Best Practice Issue 702

Issue 702 | June 2026 | 07483 935397 | www.bestpracticeuk.co.uk
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Davies Turner
RUD
DataScope
KBR
see them on page..... 4-5
see them on page......... 11
see them on page........ 15
see them on page........ 16
Mainmark: The first-choice ground
engineering and asset preservation partner
Subsidence presents one of the most
underestimated and costly risks to
properties and infrastructure, spotting
it can reduce excessive repair costs
and even irreversible damage to vital
structures.
Subsidence is the gradual sinking or
shifting of the ground, can cause cracks
in walls and floors, collapsing foundations,
uneven surfaces and compromised
structural integrity. When left untreated,
its effects only worsen, often leading to
more expensive repairs and in severe
cases, the collapse of structures.
Cracks, uneven floors, doors and windows
sticking, sagging or sinking foundations,
and persistent pooling water are all early
indicators of ground movement.
Mainmark Ground Engineering (UK) Ltd
has three decades’ experience and has
established itself as a pioneering force in
the industry, developing and delivering
cutting-edge solutions. The firm
provides ground improvements and level
correction methods allowing Mainmark to
raise, re-level and re-support and address
subsidence issues in a matter of days.
If caught early, subsidence can be
resolved using non-disruptive methods
like resin injection technology which
quickly and accurately strengthens
structures, fills voids and relevels surfaces.
All treatment plans are bespoke as no two
buildings are the same.
Need expert advice? Contact: 0800 975
0507, email: mge.uk@mainmark.com or
visit: www.mainmark.co.uk
Practical innovation for smarter, more
efficient buildings
The Hidden Cost of Limescale and Heating System Inefficiency
WATER SYSTEMS - Aqua Energy
Solutions provides advanced, noninvasive
technology designed to
improve system performance without
disruption, downtime, or plumbing
modifications. The system works
continuously to improve water quality,
break down existing limescale within
weeks, and extend the lifespan of
critical infrastructure. It also reduces
maintenance requirements and
supports existing Legionella control
strategies.
HEATING SYSTEMS - Immediate
Energy Savings - With energy prices
remaining high, efficiency gains are
critical. Aqua Energy Solutions delivers
proven improvements, including up to
20% reduction in energy costs achieved
without compromising performance or
requiring invasive installation.
Tackling Heating System
Contamination at the Source -
Alongside limescale, magnetite and
corrosion deposits reduce system
efficiency and reliability. Aqua Energy
Solutions helps: Eliminate limescale
build up in heating circuits and plant,
convert corrosion into a removeable
form and increase heat transfer.
For more information, please see below:
www.aqua-energy-solutions.com
info@aqua-energy-solutions.com
07960 392244

Contents
Industry News
Logistics
Company To Watch
Heating &
Ventilation
Company To Watch
Energy
Engineering
Industrial
Deeo Hole Drilling
Business Products &
Services
Print & Packaging
Software
Training &
Consultancy
Process &
Measurement
Plastic & Rubber
Contact
Publication Management
Thomas Reilly
Sales Manager
T 07483 935397
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
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10-11
12
13
14
15
16-17
18
19
Editor’s Notes
Gina Burton
Editor
Welcome to our June issue, where
we dive into the latest advancements,
practical insights, and groundbreaking
innovations shaping the key sectors of UK
industry.
Choosing the correct rotor is critical to achieving efficient,
reliable, and hygienic rotary valve performance in dry bulk
solids handling. On page 3, we feature an article that explores
DMN-WESTINGHOUSE’s eight specialist rotor options and how
tailored rotor selection can reduce downtime, improve product
flow, enhance wear resistance, and optimise operational
efficiency across a wide range of industries.
With more than 150 years of experience, Davies Turner
continues to strengthen its position within the global logistics
sector through multimodal transport expertise, international
partnerships, and industry recognition. On page 5, we feature an
article that explores the company’s growing presence in project
cargo, its recent Multimodal Awards shortlist success, and how it
is navigating ongoing supply chain challenges.
RUD has launched neXera, a new high-speed electric hoist
designed to improve safety and efficiency in wind turbine
maintenance. Capable of lifting loads up to 200 metres
significantly faster than conventional systems, neXera combines
innovative chain-drive technology with advanced safety features
to help reduce downtime and maximise turbine productivity.
Page 11.
Have any news to share?
Email: sales@bestpracticeuk.co.uk
On the Cover
Subsidence presents
one of the most
underestimated and
costly risks to properties
and infrastructure,
spotting it can reduce
excessive repair costs and
even irreversible damage
to vital structures.
Download our iOS app here
www.bestpracticeuk.co.uk
June 2026 | Issue 702
The entire content of this publication is advertorial based. To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 824 4744.

