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Is your current data collection slowing you down? Discover how a rugged, versatile reader can significantly improve  your workflow.

For engineers and production managers seeking a robust data collection solution, the HH86 RFID reader stands out. This ruggedised device, a perfect match for Brady SmartID solutions, excels in challenging industrial environments. Its IP65 rating and drop-tested design ensure durability, while the ergonomic build allows for extended use. The HH86 offers great RFID legibility across various label types, scanning barcodes, NFC, HF, and UHF RFID.

Beyond its durability, the HH86 reader prioritises usability. Its intuitive interface simplifies daily tasks, and backward-compatible APIs allow for seamless integration with existing systems. This multi-technology scanner empowers users to streamline operations, enhance data accuracy, and improve asset tracking. By reducing manual data entry and providing real-time visibility, the HH86 significantly boosts productivity.

Main characteristics and benefits:

• Ruggedised reader for data collection in challenging industrial environments
• Ergonomic design for extended usage, IP65 rating and fully drop-tested
• Perfect RFID legibility for a multitude of RFID labels
• Easy reuse of scanner developments as main APIs are backwards compatible with the previous models
• Great interface for daily tasks
• Scans barcode, NFC, HF and UHF RFID labels
• 

Experience the power of the HH86 RFID reader and transform your industrial operations! Discover more about the HH86 !

A significant leap in workplace efficiency

Bring your workplace to the next level of efficiency and productivity with reliable RFID. Locate, identify, track and trace multiple assets at once from a 15m distance without ever having to lay eyes on them. Or cover your entire workplace with well placed fixed RFID readers to maximally accelarate asset tracking. Quickly guide employees to the assets they need in the most optimal order, fully automate inventories and check any outgoing cargo for completeness in seconds.

Get some inspiration from our free guidebook >>

• Advances ABB’s leadership in wiring accessories and smart building technologies in China
  
  
• Acquisition provides access to expansive distributor network, extending ABB’s reach across China and Southeast Asia, and further into the retail market
  
  
• Enhances ABB’s portfolio, to address the growing demand for safe, reliable and energy-efficient building solutions

This year marks a major milestone for Engineering Maintenance Solutions (EMS)—we’re officially 20 years old! 🚀

For two decades, EMS has been at the forefront of the industry, delivering the latest insights, innovations, and solutions in plant maintenance, reliability, asset management, and engineering technologies.

A huge thank you to our readers, advertisers, industry partners, and contributors who have supported us on this journey. Your trust and collaboration have been instrumental in making EMS a go-to resource in the maintenance and engineering sector.

Here’s to the next 20 years of growth, innovation, and excellence! 🏆

📖 Stay connected with us at www.engineeringmaintenance.co.uk

#EMS20Years #EngineeringMaintenance #IndustryMilestone #ThankYou #Innovation #AssetManagement #PlantMaintenance #Reliability #EngineeringSolutions

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Smart Manufacturing Week has announced partnerships with both Women into Science & Engineering (WISE) and the Women’s Engineering Society (WES), underscoring its commitment to fostering diversity in the manufacturing and engineering sectors. Through these strategic partnerships with organisations dedicated to gender equality in STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Maths) Smart Manufacturing Week is helping to break down barriers and create more opportunities for women to thrive in an industry that has historically struggled with gender diversity, with the end goal of a more inclusive and dynamic workforce.

For over 40 years, WISE has worked to increase the number of women in STEM careers, helping businesses foster more inclusive environments to facilitate this. A key focus of their efforts is ensuring that school-age girls are aware of the opportunities available to them in these fields. Recognising the importance of early engagement, this year’s STEM programme at Smart Manufacturing Week has been expanded to include school-age students, reinforcing the synergy between the two organisations. 

Katherine Watson of WISE, said of the collaboration: “We work with organisations across STEM to improve gender equity and Smart Manufacturing Week gives us a fantastic platform to reach both industry leaders and young people. The earlier we can get in front of students and open their eyes to STEM careers, the better.”

WISE operates a membership model, supporting businesses and institutions in making their workplaces more inclusive. Their outreach efforts, among many others, include a digital platform showcasing over 1200 female STEM role models, “It’s all about showing young people that there’s a place for them in STEM, regardless of background.” explained Katherine.

Smart Manufacturing Week’s modern and engaging approach to manufacturing complements WISE’s mission. “There’s still a perception that engineering is all about physical strength, grease and overalls but Smart Manufacturing Week showcases the true digital reality of the industry in the modern world.” Katherine said. By actively working to disrupt this outdated image, Smart Manufacturing Week helps highlight the dynamic and creative side of manufacturing and engineering.

