Latest News

Automated Adhesive Processes with Maximum Flexibility

The new NaDos Robot Cell from Nagel Technologies GmbH in Nuertingen, Germany, sets new benchmarks in automated dispensing technology. This system integrates a UR 10e six-axis robot with cutting-edge features such as plasma pretreatment, calibration sensors, and simulation tools for robotic path planning. The innovative path planning tool allows for quick and intuitive programming of robotic paths—a key advantage for development departments and testing facilities. Its high flexibility makes it an ideal solution for industrial adhesive applications, particularly in e-mobility, where precision and reproducibility are essential.

 Plasma Pretreatment for Optimal Adhesion

One of the core functions of the NaDos Robot Cell is plasma pretreatment, provided by Plasmatreat and integrated by Nagel. “By activating the surface, we significantly improve wettability and, consequently, the adhesion of the adhesive,” explains Philipp Schuh, Advanced Robotic Solutions at Nagel Technologies GmbH. “This ensures reproducible quality without the need for rework or cleaning steps.”

 High Process Reliability Through Intelligent Sensor Technology

Integrated calibration using a TCP sensor (Tool Center Point of the robot) ensures precise tool positioning. An additional precision scale enables exact dosing and calibration of the applied adhesive. Depending on the application, various dispenser sizes are available. The dosing rates range from 0.01 to 1,092 ml/min. Additionally, dispensers can be configured for two-component applications with different mixing ratios.

 Flexibility as a Unique Selling Point: Tool Changing and Simulation Software

A standout feature of the NaDos Robot Cell is its flexibility. The tool change system allows for the integration of additional dispensers, grippers, screwdrivers, or camera systems. “Our customers appreciate the simple and quick reconfiguration, particularly in testing environments,” emphasizes Philipp Schuh. “With minimal effort, various adhesives and processes can be tested without requiring extensive modifications.” The newly developed simulation tool enables users to digitally plan robotic paths in advance and avoid collisions. By simply setting points, the system automatically generates the optimal path and simulates the entire motion sequence.

 Broad Application Spectrum and Industrial Use

The NaDos Robot Cell is particularly suited for adhesive applications in e-mobility, such as bonding stators in axial flux motors. Thanks to its six-axis kinematics, it can process both 2D and 3D contours, even in difficult angles or overhead applications. The working area features a 1200 x 800 mm perforated table with variable clamping elements.

Economic Benefits: Automation and Intuitive Operation

Another key advantage of the NaDos Robot Cell is its ease of operation. The intelligent process control system allows productive results to be achieved quickly, even without extensive programming knowledge. This not only saves time but also simplifies operation significantly.

 Future-Proof Solution for Series Production of Axial Flux Motors

In addition to use in testing and development environments, the NAGEL Group also provides solutions for the series production of axial flux motors with a complete manufacturing process. Customers benefit from a strong partner network: for instance, Wafios AG supplies equipment for coil bending, while Nagel’s sister company Gehring Technologies GmbH + Co. KG contributes its expertise in production line integration, welding, and trickle impregnation. Lambda Resins supports the process with its expertise in resin encapsulation. This close collaboration ensures that customers receive a fully optimized, highly automated manufacturing solution—from individual components to full-scale serial production.

With the NaDos Robot Cell, Nagel offers a highly flexible and precise automation solution that unlocks new possibilities, particularly in e-mobility. The combination of plasma pretreatment, intelligent sensor technology, simulation software, and modular expandability makes it an ideal tool for companies seeking reproducible quality and future-proof manufacturing.

www.nagel.com 

Cork composites solutions can play a vital role in transformer design and maintenance. With unique properties such as resilience, compressibility, and load-to-seal capability, cork effectively addresses several challenges encountered in the operation of transformers. The versatility of cork solutions can be a game-changer in ensuring efficiency, reliability and longevity. 

One of the primary applications of cork in transformers is the use of gaskets for flanges. These gaskets are crucial for creating secure seals between flanges and covers, areas that require materials that can endure mechanical stress, thermal expansion, and the presence of transformer oils. By combining cork with rubber, flexibility and resistance are enhanced, resulting in a dependable solution that minimizes leaks and ensures long-term structural integrity. 