Industry News
Award-Winning Chartered
Environmental Consultants
The right rotor choice
Key to efficient process performance
PLANNING DELAYS? AIR QUALITY
CONDITIONS? DUST OR ODOUR RISKS?
DON’T LET ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
HOLD YOUR PROJECT BACK.
When environmental constraints
threaten planning approval, programme
certainty or stakeholder confidence, you
need advice that is technically robust
and commercially sharp.
Freshbreeze Environmental Ltd
is an award-winning, Chartered
Environmental consultancy, proudly
recognised by the Greater Birmingham
Chambers Diversity & Inclusion Awards,
delivering specialist support across
air quality, dust, odour and indoor air
quality.
We help developers, architects,
planning consultants, housing
providers, local authorities and
commercial operators secure approvals,
discharge planning conditions and
protect communities across the
regions with our offices in Birmingham,
Manchester and London.
Our focus is simple:
solve the problem quickly, clearly and
credibly.
OUR SPECIALIST SERVICES
S Air Quality Assessments for planning
applications
S Dust Risk Assessments and Dust
Management Plans
S Odour Impact Assessments
S Air Quality Neutral assessments
S Indoor Air Quality, damp and mould
investigations
S Real-time PM2.5, PM10 and NO₂
monitoring
S Dispersion modelling and
mitigation strategies
S EIA support and planning condition
discharge
PROVEN RESULTS
Our work has successfully supported:
S major residential developments
exceeding 1,250 homes
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developments
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investigations
S planning-sensitive urban sites across
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S nationwide
We are known for fast turnaround,
council-ready reporting and practical
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avoid costly delays and unnecessary
clarification rounds.
EXCLUSIVE CALL TO ACTION
Book your complimentary 15-minute
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Speak directly with our specialist team
before your issue escalates into delay,
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Mention Best Practice Magazine for
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info@freshbreezeeltd.co.uk
www.freshbreezeeltd.co.uk
0121 827 2737
Precision and efficiency are essential
in the dry bulk soldis handling
industry, which is why DMN-
WESTINGHOUSE offers 8 distinct
rotor options for rotary valves. Each
rotor is designed to enhance process
performance and safety. The correct
rotor boosts reliability, ensures
hygienic handling, and improves
product flow in diverse applications.
How the correct rotor impacts
performance
Selecting the right rotor is vital for
efficient rotary valve operations.
Beyond regulating product flow
and dosing materials, the right rotor
prevents expensive downtime.
In demanding environments where
wear resistance and corrosion
protection are crucial, a wellmatched
rotor to the application
reduces maintenance costs and
optimises long-term system and
production reliability. Let’s look at
DMN-WESTINGHOUSE’s 8 unique
rotor solutions.
Key rotor options for diverse needs
1. Fixed Vanes: An all-round
component ideal for powders
and granules, offering stable flow
with reduced friction. Suitable
for pharmaceutical, food, and
chemical industries.
2. Replaceable and Adjustable
Blades: Flexibility to replace
blades easily without
dismantling the entire rotor.
Suitable for abrasive or sticky
materials.
3. Resilient Edge: Reinforced
blades specifically for wear
resistance, reducing air leaks and
extending rotor life in heavy-duty
applications.
4. Semi End Disc with replaceable
and adjustable blades: Offering
added protection against wear,
it’s perfect for abrasive materials,
with easy blade replacement
without rotor disassembling.
5. End Disc Fixed Vanes: Explicitly
designed for palletised products,
minimising end cap wear.
6. Reduced Capacity Closed End:
Handles challenging materials -
stickiness or particle size - with
improved transport accuracy.
7. Scalloped Pockets: Ideal for sticky
products, reducing build-up and
ensuring even distribution.
8. Fine Dosing: Precise control
for sensitive materials such as
sensitive products, perfectly
fitting for the food and
pharmaceutical sectors.
DMN-WESTINGHOUSE helps you
select the best rotor for your process,
considering aspects like material
properties, hygiene, and operational
efficiency.
For more information, see below:
T +44 (0)1249 818400
dmn.uk@dmnwestinghouse.com
freshbreezeeltd.co.uk
OUR COMPREHENSIVE
AIR QUALITY SERVICES
Freshbreeze Environmental Ltd is a leading provider of Air
Quality Assessments in London, Birmingham, Manchester
and nationwide.
We help businesses and developers comply with local
regulations and protect the health of the community.
Air Quality
Assessment
We conduct
comprehensive air
quality assessments
to support planning
applications and ensure
compliance with local
regulations.
Air Quality
Modelling
Using state-of-the-art
dispersion modelling
techniques, we
predict potential
impacts of air quality,
dust, and odours.
Dust Management
Plans
Construction in
Birmingham,
Manchester or London?
Our dust management
plans helps you
minimise environmental
impact.
Odour
Assessments
We evaluate potential
odour emissions and
their impact on amenity,
crucial for businesses
in Birmingham’s
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commercial sectors.
We offer Air Quality Assessment, Dust Odour Services
Call us on: 01218 272737/07774 803184 or email us at:
info@freshbreezeeltd.co.uk.
Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5 3

Logistics
4 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5

Company To Watch
Davies Turner Strengthens Its
Position in the International
Logistics Sector
the company’s continued investment in
operational efficiency, customer service,
and supply chain innovation during a
period of increasing complexity within
global trade and logistics markets.
Recognition at the Multimodal Awards
further strengthens Davies Turner’s
position as a trusted logistics partner and
supports its ambitions to expand into
specialist sectors such as project cargo
and heavy-lift transportation. Combined
with the MMA collaboration, these
achievements underline the company’s
growing influence within the international
logistics industry.
Founded in 1870, Davies Turner is one
of the UK’s leading independent freight
forwarding and logistics companies, with
more than 150 years of experience in global
supply chain management. The company
specialises in multimodal transport
solutions, offering air freight, sea freight,
road transport, rail freight, warehousing,
customs services, and e-commerce
fulfilment for businesses operating
internationally.
Headquartered in the UK, Davies Turner
operates through a nationwide network
of branches and logistics facilities,
supported by global partners that
enable the company to deliver reliable
transport and distribution services
worldwide. Its customer-focused approach
allows it to provide tailored logistics
solutions designed to meet the specific
requirements of industries ranging from
retail and manufacturing to healthcare and
technology.
Davies Turner has built a strong reputation
for professionalism, operational efficiency,
and service quality, combining traditional
logistics expertise with modern supply
chain technology to help clients manage
increasingly complex international trade
requirements. Over the years, the company
has continued to expand its multimodal
capabilities while maintaining its core
commitment to reliability, compliance, and
customer service.
As a major player in the freight and
logistics sector, Davies Turner covers
all methods of transport and has
strengthened its presence within the
specialist project cargo market through
its involvement with Mega Move Alliance
(MMA). MMA is a specialist global network
focused on project cargo, heavy lift
logistics, and breakbulk transportation.
Established under the AIN Group, the
alliance connects experienced project
forwarders and chartering specialists
worldwide, enabling members to
collaborate on complex cargo movements
across sea, air, and land transport.
For Davies Turner, joining a network such
as MMA strengthens its position within the
specialist project cargo sector by providing
access to trusted global partners with
local expertise in oversized and heavy-lift
shipments. As the company continues
expanding its logistics partnerships and
international freight services, MMA offers
opportunities for collaboration, new project
business, and enhanced worldwide reach.
The alliance also support Davies Turner’s
ability to deliver increasingly complex
logistics solutions while maintaining the
reliability and customer service standards
for which the company is well known.
Further demonstrating its growing profile
within the logistics industry, Davies Turner
was recently shortlisted in four categories
at the prestigious Multimodal Awards,
one of the sector’s most respected events.
The company was named as a finalist in
the Air Freight Company of the Year, Road
Freight Company of the Year, Rail Freight
Company of the Year, and 3PL of the Year
categories, reflecting the breadth of its
multimodal logistics capabilities and its
long-standing commitment to service
excellence.
Being shortlisted across multiple transport
disciplines highlights Davies Turner’s ability
to provide integrated freight solutions
across air, road, rail, and third-party
logistics services. It also demonstrates
Further highlighting its interest in
developing relationships within the
specialist project cargo sector, Davies
Turner also attended the Mega Move
Alliance conference in Dubrovnik as a
guest. The event provided an opportunity
to engage with international partners,
explore new business opportunities, and
strengthen the company’s presence
within the global heavy-lift and breakbulk
logistics community.
However, looking ahead, Andrew Ford,
Branch Manager at Davies Turner, believes
one of the biggest challenges facing the
logistics industry over the next year will be
fluctuating freight rates driven by global
instability and unpredictable market
demand.
“Freight rates continue to fluctuate due to
changing demand patterns, which have
been heavily influenced by global tensions
and the ongoing uncertainty surrounding
the Iran-US conflict,” he explains. “These
disruptions can place pressure on supply
chains and create challenges around
capacity and pricing.”
To address this, Ford says Davies Turner
is focused on maintaining a proactive
and strategic approach through its global
carrier relationships and long-term
planning.
“We have a group strategy in place to help
minimise the impact of sudden rises and
falls in demand,” he says. “A key part of
that is securing space with ocean carriers
wherever possible, ensuring we can
continue to provide reliable services and
maintain stability for our customers even
during volatile market conditions.”
For more information, see below.
T 0330 030 1870
www.daviesturner.com
Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5 5

