Today’s high-performance computing applications generate more heat than ever, especially in outdoor scenarios.

Advantech, a global leader in embedded computing, released SQR-SD4E, a new ultra-wide-temperature SQRAM DDR4 3200 rugged memory solution. It delivers reliability and industrial-grade stability for a wide range of operating temperatures from -40 to 125°C.

SQR-SD4E solves overheating problems. It adopted Micron automotive-grade DRAM IC, which natively supports -40 to 125°C operating temperatures. It does this with an innovative design and unique specifications to ensure extraordinary durability in high-temperature critical applications, such as military, in-vehicle, mining, and heavy industry.

Today’s high-performance computing applications generate more heat than ever, especially in outdoor scenarios. Higher power demands for embedded computing in critical markets means the thermal-management problem is ever-present. Advantech’s SQR-SD4E is designed with original Micron industrial-grade DRAM IC and 30µ” golden finger PCB which can support operating temperatures from -40 to 125°C. To ensure reliability, the SQR-SD4E series has undergone extreme long-run burn-in and stress tests. It also supports SODIMM and comes in 8GB/16GB/32GB capacities with a data transfer rate of 3200 MT/s.

Rugged and reliable
Advantech’s SQR-SD4E fulfils the need for both ruggedness and performance to meet a diverse set of critical industrial applications. An underfill technique enables stronger structural support between the DRAM chip and the substrate, effectively decreasing the edge stress. At the same time, it is better protected against moisture and other environmental hazards to enhance the stability and durability of the memory module.

All high-performance embedded computing applications do not fully benefit from ruggedized technologies due to needing particular memory performance requirements. SQR-SD4E SQRAM provides a heatsink solution with different options for different use cases. Additional heatsinks can dissipate more heat and keep the module temperature low enough to avoid overheating during operation. Adding heatsinks can improve the memory module’s durability in the most critical environments.

Exclusive temperature monitoring software
Advantech SQRAM has its SQ Manager software, which monitors DRAM in real-time. It provides useful information, including dynamic memory speed, temperature, and an advanced overheating alert to inform the user of the operational health status of the memory system. SQ Manager can be executed as part of the system for real-time temperature management. To maintain system performance stability, Advantech’s exclusive software flexibly supports Cloud Remote Control mode and On-Premise versions on each device, which is free to download from the Advantech website.

The Advantech SQR-SD4E SQRAM DDR4 3200 ultra-wide temperature series is a suitable solution for critical industrial markets. Its rugged design is the best choice for temperature-sensitive applications.

For more information, visit: https://www.advantech.com/embedded-boards-design-in-services/ssd-dram/sq-ram

The globally sustainable machine tools, including a portfolio of high-precision instruments and solutions products, were showcased at Elecrama.

WIKA India, the global instrumentation major, showcased its portfolio of high-precision instruments and solutions products at the Elecrama: the flagship showcase of the Indian Electrical Industry ecosystem. The event supported the sustainability theme of the largest standalone show in the electrical and allied equipment industry.

In keeping with the sustainability focus of the summit, built around efficient products and technologies to minimise carbon footprints, WIKA India stands firm with India’s target to reduce the carbon intensity of the economy by 45 percent by 2030 and used the global platform to display its best products for customer review and adaptation.

WIKA brought its advanced technology to meet global sustainability challenges at the stand, including the FSFD flow switch, the in-house skid facility capabilities, and the WIKA “WEgrid Solutions” that enable power transmission and distribution operators to guarantee a safe and reliable energy supply. Gaurav Bawa, Senior Vice President of India Group at WIKA Group, said, “It has been a rewarding experience at Elecrama, where the encouraging response to our innovative product range has provided important customer insights. Engaging in face-to face meetings with professionals in our industry has been a delightful experience as we reunite with old acquaintances and establish new connections. We are eager to continue learning about the businesses and understand the instrumentation application.”

One of the major attractions at the WIKA stall has been the instrumentation for detecting SF6 gas used in Power substations. The smart instrument deals with the pressure, temperature, humidity, and sensors in one transmitter. Gas density and dew point conditions are calculated. The new digital transmitter series is characterised by “Advanced technology combined with a robust design”. The new series transmitters will guarantee the highest possible operational safety for switchgear. SF6 gas online monitoring maximises equipment availability, enabling a predictive reliability-centred maintenance strategy. This is the cornerstone for utilities to proactively manage their SF6 gas-filled assets’ health.

The fire Sprinkler Flow Detector or the FSFD flow Switch is another product that captured attention. The FSFD Switch had an adjustable time delay mechanism to avoid false alarms during water surges, and tamper-proof covers prevent unauthorised access to the switch point setting. The product has IP 56/ NEMA 4 ingress protection, enabling the instrument to be used indoors and outdoors with two sets of micro switches activating the control panel and local audible.

“WIKAs solutions are geared towards excellent project management, ensuring timely delivery. As efficiency and sustainability remain key for our products, we hope to complement every business with sustainability and green focus, along with all those present in Elecrama,” Bawa added.

LMW displayed some of the latest machines in turning, milling and turnmill centers at Machauto 2023 held at Ludhiana.

The engineering conglomerate, Lakshmi Machine Works Limited started its value-driven machine tool division in 1988 to produce the finest range of CNC Machines. The journey of LMW was established in 1962 to provide Indian textile mills with the latest spinning technologies. Today, LMW is a leading textile machine manufacturer in India and one among the three in the world to produce an entire range of textile spinning machinery. LMW’s foundry makes precision castings for industries worldwide. The company has added an Advanced Technology Center to manufacture components for the Aerospace industry.

In the last three decades, the machine tool division has developed their own strong capabilities to design and manufacture world-class CNC turning and machining centers and also provide state of art machining solutions including factory automation. The high-precision mother machines coupled with skilled people produce high-quality products. We made substantial investments on manufacturing facilities, which brings technological competence that address the global market.

We at LMW, focus on major demanding factors in the market.
• Accuracy & long-lasting repeatability
• Reliability
• Reduction in cycle time
• Low cost per component
• High productivity.
LMW displayed some of the latest machines in turning, milling and turnmill centers at Machauto 2023 held at Ludhiana during February 2023.

Smart Minimaster – Horizontal Turning Center
The Smart Minimaster, ultra compact turning center with turret and linear tooling options to address the demands of emerging industries towards accuracy and productivity. It comes with 5” chuck, 6000 rpm spindle speed, 3.7/ 5.5 kW power and 30 m/min rapid rates as standard. It occupies a meagre 1.77 Sqm. floor space. Smart Minimaster is a perfect choice for precision machining requirements for industries such as fittings, connectors, bearings, etc.

J2 – Vertical Machining Center
The J Series machines have high demand in the market for its reliability, performance and precision. It provides wide working area, spindle power ranging from 7.5 to 22 kW and spindle speed upto 12,000 rpm. The ergonomically designed machine supports easy loading and unloading operations. The tool change takes less than 2 seconds, saving significant time. The J series machines are highly versatile to cater to major industries like Automobile, Die & Mould, Pumps & Valves, Forging, General Engineering, etc.

LL20MY L5 – Turnmill Center
The LL20MY L5 is a 4-axis turnmill center with high-precision roller LM guideways. It has maximum turning dia upto 300 mm and spindle speed up to 4000 rpm. This machine comes with 12 station drive tools. The highly rigid bed structure helps for heavy cutting. This machine is a great choice for Agri & Earthmovers, Aerospace, Defence, Automobile, Pumps & Valves, Die & Mould, Medical and General Engineering.

The company has established a pan-India network of sales and services that cater to every industrial city in India. Machine tool division provides integrated solutions for various industrial needs. LMW also provides automation solutions such as simple loaders, Gantry systems, and Robots that are tailored to meet customer requirements. LMW also received the ‘Best Stall Award – Machauto 2023.

The Vertiv™ NetSure™ IPE series supports rapid 5G deployment in hard-to-reach telco spaces.

Vertiv, a global provider of critical digital infrastructures and continuity solutions, introduced the new Vertiv NetSure IPE outdoor rectifier, to facilitate 5G rollout and enable operators to increase capacity in areas where demand for data is vast. These easy-to-deploy devices, available with lithium-ion battery backup, help to minimize power losses while feeding radios on top of towers and rooftops, common in these types of applications. The NetSure™ IPE R48-2000C2 is available now globally.

This outdoor rectifier supports telecommunications infrastructure in mobile networks and is ideal for use in network edge applications including 5G small cells, RAN, distributed telecommunications networks, and locations with high data demand, such as sports arenas, stadiums, public transport systems, airports, shopping and educational centers.

High consumption of mobile data in these areas can cause networks to suffer from capacity bottlenecks that are difficult to manage. The next generation technology of NetSure IPE R48-2000C2 outdoor rectifiers quickly and reliably powers the radios needed to increase capacity and expand 5G networks. If the grid fails, depending on load and battery capacity, lightweight and maintenance-free lithium-ion batteries efficiently keep the network running for an hour or longer, while operating at higher temperatures and charging faster than lead-acid alternatives.

“The increase of data traffic at cell sites and other high-demand applications at the network edge has accelerated the need for a reliable, compact and efficient outdoor power solution, suitable to work in harsh environmental conditions, Vertiv NetSure IPE provides an elegant DC power system that meets the challenges of these critical sites,” said Henrik Nilen, global director of DC power offerings for Vertiv.

“In today’s hybrid working world, connectivity and efficient power backup solutions are crucial to ensure business continuity. With the recent deployment of 5G networks in India, the amount of data created and generated by a remote and on-site workforce is anticipated to increase manifold,” said Mr. Dinesh Dhut, senior director, DC power/OSP (SEA & India). “In order to effectively manage the increased loads, it’s important for businesses to upgrade their existing IT infrastructure. The new Vertiv™ NetSure™ IPE series is a reliable new solution designed to support evolving business requirements at the network edge in order to enable uninterrupted business operations. We’re excited to be launching this new offering as we stay committed to constantly innovate our product portfolio to suit the quickly changing business landscape.”

Vertiv NetSure IPE features easy installation, multiple mounting positions, small size, and does not need to be configured prior to installation and launch. It can be powered through alternating or direct current; giving the end user the versatility to use the connection type best suited to the site and network. The rectifier meets IP65 rating for use in harsh outdoor environments, and it can be equipped with dedicated lithium-ion battery backup, for fast and easy deployment in public spaces.

For more information on Vertiv NetSure IPE Series, visit Vertiv.com.

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS delivers individually matched drive systems for conveying, loading, and unloading bulk materials.

MAXXDRIVE® XT industrial gear units are optimised for applications, which require low-speed ratios in combination with high powers.

Whether sand, coal, or food such as grain or sugar – a quite considerable share of the goods transported on road, water, and rail is bulk material. This wide range of different materials shows how diverse the requirements for drive systems are when transporting bulk goods. 

“Our Industry Sector Management has extensive knowledge of bulk handling and is well acquainted with the industry’s requirements”, explains Jörg Niermann, Head of Marketing at NORD. The drive specialist offers customised drive systems for transport systems such as belt conveyors, bucket elevators and screw conveyors. “Our portfolio comprises highly robust systems for applications in harsh environmental conditions, as well as explosion-protected and particularly hygienic drive systems.” 

Comprehensive modular system 

In order to tailor systems for all applications, industry experts use the comprehensive NORD modular system. It comprises components such as frequency inverters, motors, gear units, couplings and brakes as well as fans, base frames and backstops, which are individually matched. For many applications, the basis is a gear unit from the MAXXDRIVE® industrial gear unit series. These gear units, which are principally installed in one-piece UNICASE housings, are available in eleven sizes with torques of up to 282,000 Nm. 

For the bulk material industry, NORD developed the MAXXDRIVE® XT industrial gear unit. The power and speed ranges of the application-optimized two-stage right-angle gear units have been designed for applications requiring low-speed ratios in combination with high powers. Its robust design makes the MAXXDRIVE XT resistant to dirt and reliable in rough operating conditions. A special sealing concept reduces maintenance. Large roller bearings and centre distances increase the load capacity and service life of the components. 

Expertise and support worldwide 

For lower-scale applications, NORD geared motors are used, which have been optimised with regard to energy efficiency. With its profound industry knowledge, application expertise and technical support, NORD develops individual drive solutions for all types of applications in the field of bulk handling, providing worldwide support to system operators for storing, conveying, weighing, dosing, loading and unloading. 

Meta title: NORD: Customised drives for bulk materials 

Meta description: NORD DRIVESYSTEMS delivers individually matched drive systems for conveying, loading and unloading bulk materials 

Start-Up: Key Technologies Applied For Custom Part Manufacturing Solutions.

Blueprint Advanced Manufacturing GmbH officially opened its doors for business on October 4th, 2022. By combining the use of state-of-the-art production technologies and expertise in surface finishing, custom parts and components meeting industrial quality standards can be created. From idea to production to delivery, Blueprint as a development and manufacturing partner enables efficient product manufacturing options from all levels of part complexity.

“We are the interface between the ideas of our technology-driven customers and the solutions for economically viable manufacturing,” says Jens Harmeling Co-Founder of Blueprint Advanced Manufacturing GmbH, who was previously Managing Director of an additive manufacturing competence center. “We support and enable our partners’ sustainability goals through better use of raw materials, low carbon footprint, and new product morphologies,” highlights Co-Founder Jordan Kopping, who draws on a wealth of materials expertise from his previous role at BASF.