Another key application is the use of cork as sealants around bushings and valves. These critical points of connection and operation require effective sealing to maintain insulation integrity and prevent unwanted leaks. Cork composite solutions are ideally suited for these areas, as they adapt to irregular surfaces and withstand pressure variations, ensuring reliable performance under challenging conditions. 

Additionally, cork's natural damping properties make it ideal for use in pads for vibration and noise control. Transformers often experience vibrations from the magnetic flux and load cycles, which can lead to wear and tear or even structural damage over time. By absorbing and dissipating vibrational energy, cork reduces noise and extends the lifespan of key components, contributing to smoother operation and lower maintenance costs. 

Why choose Amorim T&D cork composite solutions? 

Amorim T&D is a range of cork composite solutions, developed by Amorim Cork Solutions, especially for the power industry. These solutions not only perform well in these specific applications but also offer environmental advantages. As a natural and renewable material, cork aligns with sustainability goals while delivering high performance in demanding industrial contexts. 

For instance, a sheet of Amorim T&D VC2100 has a carbon footprint of -20.31 KgCO2eq, meaning it captures more CO2 than it produces. This calculation is based on a cradle-to-gate study conducted using a tool developed by KPMG in collaboration with Amorim Cork Solutions. By combining high performance with a negative carbon footprint, Amorim T&D is helping drive the industry's transition toward more sustainable practices. 

For those looking to optimize transformer design or improve overall performance, Amorim T&D offers innovative solutions that elevate the effectiveness and sustainability of transformer systems. 

www.amorimcorksolutions.com 

Thirteen organisations have secured contracts with the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) to develop robust sensing technologies for use in future fusion power plants.

Worth £3.5m in total, 16 contracts – feasibility studies from £100,000 up to £250,000 – have been awarded by UKAEA’s Fusion Industry Programme, an initiative launched in 2021 to develop the necessary technology and skills for the future global fusion power plant market.

The 13 organisations – 10 private companies and three academic institutions – are developing a range of sensing and diagnostic technologies for use in extreme environments, an essential field of innovation for future fusion power plants.

Fusion power plants will operate under complex conditions, including extreme temperatures, high neutron loads and high magnetic fields. Developing highly specialised, robust sensing and control technologies that can operate under these extreme conditions is essential to making fusion energy a commercially viable part of the world’s energy mix.

Novel sensing and diagnostic systems will be needed to measure a range of data within a fusion power plant, including plasma position and shape, plasma electron density, temperature, and the performance of plasma-facing components.

The 13 organisations will now undertake technical feasibility studies, taking their sensing and diagnostics technologies to ‘proof of concept’ stages with support from the Fusion Industry Programme.

Tim Bestwick, Chief Technology Officer and Deputy CEO, UKAEA, said: “Fusion promises to be a safe, sustainable source of energy for future generations. However, delivering fusion means overcoming complex scientific and engineering challenges, such as developing tough sensors to withstand fusion’s harsh environments.

“The Fusion Industry Programme is engaging private companies and academia to help solve these challenges, while stimulating innovation that can boost adjacent sectors.”

In a first for the Fusion Industry Programme, expert fusion industry support is being provided by technical advisors from both UKAEA and Tokamak Energy Ltd. Experts from UKAEA and Tokamak Energy are providing technical advice on the conditions encountered in a fusion environment, to help inform the design and development of sensing and diagnostic technologies.

Joanne Flanagan, Tokamak Energy’s Head of Diagnostics, Data and Control, said: “We’re delighted to see a wealth of variety in the innovative responses to this challenge and are excited to support the projects in our role as technical advisors.

“Measurement systems and components will need to be extremely robust to operate in the extreme fusion power plant environment, which is why we must explore a full range of technologies, ideas and solutions. This challenge is designed to stimulate the innovation needed to address this development, bringing us all one step closer to the goal of delivering clean, secure, and affordable fusion energy.”