Crisis Management
6 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5

Company To Watch
Energy Efficient Heat Pumps
For Commercial Spaces
larger spaces, warehouses and workshops is really
interesting. It's a new and quite innovative idea.
Essentially you use a heat pump to heat a big industrial
space or a factory. Typically air conditioning systems are
wall or ceiling type terminal units that are for occupied
rooms, and this extends that concept to involve heating
much larger spaces. Not only can this offer substantial
savings when heating compared with conventional
methods, but it has the bonus of switching to cooling
for the summer months”
The company's commitment to further developing
the sector is reflected in a recent partnership with
Energy Lab, a leading heat pump supplier based in the
Southwest. The two-way partnership means ESS will
jointly sell a wider range of products alongside Energy
Lab, enhancing its service offering.
Looking forward, the partnership with Energy Lab will
provide a very extensive range of heat pump products
nationwide for ESS customers. This has the added
benefit of increasing the size of both companies'
team of technical engineers, widening ESS’ scope
significantly.
In this issue of Product and Service Review we have
featured ESS Aircon as our Heating and Ventilation
company to watch.
Established in 2000 the three co-founders all came
from a background working for HVAC distributors,
selling air conditioning systems to trade. Taking this
experience they created Environmental Site Supplies
to provide tailored high-performance solutions to
meet the complex needs of modern commercial
environments with a wide array of both cooling and
heating systems.
operations, reduce emissions and cut running costs.
ESS is a distributor for a variety of energy-efficient air
conditioner and heat pump systems, which includes
cooling and heating products for large residential
buildings and workplaces. In addition to its two leading
brands, Panasonic and Samsung, which are global
industry leaders in terms of innovation and energy
efficiency, ESS is also the sole distributors of Volta and
Maxa.
Its Panasonic air conditioners for commercial spaces
include cutting-edge inverter compressor technology
and a diverse array of connectivity and control systems
for remote monitoring, real-time status updates and
maintenance alerts, saving on costs and energy usage.
Based in Sutton, South London, the company operates
nationwide as a distributor for major brands including
Panasonic and Samsung, working with mechanical
consultants and decision makers responsible for
commercial buildings such as factories, warehouses or
distribution centres.
The demand for heat pumps across both commercial
and industrial sectors continues to rise as part of the
global push toward
net zero. Corporate
sustainability
commitments and
governmental policy
are reshaping the
heating landscape,
as organisations
transition away
from fossil-fuel.
ESS stands at the
forefront of this
transition, providing
efficient, lowcarbon
alternatives
that future-proof
Maxa Heat Pumps represent one of ESS’s most
recent strategic partnerships, bringing cutting-edge
heating and cooling technology from Italy to the UK.
Manufactured by the Ferroli Group, Maxa products
are imported and distributed across the UK, offering
industrial, commercial and residential clients highperformance
climate control solutions.
Through ESS, these advanced systems can be supplied
and installed wherever high-quality climate control
is needed. From cold, temperate environments, to
tropical conditions; ESS ensures environmental comfort
and human well-being wherever they are deployed.
ESS is renowned for its extensive product knowledge
and deep expertise across a wide range of air source
heat pumps and air conditioning systems. It supports
both complex industrial installations and standard
commercial applications through its highly skilled
technical team, dedicated to ensuring businesses
benefit from seamless access to the latest highperformance,
energy-efficient technologies.
Beyond supply, ESS also provides extensive pre and
post sale support, including expert system design
guidance, consultations and comprehensive technical
assistance, as well as some of
the industry’s most respected
ongoing training programs.
Lending its technical expertise
to businesses of any size across
the UK.
ESS’ support for innovation places
them at the forefront of the
heating and cooling sector. Its
support of the pumps for large
commercial spaces is especially
impressive. Managing Director,
Kevin Pacey, told us more,
“Everyone is familiar with the
use of heat pumps and air
conditioners for commercial
properties, for offices and retail
but I think the application in
ESS Aircon's diverse portfolio of heating and cooling
solutions have already been applied to a wide range
of locations including commercial offices and public
facilities. Its comprehensive selection of heat pumps
provides reliable, adaptable solutions tailored to any
installation requirement.
The company’s deep understanding of the operational
demands and environmental challenges unique to
the commercial sectors means ESS is perfectly placed
to support organisations enhancing building energy
performance and transitioning to low-carbon heat
pump technology.
Through strong partnerships with leading brands
such as Panasonic and Maxa, ESS consistently delivers
cutting-edge solutions to the UK and its commitment
to low-carbon and eco-friendly solutions is helping
businesses meet their ESG and sustainability
commitments one heat pump at a time.
For more on ESS Aircon, see below:
08458 805862
sales@essaircon.com
www.essaircon.com
Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5 7

Energy & Manufacturing
8 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5

MARCH rebrands Cobra
Engineering following
July acquisition
Critical engineering
specialist MARCH
has rebranded
Cobra Engineering
following its
acquisition in
July 2025. The
rebrand marks
another step in
MARCH's ambition
to become the UK's
most respected critical
engineering services
provider.
A unified identity simplifies
MARCH's market presence and
strengthens its ability to deliver
a total engineering solution to
customers operating in high
tech, complex and regulated
environments.
The rebrand follows a period of
integration, during which Cobra
has been embedded into the
wider business, aligning teams,
systems and ways of working
while maintaining continuity for
customers.
Commenting on the move,
Christopher Kehoe, chief executive
officer at MARCH, said: "Cobra
has been a strong addition
to MARCH. Integration
has progressed well, and
moving forward under
one brand is the next
step in bringing our
teams and capabilities
together.
As MARCH continues
to grow, a unified identity
helps provide greater clarity for
customers, making it easier to
engage with us and access the
full range of services we deliver,
underpinned by the same focus
on engineering progress and high
quality outcomes."
Based in Cambridgeshire, the Cobra
team specialises in the design,
fabrication and installation of
stainless and carbon steel, including
complex pipework and structural
fabrications. The business provides
both in house assembly and on
site services, including planned
maintenance and shutdown
support.
For more information, see below:
www.cobra-engineering.co.uk
Efficient solutions for
vacuum, flushing and
silo vehicles from CVS
engineering
Engineering
How HT Brigham Is Re-
Engineering Its Future in
Coleshill
HT Brigham’s story begins like
many Midlands manufacturers:
one machine, one small workshop,
and a handful of people prepared
to work all hours. What’s different
is how the business has evolved.
“The company has changed out
of all recognition in terms of
technology, data and markets,”
says CEO Doug Allen. “The core
idea is the same as it was in 1947 –
make critical parts that customers
don’t have to think about. They just
work, every time.”
The firm specialises in progression
presswork and multi-stage
pressings, supplying components
in volumes from thousands
to millions across automotive,
industrial and aerospace sectors.
What HT Brigham sells, says Allen,
is reliability.
“We sit in that space where you
have to get it right first time, every
time,” he explains. “If we slip, they
stop.”
Recent investment includes
refurbishment of a 250-ton
Rhodes press, combining trusted
engineering with modern controls,
monitoring and safety systems.
“Our philosophy is to combine the
best of what we have with the best
of what’s new,” says Allen.
This thinking is embedded in the
Brigham Operating System (BOS),
linking maintenance, quality,
training and performance.
Renewed AS9100 certification
signals growth in aerospace, while
partnerships with Birmingham
City University support innovation
and skills development.
“Ultimately, we want to be the
presswork partner people think of
when the job really matters,” Allen
concludes.
For more information visit https://
brighampressings.com/
CVS engineering GmbH, based
in Rheinfelden, offers sustainable
solutions for suction, flushing and
silo vehicles. These include vacuum
pumps from the VacuStar series for
suction and flushing vehicles and
oil-free screw compressors from the
SKL series.
“With Dry Bulk, we have efficient
solutions in our portfolio for the
rapid and residue-free unloading
of silo vehicles for bulk goods such
as cement, grain or plastic pellets,”
explains Fabio Geiger, Area Sales
and Marketing Manager at CVS
engineering.
These technologies ensure
maximum suction capacity and
durability in harsh conditions such
as sewer cleaning and sludge
extraction. The range includes
oil-free screw compressors, rotary
vane vacuum pumps and liquid
ring pumps, supplemented by drive
components and accessories.
The solutions are used in
wastewater management, industrial
cleaning, construction, agriculture
and environmental technology.
“They are indispensable for sewer
maintenance, emergency cleaning,
the transport of hazardous liquid
waste, and the efficient unloading
of large quantities of material,” says
Fabio Geiger.
Against the backdrop of
urbanisation and increasing
environmental regulations, demand
for efficient waste management
infrastructure and low-emission
transport solutions is growing.
The oil-free SKL technologies
ensure clean conveying air for
the food and chemical industries,
while the VacuStar series offers
high protection against wear and
corrosion.
www.cvs-eng.com
Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5 9