In addition to working with WISE, Smart Manufacturing Week has also forged a strategic partnership with the Women’s Engineering Society (WES), an organisation with a long history of advocating for women in engineering. Founded in 1919, WES has been at the forefront of efforts to create an industry that reflects the diversity of society and is dedicated to tackling the gender diversity disparity within engineering fields.

Susan Robson MBE, CEO (Interim) of WES emphasised the importance of connecting industry with talent: “We know that the engineering sector faces a significant skills gap and fostering innovation is crucial to tackling global challenges like climate change and productivity. Through Smart Manufacturing Week, we aim to bridge the gap between industry and female talent, ensuring that women not only enter engineering careers but also thrive in inclusive workspaces.”

Beyond individual career journeys Susan highlights the wider shifts affecting diversity efforts across global industries, "What’s interesting now is not just the change that has happened so far, but the change that’s coming next, given what is happening in the USA. Large firms operate globally and don’t exist in a vacuum. While some may find that political shifts challenge their company values, the smart organisations know that fostering diversity isn’t just about meeting DEI targets; it’s about securing the best talent. Those who broaden their talent pool will be the ones who thrive."

WES works across both startups and large corporations, helping businesses attract and retain diverse talent while showcasing inclusive employers to women seeking new opportunities. "For women who may have faced barriers in the past or are returning to work after a career break, it’s important to demonstrate that the industry is evolving. The engineering sector they left may not be the one they’re stepping into today." Susan added.

Both WISE and WES will be actively engaging with attendees at Smart Manufacturing Week. WISE will be presenting at the Leadership & Strategy Theatre at 2pm on Day 2 (5^th June) and have an exhibition stand (stand number: 5-P154) at Smart Manufacturing Week where they’re keen to engage with HR and EDI (Equality, Diversity, Inclusion) professionals, senior leaders and anyone passionate about driving real change in the industry. “Allyship is crucial. This isn’t just about women. Everyone has a role to play in making STEM more inclusive.” Katherine emphasised. 

WES will be present at their exhibition stand (stand number: 5-C182) where they will be ready to have conversations with professionals at all stages of their career and organisations of all sizes “If companies have growth and innovation goals, they must look at the broadest talent pool available – it's as simple as that.” Susan concluded.

Smart Manufacturing Week provides a crucial platform to spark important conversations, inspire future engineers and work towards shaping a more diverse workforce. “We want people to listen, get involved and take action,” Katherine said. “Because the sooner we make STEM more inclusive, the sooner we can close the gender gap for good.”

To register for Smart Manufacturing Week visit: https://shorturl.at/UK2oi

Danfoss Power Solutions will exhibit products and solutions that pave the way to more sustainable construction at bauma 2025, April 7-13, in Munich, Germany. At its booth — Hall A3, Stand 125 — Danfoss will highlight its capabilities in hydraulics, eHydraulics, electrification, digitalization, autonomy, and software, emphasizing the company’s innovation and application know-how.

The Danfoss booth will feature more than 60 of the company’s products, organized by the subsystems common to construction and mining machinery: propel, steering, work function, and controls. Additional stations will be dedicated to electrification and eHydraulics as well as Danfoss’ PLUS+1® Platform. The company will demonstrate how its scalable, modular solutions can be tailored to specific customer requirements and seamlessly integrated into a wide range of applications and machine sizes.

Danfoss will launch several new products during the event, including the X1P family of open-circuit piston pumps built on the all-new X1 platform, additions to the Thorx™ line of cam lobe motors, and a thermoplastic hose for material handling applications. In addition, key solutions and recently launched products will be showcased throughout the booth, including the Digital Displacement pump and controller, the Editron ED3 onboard charger and ePTO, electrohydraulic steering subsystem solutions, and an industrial cam lobe motor for large stationary machinery.

eHydraulics, or electrified hydraulics, and electrification will be particular focus areas. Ondřej Aulich, a subsystem engineer with the company’s Controls division, will present during the bauma Forum on the impact of electrification on work hydraulics. His lecture — Monday, April 7, at 10 am in Hall B0 — will cover the technological advancements required to improve efficiency while maintaining high functionality and reliability in electrified mobile machines. Markus Plassmann, Head of Growth and Sales Operations with the Editron division, will join Carraro’s Enrico Tracanzan, Group R&D Director, for a presentation on the companies’ two-speed driveline solution. Their lecture — Wednesday, April 9, at 3:30 pm in Hall B0 — will detail how the solution enables OEMs to switch between hydrostatic and electric propel systems without chassis modifications, streamlining vehicle design. The electric propel system will be on display in the Danfoss booth, along with the Danfoss eHydraulic Power Module, highlighting the advantages of packaged solutions.