With the cumulative experience of our founders and the joined support from experienced entrepreneurs Ferdinand Piёch and Prof. Hanns Peter Knaebel, Blueprint Advanced Manufacturing GmbH was already able to acquire its state-of-the-art production equipment utilizing its six-figure initial capital investment. “I am convinced that technological competence and personal expertise are the keys to successful customer-specific solutions that will lead to our company’s success,” says advisory board member Prof. Dr. Hanns-Peter Knaebel, who has previously held a wide variety of top-level management positions.

For us at Blueprint, advanced manufacturing originates with the customer’s idea where the optimal technological product solutions for market success will be defined. From plastic components for medical devices to small series for consumer goods, Blueprint creates solutions for product manufacturing for customer-specific requirements. Efficient production methods are used for complex parts in one piece (including surface finishing). The two founders deliberately chose the location in the northern Allgäu region because it offers optimal logistical connections.

Alleima, a global manufacturer and supplier of advanced stainless steels, special alloys, and heating systems, inaugurated its new Hydraulic and Instrumentation tubing factory.

Alleima, a global manufacturer and supplier of advanced stainless steels, special alloys, and heating systems, inaugurated its new Hydraulic and Instrumentation tubing factory on March 15, 2023, at its Mehsana Mill in Gujarat, western India. The investment that Alleima made in 2021 has now concluded and is part of a larger growth initiative that Alleima started in 2017. The new factory will meet the increasing demand for locally manufactured products in India.

In 1983, Alleima established its first operation in Pune, India. Since then, the company’s activities in the country have expanded. Today, India is one of Alleima’s key geographical areas, and the Mehsana manufacturing facility has since grown in importance. Having been successively expanded and modernized, the factory has increased production and availability of high-quality seamless stainless steel and high alloy tubes to strengthen service in the region. Now, the inauguration of the important investment will finally take place.

“As part of our strategy to invest capacity and capability in growth markets, the new Hydraulic and Instrumentation tubing manufacturing facility will enable us to serve our customers locally with premium products in India. The investment aims to capture growth opportunities in the Chemical and Petrochemical segment. There is also a change towards increased natural gas in the energy mix and a shift towards alternative clean fuels, which present further growth opportunities. The Mehsana Mill is an important facility in our journey towards strengthening our footprint in Asia” says Göran Björkman, President and CEO at Alleima.

The first phase of this growth initiative first started in 2017. It was completed in 2020 when Alleima added a new cold finishing tube manufacturing line mainly for heat exchanger tubing and other demanding industrial applications. This time, the investment has been divided into two parts, a new Hydraulic and Instrumentation tubing factory and a Heat Exchanger (HX) cold finish Tube Capacity that will be fully completed and operational in 2023.

“For the past few years, we have been focusing on boosting capacity, adding new products, and constantly improving our capabilities to meet the highest global quality standards and customer specifications. The new factory will expand the Hydraulic and Instrumentation Tube capacity to meet the growing market for infrastructure around natural gas. This move will also enable the transition towards cleaner alternative fuels and meet the increased demand from growth in the Chemical and Petrochemical segment in India,” says Sharath Satish, President, Business Unit Tube APAC, Alleima, and continues.

“We look forward to ramping up our production to cater to the increasing demand for locally manufactured products in India while aligning with the Government of India’s “Make in India” and “Atma Nirbhar Bharat” program for Self-Reliance. Through this investment, we also look forward to enabling further export and swifter delivery times to customers across the region.”

CNC on Wheels can help enhance the skills of the youth employed in the manufacturing industry, nurturing their technical capabilities and assisting them in learning and adopting the work environment with the latest and evolved CNC technologies.

Today, CNC machines are computer-controlled, highly automated equipment that has eliminated the requirement for manual interventions in the manufacturing process, which helps scale manufacturing that will ultimately save time and money without compromising accuracy or quality.

Among the many advancements in technology that have fostered development in the manufacturing industry, introducing the Computer Numeric Control (CNC) machine is one of the most prominent. From using the “punched tape” technology when they were introduced in the 1940s-50s and now shifting to CAD (computer-aided design) files for prototype creation, CNC machines have come a long way.

Mitsubishi Electric CNC offers a wide range of high-quality products that meet the needs of the Indian market. Mitsubishi Electric CNC started its journey towards revolutionising the Indian machine tool market in 2013, with its first CNC manufacturing facility to ensure robust production in the country. Mitsubishi Electric CNC offers cutting-edge solutions that promise smoother and faster operations and a better finish, enhancing overall productivity and profitability. Designed to support the needs of the rapidly evolving manufacturing industry, Mitsubishi Electric CNCs perfectly embody the epitome of innovation.

CNC on Wheels: Taking the technology to the masses
Consistently working towards building a better and more sustainable future through innovation, Mitsubishi Electric CNC recently launched a unique initiative to help enhance India’s manufacturing ecosystem. “CNC on Wheels” is a simple caravan equipped with the two most prominent CNC controls by Mitsubishi Electric– the flagship product M80, and E80, a product with limited features, aimed at MSMEs and SMEs. The caravan flagged off from the Peenya Mitsubishi Electric CNC Technical Centre on January 18, 2022. It hit the roads of Bangalore, touring industrial areas to explain the products and their features, share knowledge about their operations and applications, troubleshoot, and even providing training for the CNC systems.

The caravan always has a qualified Mitsubishi Electric engineer to assist those interested, and all proper Covid-19 precautions are being observed to ensure safety for all.

Driving towards a better future
Aimed at building a strong manufacturing ecosystem, the “CNC on Wheels” initiative involves:
• Enhancing the skills of young machine operators.
• Getting feedback directly from end-users.
• Connecting directly with CNC operators and key decision-makers in the metal cutting industry.

Mitsubishi Electric CNC does not wish to limit technology and knowledge to the four walls of a classroom. It is taking their innovations and state-of-the-art training methods directly to the skilled and semi-skilled workforce, so they can get hands-on experience and get comfortable using these products. “CNC on Wheels” can help enhance the skills of the youth employed in the manufacturing industry, nurturing their technical capabilities and assisting them in learning and adopting the work environment with the latest and evolved CNC technologies.

Supporting the growth of India
Mitsubishi Electric CNC has always supported and nurtured innovation and development in India’s manufacturing industry, and CNC on Wheels is yet another step in the same direction. The deployment of the new training and demonstration vehicle enhances the overall skill set of CNC operators in the country. The initiative is also in line with the government’s ‘Make in India and Skill India” missions.

Employing innovation to facilitate the creation of a brighter, sustainable future and empowering the Indian market with revolutionary technologies, Mitsubishi Electric India is dedicated to ensuring consistent progress in the industry.

PortaCount Respirator Fit Tester from TSI, with 35 years of innovation, is the industry-first that features training staff on how respirators should be worn to be most protective.

Since introducing the first generation PortaCount® Respirator Fit Tester in 1987, we have continued to build on our tradition of innovation. Listening, learning, designing and developing to bring you the best respirator fitting test solution. With each generation of PortaCount® Fit Testers we set new standards in terms of reliability, accuracy and ease of use that will not stop with our current fourth generation systems. The TSI approach to industry standards: Raise them.

Intelligent Fit test solutions: the proven fit tester Combining real-time and real-world measurements, PortaCount®Respirator Fit Testers advance respirator safety beyond what any other fit tester can deliver. It supports your respiratory protection programme throughout the entire fit test process; from training and mask selection, through compliance reporting.

PortaCount Fit Testers deliver safety by utilising the most effective and fastest quantitative fit testing method available to identify poor-fitting masks. Providing a consistent and objective OSHA-compliant respirator fit test in less than 2½ minutes. Industry-first features train staff how respirators should be worn to be most protective. Beyond the fit test, PortaCount instruments allow users to see how a respirator’s fit changes in real-time during donning and adjustment, providing valuable training and making mask selection easy.

Measure safety in action
PortaCount® Respirator Fit Testing equipment measures the fit of the respirator while the user simultaneously performs a series of moving, breathing and talking exercises designed to simulate the same movements made in the field. With step-by-step guidance, the instrument walks you through the fit test. Once the fit test is complete, it is easy to generate reports.

The PortaCount Respirator Fit Tester Model 8048 provides a consistent and objective testing experience across all respirator types, including all N95 filtering face pieces. FitCheck® Mode shows in real-time how respirator fit changes throughout donning and adjustment, helping users select the right mask and identify the best fit more quickly. Video animations guide staff through proper fit test exercise movements during a fit test, providing a consistent testing experience and freeing fit test administrators to multitask. Group fit testing allows administrators to test up to four personnel with four PortaCounts simultaneously.

Choose the industry’s most reliable, fastest and easiest fit tester to increase your staff’s safety, with software and features to improve your respiratory protection programme’s efficiency and productivity from training through compliance reporting. Trusted by professionals worldwide.

The best service in the business: Just like our instruments.
The measure of the strength of a company begins after the sale and is reflected in its level of support. With PortaCount Respirator Fit Tester, you get more than just a world-class instrument. You also get the confidence of knowing you’re receiving support from TSI® – the global leader in workflow management, software services and measurement instruments.

As leaders, we have attracted the best people in the business. They support our customers and authorised partners with the know-how, resources and skills to provide you with the best possible service.TSI delivers a network of professional support at a level you would expect from a global leader.

From sales and training to exceptional technical support, customer service, product service and calibration, TSI is committed to offering customers industry-leading services to help you make informed, data-driven decisions to get your job done.

Learn more at: TSI.com/PortaCount

To build efficient HVAC systems, Daikin India wanted to implement intelligent solutions that support remote data acquisition for a cost-effective and sustainable means of monitoring the manufacturing of HVAC systems.

HVAC systems regulate airflow, heat,ventilation, and air conditioning in homes, office buildings, and even vehicles. Essentially, HVAC systems are key mechanical solutions developed to ensure thermal comfort and manage to build air quality.

Conceptualising a smart monitoring and management solution for Daikin India
Expert knowledge of production equipment and strictly controlled processes are required to build efficient HVAC systems. For this reason, monitoring the HVAC manufacturing process, collecting equipment data, and analysing production operations is essential. However, implementing a robust network infrastructure that adequately monitors the HVAC manufacturing process can be challenging and costly. Accordingly, many manufacturers are looking to implement intelligent solutions and advanced technologies that support remote data acquisition for a cost-effective and sustainable means of monitoring the manufacturing and subassembly of HVAC systems.

System Requirements
This project involved conceptualising a smart monitoring and management solution for Daikin India, a subsidiary of Daikin Industries Ltd. and a leading HVAC solutions provider in India. Daikin India produces a wide range of energy-efficient air conditioning systems for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

Daikin India wanted to implement an equipment monitoring and data collection solution to optimise energy efficiency and productivity at its factories. However, the available installation space and network capabilities were limited because the HVAC subassembly lines featured numerous programmable logic controllers (PLCs). Therefore, the company needed a compact yet versatile solution for acquiring and visualising production data without high networking/infrastructure costs.

To facilitate equipment monitoring and operational optimisation, Daikin India needed a system with the following capabilities/specifications:

• Supports smart real-time monitoring of HVAC sub-assembly lines
• Enables seamless acquisition and visualisation of equipment data
• Minimizes and streamlines data transmissions
• Configurable PLC I/O data collection flexibility
• Reliable industrial-grade hardware

Solution
The solution provided by Advantech comprised its ESRP-PCS-UNO2271 equipment connectivity data gateway, which supports more than 400 PLC communication drivers and self-defined data conversion protocols. Furthermore, the ESRP-PCS-UNO2271 gateway was pre-installed with Advantech’s WebAccess/ HMI software package to enable integrated development and data visualisation for real-time monitoring.

The ESRP-PCS-UNO2271 gateway is also used to gather machine data from PLCs via I/O devices. The provision of comprehensive I/O interface support allows the gateway to be easily expanded and the uplink/downlink connectivity optimised. After collection, all data is transmitted to the UNO-2483G automation computer, which is the platform for Advantech’s WebAccess/SCADA software package.

This solution would allow the company to dynamically configure the Modbus/TCP protocols, integrate PLC I/O data, and store collected data on a database server for real-time visualisation. Data can then be displayed on a dashboard as dynamic graphs and historical trends to facilitate analysis and operational optimisation. The dashboard can also be used to review event alarm notifications and adjust set-point and status data.

Products Implemented
ESRP-PCS-UNO2271 equipment connectivity data gateway UNO-2483G automation computer with Intel® Core™ i7/i3/Celeron® processor, 4 x GbE, 2 x mPCIe, and 1 x HDMI/VGAWebAccess/SCADA software package with 5000 tags.

Every unit of a batching plant of concrete named ABP-30 can be customised to the customer’s specific requirements based on application.

Reasons that give Jaypee Batching Plant ABP-30 an edge over others

Jaypee® ABP-30 combines all ingredients like cement, sand, admixture & aggregates to produce concrete. Concrete pumps and transit mixers transport the final product to the job site. Our automatic batching plant-30 provides concrete with perfect consistency. It has four compartments to hold sand and different grades of gravel. The aggregates are held in horizontal in-line bins with pneumatically controlled gates. The gathering conveyor belt runs below where the weighing of the aggregates takes place. The aggregates are all weighed & monitored accurately by load cells before it is fed to the PAN mixer by a skip elevator. A planetary gearbox drives the PAN-mixer to mix cement brought through a screw conveyor, admixture, and water from a storage facility at the top.