Industry
10 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5

Industrial
RUD neXera: the fast hoist for
wind turbines
RUD has launched neXera, a new electric
hoist designed to improve efficiency and
safety in wind turbine maintenance for
onshore and offshore applications.
market before,” said Matthias
Müller, Technical Manager in
Drive Development at RUD
Drives GmbH.
At the centre of the system
is RUD’s patented X-Drive
chain drive, enabling chain
speeds up to 80 m/min while
reducing wear and improving
safety. The design also helps
prevent the chain from
becoming unclamped or
sheared off.
RUD says the neXera 800 can lift
payloads up to 800 kg to 200 metres in
around eight minutes.
The HiTorc
makes all the
difference
A technology premiere
in the wood processing
industry!
Developed for lifting heights of up to 200
metres, the hoist offers variable lifting
speeds from 24 to 80 m/min for loads
up to 800 kg. RUD says neXera is around
four times faster than conventional
hoists, helping reduce maintenance
downtime and increase turbine
operating time.
“RUD neXera is completely new and
unique. There has never been such a fast
and safe hoist for wind turbines on the
The hoist also includes safety features
such as a built-in incremental encoder
for accurate positioning and tamperproof
operating data recording.
RUD will present neXera at WindEurope
2026 in Madrid, WindEnergy 2026 in
Hamburg, and the 34th Wind Energy
Days in Linstow.
For more information, see below:
www.rud.com
Powerful, energy-saving and absolutely robust
Vecoplan is celebrating a world premiere with
the first chipper equipped with a HiTorc drive.
The new VTH 600-1050 BT biomass chipper
combines high-performance chipping with the
fully electric HiTorc drive, bringing economic and
technical benefits to users.
A new 3D-printed solution
significantly reduces energy
consumption for cooling in
data centers
Danish Technological Institute and Heatflow
have developed a new energy-saving cooling
solution for data centres using 3D printing,
with the potential to reuse excess heat for
district heating systems.
Developed as part of the European AM2PC
project, the passive two-phase cooling system
achieved a cooling capacity of 600 watts
during testing — 50% above the original 400-
watt target.
The solution addresses growing energy
demands in data centres, where cooling
infrastructure is a major energy consumer.
“Besides the actual IT hardware, the
corresponding cooling infrastructure is one of
the major energy consumers in a data centre,”
said Simon Brudler, Senior Consultant at
Danish Technological Institute.
The system uses a coolant that evaporates
at the hot surface, rises naturally, condenses
elsewhere, and returns as liquid through
gravity. This thermosiphon process requires
no pumps or fans, reducing cooling energy
consumption.
“We are seeing a development where the
power density in servers is increasing faster
than ever before,” said Paw Mortensen, CEO of
Heatflow.
The evaporator component was produced
in aluminium using 3D printing, reducing
assembly points, leak risks, and material use
while improving recyclability.
According to preliminary life cycle analyses,
the solution could reduce total emissions by
25–30% per unit.
www.dti.dk/about
“In sawmills and biomass heat & power plants,
our systems often run around the clock,” says
Dirk Müller, Wood I Biomass Vice President at
Vecoplan. The machine is designed to be robust,
low-maintenance and high-performance, while
delivering high throughput rates and adaptable
chip quality.
40 percent less energy, but 100 percent
performance
Unlike conventional systems, the HiTorc uses no
belts, couplings or gears. The motor transmits
torque directly to the rotor shaft, making it
highly efficient and precise. Vecoplan says the
drive reduces energy consumption by up to
40 percent compared to conventional electromechanical
systems while remaining ready for
use in three seconds.
More than just mechanics: VSC users will enjoy
a smart biomass chipper
The Vecoplan Smart Center (VSC) digital
operating concept allows operators to monitor
performance, access remote support and reduce
downtime and maintenance costs.
Less maintenance, more power
Removing wear parts such as clutches, belts and
flywheels significantly reduces maintenance
needs and improves availability. The VSC detects
overloads early, while the rotor can restart
immediately even under full load.
More innovation and efficiency with the HiTorc
chipper
“The combination of energy efficiency and
digital integration is changing the rules of the
game,” says Dirk Müller. Vecoplan says the
VTH 600-1050 BT with HiTorc drive will help
customers increase throughput, lower operating
costs and improve sustainability.
www.vecoplan.com
Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5 11