More information: https://ccfe.ukaea.uk/programmes/fusion-industry-programme/

I-care is proud to announce a major step forward in its strategic development with the acquisition of SDT International, a long-standing Belgian company and pioneer in the field of ultrasound predictive maintenance. This merger, dubbed “Harmonizing Waves”, brings together two complementary areas of expertise to serve a common ambition: to redefine global standards in predictive maintenance. This acquisition reinforces Belgium's position as the epicenter of innovation in predictive maintenance.

SDT International, founded in 1975, brings to the I-care group its expertise in ultrasound technology, its worldwide distribution network and its philosophy based on the values of respect, flexibility and simplicity. The company will retain its historic headquarters in Forest and its operational autonomy, while benefiting from synergies with the I-care group. A strategic alliance for customers and technologies This merger marks a significant turning point for I-care customers. From now on, a single platform, I-see, will integrate complementary vibration and ultrasound predictive maintenance technologies. This centralized solution will considerably simplify the customer experience, offering a single tool for detecting anomalies, optimizing equipment performance, managing energy efficiency and controlling lubrication.

Technologically speaking, vibration and ultrasound - two key disciplines in predictive maintenance - are now combined on the same platform. This combination will provide even finer and more precise analysis of industrial assets, setting a new benchmark in equipment performance management. The acquisition was entirely equity-financed, illustrating I-care's financial strength and commitment to investing in strategic initiatives to reinforce its role as a global leader in the field. “This strategic union marks an important milestone for I-care, reinforcing our global leadership role and illustrating our commitment to technological excellence and customer service.” Fabrice Brion, CEO of I-care “Joining the I-care group this year, which marks SDT International's 50th anniversary, is a symbolic way of honoring the work of my grandfather and father, who built this company with passion and determination,” says Benoît Degraeve, CEO of SDT International.

This decision goes beyond a simple strategic choice: it further positions Belgium as the center of maintenance expertise for the two world-renowned companies. It's a commitment of which both CEOs are deeply proud. “I'm convinced that by pooling the intelligence and skills of our teams, we'll be able to accelerate the development of even more innovative solutions. In an ever-changing world, this shared commitment will enable us to help manufacturers improve their performance while meeting current and future environmental challenges”, emphasizes Benoît Degraeve, CEO of SDT International.

Renewed governance while respecting history This merger is accompanied by structural changes in governance, while respecting the heritage, values and continuity of SDT International. André Degraeve, an emblematic figure in the company, is taking a well-deserved retirement, while retaining an office in Forest and an observer role on the SDT International Board of Directors. Benoit Degraeve remains CEO of SDT International, and his sister Pauline Degraeve is a director and CHRO. Allan Rienstra also retains his directorship of the company. Fabrice Brion, co founder and CEO of I-care, becomes Chairman of the Board of SDT International. The partnership is based on a shared vision and the pooling of resources, particularly in R&D, production and administration. This collaboration will enable the I-care group to accelerate innovation, strengthen production capacities and offer solutions that are even better adapted to customer needs.

About I-care: The I-care group is the market leader in predictive maintenance, monitoring hundreds of thousands of industrial machines worldwide. Our mission is to change the way the world works. Our AI and data-driven solutions predict industrial failures months or even years before they occur. Thanks to I-care, machines around the world are safer, more productive and more sustainable. Founded in 2004 in Mons, Belgium, I-care employs over 850 people, has 36 offices in 16 countries (Asia-Pacific, EMEA and the USA) and has customers in over 55 countries. I-care was named EY Company of the Year 2020 in Belgium.

About SDT International: Founded in 1975 and headquartered in Forest, Belgium, SDT International is a world leader in the development, manufacture and marketing of ultrasonic measurement devices dedicated to energy savings and condition monitoring solutions, offering cutting edge technologies to meet the varied needs of industry.