The entire recipe can be monitored and controlled remotely. The load cells on each hopper measure and detect input, prompting the operator to determine whether to activate the control of stirring sand & gravel or start a screw conveyer to bring fly ash & cement to the PAN-Mixer.

Today’s construction industry increasingly requires consistency, homogeneity and short mixing times in industrial construction, giving our concrete batching plant an edge over others in indigenisation and longevity. ABP-30 is self-loading and suitable for construction sites where there is a scarcity of labour & prevailing underfoot conditions are only ideal for earthmovers.

Future scope for concrete batching plant ABP-30

We at Jaypee India Limited manufacture our autonomous Automatic Batching Plant of varying output capacities from 18-30 Cu-MS for road, infrastructure & metro applications. It has a kaleidoscope of optional features. Every unit of a batching plant of concrete named ABP-30 can be customised to the customer’s specific requirements based on application.

Salient features

• It has an optional cement silo with an “I” type load cell for input monitoring and a PLC control panel-based printer for government projects.

• Our batching plant for concrete is renowned for its easy operability and is designed to last under a range of environmental conditions, with low maintenance and consistent output, with the least possible downtime.

• The control panel can be housed separately in a control cabin and monitored remotely with an optional printer & USB backup to store recipes.

• Single Chassis; make its assembling and disassembling time no more than 2-3 days.

Why Us

We at Jaypee India Limited Constantly strive to build new sophisticated machines keeping ourselves up-to-date with the latest technology. We have our in-house, professionally qualified designing team to help us in our job, and we are known for timely deliveries to meet our client’s expectations.

https://bit.ly/3Jw6ILn

Qualcomm Technologies Inc., Iridium Communications Inc. and Rohde & Schwarz collaborated on testing and validating Snapdragon® Satellite, a solution from Qualcomm Technologies for satellite-based connectivity on next-generation Android smartphones.

Rohde & Schwarz today announced that its tried-and-tested R&S CMW100 communications manufacturing test set for non-signaling wireless device testing has been validated by Qualcomm Technologies for QDART to verify Iridium waveforms used for the new Snapdragon® Satellite solution. Rohde & Schwarz is the first to supply test and measurement equipment to support non-signaling R&D and production testing of this new feature. This will help enable the Android ecosystem to reliably offer the satellite-based global emergency and two-way messaging provided by Iridium Communications on next-generation smartphones.

Powered by the Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform and supported by Iridium, the satellite provider, Snapdragon Satellite will enable smartphones to offer global connectivity and support two-way emergency messaging, SMS texting, and other messaging applications in remote, rural and offshore locations. The smartphone solution utilizes Iridium’s weather-resilient L-band spectrum for uplink and downlink.

The R&S CMW100 communications manufacturing test set is part of the Rohde & Schwarz single-box tester portfolio, which provides universal and efficient test instruments for all modern cellular and non-cellular standards. The flexible R&S CMW100 RF interface permits simultaneous testing of up to eight devices. It has a continuous frequency range up to 6 GHz and RF bandwidth up to 160 MHz. A wide range of methods hat reduce test times and maximize capacity utilization are implemented in the test platform for high measurement performance and accuracy.

For advanced wireless technologies, Rohde & Schwarz offers the R&S CMP180 with an enhanced frequency up to 8 GHz and bandwidth up to 500 MHz. Double the number of analyzers (2xVSA), generators (2xVSG) and RF ports (2×8) enable even more simultaneous measurements of technologies and devices in a VSA/VSG single-box tester. Both instruments are validated by Qualcomm Technologies for QDART, making them a future-proof investment for OEMs.

Christoph Pointner, Senior Vice President Mobile Radio Testers at Rohde & Schwarz, said: “We are honored to be first in line to support Qualcomm Technologies and Iridium Communications in their joint efforts to bring connectivity from pole to pole to the Android ecosystem. Our R&S CMW100 is a tried-and-tested solution for receiver and transmitter tests of cellular and non-cellular technologies on all wireless devices. Being validated for QDART for Iridium waveforms means that OEMs can be confident that our test solution is ready to fulfil their testing needs, whether in the lab or on the production line.”

Francesco Grilli, Vice President of Product Management at Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., said: “We’ve been close partners with Rohde & Schwartz for years and are delighted to continue leveraging their technology for testing purposes on such an important capability within our Snapdragon mobile platform.”

Joel Thompson, Head of Product, Iridium Communications, said: “Rohde & Schwarz is a great partner for the various test regimes used for Snapdragon Satellite. The R&S CMW100 and its high measurement performance and limited test time have been a strong asset in launching this capability with Qualcomm Technologies.”

At Mobile World Congress 2023, Rohde & Schwarz is showcasing in hall 5, booth 5A80 of Fira Gran Via in Barcelona, a setup featuring a radio communications tester performing Iridium waveform verification in line with QDART for a Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform.

For further information on Rohde & Schwarz at MWC Barcelona, visit: www.rohde-schwarz.com/mwc

Schmersal will be attending the Hannover Messe to present its latest innovations. In Hall 09, Stand D09, the company has put the focus this year on automation and safety solutions for intralogistics as well as for packaging and food processing machines.

Intelligent solenoid interlocks
A robot carrying out palletisation operations is safeguarded on the Schmersal stand with solenoid interlocks that keep guard doors locked until hazardous movements have come to a halt. Intelligent safety components, such as the AZM201 solenoid interlock, help to minimise downtime thanks to comprehensive diagnosis functions.

New Time-of-Flight procedure
Schmersal will be demonstrating a new technology at Hannover Messe for the first time – a technology in which the position and stacking height of boxes/crates palletised by robots is monitored by a ToF camera. The Time-of-Flight (ToF) procedure can be used to create a 3D image of the scene that is available as a point cloud. The scene can then be used to determine the positions and dimensions of objects. Software that can be used to define and monitor three-dimensional zones in space opens up a wide range of automation solutions in logistics and production-line production.
ToF cameras enable efficient, real-time data evaluation, such as when carrying out measurement tasks in fill level monitoring or volume determination of piece goods.

New magnet track sensor box
Electric monorail conveyors are used to transport workpieces, tools and other purchased parts in almost every industry. Schmersal will be showcasing a solution for precisely this application at Hannover Messe: the SSB-R sensor box is used to define route sections for speed regulation for electric monorail conveyors in a manner that is cost efficient and maintenance free. It also allows park positions to be approached with careful accuracy.

New command and signalling devices in hygienic design
Also new: The H series from Schmersal will be showcased at Hannover Messe as a full range of command and signalling devices for hygiene-sensitive applications, particularly in food processing.

Modular MOM system bundles all functional areas of the digital factory.

To make a smart factory a reality, machines and systems from all sub-areas must communicate with each other and end-to-end digitalization must be achieved. The Dürr Group uses its manufacturing and digitalization knowledge to combine hardware and software. Together, Dürr’s software specialists and the Group subsidiary iTAC developed a modular solution for manufacturing planning, execution, control, monitoring, optimization, and predictive analysis. Instead of monolithic individual solutions, the new Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) system relies on microservices that provide functionality as required. The solution enables a high level of flexibility and consistency and offers many interfaces in terms of interoperability. The two companies will display how this works at the Hannover Messe trade fair in Hanover, Germany, from April 17th to 21st, 2023, in hall 15, booth E34.

There are three central superordinate control components in every digital factory: MES (Manufacturing Execution System) controls and monitors production, SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) collects and analyzes data, and HMI (Human Machine Interface) visualizes production and process flow. Until now, these components, for example, the MES sub-segment, were mostly designed as stand-alone solutions.

Dürr and iTAC have combined their competencies and merged the functional scopes of MES, SCADA, and HMI into a uniform MOM architecture. This was made possible by combining Dürr’s DXQcontrol product family with iTAC’s iTAC.MOM.Suite. Manufacturing companies, whether manufacturers or suppliers, thus receive a future-proof industrial digitalization solution with interoperable modules that cover all smart factory functionalities. 

The lead theme is “Industrial Transformation – Making the Difference” – a reference to how companies from the mechanical engineering, electrical and digital industries as well as the energy sector are driving change totangibly reduce CO² emissions on a major scale.

High energy costs, broken supply chains and rising raw material prices continue to pose new challenges to business. To remain competitive, companies need to take steps to increase their efficiency and contain energy costs, which in turn will lead to a reduction in their carbon footprint. High-tech solutions in this area will be presented at HANNOVER MESSE – the world’s leading industrial trade fair, and the only event to centrally showcase the interaction of leading companies from the mechanical engineering, electrical and digital industries as well as the energy sector.

Dr. Jochen Köckler, Chairman of the Managing Board at Deutsche Messe reports, “At the upcoming HANNOVER MESSE, we will be able to witness the new products and substantial innovations with which our exhibitors are tackling several different crises. In April, they will be presenting highly specific solutions for greater efficiency to counter climate change and enable CO²-neutral production. Digitization, artificial intelligence and hydrogen play a prominent role here. Due to their high level of innovation, companies from the drive and fluid technology sectors have traditionally been among the biggest and most sustainable drivers of innovation at HANNOVER MESSE.”

And indeed, the transformation of drive technology and fluid power is running at full speed. Despite numerous global challenges, the two sectors are experiencing excellent economic results. Innovativeness and solutions competence are placing drive and fluid technology at the heart of Industrie 4.0. Added to this are the issues of climate protection and resource efficiency, which require cutting-edge technologies to provide lasting solutions. Here in particular, digitization offers new, efficient and sustainable solution approaches for customers in both industries.

Slight increase expected in 2023

It is difficult to forecast developments for 2023. Order intake weakened somewhat towards the end of last year, although the base effect of the very good previous year must also be taken into account, with some customers’ warehouses also being full. Overall, the Executive Board of the Fluid Power Association anticipates nominal sales growth of 2 percent for the industry this year (hydraulics and pneumatics both + 2 percent). The Executive Board for Drive Technology expects a nominal increase of 3 percent.

Continued challenges due to supply chain problems and a shortage of skilled workers

The supply of raw materials and energy, rising costs, inflation as well as supply chain problems and a shortage of skilled workers continue to be a burden. Even though the dramatic picture emerging from VDMA flash surveys seems to be gradually easing for upstream supply chains, it will remain a defining issue. In terms of challenges, this is only surpassed by the shortage of skilled workers, which more than 80 percent of companies see as an existential issue for the future. The VDMA is committed to this with initiatives such as the Young Talent Foundation, Talentmaschine (talentmaschine.de), the Tech Talents young talent fair, research projects (for example in the Fluid Power Research Fund or the Drive Technology Research Association) and numerous trade association-specific activities.

Extensive VDMA digitization activities

In terms of digitization, the Fluid Power Association is a pioneer, with the digital twin created in the management shell. Data and information over the entire life cycle are available in a standardized, structured form that is compatible with other formats across all manufacturers. Sub-models containing data for specific use cases are driving new business models. The results, which have been published at fluidtechnik40.de, are the result of years of standardization activities, which continue to be facilitated by the staff of fluid power member companies with great commitment.

The Power Transmission Engineering Association, with the participation of leading drive technology manufacturers, is developing OPC UA Companion Specifications for the industry in an international Joint Working Group. The first OPC UA Specification 40400-1 describes a uniform information model for the vertical integration of drive systems with the application area of asset management. In addition, the contents of the second part of the OPC UA Companion Specification Powertrain (40400-2) have already been defined.

Sustainability continues to be a major theme

In a survey of VDMA members, the number of companies dealing with climate-related issues tripled in 2022 compared with 2019. In addition, 71 percent of the companies surveyed said they are creating resources to address the challenge of climate change. Power transmission and fluid power companies are actively contributing to climate protection with performance modules and smart, efficient components and systems. The sustainability activities of the trade associations, including on the topics of carbon footprints, digital product passports or the circular economy, will be flanked in Hannover by two new guides for member companies on circular economy and climate-neutral production. The aim is to provide members with assistance in analyzing and implementing the relevant issues at their companies. In addition, the VDMA’s “Carbon Busters Award” initiative – a competition in which young employees can submit ideas for reducing CO² consumption – will present and highlight the winning proposals at HANNOVER MESSE.

Companies to exhibit digital and sustainable solutions

Companies from the VDMA Drive Technology and Fluid Power Associations offer core components and systems to help their customers implement issues surrounding sustainability and digitization. The examples at the trade fair reveal that the supplier industry is an important source of data and offers services that make future-efficient and sustainable machines possible.

The structured and continuous generation and processing of data are essential in this context. Software and hardware go hand in hand. This is what makes automated and predictive maintenance and the efficient operation of machines and plants possible. Digitization is leading mechanical engineering into the future by promoting sustainability, and drive technology and fluid power – as supplier industries – are key enablers.

VDMA Motion, Drive and Automation at Hannover Messe:
Hall 6, A48 and A52:, together with the European associations CETOP and EUROTRANS
Hall 6, B57: At the group exhibit, eight companies from the power transmission and fluid power industry will present innovative products, innovations and solutions.

The fluid power and drive technology companies exhibiting at HANNOVER MESSE include well-known names such as Baumüller, Elektra, Eurodrive, Flender, Neugart, Optibelt, RINGSPANN, R+W Antriebstechnik, SIT, Sumitomo and Wittenstein, as well as Alfagomma, Balflex, Bosch Rexroth, Camozzi, Emerson, Festo, Hawe, Held Hydraulik, Hutchinson, MHA Zentgraf, Pneumax, PH Hydraulik Stauffenberg and Uniflex.