Drilling
12 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5

Building a More Efficient
Business: A Guide for Leaders
What is business efficiency?
Business efficiency is how
effectively you turn resources
into outcomes. In practice
it looks like a well-run
operation that trims waste
without trimming value,
keeps customers satisfied,
helps employees do their best
work, and makes smart use of
technology to save time and cost.
It is productivity relative to the inputs
required to achieve it.
Why it matters
Efficient businesses communicate clearly,
make decisions quickly, and protect cash
without starving growth. When you ignore
efficiency you invite slow creep in costs,
decision latency, and customer frustration.
Treat efficiency as a compound interest
engine for profit, quality, and morale.
Practical ways to raise efficiency
Refresh the plan
Review assumptions quarterly, focus
on outcomes that matter, and retire
initiatives that no longer earn their
place.
Turn goals into decision rules
Name a single owner, define
indicators that signal progress,
and agree thresholds that trigger
action.
Simplify before you automate
Remove steps that do not add value,
standardise what remains, then automate
repetitive work.
Build clear communication norms
Maintain a single source of truth so people
stop hunting for information and start acting
on it.
Efficient businesses do not run on heroics.
They run on clear choices, clean processes,
capable managers, and feedback loops that
keep everyone close to reality.
Neotas Expands US Presence
with New Dallas Operations Hub
Leading Third Party Risk
Intelligence platform Neotas
has announced a new
operational hub in Dallas,
Texas, expanding its US
presence in response
to growing demand for
advanced third-party risk
and enhanced due diligence
solutions.
The expansion comes as organisations
increasingly prioritise supply chain risk
management, particularly using real-time
risk intelligence to assess the reputation,
conduct, and behaviour of third parties
beyond traditional risk databases.
Vipul Mishra states: “Our expansion into
Dallas marks a strategic milestone in our US
growth journey. Building on our established
client relationships in the American market,
we recognised the opportunity to
enhance our presence and deliver
specialised Third Party Risk
Intelligence and EDD solutions.
This investment demonstrates our
commitment to serving US clients
with dedicated local expertise.”
The Dallas hub will focus on
supply chain and reputation risk
management solutions, leveraging
Neotas’s artificial intelligence and opensource
intelligence capabilities.
The move also reflects growing adoption of
AI-driven due diligence in third-party risk
management, positioning Neotas to better
support its expanding US client base with
localised managed services and enhanced
platform support.
www.neotas.com
The Honorable Entrepreneur
By Philipp Baaske
Business Products & Services
North East
Experts Drive
Local Business
Productivity
Kim English and Colin Hastings, directors of
Business Transformation Associates (BTA), have
made a name for themselves as leaders in
manufacturing efficiency, travelling regularly
to the USA, Canada, and Europe to transform
businesses across a range of sectors.
Now, with a commitment to their roots in the
North East, the pair based in Cramlington are
on a mission to deliver the same impact for local
companies.
With decades of experience in improving
production processes, cutting waste, and driving
profitability, BTA works directly with people on
the shop floor. Their approach is collaborative,
ensuring long-lasting improvements.
"We don't just tell people what to do—we work
with the teams who make things happen," said
Kim.
With backgrounds in automotive and
engineering, both trained with Toyota in the USA
and Japan. Since founding BTA in 2012, they've
combined their skills—Kim focusing on systems,
Colin on processes—to achieve results fast.
"We've saved businesses from closure, prevented
redundancies, and delivered efficiency gains in
excess of 40%," said Colin.
BTA is now focused on helping manufacturers
across the North East navigate rising costs
and uncertainty while continuing to support
international clients.
https://www.bta-lean.com/
What if saying no to a nine-figure exit is how you win?
When biotech founder Philipp Baaske was offered a
life-changing acquisition, he made the harder choice...
to keep NanoTemper independent, profitable, and
principled.
In The Honorable Entrepreneur, he reveals how a
basement experiment became a world-class company
and introduces his seven-rule Code of Honor for
building on your own terms. Through honest founder
stories and practical frameworks, he shows how
to scale boldly while staying true to your values;
proving that integrity isn ’t a luxury, it’s a competitive
advantage.
For scientists-turned-operators, deep-tech innovators,
and mission-driven leaders, this book is a roadmap to
being visible, powerful, and unstoppable — by choice,
not compromise.
From a near-fatal Swiss Disaster that almost stole their
patents, to selling 29 hand-built instruments before a
product even existed, to walking away from a US$60
million buy-out while still a 35-person firm, Baaske
shows how trust, focus, and a seven-point Code of
Honor can beat venture capital and power sustainable
deep-tech entrepreneurship.
https://bit.ly/HonorableEntrepreneur
info@literallypr.com
Author online: www.philippbaaske.com
www.linkedin.com/in/philipp-baaske
Book purchase link: https://mybook.to/HonorableEnt
Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5 13

Engineering
14 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5

Software
Rising Demand for
Cybersecurity in Real-
Time Operating Systems
Cybersecurity
and Software
Bill of Materials
(SBOM) analysis
for Real-Time
Operating
Systems (RTOS)
has traditionally
required specialised expertise and
extensive manual effort. However,
new automation techniques are
making RTOS analysis easier and
faster.
ONEKEY, based in Düsseldorf,
has introduced automated SBOM
generation for RTOS through
its Product Cybersecurity &
Compliance Platform (OCP). The
platform can generate SBOMs
within minutes while checking for
vulnerabilities and malicious code.
Jan Wendenburg said: “We
are currently experiencing a
significant rise in demand for
security assessments of real-time
operating systems from a wide
range of industries.”
The demand for RTOS security
testing is increasing as edge
computing, AI integration and
connected devices become more
widespread. RTOS are increasingly
used in safety-critical applications
including medical technology,
automotive systems, aerospace
and industrial automation.
ONEKEY highlighted the growing
convergence between RTOS and
Linux-based systems, alongside
rising concerns over cybersecurity
risks and regulatory compliance.
The company also noted increased
scrutiny surrounding Chinese
open-source RTOS developments
in sectors such as automotive.
The platform’s multi-stage
security analysis identifies RTOS
firmware components, detects
vulnerabilities and supports
compliance checks against
standards including IEC62443-4-2
and the EU Cyber Resilience Act.
RTOS are widely used in
connected devices ranging from
engine control systems and
medical devices to smart sensors,
household appliances and
industrial equipment.
www.onekey.com
Here’s how to protect
your business from
cyeber attacks
Linnworks and Conjura
Collaborate to Finesse
Retail Operations
Linnworks has announced a
partnership with Conjura to
provide brands and sellers with
deeper insights into performance
across omni-channel and multigeographical
operations.
The partnership combines
Linnworks’ inventory and order
management platform with
Conjura’s analytics capabilities,
enabling businesses to better
understand product performance,
inventory trends and profitability.
Customers will gain insights to
help optimise stock levels, order
throughput, advertising spend
and forecasting. The collaboration
also provides a clearer
understanding of product-related
costs, including manufacturing,
marketing and shipping, helping
brands identify factors that
influence sales and margins.
The partnership also enables
businesses to analyse which SKUs
and products deliver the strongest
advertising performance, allowing
retailers to allocate marketing
budgets more effectively and
maximise returns on investment.
Fran Quilty said: “Our partnership
with Linnworks marks an
important milestone in our shared
mission to support ecommerce
businesses in their growth
journey.
“By integrating our systems, we
are enabling actionable insights
that will help users make smarter
inventory decisions and optimise
their ad spend.”
Chris Timmer added: “Businesses
need to be able to make swift,
informed decisions, especially
when it comes to inventory and
fulfilment decisions.
“This collaboration with Conjura
means retailers now have the
insight to optimise day-today
operations while setting
themselves up for future growth
and success.”
DataScope and BCEI
sign global data centre
enterprise agreement
Cyber threats are evolving
rapidly, and businesses operating
in industrial and operational
technology (OT) environments face
increasing risks from cyberattacks.
According to insurance broker
Howden, UK businesses lost
around £44 billion over the past
five years due to cyber-attacks,
with emails and data theft among
the most common causes.
IDS-INDATA has identified seven
critical OT security challenges
facing industries including
manufacturing, science, and
food and beverage sectors. The
challenges were ranked by Ryan
Cooke, with the rapid evolution of
cyberattacks identified as the most
urgent concern.
IDS-INDATA found ransomware
attacks are becoming increasingly
sophisticated, with cybercriminals
using AI-driven malware capable
of adapting in real time to evade
detection. The company reported
ransomware threats impacted 34%
of businesses in 2023, rising to 42%
in 2024.
Other key challenges include
unpatched OT systems, lack
of visibility across connected
devices, increasing vulnerabilities
linked to IoT and smart devices,
regulatory compliance pressures,
and workforce cybersecurity
awareness.
The company warned that
breaches in OT environments can
lead to financial losses, operational
shutdowns and risks to critical
infrastructure and human safety.
Ryan Cooke said: “The threat
landscape facing OT is evolving
at an unprecedented pace.
Proactively addressing these
challenges will help reduce the
risk of compromise, protect critical
infrastructure, ensure compliance,
and safeguard against severe
disruptions.”
For more information:
www.idsindata.co.uk
Burr Computer Environments,
INC (BCEI) and DataScope
have signed a global enterprise
agreement that will see
DataScope’s software suite
deployed across all BCEI data
centre projects worldwide,
including those designed
alongside EdgeConnex.
The agreement strengthens
both companies’ focus on
delivering high-performance
data centres efficiently while
maintaining safety, quality and
operational standards.
The partnership began in
2020 with the development of
the DataTouch Daily Site Coordination
system in Santiago
and has since expanded across
projects in cities including
Brussels, Jakarta, Kuala
Lumpur, Frankfurt, Chicago,
Atlanta, New Albany and
Austin.
Through the partnership,
DataScope has provided BCEI
with real-time visibility of labour
allocation, site attendance
and competency tracking,
alongside digital management
of health and safety processes
including permits, RAMS and
safety observations.
Jason Crowell said: “This global
agreement ensures we have
the digital backbone to scale
efficiently while maintaining
the highest safety standards
across every region we operate
in.”
www.datascopesystems.com
Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5 15

