two of the most
challenging environments possible,
where precision,
reliability, and data
accuracy is critical
to performance.
“For example,
through precise
management of
temperature, flow
rate, and pressure,
our systems are
designed to heat
a vehicle’s battery
to the optimal
racing temperature, and once the
race concludes, to seamlessly cool
the battery down. We’re talking about
accuracy to within +/-1°C, before
effortlessly cooling the battery to
maximise efficiency and longevity.”
https://phoenixfluidpower.co.uk
IPN is sponsored by Vision Engineering – see them on pages 6-7 19

Electrical & Electronics News
State-of-the-art injection moulding solutions
ontron, a leading global provider of IoT
Ktechnology, the company is expanding its
expertise in plastics processing through its
Electronics² service brand. Through extensive
investments in state-of-the-art injection moulding
machines at its Leipzig site, the company is
strengthening its vertical integration capabilities and
expanding its services for demanding applications
in industrial electronics, medical technology, energy
technology, and automotive technology.
By expanding its production capacities and
using highly automated injection moulding at its
Leipzig site, Kontron eSystems is strengthening
its position within the Electronics² network as a
high-performance plastics processing partner. A
key component of this expansion is the automated
in-mould decoration (IMD) process, which produces
A fast overhead
crane makeover
The longstanding
expert knowledge
of KABELSCHLEPP
Metool in the field
of cable carriers for
cranes is currently
paying off in France.
In several project
steps, the existing
cable carriers on the
overhead cranes are
being replaced with
hybrid cable carriers
of type MC0650 from
the M series. These
are perfectly up to
the task of the tough
ambient conditions
in the metalworking
industry, due to their quick and easy installation and
the low maintenance requirements, among other
things.
According to Philippe Connesson, responsible
for Technical Sales North-East and Sales Manager
France at TSUBAKI KABELSCHLEPP, the customer’s
main incentive for this technology change were
the long service life of the new hybid cable carriers
and that they do not require any maintenance. All
that is required is an occasional visual inspection,
whereas the old cable reel system required regular
maintenance. “The customer was immediately
interested in these aspects,“ reports Philippe
Connesson. “They were also convinced by our
customer service and our quality products that can
withstand the tough ambient conditions in the
metalworking industry and are easy to handle.”
Hybrid cable carriers of type MC0650 RS
with aluminium stays from the M series by
KABELSCHLEPP Metool are used for this project.
Since the start of the project, removal of the existing
systems and installation of the new technology
have been the responsibility of ACTEMIUM Levage,
a specialist firm for maintenance and refurbishment
of crane systems with headquarters in Héricourt,
France.
www.metool.com
www.kabelschlepp.co.uk
www.kabelschlepp.de
high-quality, visually appealing parts with an
excellent surface finish. For the first time, all plastic
parts can be manufactured directly at the Leipzig
AEMT welcomes eight industry
leaders as new members
he Association of Electrical and Mechanical Trades
T(AEMT) is delighted to announce the addition
of eight reputable companies to its membership
roster. These industry leaders bring a wealth of
expertise in electrical and mechanical engineering,
further strengthening the association’s commitment
to excellence, innovation, and professional
collaboration.
The organisation is therefore proud to
welcome the following new members:
■ Innomotics Large Drives and Motors
Limited: www.innomotics.com
■ Maintain Reliability Ltd:
www.maintainreliability.co.uk
■ PT. Mesindo Tekninesia:
www.mesindotekninesia.com
■ Power Energy Gulf for Environmental
Services: www.power-energy.us
■ The Electric Materials Company: www.elecmat.com
■ Euro-Tech Asia International SDN BHD:
www.eutechinternational.com
■ Hayward Tyler Ltd: www.HaywardTyler.com
■ Sensor-Works: www.sensor-works.com
These eight companies bring diverse expertise and
innovative solutions to the AEMT, further enriching the
association’s ability to support its members and drive
progress across the electrical and mechanical trades.
The addition of these organisations reinforces AEMT’s
commitment to advancing industry standards, fostering
global collaboration, and promoting sustainability.
Commenting on these latest additions to
the Association’s membership, Thomas
Marks, AEMT Secretary and General
Manager, said, “It is extremely pleasing
to see that the business benefits
associated with AEMT membership are
valued by a growing number of repair
and maintenance related businesses. I
am therefore delighted to welcome these
companies into the association and look
forward to providing them with all the support now
available to them.”
For more information on the benefits of joining the
AEMT, please phone on +44 (0)1904 674899 or send
an email to: admin@theaemt.com
Sfera Labs expands Strato Pi
Max capabilities
fera Labs, a leading innovator
Sin industrial-grade open
solutions, is proud to announce
the release of two new expansion
boards for its Strato Pi Max
modular industrial controller: the
Industrial Analog Inputs X2-Series
Expansion Board (X2BI10XAIZ)
and the Industrial Analog Outputs
X2-Series Expansion Board (X2BI10XAOZ).