HANNOVER MESSE will be shining a spotlight on the topic of “AI in manufacturing”. The upcoming tradeshow will be offering special guided tours, a dedicated discussion format, and numerous company exhibits featuring AI tools and use cases – from robotics to production cells.

The only way for industrial enterprises to remain competitive in the coming years is by linking AI to their process automation, warns Prof. Dr. Sepp Hochreiter of the JKU Linz university in Austria. His message to industry: “Don’t screw this one up”. But AI in industry or manufacturing does in fact differ from many other sectors. And this goes beyond the issue of mere data acquisition and processing.

Today, prototypes can often be developed quickly, but the challenge in industrial AI projects – over and above the acquisition and the processing of data – usually lies in integrating the application into a plant, cell, conveyor system or production line. In other words, AI plug and play is rare. HANNOVER MESSE 2023 thus presents the ideal networking hub. This is where AI developers, software engineers get together with users to jointly develop industrial-grade AI products or processes. Whereas in the past, the focus was on use cases in which errors or anomalies were detected or prognostications were made, industry in 2023 is focusing on the optimization of processes and the use of AI methods for simulation, testing and product development.

On the second day of the show, the Monolith AI firm will present its solution for simulation in mechanical engineering as part of the Industrial AI event on the Industrial Transformation Stage in Hall 3. Monolith AI’s approach goes even further than the booming simulation industry. Every simulation performed develops a model, because the creators rely on real-time data. This means mechanical engineering could save on numerous testing procedures. In addition, AI makes suggestions to developers about their products, based on the real-time data. This England-based firm has some very ambitious goals: By 2026, they aim to reduce the product development time of 100,000 engineers by 50 percent. At the same event, machine manufacturer Hawe Hydraulik will report on how it is using reinforcement learning and then implementing the technology in its processes.

Generative AI, for example in the form of the DALL-E tool, will also change the face of industrial product development, with the designer receiving support from an intelligent agent. Festo, the exhibiting company, has been working in the area of reinforcement learning for manufacturing processes for several years. The next step involves the use of generative algorithms for product development. OpenAI recently published 3D models for DALL-E. The challenge in the industry, apart from the 3D challenge, is that the products must also be moveable. In addition to Festo, which is also bringing its new Cobot, Autodesk is also addressing this issue.

The challenge of integrating machine learning into processes is also being addressed by process control suppliers – Siemens is moreover focusing on providing ML Ops, in which engineers provide reliable machine learning models for efficient production and continually maintain them. Siemens will also be providing an insight into an AI project at a customer’s site at the Industrial AI event on the second day of the fair.

In addition, visitors will find AI tools and use cases to draw inspiration on the tradeshow floor. Omron will present a Cell-Line Control System, while Beckhoff will showcase vision solutions and Dürr will feature its DXQanalyze product family. The promise: This enables the comprehensive logging of all available process data to detect potential product quality defects or emerging equipment wear in real time. The system uses data that is condensed at a higher level to draw conclusions about the functionality of individual steps along the value chain, based on documented product quality.

Sona Comstar is the leading global supplier of driveline solutions for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV), Passenger Vehicles, Commercial Vehicles and off-highway vehicles. 

Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd. (Sona Comstar), one of the leading global providers of automotive technology solutions, has achieved the production milestone of 350 million gears since its inception. We started production of the precision forged differential gears at our plant in Gurgaon, Haryana, in 1999 and commenced production at our plant in Pune, Maharashtra, in 2005. From our plants in India, today, Sona Comstar serves seven of the world’s top-10 PV OEMs, three of the world’s top-10 CV OEMs, seven of the world’s top-10 tractor OEMs, five of the world’s top-15 EV OEMs and four of the top-15 Indian e2Ws OEMs. 

As per Ricardo’s estimates, Sona Comstar’s global market share of differential gears increased to 7.2% in 2022 from 5.0% in 2020. The company continues to dominate the Indian market for differential gears with a 60‑90% market share across vehicle categories. Backed by our R&D and engineering capabilities, we are committed to innovating and supplying cutting-edge technologies to our discerning customers.

The company crossed the production milestone of 150 million gears in 2015 and achieved the 250 million mark in 2020. The next 100 million gears production milestone was achieved in three years, reflecting the company’s strong growth. This outstanding achievement is the result of our customers’ trust, our suppliers’ support and the efforts of our people. The company expresses gratitude to its customers for their faith in its products, which encourages us to innovate and enables our growth.

Mr V. Vikram Verma, CEO of Sona Comstar’s Driveline business, said, “ I congratulate my team on achieving this milestone of 350 million gears production and thank our customers for their continued trust in our products. This is a great milestone in our journey to become one of the world’s most respected and valuable auto technology companies. Engineering excellence and innovation are at our company’s core, and we always strive to innovate and solve complex engineering problems for our customers worldwide.”

Valeo celebrates 100 years of innovating and constantly striving to make mobility simpler, safer and more sustainable.

This year, Valeo celebrates its 100^th anniversary. Now a century into its industrial adventure, the Company is a front-ranking player in sustainable mobility.

Valeo has undergone a radical transformation over the past 100 years, and the Group has managed to anticipate the many changes in the mobility space. And these changes are accelerating, with their scale and pace unprecedented in recent years: the fight against climate change is accelerating the development of electric mobility; increasingly advanced driving assistance systems are delivering improvements in road safety; and the interior experience is being reinvented while lighting is being transformed, leading to new features and new uses in different areas of the vehicle.

As a result, Valeo has become a world leader in each of its businesses, with its technologies present in all areas of mobility and beyond: one in three new cars worldwide is equipped with Valeo’s driving assistance technology, and one in three cars worldwide is equipped with Valeo’s CO₂-reducing electric systems.

Its solutions are now used in all forms of mobility, from electric micro-mobility (bikes, e-scooters, e-motorbikes, etc.) to new forms (driverless taxis, delivery droids, etc.), to make them electric, safer and more autonomous. The use of Valeo technologies has also extended outside the automotive world to infrastructure and new services: traffic management, pedestrian safety, smart lighting in public spaces, electric vehicle charging and data center cooling.

And Valeo will continue to innovate for a safer, low-carbon world. Valeo is the world’s leading French patent applicant according to the rankings published in June 2022 by France’s intellectual property institute (INPI). It is also committed to helping achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Christophe Périllat, Valeo’s Chief Executive Officer, commented:  “We’re celebrating a great industrial adventure this year. A hundred years of history, drive and commitment. A hundred years of putting our industrial excellence to work for our automaker customers in new vehicles, and our distributor customers in the aftermarket, working to make cutting-edge technology accessible to the widest market and to meet the highest automotive standards.”

The Valeo adventure began in 1923 in France, in a workshop near Paris where the first brake linings were manufactured. The company grew its operations, expanding throughout France before going international: first within Europe, then Brazil, and eventually worldwide.  A century later, Valeo is now a partner technology company to the world’s leading automakers. That small workshop has grown to become an international giant with operations in 29 countries and a workforce of 109,900 employees.

We are excited to announce that Kollmorgen is back at ProMat 2023 in Chicago on March 20-23. Meet us in booth N8522 to discover how you can automate your fleet with NDC Solutions.

These last years have been exceptionally busy for us. The rapid growth of our global partner network and their applications demonstrate the value that NDC Solutions continuously delivers. We look forward to meeting our industry colleagues again and sharing the latest development news and how our industry leading NDC Solutions technology enables our partners to build exceptional autonomous vehicle applications.

Growing our partners’ business is the core of our business model. Our solutions are co-engineered and developed in close collaboration with our partners. It is an end-to-end industrialized and proven solution to automate any vehicle or application – from small and simple, to large and advanced.

The power of Kollmorgen’s NDC Solutions:

• Accelerate development through an end-to-end automation solution for any vehicle or application.
• A modular and scalable solution customized to differentiate your unique automated vehicle needs.
• Seamless support from project inception to installation.
• A proven solution deployed in over 40,000 vehicles worldwide.
• Developed by our experts since 1972 – with over 15,000 combined years of know-how to solve your challenges.

Booth: Meet Kollmorgen in booth N8522

For more details, please visit: www.promatshow.com

igus will present next-level engineering through digital innovation at Hannover Messe 2023.

igus is stepping up the pace of Low Cost Automation and making entry into automation easier and more affordable than ever before. The interaction of inexpensive hardware and digital innovation puts the future of automation within reach. Here is some evidence for this: the ReBeLmini, a cobot for 3,999 euros and the RBTXperience software for easy commercial robot programming. The virtual iguversum offers the perfect playground to get robot applications and programming up and running with ease and then make them a reality.

 The Hannover Messe is always an important meeting place for the latest developments in the industry. This year, too, igus is presenting digital products and solutions that help companies improve their products and cut costs. An example of Low Cost Automation: New cobots, software, and virtual parallel worlds ensure that even robotics novices can get started with inexpensive automation in a very short time. The hardware starting point is an igus plastic robot, such as the new ReBeLmini, a real plug-and-play cobot at a price of only 3,999 euros, including control software and power supply. This robot works with five axes, weighs 4kg, has a reach of 310mm, moves loads of up to 0.5kg, and achieves seven picks per minute with a repeatability of +/- 1mm. The ReBeLmini is particularly suitable for use in restricted space such as those in test automation or camera quality control, and can also be used overhead.

Next-level engineering with digital tools

Newly developed igus digital tools help companies configure, integrate, and control their individual robotics hardware quickly and easily. According to the “Play before you pay” idea, the new RBTXperience software enables users to combine and test cameras, grippers, and robots, but also machine frames and conveyor belts, in with 3D model – as simply as in a computer game. The components and superstructures can be dragged and dropped however the designer wishes, always with a compatibility guarantee and an instant price. CAD files can be downloaded to your own planning software with a single click. “At the start of the Hannover Messe, we will save to our database every automation solution configured in the online tool and make them available to other customers as a design template. This gives us a huge design community,” says Alexander Mühlens, Head of Low Cost Automation Business Unit at igus. More than 300 solutions are already available on the RBTX online marketplace as a source of inspiration for immediate imitation, 95 percent of which have an investment cost of less than 12,000 euros. But igus simplifies not only the configuration, but also the control of Low Cost Automation. igus offers intuitive software for defining ReBeL robot movement sequences within 30 to 60 minutes – even without programming knowledge. The new AnyApp software will also be presented at Hannover Messe 2023. It allows this intuitive programming for other robots as well. AnyApp is particularly well-suited to companies that combine robots from different manufacturers into automation solutions, but do not want to learn multiple control software packages.

The iguversum: Playfully achieve top engineering performance in the virtual world

Another development step is the iguversum, which can be experienced at the new “igus digital” stand in Hall 17. Users from all over the world can interact and collaborate virtually on projects without being physically present. This not only saves time, but is also more sustainable because there is no need to travel. The iguversum is a collaboration world and a digital tool that can support companies in all technical developments. Extended reality (XR) technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) allow automation solutions to be planned, controlled, and tested in virtual space. This enables employees to remotely access hazardous or awkward work environments without physically being on-site.

This gives companies the opportunity to make their working environment safer, generating greater employee satisfaction and motivation and making it easier to recruit new specialists. “In the future, we will see how people working collaboratively in the metaverse and controlling robots remotely from virtual worlds. This will change the way we work together,” says Marco Thull, Senior Marketing Activist for igus GmbH. igus will offer companies digital tools such as simulations, forecasts and data analysis, going beyond what Low-Cost Automation can do to make their processes faster and cheaper. “New technology is never-ending. We must continue to focus on these questions: What does the customer get out of it? Is it helpful or can we get rid of it?” says Thull. “The interaction of inexpensive hardware, software and XR in connection with artificial intelligence will enable customers to continuously improve their machines and systems and quickly adapt them to the needs of their customers – an enormous competitive advantage.”

 

With its digital customer self-service solutions, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS provides its customers with practical and fast support in their daily work. One example is the NORD Shop that is now available in 15 markets.

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS is one of the world’s leading complete suppliers of electrical, mechanical and electronic drive technology. With its comprehensive TCO approach, high level of application and development expertise, long-term experience and wide range of modular products, the globally active drive specialist implements the optimal solution for almost every application case. A strict customer orientation is therefore essential. Digital self-service solutions such as the NORD Shop provide fast and easy support and facilitate cooperative activities.

Digital customer self-service: Fast and simple support
In the NORD Shop, spare parts for NORD drive systems can be simply identified and ordered directly online. Just one click and the customer finds out about the availability, expected delivery time and price. Orders received before 12.00 pm will be dispatched the same day. An express delivery is also offered. The NORD Shop is currently available in 15 markets. NORD DRIVESYSTEMS is continually working on the further development of its self-service solutions.

NORD Shop offer
From 14 February to 13 May 2023, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS grants a discount of 5% on online shop orders. This offer is valid in Denmark, Switzerland, Spain, Austria, Poland, the Netherlands and Germany. Drive electronics products and accessories are excluded from this offer.