Training & Consultancy
Specialist KBR accredited training leads
five engineers to chartership success
Five engineers from KBR, a specialist provider
of energy and technology solutions, are
celebrating chartered status awarded by the
Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)
following years of rigorous training.
The latest cohort of chartership successes
demonstrates KBR's commitment to
developing emerging talent and supporting
the next generation of energy specialists.
According to Manpower research cited by
Forbes, 71% of energy sector
employers struggle to find
the skilled talent they need.
As the industry faces a major
skills gap, KBR believes it
is crucial that as a leading
energy specialist it supports
new talent in achieving
professionally recognised
levels of expertise.
KBR provides an Accredited
Company Training Scheme
(ACTS) for IChemE as part
of its commitment to
harnessing talent for the
future of the energy sector.
Providing the opportunity
to be involved with a wide
range of projects, KBR offers
aspiring chartered members
an unrivalled breadth of
experience alongside mentorship to boost
technical expertise and assist applicants in
achieving their career goals.
The unique learning environment, where
employees are given placements across
numerous teams and functions, enables
diversification of technical portfolios. The five
newly chartered engineers described the
milestones, challenges and their personal
commitment to excellence in their field.
Ciorstaidh Nicol, MIChemE Senior Technical
Professional – Process at KBR, said:
"The chance to work on a wide variety of
projects across different industries has
exposed me to new challenges and learning,
and the guidance from more senior engineers
and my mentor has been invaluable in
building expertise and striving for chartered
status."
Abhinav Agarwal, MIChemE Process Engineer
at KBR, said:
"One of the most fulfilling aspects of my
time here at KBR has been serving as
the accountable area lead engineer for a
significant brownfield and greenfield EPC
project. The operation involved navigating
complex technical challenges and strict
deadlines, which was immensely rewarding
and broadened my portfolio."
The achievement of IChemE chartership
is a testament to the dedication and
expertise across the company, helping
KBR to strengthen the capabilities it brings
to its clients and projects worldwide. The
chartership provides recognition of technical
knowledge and professional adaptability to
enhance the future of the energy sector.
To find out more about KBR www.kbr.com/
en.
16 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5

How to navigate your
career like a Legend
by natalie abou-alwan
Genres: Non-Fiction, Careers, Self-
Help, Personal Growth EB (£4.99)
PB (£11.99
In How to Navigate Your Career
Like a Legend, accomplished
international lawyer Natalie
Abou-Alwan invites you on a
frank and inspiring journey
through some of the challenges
of professional life. Combining
her own lived experience with the
stories of legendary figures like
Ella Fitzgerald, Elvis Presley, and
Quincy Jones, Natalie brings to life
some powerful lessons on how to
develop and thrive in the modern
workplace.
Far more than a traditional
career guide, this both reflective
and practical companion offers
captivating insight, paired with
space for readers to capture
their own thoughts, goals, and
discoveries along the way.
Designed for professionals of
every age, background, and
industry, this unique book
features Natalie's own illustrations
and astute observations, making
it both visually engaging and
thought-provoking.
Whether you are just starting out
or reevaluating your path, this
concise and immersive read will
both motivate and empower.
Media folder & enquiries: bit.ly/
NavigateCareerLikeALegend
info@literallypr.com
Author online: www.instagram.
com/natalieaboualwanauthor
Training & Consultancy
Saab UK launches
Graduate Engineering
Programme
Saab UK has opened applications
for its first Graduate Engineering
Programme, starting in Autumn
2026. The two-year scheme is
part of Saab’s commitment to
developing future talent and
driving innovation across its UK
operations.
The programme offers graduates
hands-on experience with Saab’s
technologies while rotating
through core engineering
disciplines. With four placements
across Hardware, Software, and
IT Engineering, it is designed to
provide a foundation for a career
in defence and security solutions.
Graduates will complete four
six-month rotations across
Saab’s Sensor Systems and
Seaeye business units, alongside
continuous learning and
professional development.
Andy Fraser, Group Managing
Director at Saab UK, said:
“Our new Graduate Programme
is the first stepping stone to
creating a successful career in
Engineering. By joining us at our
Fareham campus, graduates will
work in a world-class environment
on technologies that keep people
and society safe.”
Based primarily at Saab’s Fareham
campus, opened in February
2025, the site develops systems
including the Giraffe 1X radar and
Seaeye SR20 subsea vehicle.
Applications close on 4 January
2026, with successful candidates
joining Saab UK in September
2026.
Charlotte Sherwood
+44 (0)7708 389 999
ukcomms@saabgroup.com
www.saab.com/UK
Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5 17