The Strato Pi Max is not just a robust, DIN-rail-mounted
industrial edge server – it’s a modular powerhouse
designed for demanding environments. By combining
the processing capabilities of the Raspberry Pi Compute
4 or 5 and the RP2040 microcontroller with industrialgrade
reliability, Strato Pi Max is ideal for a wide range
of applications in industrial automation, IoT, and edge
computing.
Now, with the introduction of two new expansion
boards, the versatility and functionality of Strato Pi
Max reach new heights. These boards seamlessly
site. This increased vertical manufacturing capacity
significantly reduces dependence on external
suppliers and strengthens supply chain resilience
within the Kontron Group.
Significant added value for customers is provided
by the complete integration of plastics processing
and electronics manufacturing at a single location.
Seamless integration of all development, production,
and quality assurance processes enables short
response times and customised solutions. This
allows us to produce cutting-edge components of
the highest quality under one roof, especially for
applications in electromobility.
+49 341 271 5600
www.kontron.com/en/products-solutions/
electronics2
evolve.
integrate with the Strato Pi
Max, broadening its capabilities
and enabling users to tailor the
system precisely to their control
application needs. This compact
and powerful industrial controller
offers unparalleled flexibility,
allowing you to adapt and expand
its functionality as your projects
The release of these new expansion boards underscores
Sfera Labs’ commitment to empowering industrial
automation and IoT. By providing flexible, reliable, and
easy-to-use tools, Sfera Labs is enabling businesses to
innovate and optimise their operations. Whether it’s
monitoring temperature in a room, controlling actuators
in a manufacturing plant, or developing advanced IoT
solutions, the Strato Pi Max and its expansion boards
offer the performance and reliability needed for today’s
industrial challenges.
www.sferalabs.cc
20
IPN is sponsored by Vision Engineering – see them on pages 6-7

Recommended Supplier Directory
Here at AdCo we offer a wide range of adhesive
products for various applications, including
industrial manufacturing, construction,
packaging, and more. Our goal is to provide our
customers with reliable and efficient solutions
to all their adhesive needs. Not sure which
adhesive is right for your application? Our team
of experts are here to assist you.
At Christeyns, we’re passionate about helping
you keep things clean and safe. As hygiene
experts, we’re here to provide everything you
need – from five-star detergents, advanced
equipment to user-friendly monitoring systems
– all designed to deliver excellent results while
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Our services have enabled many companies
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and beverage production. We provide a
comprehensive service to deal with all sludge and
effluent-related problems involving the treatment,
thickening and dewatering of almost any liquid.
Our multi-purpose storage cages are of modular
design, allowing for easy DIY construction
and incredibly flexible usage. Equally at home
either inside or outside the warehouse and
are designed to protect goods, gas bottles or
chemicals against vandalism and theft. We offer
a range of mobile security cages with wheels, as
well as fixed static cages all available from stock.
Curtiss-Wright surface technologies provides
customers a single-source solution and point of
contact for all their controlled material surface
treatments, supporting their requirements
through our global network of over 70 worldwide
facilities and on-site field teams, improving and
reducing turnaround times and costs. We are
material surface improvement specialists.
Kingston Engineering is a leading UK precision
engineering company with expertise in
manufacturing precision machined components
and assemblies. Our specialism is in producing
bespoke power screws, manufactured to the
highest quality standards. We provide solutions to
complex and challenging precision projects, based
on our extensive precision engineering experience,
expertise and cutting-edge technology.
With over four decades of expertise in
manufacturing and distributing industrial and
commercial electric vehicles, Bradshaw Electric
Vehicles stands as one of the market’s most
experienced and trusted providers.
Bradshaw EV offers a comprehensive range
of vehicles and serves as Club Car’s leading
dealership & Goupil’s exclusive UK distributor.
Able Instruments are the Exclusive Sales &
Service Representative for the Micronics
UX5000 ATEX Ultrasonic Clamp-On Flow Meter
in the UK & Ireland. This advanced, non-invasive
flow solution offers high accuracy and reliability
for Zone 1 hazardous area applications. The
UX5000 is the ideal choice for critical flow
monitoring.
Gold & Wassall Hinges is the leading name in
hinge manufacturing in the UK, and has been
manufacturing hinges of all types, including
continuous hinges, heavy duty hinges, butt
hinges and special purpose hinges. Our
impressive stock range boasts over 25,000
continuous hinges and over 120,000 other
hinges.
C&M Precision Ltd specialises in precision
components using Sliding and Fixed head
Turn/Mill technology. We produce complex
components with maximum efficiency, ensuring
minimum timescales for delivery. Our expertise
in precision engineering and advanced
manufacturing techniques allows us to meet
the most challenging demands of the industry.
IPN is sponsored by Vision Engineering – see them on pages 6-7 21