Meta-Title: NORD Shop: Order spare parts online
Meta-Description: Digital customer self-service solutions such as the NORD Shop provide practical and fast
support in daily work.
Keywords: NORD Shop, drive technology, customer self-service, spare parts, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS

Deeplinks:
https://shop.nord.com/GB-en/home
https://www.nord.com/en/products/product-catalogue.jsp
https://www.nord.com/en/solutions/systems-services/services/tco/tco.jsp

 

High-precision, flexible and reliable: With the new S100, STUDER presents the ideal universal internal cylindrical grinding machine for the entry-level segment. Its excellent price-performance ratio makes it the perfect machine for a wide range of internal grinding applications.

“The S100 internal grinding entry-level machine perfectly complements our comprehensive internal grinding portfolio”, explains CSO Sandro Bottazzo, when presenting the S100 at the BI-MU Exhibition for Machine Tools in Milan.

Like all STUDER cylindrical grinding machines, the S100 also has a machine bed made of Granitan®. Its outstanding dampening, and thermal characteristics ensure consistently good grinding results and the renowned STUDER precision. During the development, special attention was given to a simple and efficient design of the   components, making operation and maintenance easier for the operator. However, the equipment of the S100 also makes it suitable for grinding a universal spectrum of parts comprising of geometrically defined basic forms and contours, which can be generated with interpolating axes.

Flexible equipment ensures a diversity of parts

The machine can be equipped with up to two internal grinding spindles or one internal and one external spindle. In addition to a fixed wheel head, it can be equipped manually with a 2.5 degree Hirth and, in its optimum configuration, with an automatic wheel head with 1 degree Hirth. A synchronous motor drives the grease-lubricated internal and external belt spindles. The machine is operated by the Fanuc 0i-TF PLUS controller, together with the proven STUDER operating system.

A further advantage of the S100 is the automation option. On request, it can be equipped with a loading interface and an automatic sliding door, enabling automatic operation and the production of large series.

Typical workpieces for production on the S100 include collets for toolmaking, bearing rings, ball bearings and cylinders, as well as hydraulic control valves in small series. External and internal machining of flange parts or grinding of threads or non-circular forms is also possible.

The competent and reliable STUDER Customer Care is naturally also on hand to provide advice and technical support for the S100. A total of more than 200 specialists worldwide ensure that the machine operates reliably and efficiently throughout its entire lifetime and fully satisfies all requirements. Customers can rely on the over 110-year grinding tradition of the Swiss company, founded back in 1912.

Technical data of the S100 at a glance

• workpiece length: 550 mm (21.65 inches)
• swing diameter: 425 mm (16.73 inches)
• internal grinding diameter: 300 mm (11.8 inches)
• diameter of internal grinding wheel:63 mm (2.48 inches)
• internal grinding spindle speeds:20.000/40.000/60.000 rpm
• diameter of external grinding wheel: 400 x 40 x 127 mm (15.74 x 1.57 x 5.00 inches) F1N
• Workhead: Chuck workhead ISO50/110 or chuck workhead MT4/70
• Machine dimensions W × D × H: approx. 3090 × 2090 × 1990 mm (121.65 × 82.28 × 78.34 inches)
• Machine weight: approx. 4500 kg (9,920 lbs.)

Faster, more accurate, and more cost-efficient machining is only one of the advantages of automating grinding processes. STUDER is therefore one of the technology leaders in this field.

“There are still a lot of prejudices about automation in grinding,” says Daniel Schafroth, Systems Division Manager at STUDER. There are frequent concerns that people or jobs could become redundant. At STUDER, the opposite holds true: Automation should enable the human operators to do their work more easily, efficiently, and safely. Additionally, the special requirementof grinding necessitates that automation is used verywisely and selectivelynot every solution used in the industry is suitable for this. But what are the important factors?

“For grinding, it is particularly important that processes are performed repeatedly in the same way, with high precision and reliability. One example is clamping workpieces and aligning them correctly with micrometer accuracy,” explains Schafroth. Automatic solutions for multi-machine operation can greatly relieve the workload of the operators. They then only have to fill magazines and no longer need to laboriously load each machine. However, grinding fundamentally requires the operators to have a high level of competence, and automation should not be something that hinders them,” says Schafroth: “Automation only makes sense where the operator doesn’t have to have a decisive influence on the process.”

Small companies profit from easyLoad

Automation can be a real game changer for grinding companies—regardless of whether it is a small business or a large company with several systems. “Where grinding machines are concerned, automation pays off for all sizes of companies,” emphasizes Schafroth. A small workshop with only a few employees can fill the grinding machine in the morning. Later, it can work autonomously for extended periods while the employees take care of other things, such as writing quotations. The easyLoad loading system for external and universal cylindrical grinding machines (S31, S33, S22,and S41) which offers excellent value for money. It includes integration in the machine control and is explicitly also aimed at small companies.

easyLoad is suitable for use as a gantry loading system for shaft parts with a workpiece length of up to 300 mm (11.8“), a diameter of up to 30 mm (1.18“), and interfering contour diameters of max. 50 mm (1.97”). The adjustable synchronized conveyor allows autonomous processing of max. 50 workpieces. The standard gripper is designed for individual parts, the V-gripper for two parts, and the heavy-duty gripper for workpieces that weigh more than five kilograms (11 lbs.). The changeover time is only around six seconds. This enables the machine to run autonomously for half an hour or longer with ease.

ecoLoad and uniLoad increase production

STUDER has also developed optimal automation solutions for larger-volume series production. “Small companies mainly benefit from the universal and flexible systems, whereas speed and precision are the important factors in the production of large quantities,” explains Schafroth. Here, good automation concepts can produce a large number of high-quality workpieces and make the most of every second. The ecoLoad for the STUDER S22 production platform is an automatic loading system for series production using high-speed grinding, production-oriented cylindrical grinding, as well as form and thread grinding.

ecoLoad can load workpieces with a diameter of up to 50 mm (1.97”) and a length of 250 mm (9.85”). This is either done using a carousel magazine or an insertion prism, which can also be used as the interface for standalone tool magazines. The programming is already integrated into the grinding machine control. This ensures short retooling times.

The uniLoad automatic loading system also makes it possible for operators of the STUDER S31 and S33 external cylindrical grinding machines to significantly increase productivity without any loss of quality.

The system docks to the machine from the left. With a prismatic conveyor and all racks at full capacity, it can perform automatic processing for around an hour. It is suitable for workpieces with a length of up to 350 mm (13.8”) and 100 mm (3.94”) diameter and thus covers a large range of the parts normally produced on these machines.

 

Automation when space is tight: smartLoad and roboLoad

Solutions for applications with limited space are another important trend in the automation of grinding. “In modern production halls, it is of particular importance to make efficient use of the space,” says Schafroth. This is another topic where STUDER is a trailblazer, for example with the smartLoad for the S11, a production cylindrical grinding machine for small workpieces which has a footprint of only 1.8 square meters (19.4 sq. ft). The smartLoad unit is also compact and can feed in workpieces from outside the machine, using either a conveyor or a swiveling unit, as well as clamp them and place them back after the machining. Thanks to the wide variety of configuration options, numerous applications are possible, for both small and large-volume series.

In the past, radius internal cylindrical grinding machines, which are used in the manufacturing of drawing dies, for example, have been particularly difficult to automate, due to the limited space available. One reason for this is the restrictedenclosure geometry resulting from the high workhead. STUDER has now developed an optimal solution for this as well: roboLoad. This external loader for the S121, S131, and S141 is designed as a gripper arm with quick-change jaws and has a lot of space for workpieces on six trays (each 1080 x 320 mm (42,5 “ x 12.6”)). At 1.50 m (59”), the system is only half the width of the machine itself.

“With the robot arm outside the machine, we gain a lot more freedom, thanks to the rotation axis, and the roboLoad can get in for loading and unloading without having a direct pathavailable,” says Schafroth. Until now, automation solutions for grinding were largely based on linear technology such as beams and slides. However, at the moment the roboLoad is not primarily intended for large series production, but more for automated production during night shifts or extended breaks. But Schafroth is sure that the trend toward using robotic arms in grinding will persist. “Neither our customers nor we want to relinquish this new freedom.”

Automation is digital as well

This freedom includes easy and intuitive operation, a special USP of roboLoad and the other STUDER concepts. “The grinding machine operators do not need any programming skills to perform the setup; it can be done easily and quickly within a matter of minutes,” says Schafroth. For him, automation in grinding means more than just physical machine support. It is equally important to have digital assistance, such as that offered by the STUDER grinding software and in particular C.O.R.E., the revolutionary new cross-brand hardware and software architecture of the UNITED GRINDING Group.

On the large C.O.R.E. touch display with intuitive icons, the operators can quickly find what they need and important information regarding the machining process is displayed. RFID access chips can be used to let the machine only display the options and information for which the individual users are qualified. “This prevents unqualified employees from making changes that could cause an error or a crash,” explains Schafroth. With applications of UNITED GRINDING Digital Solutions™, efficient remote monitoring of the machines is possible even today, and in the future machines will monitor themselves for optimal functioning and proactively provide information on required maintenance measures.

The possibilities for automation in grinding are therefore very diverse and offer large advantages on different levels. However, as Schafroth emphasizes, the focus must always remain on people. “Something that is frequently overlooked regarding this topic is that automation also protects the safety and health of the workers.” Robots can not only help with lifting heavy loads and performing repetitive, boring tasks but also handle a wide range of different materials without problems. This makes the workplace a lot safer and more comfortable. Schafroth says that he is happy that the prejudices regarding the topic are decreasing and that automation solutions are becoming more and more frequent in grinding, and adds: “Because the best machine technology in the world is useless if it is not accepted by the people.”

Advantages at a glance:

• Automation in grinding protects the health of the operators and makes their workplaces safer and more comfortable.
• In small grinding companies with few employees, automation gives the staff more time for other tasks.
• In large-series production and mass production, grinding machines with automation can process large quantities very quickly, and with consistent quality.
• Smart, network-capable software and digital assistance systems form part of automationecause they make the work easier and faster for the operators and increase the quality.
• STUDER has developed optimal automation solutions for a variety of applications: easyLoad (S31, S33, S22, and S41), ecoLoad (S22), smartLoad (S11), uniLoad (S31 and S33), as well as roboLoad (S121 Radius, S131 Radius, S141 Radius).

More efficient, more sustainable, and with shorter tooling times: with the new SmartJet ® concept from STUDER, a new era dawns for cooling systems in grinding applications. Both the customers and the environment profit from this.

A large part of the power and water consumed during grinding processes is required for the cooling. In these times of increasing energy prices and sustainability commitments, it is all the more important that the technological development in this field keeps progressing. STUDER has now achieved a true breakthrough with its SmartJet® concept: An intelligent cooling concept based on high-tech, which saves a significant amount of energy and resources – and additionally even simplifies operation considerably.

“SmartJet^® can reduce water consumption by 40 percent and energy consumption by 50 percent,” says Martin Habegger, who is in charge of the project at STUDER. Those are substantial savings. But how are they achieved? In short: By using a clever nozzle design and an optimized line system with the appropriate pump for the machine line. Additionally, there is sensor-supported, intelligent control software that can support the operators to a much greater extent than in the past. Until now, operators had to take care of the cooling for the grinding process themselves. This involves first and foremost the correct positioning of the nozzles and manual adjustment of the volume flow, so that the pump can convey the cooling lubricant to the location where the grinding takes place.

Fundamental principles developed in cooperation with ETH Zurich

Firstly, this costs a lot of time and secondly, mistakes can easily happen and lead to unnecessarily high consumption. Frequently, operators use much more cooling lubricant than necessary or do not align the nozzles optimally. This is bad both for efficiency and the environment. To change this, STUDER joined forces with ETH Zurich to develop the technological bases and then advanced the SmartJet^® concept to market maturity. With it, the machine control can now provide significant assistance with the coolant supply – in practice, this makes grinding much easier, moreprecise,and more efficient.

And this is how it works: The key components of the system are a frequency-controlled pump, and a ram pressure measuring unit. The cooling lubricant flows through an optimized line system, from the tank via a manifold to the flow-optimized and adjustable nozzles at the grinding wheel. There, a sensor measures the pressure upstream of the manifold. Using numerous parameters, the software then calculates the best exit speed for the volume flow, regardless of whether roughing, fine grinding, or finishing is taking place. Astonishingly, despite the low energy consumption of the pump, high pressure and exit speedsare achieved. “The jet of coolant is highly precise, coherent, and reproducible. The SmartJet^® sets new benchmarks for effectiveness, process reliability, and efficiency in the industry,” says Habegger. The smart system also solves the problem of the flow of air over the wheelsurface, which, in the case of customary flat nozzles, can affect the optimal cooling of the grinding wheel: The solution is specially timed interruptions of the coolant jetflow, combined withthe high exit velocitywhich breaks through the air barrier around the wheel without compromising the effective cooling.

3D-printed high-tech nozzles

The innovative 3D-printed nozzles produced by STUDER’s sister company IRPD in St. Gallen also contribute to making this intelligent coolant system possible. Inside the streamlined design, there are several channels positioned next to each other. They distribute the cooling lubricant evenly across the width. If necessary, the downstream manifold can hold several nozzles in a row. The system has been designed as a modular solution with a quick coupler system, which makes it possible to recombine individual components in no time at all. It is always possible to adapt the nozzles individually to fulfill the needs of the customers, for example, the size of the nozzle cross-section. “As a machine manufacturer, we were able to plan and integrate the entire coolant system from start to finish, as well as match all components with each other and optimize them,” says Habegger. This is a great advantage over companies that only develop nozzles, for example. “Because the nozzles alone are not smart. It’s the entire concept.”