Process & Measurement
Measurably better Chemiluminescence analysers
Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) are chief
villains in the battle for climate
control; belonging to a family of
gases that are formed during the
combustion of fossil fuels. When
Nitric Oxide (NO) reacts with other
gases, for example with Ozone,
it forms Nitrogen Dioxide (NO 2
),
which is considered highly toxic
to human health.
The reaction with Ozone is also
an indicator for why Nitric Oxide
(NO) is considered a climate
active gas, that interacts with
Earth’s protective Ozone layer.
Human exposure to high levels of
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO 2
), but also
Nitric Oxide (NO) can cause airway
inflammation, susceptibility to
allergens and exacerbate preexisting
lung or heart conditions.
Nitric Oxide (NO) is a biological
marker of inflammation and is
also produced by cells involved
in the inflammation process.
It is typically used to diagnose
allergic/eosinophilic asthma. Legal
ambient air limit value (annual
average value for the European
Union) for Nitrogen Dioxide
(NO 2
) concentrations is 40µg/m³.
Maximum occupational exposure1
limit is 950µg/m³. Indoor air limit
value for maximum exposure is
250µg/m³ but the precautionary
value 80µg/m³. The WHO defines
40µg/m³ as precaution limit.
The Department for Environment,
Food & Rural affairs (DEFRA)
has also reported soil chemistry
and biodiversity changes across
many UK habitats, through gas
(dry deposition) and precipitation
(wet deposition.) Anthropogenic
Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) influence
tropospheric chemistry, which
directly cause photochemical
smog and concentrated levels
of urban ozone.
ECO PHYSICS AG offer worldleading
measurements of
Nitrogen Oxide (NO x
), through
trailblazing chemiluminescence
analysers. These innovative
analytical solutions are
unprecedented in speed and
sensitivity, with a cutting-edge
range of sensitivities from 1%
down to 1 ppt (part per trillion).
Chemiluminescence Analysers
use a unique thermally-stabilised
semiconductor photodiode, to
measure light intensity produced
by reactions between Nitric
Oxide (NO) with Ozone (O 3
). The
light intensity correlates to the
proportion of Nitric Oxide (NOx)
converted to Nitrogen Dioxide
(NO 2
) by the reaction.
We caught up with Dr Grischa
Peter Feuersänger, Head of
Sales & Marketing, to find out
more about ECO PHYSICS, “ECO
PHYSICS was founded in 1990
through a management buyout,
by co-founders Dr Matthias
Kutter and Dr Werner Moser and
we now operate from our base in
Duernten, Switzerland. We offer
innovative analytical solutions for
measurement tasks in the fields of
environment, health and process
control. With our interdisciplinary
research and development team,
we are delivering customeroriented
and tailor-made products
and services. The initial know-how
focus was centred on the principle
of the chemiluminescence, thus
developing and manufacturing
analysers for the ambient
pollution and emissions. We have
perfected analytical technique in
speed and sensitivity. Today we
are proud to claim world leadership
in the fastest and most sensitive
chemiluminescence analysers
and the broadest commercially
available range.”
This Swiss-based innovative
company has EN ISO 9001: 2015
quality management and EN
ISO 13485: 2016 medical devicescompliance,
offering quality
assurance to customers across
many industries. There is a new
range of gas analysers and boxed
set gas analysers available: nCLD
AL, nCLD AL2, nCLD AL3/8555,
nCLD EL and nCLD EL2.
The nCLD AL3/8555 is a nextgenerational
modular gas
analyser, offering state-of-the-art
simultaneous measurements of
NO, NO 2
, NOx, NH 3
and NOx-
Amines. Even lower detection
limits can be detected through the
newly designed reaction chamber,
enhanced gas flow paths, improved
pressure and temperature stability.
This analyser is adaptable to
non-standardised applications,
with the unit calibration running
smoothly on an automated basis.
Contact
T +41 55 220 22 22
info@ecophysics.com
www.ecophysics.com
18 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5

PLASTICS Economic
Analysis
Plastic & Rubber
Global plastics
treaty collapse
The Plastics Industry
Association (PLASTICS)
Chief Economist,
Dr. Perc Pineda,
has released a new
economic analysis
showing that despite
limited federal data
availability caused by
the U.S. government
shutdown, the
automotive market
remains strong,
supported by resilient consumer
demand and steady production.
Dr. Pineda said the shutdown has
created challenges for economists
and analysts who rely on timely
federal data, particularly in
the automotive sector where
understanding vehicle demand
and supply depends on statistics
from agencies such as the Bureau
of Economic Analysis and the U.S.
Census Bureau.
“With official releases stalled,
piecing together a clear picture
of light vehicle sales over the
past two months has become a
patchwork effort,” he explained.
“Despite these challenges,
industry reports and alternative
sources paint a picture of resilient
demand, tempered by policydriven
fluctuations in electric
vehicles and fleet purchases.”
The Plastics Industry Association
supports the plastics supply chain,
including equipment suppliers,
material suppliers, processors,
and recyclers, representing
more than one million workers
across the $551 billion U.S.
plastics industry. Since 1937,
PLASTICS has supported industry
competitiveness, recycling,
sustainability, and policy advocacy.
The full analysis is available on
the PLASTICS blog.
https://www.plasticsindustry.
org/blog/navigating-the-u-sautomotive-market/
Symphony Environmental
Technologies Plc has called for a
science-led approach to tackling
plastic pollution following the
collapse of the UN Global Plastics
Treaty talks in Geneva.
According to the company, the
breakdown highlights the divide
between political rhetoric and
practical solutions.
“We should stop talking about
bans versus business-as-usual
— instead we need to focus on
technologies and policies that
actually solve the problem,” said
Michael Laurier, CEO of Symphony
Environmental.
Laurier argued that traditional
policies centred on reducing,
reusing, and recycling plastics
are not enough to address plastic
waste that escapes into the
environment as litter.
“The only way to deal with this
is to use technology such as
Symphony’s d2w to manufacture
the plastic so that it will quickly
biodegrade if it gets into the open
environment without leaving
microplastics behind,” he said.
“This can be done at little or no
extra cost, and without changing
suppliers.”
He added that the world “cannot
ban its way out of the plastics
challenge” and instead needs
innovation, infrastructure, and
international cooperation to
manage plastic waste responsibly.
“The Geneva talks fell apart
because they were trying to
legislate against a material instead
of a problem — mismanaged
plastic waste,” Laurier said.
“Plastics have become the
environmental villain in the
soundbites, but the real enemy
is pollution. The answer isn’t to
erase plastics from the planet, it’s
to make them smarter, safer, and
better managed.”
symphonyenvironmental.com
Plastics Industry
Association Expresses
Disappointment, Calls
for Workable Global
Agreement
The Plastics Industry Association
(PLASTICS) has expressed
disappointment after the latest session
of the Intergovernmental Negotiating
Committee (INC-5.2) in Geneva failed
to make significant progress toward a
global plastics agreement.
“The plastics industry came to Geneva
ready to work toward a practical,
science-based agreement focused
on the original purpose of these talks:
keeping plastic out of the environment,”
said Matt Seaholm, President and CEO
of PLASTICS.
“Unfortunately, significant gaps
remain, and there was an unwillingness
among some participants to focus
on addressing plastic waste, instead
pushing approaches that made it
impossible to reach consensus. This was
a missed opportunity.”
Seaholm said the plastics industry has
remained engaged throughout the
negotiations and continues to invest in
sustainability, innovative technologies,
and circular design aimed at reducing
plastic waste.
“Our oceans have no borders, which is
why this must be a truly global effort,”
he said. “We know solutions exist, and
we are working every day to eliminate
plastic waste. Our industry is ready to
lead and remains committed to being
part of a global, workable solution.”
The Plastics Industry Association
supports the plastics supply chain,
including equipment suppliers, material
suppliers, processors, and recyclers,
representing more than one million
workers across the $519 billion U.S.
plastics industry.
Camille Gallo
cgallo@plasticsindustry.org
Allie Richardson
arichardson@plasticsindustry.
org
technotrans unveils
FuzzyControl Injection
Moulding Controller
technotrans has introduced its
new FuzzyControl controller,
designed to improve precision
temperature control in plastics
processing and injection moulding
applications.
The self-optimising system adapts
to changing process conditions,
helping manufacturers achieve
greater process stability, lower
scrap rates and reduced energy
consumption. Unlike conventional
PID controllers, FuzzyControl
continuously adjusts control
parameters automatically.
“FuzzyControl is precisely aligned
with the needs of our customers in
the plastics-processing industry,”
said Nicolai Küls, Managing
Director of technotrans solutions
GmbH. “The system anticipates
user requirements, stabilises the
process and significantly increases
both the economic efficiency and
sustainability of production.”
Accurate temperature control is
essential in injection moulding,
but conventional PID controllers
can struggle under complex
conditions such as long hose
lines, narrow tool cross-sections or
fluctuating process parameters.
These challenges can lead to
temperature variations, production
scrap and increased material
consumption.
Using fuzzy logic modelled on
human reasoning, FuzzyControl
continuously analyses the control
loop, identifies deviations and
adjusts settings automatically
to maintain precise mould
temperatures without manual
intervention.
According to technotrans, the
system also improves sustainability
by reducing waste, lowering
energy use and increasing overall
equipment effectiveness.
www.technotrans.com
Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5 19