“The theme of our booth is ‘Set your vision in motion. From idea to reality.’ This reflects our aspiration to help our customers solve their greatest machine challenges and achieve their vision,” said Steen Rohleder, Vice President, EMEA Sales, Danfoss Power Solutions. “Danfoss has the technologies and the know-how to transform construction machinery. Our solutions improve productivity and precision, enhance safety, increase efficiency, and reduce or eliminate emissions, paving the way to more sustainable construction. We look forward to sharing these solutions with visitors at our booth.”

For more information on Danfoss solutions for construction and mining, visit the company at bauma in Hall A3, Stand 125, or online at Danfoss.com/bauma25.

www.danfoss.com

Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2025, the UK's premier annual trade fair serving manufacturing in the mechanical and electronic engineering sectors, concluded its most successful show to date in early February. Celebrating its 27th anniversary this year, the international event saw a significant surge in visitor attendance and exhibitor participation, solidifying its position as a vital business hub for industry professionals. In addition to the bustling showground featuring everything from cutting-edge technology to more everyday items essential for factory operations, the expo featured 53 independently-approved, open-format seminars including a keynote address from Ben Fletcher, COO at Make UK.

The number of attendees reached 10,204, a 14% increase compared to 2024. This year's visitor profile reflected the perennially diverse nature of the show. The biggest cohort was from the aerospace manufacturing sector, which plays a crucial role in the South East of England, employing thousands of highly skilled engineers. More than 72% of visitors had purchasing influence, underlining the event's importance as a platform for business growth. The number of exhibitors also grew, by an impressive 12%, with 535 companies showcasing their latest products and innovations, breaking the notional 500 barrier for the first time.

Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2025 marked a significant step forward in enhancing the visitor experience. People were provided with new smart badges that enabled seamless information collection via an EasyGo reader on each stand. The innovative system eliminated the need to carry brochures around, while simultaneously providing exhibitors with valuable data on who had expressed interest. On average, each stand collected 60 EasyGo leads, demonstrating very positive engagement. The show also launched Southern Connect, a dedicated app designed to expedite networking and matchmaking between attendees. It saw excellent uptake, with 41% of visitors utilising its features alongside the printed guide. The app facilitated 31,191 actions, 1,974 connections between 3,948 participants, and 85 meetings arranged directly through the platform.

Simon Farnfield, a director at Easyfairs, the new proprietor of the event enthused, "We are thrilled with the resounding success of the exhibition in this our first year of ownership. The record-breaking number of visitors, increased exhibitor participation and enthusiastic adoption of our new networking technology demonstrate the show's continued importance to a broad spectrum of manufacturing. The positive feedback we have received, particularly regarding EasyGo and Southern Connect, underscores our commitment to providing a valuable and engaging experience for everyone involved."

An interesting meeting between two companies underlined the collaborative initiatives that exhibiting at the show presents. A regular returnee that takes the same stand space every year, British CMM (coordinate measuring machine) manufacturer LK Metrology met with a fellow exhibitor, bearing manufacturer Bowman International, which was promoting its 3D printing expertise. The company discovered LK when visiting the 2024 show and within eight weeks had bought a measuring machine from them. What appealed in particular to Bowman was the Made-in-Britain graphics on the CMM manufacturer's stand. LK's sales and marketing director commented, "It is very worthwhile for us as a business to be here year in year out, in the same place, in a great location to help us push and advertise our UK brand."

Several other companies attributed sales directly to their presence at the show, highlighting the event's effectiveness in connecting suppliers with buyers. Many praised the high quality of leads from a diverse range of industries, indicating strong potential for future business. The networking technology was frequently mentioned for helping to streamline lead capture. The overall organisation, including setup and venue facilities, was also singled out for being smooth, well-managed and very accessible. Exhibitors described a buzz on the show floor, with strong attendance and a positive atmosphere contributing to a successful experience.

Visitors were similarly enthusiastic. A design engineer from Rolls-Royce said, "I have found the exhibition very useful and good for getting ideas and contacts. It’s really useful to come across lots of technology and products that I hadn’t seen before and it’s good to attend and keep up to date with the latest trends. I would definitely recommend this show - there's so much to see and I am looking forward to attending the seminars!"

Other visitors liked the show's comprehensive range of products and services, valuable networking opportunities with both new and existing contacts, and the chance to discover the latest industry trends and technologies, particularly in areas like additive manufacturing, AI and digitalisation. Many of those canvassed appreciated the informative seminars and commended the professional atmosphere and organisation of the event, including the helpful app and spacious layout of the hall.