Another aspect with which the SmartJet^® makes life a lot easier for people who need to do grinding work is the way the coolant supply is digitally integrated into the machine as an assistance system. The concept will already be part of the standard scope of delivery of the S36 cylindrical grinding machine, which is equipped with the cross-brand hardware and software architecture of UNITED GRINDING: C.O.R.E. On the large, intuitive touch display, the setup wizard helps to configure the nozzles for each workpiece optimally,and all relevant information is displayed. The grinding machine operator can choose between automatic or manual nozzle adjustment. And of course,the settings for different workpieces can be saved and are immediately available agan for the next use.

Soon to be standard in more machine types in addition to the S36

A particularly annoying problem that many grinding companies face is a thing of the past with the SmartJet^®, explains Habegger. “After the grinding operation, cooling lubricant continues to drip onto the grinding wheel for a while, which can lead to an unbalanced wheelover time.” Some customary nozzles can be bent away to prevent this. But then they lose their optimal positioning and have to be manually aligned again prior to the next machining operation, which costs a lot of time. “Now grinding machine operators can simply move the nozzles a few millimeters away from the grinding wheel with the software control and later return it to its position with high accuracy.” This is only one example of how SmartJet^® makes the daily grinding work easier with machine support and even increases the quality of the process.

The only question that remains: What is next for the SmartJet^®? “We made the S36 the first machine to have it as standard equipment, because it is a high-performance production machine with a wide grinding wheel of 125 millimeters, which means that high-precision, efficient cooling can lead to particularly high savings,” says Habegger. The S36 has been specially designed for the volume production of precision workpieces. Additionally, some STUDER customers with other machine types have already had SmartJet^® installed upon request. But within the current year, the intelligent coolant system is scheduled to become standard on the S31, S33, and S41 as well. “It is time for even more customers to profit from the advantages of the SmartJet^®,” says Habegger. After all, it saves them costs, increases the quality, and sets new benchmarks for sustainability.

THE ADVANTAGES AT A GLANCE

• Optimized coolant supply
• Operator-independent, reproducible results
• Adjustments through themachine control
• High grinding power
• High process reliability
• Shorter tooling times
• Up to 40 percent lower water consumption and 50 percent lower energy requirements.
• 

MHE, equipped with advanced sensors and controls, provide real-time data on the location and condition of goods, enabling more efficient and effective handling.

Material handling for efficiency in operations and quicker turnarounds
The storage and handling of warehouse materials are being transformed from traditional to modern infrastructure, focusing on productivity, safety, accuracy, consistency, efficiency, and faster turnaround times. Material handling equipment (MHE) has increasingly become automated in recent years, leading to greater efficiency and productivity. Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) can now transport goods without human intervention, reducing the need for manual labour and increasing the speed and accuracy of operations. Energy efficiency and human safety are critical considerations in automated MHE and the payback period.

Advanced sensors and controls are now integrated into MHE, providing real-time data on the location and condition of goods, enabling more efficient and effective handling. For instance, sensors can detect when a product is nearing its expiration date, alerting workers to move quickly and avoid waste. Additionally, sensors are used to sort goods by their date of manufacture.

The sensors from SICK ensure maximum positioning accuracy, repeatability as well as speed, and therefore optimal PSDI times. Its comprehensive portfolio of distance sensors, encoders and vision sensors allow optimal adaptation to the requirements of the respective application.

The consolidation of warehouses reduced land availability, and scarcity of semi-skilled/unskilled labour have all contributed to the development of mechanisation and automation in MHE.

Robotic automation in warehouses and cold storage The adoption of robotics automation in warehouses and cold stores is driven by a focus on productivity, fuel economy, and ease of operation, with safety being the top priority. In automated material handling, robots can complete tasks such as palletising, de-palletising, and goods picking and placing quickly and accurately. This results in faster and more accurate order fulfilment, reducing the need for manual labour, increasing productivity, and minimising the risk of accidents and injuries.

In cold storage operations, robots are particularly useful in facilities with extremely low temperatures, where it is challenging for humans to work efficiently. Robots can perform palletising, de-palletising, and order-picking tasks in these environments, reducing the need for manual labour, improving safety, and minimising the risk of product damage. Sensors play a crucial role in these operations.

Robots can also optimise warehouse space by stacking goods more efficiently and higher, reducing the need for additional storage space and increasing the facility’s overall capacity.

Overall, robotics significantly contributes to the logistics requirements of warehouses and cold storage facilities by improving efficiency, accuracy, and safety while reducing costs and enhancing customer satisfaction.

Innovative technologies to handle logistics and intralogistics needs
The logistics and intralogistics needs of factories are being met by developing new and innovative technologies. Effective combinations of automation technologies are essential for managing warehouse operations, reducing human interaction, and increasing productivity, speed, and accuracy. Examples of technologies that minimise errors and enhance warehouse efficiency are automated machines and picking robots.

Parker products and systems for material handling are helping to improve manufacturing and logistics. Crane solutions provide the highest performance with precise positioning and hoist control. Fork-lift technology provides next generation remote monitoring and precision performance. Augmented Reality (AR) is utilised in factories to reduce errors and increase efficiency by providing workers with real-time information on tasks and procedures. It can also be used to train operators on new equipment or processes, reducing training time and improving safety.

Internet of Things (IoT) sensors is deployed in factories to monitor equipment and products, providing real-time performance, location, and health data. This information can be utilised to optimise logistics and intralogistics operations, reducing downtime and improving efficiency. Blockchain technology is utilised in factories to create secure, transparent, and traceable supply chains. It improves logistics and intralogistics operations by providing real-time information on the movement of goods, minimising the risk of counterfeiting, and improving efficiency.

These new and innovative technologies are developed to meet plants’ logistical and intralogistics requirements, improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance safety. As technology advances, further developments can be expected in this area.

Emerging MHE technologies to help automate storage and warehouses
Factories are increasingly adopting Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) because they can handle and transport materials without human intervention. AMRs use sensors, cameras, and mapping technology to navigate factories, making them suitable for logistics and intralogistics needs. These robots can deliver goods throughout the warehouse with impeccable accuracy, using their sophisticated sensor technology to interpret their environment and identify and sort the information in each package. The use of AMRs reduces redundant manual processes that are prone to human error.

Aerial drones are also being used to streamline warehouse inventory processes. They can quickly scan locations for automatic inventory and send the correct count to inventory management software faster than a human can. These drones do not require markers or lasers for guidance and move quickly, making them useful for hard-to-reach places.

Shuttle systems use robotic shuttles to transport goods between storage locations and picking stations, increasing efficiency, reducing labour costs, and increasing storage density.

Such complex systems require high-performance products and technologies to function reliably. As one of the leading manufacturers, SICK Sensors offers mature sensor and software solutions that ensure greater safety, flexibility and efficiency in many areas – throughout the entire value chain Automated material handling technology uses cranes, conveyors, and other automated equipment to store and retrieve goods from high-density storage systems, increasing storage capacity and throughput while eliminating human intervention in the material handling process. This enhances processing accuracy, ensures worker safety, and increases warehouse efficiency.

These automated material handling tools are widely used worldwide in food and beverage processing, e-commerce, retail, and other industries. Robotics systems, conveyor systems, automated storage and retrieval systems, and automated controlled vehicles are just a few examples of the various automated material handling equipment goods that are wellliked globally.Automatically controlled or autonomous vehicles that transport a wide range of products from crates to pallets are becoming increasingly popular in today’s fast-moving environment. Electromechanical actuators lift few tons in a small space for unit load AGV, move the arm of the tow tugs top module or lift the low lift truck AMR. The electromechanical actuators from Ewellix provide efficiency, ease of operation, and positioning with feedback.

Growth of MHE in the industry
Several key indicators can be used to measure growth in the industry’s material handling equipment (MHE) segment. The market size of the MHE sector is increasing by 5 to 7 percent. It can be segmented by product type, including conveyors, forklifts, automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), sensors, etc. MHE market share is also growing in various industries, such as construction (35%), automotive (30%), consumer goods and electronics (13%), mining (12%), and food and beverage (10%), due to the fast Pay Back Period that industry can measure in terms of ROI. MHE manufacturers have adopted innovative trends and technologies, such as IoT, cloud computing, and AI through MECHATRONICS, helping the MHE sector differentiate itself in the market and gain a competitive edge. Energy-saving is also a general industry trend in the MHE sector. Finally, the customer base of MHE products and technologies is gradually increasing by 2 to 5 percent annually, as human safety plays a vital role in market growth.

IoT, AI and RFID driving automated MHE demand
The automated material handling equipment (A-MHE) market is significantly impacted by IoT, AI, and RFID technologies. Here’s how these technologies work in A-MHE operations. IoT is a network of devices connected to the internet that can communicate with each other. In A-MHE, IoT sensors can be embedded in equipment and machines to collect data on their performance and usage, optimising equipment maintenance, reducing downtime, and increasing productivity.

Additionally, IoT sensors can provide real-time tracking of product status and inventory levels, enhancing supply chain management efficiency. AI uses machine learning algorithms to analyse data and make decisions without human intervention. In A-MHE, AI can be used to optimise warehouse layouts, route planning, and inventory management, leading to more efficient and cost-effective operations. RFID technology uses electromagnetic fields to identify and track tags attached to objects. In A-MHE, RFID tags can be used to track the movement and location of products, containers, and equipment in real time, facilitating efficient inventory management and loss prevention. These technologies enhance A-MHE efficiency, productivity, and cost-effectiveness, improving customer satisfaction.

Furthermore, they provide valuable operational insights, enabling businesses to make data-driven decisions that drive continuous improvement. As these technologies advance, we can expect even more sophisticated solutions that further streamline the A-MHE market.

For more information,Visit:www.ngen-group.com

Our unwavering commitment is to provide our customers with the highest quality products, achieved through cutting-edge manufacturing facilities and an unyielding pursuit of excellence in design and production capabilities.

The manufacturing outlook is optimistic in the country
My outlook for manufacturing in India in 2023 is optimistic. The country’s Make In India initiative, notably the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) program for large-scale electronics manufacturing, is set to significantly improve domestic manufacturing and attract investments across different sectors, positioning India as a global leader in the industry.

Additionally, India’s recent Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with Australia, the UK, and other Asian countries have strengthened the manufacturing outlook further. According to industry reports, growth is expected to be between 12-15 percent in 2023, with potential for further growth as manufacturing shifts from China to other countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, where India can have a substantial market share.

Advancing high-quality manufacturing capabilities
Jindal Lifestyle prides itself on being a leader in high-quality manufacturing. As a top Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) in stainless steel, we focus on producing consumer durables, material handling, and process equipment for the food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries. Our in-house design and prototyping expertise, combined with our mass production capabilities, deliver a diverse range of finished products for well-known brands.

Over the years, we have made significant strides in advancing our manufacturing capabilities. Jindal Lifestyle is the first Indian company to manufacture stainless steel power curve conveyors for airports, replacing imports and promoting indigenous production. This achievement is a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation in manufacturing.

At Jindal Lifestyle, our vision is to enrich lives through best-in-class design and manufacturing of stainless steel products that instil pride in our customers. We prioritise creating functional and aesthetically pleasing products and constantly strive to push the boundaries of what is possible in the manufacturing industry. In conclusion, we are dedicated to delivering the highest quality products to our customers using our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and our unyielding pursuit of excellence in design and production capabilities. With our expertise and commitment to quality, we are confident that we will remain at the forefront of world-class manufacturing.

Focusing on providing OEM solutions to the infrastructure
As part of our growth strategy, Jindal Lifestyle will focus on providing OEM solutions to the infrastructure segment, particularly in baggage handling systems for airports and railway stations. We are well-positioned to capitalise on the identified opportunities in this area, leveraging our expertise, commitment to quality, and innovation to deliver state-of-the-art solutions that cater to the evolving needs of the industry.

While expanding our presence in the infrastructure segment, we will continue strengthening our home appliance offerings. With an established supply chain for a wide range of home appliances like bowls, jars, and mixer grinders, we aim to expand our components range to include ovens, chimneys, and fans for various domestic and international consumer durable manufacturers.

At Jindal Lifestyle, we constantly strive to innovate, evolve, and stay ahead of the industry. In line with this vision, we will explore new manufacturing technologies that can enhance our production capabilities and enable us to create even more innovative products. This includes adopting advanced fabrication methods such as laser, plasma, and water jet cutting to produce complex shapes with precision and efficiency. Additionally, we will incorporate smart manufacturing technologies such as IoT and automation to improve production processes and increase efficiency.

Backward integration for manufacturing of stainless steel
At Jindal Lifestyle, our in-house backend integration process is designed to deliver finished-end products for both B2B and B2C segments. As an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), we fabricate daily use and industrial components for various sectors. Our strong R&D and technical cell, combined with Jindal Stainless, enables us to identify the right product for our clients based on their requirements and intended usage. Our R&D team works diligently to provide stainless steel grades that are tailored to sector-specific technical requirements. This ensures that the right grade of stainless steel is used for each product application, guaranteeing that the product can withstand the intended use and deliver the best value for our clients.