Section
20 Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5

Metcor Group Named As
One Of The Fifty Fastest
Growing Firms
Metcor Group, which provides
specialist maintenance and repair
solutions for drainage, pumps
and electrical infrastructure, has
been recognised as one of the fifty
fastest-growing businesses in the
South of England. The UK Fast
Growth Index for 2025 identifies
the fastest-growing companies in
the UK.
This achievement underlines
Metcor’s impact on its market
and its capacity for growth and
innovation.
While fast-growth firms represent
a small fraction of all companies,
they contribute significantly to
new jobs and prosperity in the UK
economy. They are also often at the
cutting edge of their industries,
bringing innovative products,
services and processes to the
market.
The UK Fast Growth Index
identifies the fifty fastest-growing
companies in seven regions and
nations. Last year, the 350 firms
identified had a collective turnover
increase of £9.6 billion between
2021 and 2023 and created 24,000
new jobs in two years.
Professor Dylan Jones-Evans OBE,
Founder of the UK Fast Growth
Index, said: “The UK Fast Growth
Index demonstrates how a small
number of fast-growing firms
such as Metcor Group can make
a substantial contribution to the
UK’s economic landscape.”
Nicholas Gaisman, CEO of Metcor
Group, said: “Making the UK Fast
Growth Index is a real milestone
for Metcor Group. Our success is
thanks to the incredible teams in
our Environmental, Pumps and
Electrical divisions.”
https://metcor.co.uk
Physicist wins top
Engineering Research
Prize to further nanoscale
chip technology
A world-leading physicist and
materials engineer pioneering
nanoscale optoelectronic devices
has been awarded the Institution
of Engineering and Technology’s
prestigious £350,000 A F Harvey
Engineering Research Prize.
Mark Brongersma is a professor
at Stanford University, where
he leads a lab developing
optoelectronic materials and
devices. He is recognised as a
leader in nanoscale photonics –
the science of controlling the flow
of light at extremely small scales.
Professor Brongersma’s research
focuses on how nanostructures
can absorb, scatter and emit
light. His work has explored
how metallic, semiconductor
and insulating nanostructures
can strongly enhance light
interactions through optical
resonances.
These discoveries have
led to advances in optical
communication, augmented
and virtual reality, displays, solar
energy harvesting, hydrogen fuel
generation and neuroscience. He
has also developed methods to
tune light resonances by shaping
and combining nanostructured
materials, enabling components
to perform multiple functions
simultaneously.
On receiving the award, Professor
Brongersma said: “I’m truly
honoured winning this very
prestigious prize in engineering.”
Institution of Engineering
and Technology President
Dawn Ohlson said: “Professor
Brongersma is transforming
nanoscale optoelectronic
technology – a field that
could further change how we
communicate, power our homes,
and experience the world.”
Professor Brongersma will present
his work at an IET keynote lecture
on 12 March 2026.
For more information, visit theiet.
org/harvey
Awards & Achievements
Park First's Glasgow Airport
Skyport Site Receives
Prestigious Park Access
Award Of Excellence
Park First has announced that its
Skyport site at Glasgow Airport
has been awarded the Park Access
Award of Excellence, presented
jointly by the British Parking
Association (BPA) and Disabled
Motoring UK.
Callum Donald, Operations
Manager for Park First in Glasgow,
said: “I’m particularly pleased to
announce the recent addition to
our car parking accreditations
— the Park Access Award of
Excellence. This award is a
testament to the high standard of
facilities and service we provide,
especially for disabled customers
and those requiring extra
assistance while travelling.”
The Park Access Award of
Excellence recognises efforts to
deliver accessible and inclusive
parking services that meet the
needs of all users. The award
is judged on criteria including
physical infrastructure, customer
service and operational support
for those with reduced mobility
or additional accessibility
requirements.
The recognition reflects Park
First’s commitment to customerfocused
and inclusive service
across its facilities. The company
operates a new transport fleet and
provides additional support for
passengers, including assistance
with luggage.
Customer Mary McDonald from
Overton said: “The service has
been absolutely amazing. The
guys came out and got our cases
straight away for us. They’re so
helpful and it’s a great start to
your holiday.”
Toby Whittaker, Managing
Director, added: “I’m really pleased
for the team that they continue to
win awards for superb care of the
customer.”
Hampshire Lord-
Lieutenant Presents Gill
Instruments with King’s
Award
Gill Instruments has been
presented with the King’s Award
for Enterprise in International
Trade by Nigel Atkinson during
a ceremony at the company’s
headquarters in Lymington.
The award recognises Gill
Instruments’ contribution to
international trade and growth
over the last three years.
The Lord-Lieutenant was joined by
local dignitaries including Simon
Tufnell and Colm McCarthy.
Guests toured the company’s
manufacturing facilities and met
teams involved in the business’s
development and innovation.
Alan Brooke said: “We are
deeply honoured to receive
the King’s Award for Enterprise
in International Trade and to
welcome the Lord-Lieutenant to
present it in person.
“As we celebrate 40 years in
business, this award is a proud
milestone that reflects our
continued commitment to
delivering high-quality products
and services to customers
worldwide.”
Founded in 1985 in Lymington,
Gill Instruments began as
an engineering company
specialising in ultrasonic air
flow measurement. Today, the
company supplies ultrasonic wind
sensors and weather stations
to customers in more than 70
countries across sectors including
meteorology, utilities, agriculture,
marine and transport.
The King’s Awards for Enterprise
were renamed in 2023, continuing
the legacy of the former
Queen’s Awards for Enterprise
in recognising outstanding UK
businesses.
Company sponsors this issue of Best Practice – see them on page 4-5 21

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