New Acoustic Imaging Camera Helps Professional Inspectors Locate Smaller Compressed Air Leaks Faster and More Accurately

FLIR, a Teledyne Technologies company, today introduced the Si1-LD, an industrial acoustic imaging camera that brings faster and more accurate compressed air leak detection to those operating on a modest condition monitoring budget. The new FLIR Si1-LD offers improved detection and quantification capabilities in comparison with the existing FLIR Si124-LD Plus, along with a higher upper limit frequency range.

Compressed air systems typically lose 25–30% of their air to leaks, resulting in proportionally higher energy bills, costly unplanned production stoppages, shorter compressor operating life, the need to purchase extra compressor capacity, and increased maintenance expenses for the additional equipment.

Leveraging the advantages of ultrasonic technology, the new FLIR Si1-LD pinpoints leaks with enhanced imaging sensitivity at an affordable price. It offers a number of stand-out capabilities and features:
• An array of 96 microphones (2–100 kHz) facilitates the automatic detection, location, and measurement of compressed air and vacuum leaks from a safe distance of up to 130 m. Support comes from a 12 MP color camera with 8× digital zoom and LED lamp, facilitating the easy capture of visual details.
• Bandpass filtering allows inspectors to effectively tune out any confusing and/or incorrect sources of ultrasound without manual tuning. Ideal for challenging leak detection applications where user input is advantageous, the inspector simply uses the bandpass filter to undertake manual tuning of the required frequency range and clearly displays the source of interest on very rare occasions when needed.
• Single-handed operation of the lightweight, compact FLIR Si1-LD ultrasonic imager and industry-leading AI makes for an easy-to-use device with minimal training perfect for fast-paced inspections across large facilities.
• The touch-screen interface displays high-resolution images for easy issue identification with real-time, on-device quantification in terms of leak volume flow rate and leak cost per year. Users can leverage this data to prioritize repairs. The data is also suitable for inclusion in sustainability reports as an indication of energy reduction initiatives.
• Wireless data transfer ensures seamless reporting/analytics options, using either the online FLIR Acoustic Viewer or offline FLIR Thermal Studio effortless data backup and organizational team sharing, while also providing the backbone for Over The Air (OTA) firmware updates. The software gives users the ability to create reports through pre-built or fully customizable templates.

“Many manufacturing and process plants are seeing their energy bills creep up through leaky compressed air systems, increasing OPEX [operational expenditure] and eroding margins,” said Darrell Taylor, Global Acoustic Business Development Manager at FLIR. “If you want to find leaks quickly and easily with minimal technician training, our new Si1-LD industrial acoustic imaging camera provides a fast and precise solution that supports sustainable manufacturing. As well as reduced energy consumption, the new device helps you save on maintenance, repair, operation, and capital/OPEX costs all while enhancing worker safety. With its minimum detected leak rate [MDLR] of 0.01 L/min at 2.5 m, our Si1-LD offers the market’s best combination of performance and ease-of-use in its price point.”

The new acoustic imaging camera comes with two batteries, additional battery cover, battery charger, camera neck strap, hard case, USB memory stick, access to free versions of online & offline acoustic analysis and reporting software, and two-year warranty. A new accessory is the data transfer cable. This handy cable allows users to connect directly from the camera to a PC/laptop, supporting easy file access at organizations that forbid the use of WiFi and USB drives. Users can upload their acoustic images into FLIR Thermal Studio software or the FLIR Acoustic Viewer

Two versions of the Si1-LD are available, with and without WiFi. All other features are the same.

To learn more about the FLIR Si1-LD, please visit: https://www.flir.asia/Si1-LD/

Prism SKR addresses the ever-growing need for autonomously guided weapon systems: low-cost missiles, loitering munitions, and one-way drones.

Teledyne FLIR OEM, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE:TDY), today announced Prism™ SKR, the newest addition to the Prism embedded software ecosystem. Prism SKR, pronounced “seeker,” sets a new standard in precision automatic target recognition (ATR) for autonomously guided weapon systems, including loitering munitions, air-launched effects (ALE), counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS), low-cost missiles, and smart munitions.