Our focus on in-house backward integration allows us to provide our clients with a tailored selection and manufacturing of stainless steel grades based on the product application. This ensures that our products meet the highest quality standards and are aligned with the specific requirements of each industry, providing our clients with the best value for their investment.

Innovations and cost-effective measures for existing products
Jindal Lifestyle, a key player in the industry, remains committed to innovation and excellence. Our focus is on developing cost-effective measures for current products while exploring new sustainable stainless steel solutions that address the changing needs of our customers. This strategic approach involves a shift towards the use of stainless steel and the provision of life-cycle cost benefits in comparison to alternative materials like MS.

Our vision is cultivating a stainless steel culture that values sustainable development and innovation. Through our state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities, we strive for unparalleled quality and craftsmanship. At Jindal Lifestyle, we remain dedicated to providing best-in-class solutions to our clients and delivering excellence in all aspects of our work.

Make-in-India initiative to propel manufacturing sector growth in India
The Make-in-India initiative launched by the Indian government in 2014 is expected to drive rapid expansion of the country’s manufacturing sector. The campaign aims to transform India into a global manufacturing hub by encouraging businesses to manufacture their products domestically. Due to this initiative, many companies have already established manufacturing units in India, and more are expected to follow. This is likely to result in increased employment and economic growth.

One sector that has benefited significantly from the Make-in-India initiative is the steel industry. The government’s focus on infrastructure development, such as the construction of roads, bridges, airports, and metros, has created a surge in demand for steel. It is also encouraging that the government is promoting the use of domestically produced steel in government projects. The friendly business climate fostered by the government and the increased demand for domestic products will likely lead to better economic growth, employment opportunities, and investment.

Country’s manufacturing capabilities being recognised on the global stage
There has been a significant shift in the global manufacturing landscape in recent years, with India emerging as a major player. Previously, the country relied heavily on imports from Western and Far-East Asian countries for various applications. However, introducing new manufacturing capabilities and initiatives, such as the “Make in India” campaign, has radically changed this scenario.

As a result, many companies are either setting up their manufacturing units in India or partnering with local manufacturers to offer technical support. This has led to the development of customised solutions that cater to the specific needs of the Indian market, addressing domestic demand and creating ample opportunities for exports. India’s manufacturing capabilities are gaining recognition globally, and the country is rapidly becoming a preferred destination for manufacturing and exports.

New approaches for factory operations
At Jindal Lifestyle, we constantly seek new and innovative ways to optimise our factory operations. Time-motion studies and Lean Management principles demonstrate our strong focus on enhancing efficiency and productivity. In addition, we have integrated Robotic Process Automation (RPA) into our operations to streamline processes and increase output.

Our state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment incorporates cutting-edge technologies such as laser cutting machines, cold roll forming processes, shearing and bending machines, laser welding machines, robotic welding machines, and many more. We are dedicated to staying ahead of the curve in technology and operations. We constantly explore new methods to enhance and optimise our factory operations for better efficiency and productivity.

The HVAC industry provides dehumidification and quality air solutions and aids in streamlining efficient manufacturing by eliminating the deterrent elements in the air. Ignoring specific environmental conditions can severely meddle with the efficiency of the operations.

Industrial manufacturing involves a lot of crucial operations that are vulnerable to the humidity and contaminants omnipresent in the air. As a result, HVAC installations are being increasingly sought after by various industries for their quality air solutions. From the pharmaceutical to the food industry, automobile (Li-ion battery manufacturing), data centres, and many other industries require various processes to be carried out in strict environmental conditions. Especially for industries such as pharmaceuticals, and automobiles, manufacturing safe, quality, and cost-effective products is of prime importance. Meeting specific environmental conditions can greatly meddle with the efficiency of the operations. Translating to substandard quality products can lead to revoking the products from the market. At times, it can also have a damaging effect on the machinery. All the factors cumulatively increase the downtime of the manufacturing setup, ultimately incurring a huge loss for the company.

To address the problem, the HVAC industry providing dehumidification and quality air solutions aid in streamlining efficient manufacturing by eliminating the deterrent elements in the air. It reduces downtime in industrial manufacturing by simultaneously protecting the various operations and machinery. The focus is aimed on increasing the productivity and profitability of the company. The HVAC industry also offers energy-efficient solutions considering the production being carried out at a large scale. In the process, the HVAC industry is steering the path towards more sustainable manufacturing.

HVAC installation eases operations at manufacturing facilities
Manufacturing comprises three major stages: processing, packaging, and storage. And looking at the intricacy of the industries, quality air solutions are required at all three stages. If we take the example of the pharma industry, then quality air is of prime importance during the processing stage. As in moisture, the materials become resilient and resist the various grinding and pulverizing operations. It defies pneumatic conveying from one source to another by clinging to the grinding machine. Also, moisture is responsible for causing brittleness in the tablets.

Similarly, in Li-ion battery manufacturing, moisture can give rise to serious safety issues. It leads to the manufacturing of incompetent batteries that increase the probability of accidents in the vehicle. EVs catching fire is a widespread concern these days. This can be abated by manufacturing Li-ion batteries under strict environmental conditions.

Food is one such industry that requires quality air at all three stages, but moisture-free air during packaging and storage is of utmost importance. If the moisture remains trapped during the packaging, it can cause the sogging of the wafers. And confectionery like chocolates can lead to loss of gloss or lustre, leaving behind a sticky or grainy surface, causing sugar to bloom, and changing the flavour. In addition to this, at the storage stage, certain fruits and vegetables undergo over-ripening due to ethylene. And to curb this, Bry-Air Ethylene Scrubber (BES) is a breakthrough technology that extends the shelf life of fruits and vegetables by continuously removing ethylene from the air.

The importance of quality air is of prime importance. Installing efficient HVAC systems and desiccant dehumidifiers at various manufacturing stages can add to production efficiency. For example, the cold chain inhibits the prospects of frost formation on the evaporators and the building-up of ice on the cooling coils. Overall, the HVAC system ensures seamless continuity of processes as it allows smooth conveyance of materials from one end to another.

Discerning the rising awareness around HVAC systems, its application is now wider than just manufacturing facilities. It is increasingly being preferred by service sectors as well. Data centres have recently installed Gas Phase Filtration with compact dehumidifiers to protect the systems against corrosion.

Applications enhance manufacturing facilities’ efficiency and operational ability.

Integration of Industry 4.0 is a breakthrough advancement in the HVAC industry. Latest technologies such as AI, AR, IoT, robotics, cloud computing, etc., vest a lot of importance on ‘smart manufacturing’ or ‘smart factories’. This is aimed at amplifying the production efficiency of various industries. The advanced technologies are instrumental in automating the various operations that troubleshoot, operate, and monitor processes. It is changing how the work is done by streamlining day-to-day activities and workflows on the shop floor. At the same time, it is adept at making unified information-driven decisions in the factory environment with the help of real-time data and information.

Cooling and ventilation solutions for commercial warehouses and manufacturing facilities
Evaporative Coolers, and Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERV), are the ideal cooling and ventilation solutions for commercial warehouses, discerning the complex structure of warehouses. These also involve critical processes such as design specification, an assemblage of parts, processing of raw materials, etc., being carried out in the facility. Considering the heat problem intervening with the concentration of the employees and plaguing their productivity, industry players constantly seek economical cooling solutions. That provides a comfortable environment for working. As installing AC in such large areas is complicated, expensive, and impractical, the cooling and ventilation solutions from the house of DRI address the issue with its energy-efficient and cost-effective products that enhance the production efficiency of the facilities. They curb the menace of poor IAQ by introducing clean, fresh air from outside to the building and simultaneously ensuring the continuous circulation of the air.

Looking at the problem of poor IAQ, the cooling and ventilation solutions are wider than just the warehouses. They find applications in commercial buildings as well. Buildings such as schools, malls, factories, airports, cinema halls, etc., all require quality air solutions, as these spaces are likely to be huddled with many people.

Growth for commercial and industrial buildings for HVAC equipment manufacturing

The rising awareness of the health hazards of poor indoor air quality drives the demand for Green buildings, abiding by the guidelines set by ASSOCHAM, ECBC, LEED, and Indian Green Building Council. Industry players are actively adopting sustainable construction to reduce their carbon footprint. Considering the ability of the building to conserve energy inherently and exhibiting a resilient structure is also giving the desired impetus to the HVAC equipment. As the buildings invariantly incorporate energy-saving solutions, it seeks efficient HVAC systems that are proficient in improving indoor air quality by enhancing the cooling and ventilation of the building naturally.

Cooling equipment and technologies suitable for maintaining the cooling of the heat generated by machinery

In paper and pulp, power, automobile (Li-ion battery manufacturing), and many other industries, it is very common for the machinery to generate heat during the various processes. Certain crucial processes also require employees to wear protective suits to avoid serious workplace injuries or health repercussions. These suits are quite uncomfortable. They can even meddle with the concentration and productivity of the person, which can, at times, lead to the manufacturing of incompetent products. In addition, working in power plants, refineries etc., involves many risks as a good part of the work is done in hazardous, confined spaces. Given the nature of the industry, employees need to work for hours under challenging settings like tanks, boilers, drums, chimneys, pipelines, tunnels etc., which are plagued with high temperatures, lack of oxygen, presence of harmful gases, fumes, or vapours. Also, in the factory and shop floor setup, employees are highly prone to get distracted and compromising on the quality of work given to poor air quality and improper cooling and ventilation facilities. Addressing the issue, the range of dehumidification solutions and Arctic coolers from the house of Bry-Air and DRI, respectively, aid in curbing the heat the machines emanate and ensuring they work optimally at the same time.

Sharing expertise about cooling solutions and material handling for warehouse automation, industry experts talk about advancements in cooling, cold chain logistics, warehouses and the environment in manufacturing facilities.

Manufacturing comprises three major stages, namely processing, packaging, and storage. And looking at the intricacy of the industries, quality air solutions are required at all three stages. Integration of Industry 4.0 is a breakthrough advancement in the HVAC industry. Latest technologies such as AI, AR, IoT, robotics, cloud computing, etc. are vested a lot of importance on ‘smart manufacturing’ or ‘smart factories’.

Robots are taking over warehouse jobs with increasing volumes; hence they have a lot of space to change the warehouse scenario. Automation, mobile robots, and new skills adoption are emerging as new patterns for the supply chain. A cold supply chain involves the logistical handling of temperature-sensitive products and pharmaceuticals at various endpoints during the chain. Global e-commerce sales grew from just 5 percent of retail sales earlier to around 20 percent today.

The Indian cold chain logistics sector is expected to reach approx. $782 billion by 2030 due to increased refrigerated warehouses and pharmaceutical growth. The logistics tracking instruments and delivery software technologies evolve to handle all temperature-sensitive goods at transit points of shipments. The drones in supply chain management may enable the ‘zero-error’ warehouse. As per studies, this may lead to data collection time savings of up to 50 to 80 percent.

Untapped opportunities

The importance of quality air is of prime importance. There is a clear shift towards multipurpose storage and value-added services covering end-to-end requirements. Gubba Kiran, CEO, Gubba Cold Storage, says that untapped opportunities in Indian cold chain logistics are the foreign direct investment & enhancement of public-private relationships to fuel the industry’s growth. If looked at through the lens of technology, there is a lot of scope for development in this sector.

Taking a constructive view, Vikas Taneja, Business Chief, Cold Chain, Panasonic Life Solutions India, categorically states, “To safely stock, preserve and distribute perishable products with minimal wastage, we need a mature cold chain. Even though there is a lot of focus from the Government of India towards cold chain development and continuous improvement, the Indian cold chain industry can still be considered nascent since there are considerable gaps in existing infrastructure against the needs. Food waste is highly concerning due to the need for appropriate and effective cooling.

Installing efficient HVAC systems and desiccant dehumidifiers at various manufacturing stages can increase production efficiency, says Vasudha Jajoo Pahwa, Marketing Strategy, Pahwa Group. For example, the cold chain inhibits the prospects of frost formation on the evaporators and the building-up of ice on the cooling coils. Overall, the HVAC system ensures seamless continuity of processes as it allows smooth conveyance of materials from one end to another.

If we see the wastage, there is much-untapped potential with future-ready technologies. From the perspective of wastage, Suunil Dabral, Senior Vice President & Business Head, Godrej Körber, states, “One of the major causes for food wastage is a lack of relevant infrastructure in the country followed by the lack of awareness.” The country’s 7500 cold stores cover only 11 percent of the country’s perishable produce. Hence, the Indian logistics sector has much to catch up on in the cold chain infrastructure. An enormous scope of different cooling processes is required to maintain the cold chain without any break with temperature logging and complete visibility, with the help of growing IoT-based modern cold chain ecosystems.

Talking about investing, Vikram Murthy, Director, Univac Environment Systems, mentions, “At the Core of the dilemma rests the unwillingness to invest deeply into Cold Chains – because private sector investors, local Government bodies and Cooperatives have not acted as a unified collective – due to uncertainties of regular local farm produce.”

Developed nations have perfected this chain to yield high incomes. Sounding optimistic, Sunil says new opportunities are emerging around the last mile deliveries, i.e. delivering them fresh. This may include the various value-added services based on the delivery time duration for multiple customers. Vikas responded quickly, “Currently, the biggest challenge for quick online deliveries is to deliver small quantities on time while maintaining product integrity and quality. This needs efficient mid-mile and last-mile storage and delivery solutions.” Efficiency is required regarding running costs for climate-controlled storage and delivering the last mile.