The high footfall and lively atmosphere were also frequently mentioned, with many visitors highlighting the value of face-to-face interactions and the ease of finding relevant suppliers. Overall, the show was considered a worthwhile and enjoyable three days, with many attendees expressing their intention to return every year.

This year's Southern Manufacturing & Electronics, held at the world-class Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre, was such a success that it has been shortlisted by the trade magazine Exhibition News for a coveted EN Award in the category 'Best Trade Show 5,000 to 10,000sqm' at a dinner in London at the end of March 2025.

Southern Manufacturing & Electronics is hosted by Easyfairs.

www.easyfairs.com

The global drinks industry produces millions of products every single day. Open or damaged packs can be a serious safety issue, as well as the cause of customer complaints or product recalls. 

As sustainability efforts gather pace, and more manufacturers move to reduce plastic from production, the challenge of ensuring pack and pallet stability with sustainable alternatives requires a new approach to automated quality control.

The UK-based integrator Bytronic recently installed a new automated vision inspection system on a plastic-free multipack assembly line at a global brewing company using Teledyne FLIR thermal imaging cameras. 

Preventing downtime and defective packaging while helping to eliminate plastic wrapping was the big challenge.

The system - called Hotspot - combines the Teledyne FLIR A50 (previously A35) smart sensor thermal imaging camera with smart software programming to inspect the application of hot melt glue beads on cardboard multipacks.

Guaranteeing plastic-free pack stability with thermal inspection

The Teledyne FLIR A50 (previously A35) Smart Sensor camera is designed for condition monitoring. With built-in, on-camera analytics, temperature measurement and analysis can be easily done without a PC. 

By capturing a thermal image through the cardboard, the HotSpot system identifies glue position to show if glue has been applied correctly; the right amount, in the right place and at the right temperature. 

It alerts operators to any deviation in glue application, so defects can be spotted before leaving the line, preventing collapsing packs or breakages on-site or during transportation.

Preventing product recalls

Bottling lines will often be running continuously - in this case producing up to 60 multipacks every minute. Such high-speed operations require the latest high-speed inspection methods.

Traditional manual checks at timed intervals leave space for product escapes through natural human error.

Using Teledyne FLIR thermal cameras placed above the line to inspect every seal on every pack, HotSpot provides a fast and non-destructive in-line test of pack integrity.

Such is its success, that HotSpot has been expanded from a single trial to five production lines - both new and retrofitted - in under two years. The system is now being installed as standard with every new line.

www.flir.com

AtNORD DRIVESYSTEMS, our sustainability strategy for 2025 focuses on acting in an environmentally conscious, responsible and integer manner. A cross-divisional team as well as the management and owners are part of the implementation. Besides NORD’s products, it includes four further fields of action.

“Our sustainability strategy for 2025 is a promise to our customers, to the public and to ourselves to consequently act in an ecological, economic and socially responsible manner”, emphasizes Carolin von Rönne from the area of Process and Organisational Development & Corporate Sustainability Management at NORD DRIVESYSTEMS. The strategy comprises five key aspects:

Products
When it comes to sustainability, our products at NORD are also our top priority. This is because the design, life cycle and application areas have an impact on the environment. The concept of sustainability is therefore already rooted in the product development process. “Drives can be found in many areas of industry, where they consume a large proportion of the energy used,” explains Carolin von Rönne. “With efficient drive solutions such as the IE5+ synchronous motor, we want to make a significant contribution to reducing CO₂ emissions.“ The NORD ECO service furthermore supports companies in finding the most efficient drive solutions for them.

Governance & processes
The sustainability management was introduced at NORD in 2022. Since then, the company has achieved important milestones such as an annual sustainability report according to GRI, environmental certifications and the integration of international structures. The central objective in this field of action is the establishment of an international governance structure and CSRD-compliant reporting for the entire NORD DRIVESYSTEMS Group with 48 subsidiaries in 36 countries because the success of other factors – in particular environment, energy and climate – depends on it.

Environment
In order to coordinate structured measures and document them in a legally secure manner, international environmental management is essential for NORD. This is implemented in accordance with ISO14001 for the largest subsidiaries. In addition, the climate balance for Scope 1–3 is determined group-wide. NORD DRIVESYSTEMS Group further aims to reduce its energy consumption and amount of waste as well as increase the share of self-produced electric power and the use of renewable energies. Existing biodiversity areas are to be further expanded.