Prism SKR operates seamlessly at the edge on low-power embedded processors. Compatible with both infrared (IR) thermal and visible camera data, Prism SKR's advanced algorithms provide real-time target position, identification, direction of motion, and aim-point localization. The target information is used to guide the platform's autonomous flight system for air-to-ground (A2G), ground-to-air, air-to-air, and ground-to-ground operations.

“Compatible with existing autonomy and navigation software via a Weapon Open System Architecture (WOSA) compliant interface, Prism SKR represents a significant leap forward in autonomous precision target detection, identification, and tracking technology for defense OEM developers and integrators,” said Dan Walker, vice president of product management, Teledyne FLIR OEM. “Additionally, developers can reduce development risk and costs with plug-and-play integration with the Prism embedded software ecosystem and Teledyne FLIR IR camera modules.”

The Prism software ecosystem streamlines development and shortens time to market with out-of-the-box compatibility. Starting with the Prism AI embedded software, developers and integrators can utilize detection and tracking models leveraging Teledyne FLIR OEM's six million visible and thermal annotations. Custom target lists can quickly be incorporated using the Prism AIMMGen synthetic dataset and model training tool chain. Finally, Prism Supervisor empowers autonomous mission control and platform guidance with Prism SKR, where ATR is required.

For more information about Prism SKR and the Prism family of embedded software, please visit www.flir.com/prism. Teledyne FLIR OEM will show Prism at SPIE Defense + Commercial Sensing in Orlando, Florida, April 13-17, 2025.

• Using Schneider Electric EcoCare and the power of data analytics, Compass is realising a 40% reduction in on-site maintenance interventions and a 20% reduction in OPEX.
• Collaborative approach enables Compass to meet surging data demand faster while delivering accelerated speed to market.

 Schneider Electric, the leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, and Compass Datacenters, are utilising AI to transform the  data centre facility lifecycle – maximising uptime and driving cost reductions across the design and build, operation, maintenance and decommissioning phases.

Thanks to collaborative innovation with Schneider Electric, and its EcoCare next-generation services plans, Compass is meeting the surge in data demand faster and more reliably - delivering accelerated speed-to-market while enabling end-user customers to grow more quickly and meet requirements for data processing, storage, and delivery.

By transitioning from a calendar-based approach to maintenance and services, to a condition-based maintenance plan based on predictive analytics and AI, Compass is realising a 40% reduction in manual, on-site maintenance interventions, alongside a 20% reduction in operating expenses (OPEX)*.

These savings were realised by integrating sensors and gateway technologies, pre-commissioned at the factory level, and were ready to be connected from day one to Schneider Electric’s IoT, advanced analytics platform, which is monitored 24/7 by itsConnected Service Hub - enabling the reduction of intrusive on-site maintenance activities.

As a co-creator and early adopter of Schneider Electric EcoCare next-generation services, Compass is leading the way - using AI and predictive analytics to significantly improve the industry’s approach to lifecycle services and maintenance.

Modernising data centre servicing models

Despite rapid changes across the data centre physical infrastructure space, over the past 30 years there has been little change to the way lifecycle services are delivered. Given market dynamics, the industry has begun to learn from other use cases.

Predictive maintenance is not only more cost-effective and accurate than traditional time-based maintenance, but it also allows data centre operators to reduce planned and unplanned downtime by reducing the risk of human error. Further, the use of condition-based servicing helps operators address the continued workforce shortages threatening the industry.

Designing for condition-based maintenance and allowing it to be implemented and deployed on day one of data centre startup/commissioning is a crucial consideration, enabling today’s owners and operators to shift from reactive to proactive servicing, and drive down their total cost of ownership (TCO). 

By taking this approach, not only has Schneider Electric helped Compass Datacenters’ transition from calendar-based maintenance to condition-based maintenance but has enabled Compass to utilise proactive asset management for greater cost optimisation and system reliability.

Building faster with prefabricated data centres

Generative AI has also opened the floodgates for high-density computing power, and the data centre industry has accelerated its efforts to meet the speed, scale and environmental impact of its demands. To address this, Compass Datacenters is working on an in-depth study with Schneider Electric to create a quantified analysis of OPEX, CAPEX and sustainability comparing Compass’ prefab module to stick-build construction.