Monitoring trends

Considering the heat problem intervening with the concentration of the employees and plaguing their productivity, industry players constantly seek economical cooling solutions. That provides a comfortable environment for working. Sensors and data loggers are essential components of the sensory network of a temperature-controlled environment. Various types of sensors, such as temperature sensors, humidity sensors, chemical indicators, and impact and tilt sensors, are used in this network. Temperature sensors sense the temperature at a specific location within a cold room, freezer room, refrigerator, or freezer unit.

According to the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR), the demand for heat-sensitive health products such as drugs, vaccines, insulin, derived blood products, and oncology products are rising globally every year. Hence, the manufacturing and transporting of these drugs is the most critical phase in the cold chain due to the possibility of unforeseen environmental variations. Cold chain transportation is a temperature-controlled supply chain used in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, food & beverages, and chemicals. The increasing demand for temperature-sensitive drugs, rising demand for better food quality, surging need for reducing food wastage, and growing demand for generic drugs is anticipated to drive the market’s growth.

The temperature-sensitive monitoring market for transport is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The growing focus on improving the supply chain efficiency of the fast-growing pharmaceuticals sector is also expected to contribute to the market’s growth. Data loggers are used throughout the cold chain to monitor the temperature of food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and other temperature-sensitive products.

Further, installing AC in large critical processes in manufacturing is complicated, expensive, and impractical. The effective cooling and ventilation solutions address the issues with its energy-efficient and cost-effective products that enhance the production efficiency of the facilities, says Ms. Vasudha. They curb the menace of poor IAQ by introducing clean, fresh air from outside to the building and simultaneously ensuring the continuous circulation of the air.

Automation and IoT-enabled technology
One of the major technological developments in the HVAC industry has been the move towards smart technologies using next-generation controls for optimising air quality and facilities performance. Better control over assets in warehouses is achieved using automation and cooling technologies. Warehouse automation aids efficient storage space utilisation, reduces wear and tear, increases reliability, and reduces operating costs. Sunnil points out that the degree of automation was a factor considered in the past. Still, now it is about the intelligence built into these machines to take calculated decisions based on predictive analysis, which is backed by a large amount of data generated in any warehouse. It will be worth an investment in incorporating IoT-based solutions for productive transformations, says Sunnil.

Expanding further, Ms. Vasudha deliberates that advanced technologies are instrumental in automating the various operations that troubleshoot, operate, and monitor processes. It is changing how the work is done by streamlining day-to-day activities and workflows on the shop floor. She said, “The technology is adept at making unified information-driven decisions in the factory environment with the help of real-time data and information.”

Technology must drive the innovation of efficient refrigeration and cooling systems powered reliably by a grid and renewable energy hybrid. The Transport refrigeration systems must have communication and no fail cooling systems on board. Extending further, Vikram remarks, Phase change materials, efficient onboard batteries to power twenty-four-hour refrigeration, EV transport, Scroll Based refrigeration systems – are each contributing to enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the refrigeration system. Moreover, storage owners should deploy IoT-enabled monitoring solutions like embedded sensors throughout the cold chain. These sensors collect data on environmental conditions and promptly send alerts via 4G/5G networks to ensure a coherent tracking network. The growing concerns about improving air quality will lead to advances in HVAC sensors. The advent of Integrated Industry 4.0 with IoT will lead to high demands for technology enhancements for productivity.

We have begun but have yet to master the radio frequency identification technology, infrared sensors, laser scanner information sensing equipment, modern communication technology, RFID and the IoT for Indian logistics, sums up Gubba.

Future insights
Green Value Chain Development, in its most basic form, seeks to improve the overall environmental sustainability of the entire shop floor by optimising air quality and the general environment. Due to the rampant environmental concerns, the HVAC industry has moved towards low carbon intensity, lesser fuel, and electricity, giving rise to the demand for energy-efficient equipment in the HVAC market. Moreover, discussing the importance of air quality, Pravin Rawool, AVP & Head – MEP Business, Godrej & Boyce said, “The increasing concerns for Air quality demand high-level filtrations along with comfortable cooling.”

Conclusively, evaporative coolers are energy recovery ventilators that are the ideal cooling and ventilation solutions for commercial warehouses, discerning the complex structure of warehouses. These also involve critical processes such as design specification, an assemblage of parts, processing of raw materials, etc., being carried out in the facility. Green construction or sustainable building design for new factories and manufacturing facilities is catching up firmly as more and more focus is towards going green and being more environmentally friendly. Nonetheless, the Indian government’s focus on improving energy efficiency and promoting sustainable cooling solutions in large spaces will provide further momentum to the industry.

Automation, HVAC installation and new technologies can improve control in warehouses, manufacturing facilities and factories. All said hitherto, the demand for a better working environment in commercial production facilities construes major opportunities for smart manufacturing to become the catalyst for social transformation in India.

Vasudha Jajoo Pahwa, Marketing Strategy, Pahwa Group.

“Installing efficient HVAC systems and desiccant dehumidifiers at various manufacturing stages can add to production efficiency.”

Gubba Kiran, CEO, Gubba Cold Storage Pvt. Ltd.

“Green Value Chain development, in its most basic form, seeks to improve the overall environmental sustainability of the entire chain by optimising linkages between players.”

Suunil Dabral, Senior Vice President & Business Head, Godrej Körber.

“If we see the wastage in the seafood segment – at least 30-40 percent- then the cold chain industry has much-untapped potential with future-ready technologies.”

Vikas Taneja, Business Chief, Cold Chain, Panasonic Life Solutions India.

“We need a mature environment for the cold chain to safely stock, preserve and distribute perishable products with minimal wastage.”

Kishor Patil, Country Head of Trane HVAC Business India and SAARC Markets, Trane Technologies.

“One of the major technological developments in the HVAC industry has been the move towards smart technologies using next-generation controls for optimising performance.”

Vikram Murthy, Director, Univac Environment Systems Pvt. Ltd

“Technology must drive the innovation of efficient cooling systems powered reliably by a grid and renewable energy hybrid.”

Pravin Rawool, AVP & Head – MEP Business, Godrej & Boyce.

“The increasing concerns for Air quality demand high-level filtrations along with comfortable cooling.”

We expect the HVAC industry to demonstrate positive trends in 2023, driven by the increasing demand for energy-efficient HVAC systems and a growing focus on indoor air quality.

HVAC industry outlook for 2023

We expect the HVAC industry in India in 2023 to show positive trends, driven by the increasing demand for energy-efficient HVAC systems and a growing focus on indoor air quality. The growth of the construction industry and the rising number of smart homes and commercial buildings will drive the demand for advanced HVAC solutions. Additionally, the government’s initiatives to promote sustainability and energy efficiency in the building sector should provide further growth opportunities for the HVAC industry. However, economic conditions, competition from foreign brands, and environmental regulations may impact the industry’s growth.

Manufacturing activities

Libratherm was established in 1991 as an indigenous brand to cater to the temperature control needs of the Indian industry. In its humble beginnings, Libratherm manufactured PID temperature controllers and Ramp/Soak Profile controllers. Innovation and quality were the key driving factors that enabled Libratherm to become an industry-wide supplier of 200+ products to support the process control industry. Our products include temperature and process control instruments, Thyristor power controllers, Signal transmitters and isolators, temperature and humidity sensors and indicators, data loggers, and temperature control panels. Today, Libratherm’s in-house design and development team continually improve the market offerings, supported by a manufacturing facility to fulfil the industry’s demand.

Future for data loggers, temperature controllers and digital indicators

We expect the market for data loggers, temperature controllers and digital indicators to grow in the future, driven by the increasing demand for these products in various industries, such as manufacturing, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and HVAC. Data loggers, temperature controllers, and digital indicators are crucial for ensuring the quality and safety of products and processes across various industries. For instance, data loggers monitor temperature and other environmental conditions – while transporting perishable goods, such as food and pharmaceuticals. In addition, these devices maintain these goods within a specific temperature range. Similarly, temperature controllers are essential to precisely control HVAC systems and other manufacturing processes for optimal performance and efficiency. The rise in demand for automation, precise temperature control, and efficient data management systems will drive the growth of this market. Additionally, the increasing need for energy efficiency, cost savings, and technological advancements will likely provide further growth opportunities for these products.

IoT for remote monitoring

IoT modules for remote monitoring have been increasingly significant in automating the HVAC industry. These modules allow real-time monitoring of HVAC systems from a remote location, enabling quick and efficient maintenance and troubleshooting. By installing IoT modules in HVAC systems, building managers can monitor the performance of their systems from anywhere, at any time. It allows them to quickly identify issues that may arise and take appropriate action before they become significant problems. In addition, the IoT modules collect data from sensors and send it to a cloud-based platform for analysis and visualisation, making it possible to track the performance of HVAC systems and identify potential problems before they become significant issues.

Building managers can then use this data to track the performance of their systems, identify inefficiencies, and make informed decisions to improve their HVAC systems. IoT modules in HVAC systems increase energy efficiency and cost savings.

Automated HVAC systems connected to IoT modules can be programmed to adjust their settings based on real-time data, such as room temperature and occupancy levels. These can lead to more efficient energy usage and significant cost savings.

Automated HVAC systems can improve overall performance, leading to a longer life span and reducing the need for manual intervention. IoT modules can also enhance the comfort levels of building occupants. By collecting and analysing real-time data, IoT modules can help ensure that HVAC systems operate optimally, providing a comfortable indoor environment. Furthermore, building managers can use this data to adjust their HVAC systems to ensure the comfort of occupants, even when they are not present.

Automation for warehouses, cold storage and cold chain logistics

Temperature and humidity control automation can significantly benefit cold storage facilities, warehouses, and cold chain logistics. Some of the benefits include:
• Improved product quality and safety: Automated temperature and humidity control systems can ensure that perishable products, such as food and pharmaceuticals, are stored at the optimal temperature and humidity levels. This reduces the risk of spoilage and contamination.
• Energy efficiency: Automated temperature control systems can improve energy efficiency by reducing the energy required to maintain the desired temperature and humidity levels, thereby reducing costs and environmental impact.
• Increased operational efficiency: Automated temperature and humidity control systems can reduce manual labour and minimise the need for constant monitoring, allowing for more efficient use of resources and increased productivity.
• Better inventory management: Automated temperature and humidity control systems can provide real-time data on conditions within the storage facilities, enabling better inventory management and reducing the risk of product loss.

Using temperature and humidity control automation in cold storage facilities, warehouses, and cold chain logistics can improve product quality, reduce costs, increase operational efficiency, and promote better inventory management.

New developments

Libratherm is constantly striving to improve its products and services for its customers. However, the latest developments are no exception. From innovative technologies to cutting-edge products and services, we design these new developments to enhance our customers’ experience with us. For example, we have redesigned our compact 3-Phase Thyristor Power Controller to best suit the needs of the HVAC industry. With improved 3-phase thyristor firing control, a smaller footprint, and improved cooling, the POW-12 thyristor power controller will enhance the operational capabilities of AHU and De-humidifiers.

In addition, we have upgraded our temperature-humidity controllers to incorporate the latest microcontroller to provide precise and reliable measurement and control. Libratherm’s continuous innovation in IoT modules for remote monitoring and control offers a WiFi-enabled solution to gather data. This data is utilised for building automation devices anywhere in the world.

Complete with a web app and data services, Libratherm becomes a one-stop solution for integrating IoT devices in your building automation. In addition, Libratherm EMS solution is a ready-to-use, 21 CFR Part 11 compliant software for all monitoring needs. The latest feature of this software is a digital alarm annunciator allowing you to create a virtual alarm system without the hassles of physical devices and cabling overheads. Our dedicated team of experts provides the best possible solutions that meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

Digitalisation of Inspection and monitoring instruments 

To digitalise the HVAC sector, advancements in inspection and monitoring instruments may include:
• Smart sensors: To monitor temperature, humidity, and other environmental variables in real-time, smart sensors that can communicate with other digital systems are required.
• Predictive maintenance: Tools that can analyse data from sensors and predict when maintenance or repair is needed can significantly improve the efficiency of HVAC systems. Developing predictive maintenance algorithms and models to anticipate and prevent HVAC failures would reduce downtime and improve system reliability.
• Remote monitoring systems: Remotely monitored HVAC systems can increase efficiency and reduce downtime by allowing technicians to detect and address issues before they become significant problems.
• Augmented and virtual reality technologies can provide technicians with immersive training, support, and virtual walkthroughs of HVAC systems for maintenance and repair purposes.
• Mobile apps and cloud-based platforms: Mobile apps and cloud-based platforms can provide real-time access to HVAC system data and allow for remote monitoring and control.
• Wireless connectivity: The ability to remotely monitor and control HVAC systems using wireless technology would increase efficiency and accuracy significantly.
• Real-time data: Inspection and monitoring instruments that provide real-time data would allow faster and more accurate problem-solving and decision-making.
• Artificial intelligence: Integrating artificial intelligence into inspection and monitoring instruments would improve the accuracy of data analysis and decision-making accuracy.
• Interoperability: The development of standards for data exchange between different HVAC systems and instruments would improve the integration and interoperability of HVAC systems.
• Miniaturisation: The miniaturisation of inspection and monitoring instruments would allow for easier and more efficient deployment in HVAC systems, reducing the costs and time associated with installations.