People
In times of skills shortage, NORD continues to increase its attractiveness as an employer. The company is currently rolling out a global digital learning management system to offer all employees the opportunity for further individual development. Further targeted campaigns and measures are intended to promote diversity among the workforce. “Inclusion, respect for human rights, strengthening our work culture, safety and continuous transfer of knowledge are only some of the topics we would like to promote”, says Carolin von Rönne.

Supply chain
NORD wants to reassure its customers and employees that sustainable production is given high priority both at manufacturing facilities and in the upstream supply chain. Risk analyses and other processes are carried out within the framework of the Germany Act on Corporate Due Diligence Obligations in Supply Chains (LKSG).


NORD-IE5-Plus.jpg: The IE5+ synchronous motor from NORD is characterised by its high efficiency and compact design Image: NORD DRIVESYSTEMS

Meta title: NORD DRIVESYSTEMS: Sustainability strategy for 2025
Meta description: When it comes to sustainability, NORD focuses on the products but also on governance & processes, the environment, people and the supply chain. Find out more
Keywords: NORD DRIVESYSTEMS, NORD ECO service, sustainability, CSR, governance & processes, people, environment, supply chain act, drives, drive solutions, energy efficiency, IE5+, synchronous motors

Deeplinks:
https://www.nord.com/en/home-uk.jsp
https://www.nord.com/en/nord-group/about-us/sustainability/sustainability.jsp
https://www.nord.com/en/products/motors/synchronous-motors/ie5-synchronous-motors-
https://www.nord.com/en/service/after-sales-services/nord-eco-service/nord-eco-service.jsp

Teledyne Gas & Flame Detection (Teledyne GFD) has released its Spyglass™ Xtend triple-infrared flame detector, a notable industry advance that offers the simultaneous detection of both hydrogen (H2) and hydrocarbon (HC) fires.
 

This important innovation boosts safety in dense industrial environments where hydrogen flames can spread to other equipment and start fires involving hydrocarbon fuels that are invisible to an H₂-only detector.

The combined detection of both hydrogen and hydrocarbon flames arrives courtesy of Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection’s triple-infrared technology. Where industrial spaces are highly populated with machines, equipment, tools, stored goods and many other common workplace items, a hydrogen flame can spread and trigger a fire involving hydrocarbon fuels. It is here that Spyglass™ Xtend is able to provide a crucial safety net.

Take the example of detecting hydrogen flames using an H₂-only detector and prompting a subsequent safety action to interrupt the hydrogen supply and extinguish the flame. It would be easy to think the emergency is over, but any already burning hydrocarbon fires will persist. An H₂ detector cannot detect HC flames.

With its integral triple-infrared technology - paired with a unique algorithm - the new Spyglass™ Xtend flame detector supports an enhanced safety strategy by detecting both hydrogen and hydrocarbon flames simultaneously. Five selectable sensitivity levels are available.

“Users of our Spyglass™ Xtend can take advantage of a considerably longer detection range, while response times are much faster compared with existing UV/IR technology,” explains Régis PRÉVOST, Product Line Manager at Teledyne GFD. “The result? Earlier detection of hydrogen and/or hydrocarbon flames, protecting workers and minimising damage to your premises and assets. It’s also worth pointing out that the hydrogen flame detection performance of the Spyglass™ Xtend matches that of our existing Spyglass™ IR3-H₂, which is dedicated solely to hydrogen.”

The new triple-infrared technology ensures perfect immunity against false alarms or untimely faults due to sun glare or heavy rain, guaranteeing reliable operation in outdoor environments. Further supporting outside use, heated optics prevent condensation and frosting, while users can ensure nominal detector performance by undertaking automatic or manual self-tests that check the optics are clean. The stainless steel enclosure carries IP66/68 and NEMA 4X/6 ingress protection ratings.

Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection’s Spyglass™ Xtend offers a number of universal current outputs, including analogue 4-20 mA, sink or source, alarm and fault, while an optional HART® 7 digital output supports easy configuration and diagnostic capability for preventive maintenance strategies. The new flame detector carries Safety Integrity Level (SIL 2), ATEX, IECEX and usFMc certifications.

Any dense industrial settings looking to boost safety credentials and provide greater worker and asset protection will find that the new Spyglass™ Xtend stands up to scrutiny with its simultaneous, fast and reliable detection of both hydrogen and hydrocarbon flames. Two versions are available: with or without on-board HD video output. The HD video option offers real-time monitoring of the area and automatic video recording during alarms for detailed post-event analysis.

For more information, visit www.teledynegasandflamedetection.com or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.