For today’s AI, colocation and hyperscale cloud organisations, Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure modular data centers also promise a host of benefits, including reduced waste; the ability to right-size for traditional and high-density workloads; to scale capacity at speed; improved design quality and resilience; enhanced supply chain transparency and sustainability; end-of-life reuse; and next-generation remote monitoring, management and maintenance services.

Serving the industry through partnership

“Schneider Electric has long-been committed to transforming industries through the power of collaboration and it’s clear that Compass Datacenters shares this same mindset,” said Pankaj Sharma, Executive Vice President, Secure Power & Data Centres and Global Services Businesses, Schneider Electric. “With the unique growth of data centres, one of the key challenges facing operators is the lack of skilled talent. To address this, the industry must change the way they manage electrical and cooling assets by adopting proactive asset management at-scale. Through our collaboration with Compass we are proving that dynamic analysis for multiple technology systems can deliver exceptional value and ROI.”

“We are extremely grateful for the unwavering support and unparalleled expertise that Schneider Electric has already provided in supplying us with prefabricated data centre power rooms,” said Chris Crosby, CEO, Compass Datacenters. “Our collaborative efforts will allow us to meet the increasing demands from our customers to deliver cutting-edge data centre solutions in an innovative manner.”

For more information about Schneider Electric’s and Compass Datacenters’ collaboration, read the blog here.

Radiometry Enables Pixel-Level Temperature Data from Compact, Highly Sensitive Uncooled Thermal Infrared Camera Modules.
 

GOLETA, Calif.― Teledyne FLIR OEM, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE:TDY), today announced the availability of radiometric models of its high-performance Boson®+ thermal and Hadron™ 640R+ dual thermal-visible camera modules. Built for defense and industrial applications with size, weight, and power (SWaP) optimization, the NDAA compliant and ITAR-free radiometric Boson+ and Hadron models provide real-time temperature measurement of every pixel within a scene.

“The radiometric Boson+ and Hadron 640R+ models, which already provide industry leading thermal sensitivity of 20 millikelvin (mK), or better, expand the mission set for infrared product developers and integrators,” said Dan Walker, vice president product management, Teledyne FLIR OEM. “They are optimized for unmanned ground vehicles (UGV), unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), security applications, handhelds, thermal sights, and emerging AI applications using Teledyne FLIR Prism™ embedded software.”

The eight new radiometric Boson+ models include 640 x 512 and 320 x 256 longwave infrared (LWIR) resolution options, multiple lens options, and shared mechanical and electrical interfaces with the existing non-radiometric Boson+. Automatic gain control (AGC) and direct data entry plus (DDE+) deliver dramatically enhanced scene contrast and sharpness, including lower video latency that enhances tracking, seeker performance, and decision support, day or night. The Boson+ also features multiple video output interfaces, including USB, CMOS, and MIPI for maximum integration flexibility.

In addition to an integrated radiometric 640x512 resolution Boson+, the new Hadron 640R+ is also equipped with a 64MP visible camera, featuring dual 60 Hz video output via USP or MIPI. At 56 grams and with an IP54-rating for dust and water protection in the elements, the dual-sensor payload offers longer flight time and extended battery life for unmanned aerial applications.

All Boson+ and Hadron 640+ models are compatible with Teledyne FLIR OEM’s Prism AI detection, tracking, and classification models along with Prism ISP libraries for super-resolution, turbulence mitigation, contrast enhancement, and more. With drivers available for market leading processors from NVIDIA®, Qualcomm®, and more, plus industry-leading integration support from Teledyne FLIR OEM, they minimize development cost and time to market. Furthermore, Prism can be quickly evaluated with the Hadron 640R+ using the Prism Development Kit for Qualcomm RB5.

The Hadron 640R+ and Boson+ radiometric camera module products are all dual use and classified under U.S. Department of Commerce as ECCN 6A003.b.4. They are available for purchase globally from Teledyne FLIR OEM and its authorized dealers.

To learn more or to purchase, visit www.flir.com/oem.