Zero Trust is the way forward for network security The Siemens Manufacturing Karlsruhe (MF-K) plant produces key components for automated and digitalized manufacturing processes. For quality assurance and in-house 3D printing, the plant is optimising its processes by giving experts remote access to its operational technology systems, enabled by a Zero Trust approach. In the manufacturing industry and critical infrastructure, cybersecurity has become a top priority for companies. No wonder, as attacks, misuse, and cases of industrial espionage have rapidly increased.  Communication in the ..read more

Process and temperature meter enhances efficiency Moore Industries has introduced the 330R2 1/8 DIN process and temperature panel meter to replace the discontinued 330R process monitor. The 330R2’s universal input and dual process relays satisfy a wide variety of process and temperature applications. A UV-resistant and sunlight-readable 4-digit display and an operating temperature range of -40 to 65°C makes the unit well suited to use in for harsh outdoor environments.  The 330R2 is housed in a 1/8 DIN enclosure and accepts a variety of analogur inputs including process voltage (0-5V, 1 ..read more

Invertek Drives hits three million milestone Invertek Drives has recently celebrated producing its three millionth variable frequency drive (VFD), just three years after its two-million milestone. The Optidrive VFDs play a important role in reducing energy consumption of up to 50% in some applications and associated emissions. By precisely controlling electric motors, VFDs ensure that only the power needed for the specific task is used, helping to ensure energy is not wasted. This technology is particularly impactful considering estimates suggest over 80 million electric motors operate globall ..read more

Hygienic flow measurement solution The SMF Foodmag magnetic-inductive flowmeter from ifm is said to offer a solution for the hygienic flow measurement of media presenting variable flow rates through the pipe, such as beer, milk or fruit juice. Cleaning processes involving the use of chemicals, rapid temperature changes and hot steam cleaning requiring a minimum temperature of 121°C can pose significant challenges for flowmeters and there is a need to be able to withstand vibration and shock.  The SM Foodmag magnetic-inductive flowmeter is designed to overcome all of these challenges. It ..read more

Speeding up your reactions Suzanne Gill finds out more about the benefits that edge computing is bringing to the operational technology environment. Several of the most important responsibilities for modern control engineers can be made simpler, more autonomous, and more secure through the adoption of edge computing. From trouble shooting and maintenance, through optimisation, collaboration, compliance, and cyber security – the edge environment presents a way of visualising and processing data that offers potentially huge advantages when compared to less digitalised methods or even the use of ..read more

Strategic alliance aims to bring cognitive robots to manufacturing sector Neura Robotics and Omron Robotics and Safety Technologies have announced a strategic partnership which aims to introduce cognitive robots into factory automation, leveraging advanced AI capabilities to enhance efficiency, flexibility, and safety. Cognitive robots have the ability to learn from their environment, make decisions autonomously, and adapt to dynamic production scenarios. This opens new application possibilities including intricate assembly tasks, detailed quality inspections, and adaptive material handling pr ..read more

Level and flow controller reduces complexity Emerson has introduced the Rosemount 3490 controller for level and flow measurement applications, designed to help to reduce complexity, optimise processes and enhance sustainability. The controller provides control functionality for 4-20 mA or HART compatible transmitters and is said to off a good solution for water, wastewater and process industry applications. The Rosemount 3490 features a simple-to-programme configuration wizard which guides users in the set-up of the controller. The controller also includes an intuitive graphical interface, an ..read more

Making complex pump controls simple Sulzer has launched a pump controller for optimised performance in the challenging environments encountered in wastewater pumping stations. BlueLinQ Pro uses an intuitive wizard for simplified configuration and uses experience-designed presets to solve complex operating scenarios. Operators can interact seamlessly via the touchscreen and use the integrated variable frequency drive (VFD) control to maximise pump efficiency and reduce energy costs.  The controller is able to control up to six assets, including pumps, mixers and valves. Built-in best eff ..read more

HMS Networks and Red Lion Controls join forces HMS Networks has finalised the acquisition of Red Lion Controls from Spectris Group Holdings Limited. The two companies are now one entity and will start working together on common strategies and product offerings. For HMS and Red Lion customers, there will be no initial changes. The HMS and Red Lion company names remain unchanged and product brands will be marketed and sold as before through the same channels. Production and shipping are handled from the HMS and Red Lion entities respectively.  Going forward, it is expected that the merger ..read more

Is 5G FWA a game changer? Todd Mussman discusses the potential of 5G fixed wire access within the manufacturing environment. The manufacturing sector has undergone a major digital transformation in recent years, with the rise of robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), data analytics and other transformative technologies, having a profound impact across the sector. It is enabling manufacturers to remain competitive by optimising their processes, improving quality and reducing costs.   However, as manufacturers become increasingly reliant on these m ..read more