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Environmental entrepreneur graduates from Aston University

An Aston University student, whose start-up business is helping rid Birmingham’s canals of plastic waste, has graduated.

Defra to launch PackUK at Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025

Easyfairs UK has announced that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has chosen Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 as the platform for the official launch of PackUK, a landmark initiative designed to transform the UK packaging sector and lead the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR).

Modernising industrial assets for improved efficiency, safety, and sustainability

ABB Electrification Service has teamed up with Steel Dynamics Heartland Division (SDI Heartland) to modernise aging substation equipment. PWE reports.

New depot to enhance compressed air & equipment rental services in South and South West

Atlas Copco Rental UK and Ireland, has opened a new depot in Brockworth, Gloucester to strengthen its presence in the South and South West.

Mitigating rising supply costs with on-site nitrogen generation

Ashley Quarterman, Executive Director Designate from the British Compressed Air Society (BCAS), explores how generating nitrogen as a by-product of compressed air can offer cost savings of up to 90%.

Five factors to consider when choosing safety footwear

Choosing the right safety footwear is critical to ensuring the safety, comfort, and productivity of workers in industrial environments. Clair Weston* highlights five key factors to consider when selecting footwear for applications where comfort and protection are paramount

Maintenance choices for generator excitation systems in the modern day

PWE looks at the use of proactive maintenance and refurbishment strategies and how plant operators can navigate this decision.

Schaeffler UK receives Most Innovative Supplier Award 2024 from RS

Schaeffler UK has been recognised with the Most Innovative Supplier Award 2024 by RS, a global provider of industrial products and services. The award was given in acknowledgment of Schaeffler’s Lifetime Solutions portfolio, a comprehensive range of products, services, and solutions designed to support maintenance engineers throughout the lifecycle of machinery.

Proactive maintenance through data-driven insights

At the Scalpel Building in London, CBRE, Turck Banner, and Fletcher Moorland have introduced condition-based monitoring (CBM) technology to improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and proactively manage maintenance, transforming the building’s operations and asset management strategy. PWE reports

Pennine Pneumatic Services becomes part of Atlas Copco Group

Pennine Pneumatic Services Limited (PPS), a compressed air distributor in Yorkshire, UK, has become part of Atlas Copco Group, after being acquired by Atlas Copco UK Holdings Ltd

ERIKS enhances service centres in Aberdeen & Plymouth to improve next-day delivery across the UK

ERIKS Industrial Services has announced the addition of strategic stock to its Aberdeen and Plymouth service centres, aimed at bolstering its Fulfilment Centre of Expertise (FCE). The move is intended to support the company’s goal of achieving next-day delivery of parts, fully tracked, before 9am for all customers.

Overcoming emissions challenges in combustion technology

Graham Barker, Sales & Service Director at Riello Burners UK, discusses with PWE how the combustion research sector is tackling the problem of reducing nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions through innovation in burner technologies

Nurturing ambition, inspiring future engineers

Sonia Farrokhpanah, Principal Process Engineer at Air Products, discusses the importance of

Unlocking the power of CMMS

As 2024 ends, UK industrial facilities face CMMS challenges, from technology integration to workforce shortages. Overcoming these requires strategic upgrades, data management, and skilled training to unlock CMMS’s full potential. PWE reports

Improving cobots' safety with bearings

Chris Johnson* explores how precision bearings are enhancing the performance and reliability of cobots

Modernising industrial assets for improved efficiency, safety, and sustainability

ABB Electrification Service has teamed up with Steel Dynamics Heartland Division (SDI Heartland) to modernise aging substation equipment. PWE reports.

Using smart maintenance to slash operating costs

For November’s Talking Industry two specialists in smart maintenance gave their insight into how this approach can deliver measurable cost savings, enhance productivity, and drive smarter decision-making.Talking Industry Chair Andy Pye reports

Collaboration and networking at the heart of the BCMPA’s Associate Membership launch

The BCMPA has announced it is launching a new category of membership from the 1st January 2025, as it invites organisations who provide goods, services and advice to the manufacturing, packing, fulfilment, and logistics sectors to network and collaborate with the UK’s outsourcing industry.

From local roots to global reach

Few stories in manufactuirng exemplify innovation and perseverance as effectively as that of Combilift. Martin McVicar, the co-founder and CEO, recently received the prestigious title of Irish Exporter of the Year, a reflection of the company's remarkable journey since its establishment in 1998. PWE reports

Securing open automation in the IIoT age

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is transforming manufacturing, with open automation systems connecting devices and machines across the factory floor. While this connectivity unlocks incredible efficiencies, it also creates a vast attack surface for cyber threats.

Cooling system upgrade cuts energy costs and boosts efficiency at polymer plant

Polypipe Building Services has significantly cut energy costs by up to £36,000 annually with the installation of a new process water cooling system at its Aylesford plant. Designed by Isocool and incorporating Eurochiller’s free air coolers, the system reduces energy consumption by utilising ambient air for cooling.

Good practice for all aspects of industrial alarm systems – new edition of EEMUA 191 released

EEMUA has announced it has released Edition 4 of EEMUA 191, Alarm systems – A guide to design, management and procurement.

Training scheme gains IMechE accreditation

KBR UK has announced its engineering training scheme has been successfully reaccredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), providing its mechanical graduates and apprentices with a solid foundation to build their future careers in the field.

Trio of apprentices flying high

A trio of apprentices are taking off with specialist Airframe Designs as they develop the skills needed for modern engineering.

Smart factory predictions for 2025

Chris Iveson, the CEO and Co-Founder of FourJaw Manufacturing Analytics, has shared four predictions for how he believes smart factory operations will evolve in 2025:

Olympic champions inspire future innovators

Renishaw has announced it recently hosted a special event at its Miskin manufacturing facility in South Wales, celebrating the intersection of cutting-edge additive manufacturing (AM) technology and high-performance sports. Team GB cyclists Emma Finucane and Sophie Capewell visited Renishaw to share their experiences, inspiring the next generation of STEM innovators and highlighting Renishaw’s contribution to Great Britain’s Olympic success.

Record-breaking attendance at the NFPC’s 12th annual industry open day

On 23rd October 2024, the National Fluid Power Centre (NFPC) in Worksop, Nottinghamshire, hosted its 12th annual Industry Open Day, marking its most successful event to date. Over 300 attendees, including students and representatives from national and international companies, gathered to explore advancements in hydraulics, electro-hydraulics, pneumatics, control, and automation technologies.

Thousands inspired by latest engineering innovations

On October 30 and 31, 2024, over 9,800 engineering and manufacturing professionals flocked to the NEC, Birmingham, to attend the 15th edition of Advanced Engineering. Across the two days, visitors witnessed the very latest that the industry had to offer, with over 400 exhibitors showcasing their innovations.

Report reveals key strategies for boosting maintenance efficiency

A new industry report underscores the critical importance of optimising MRO (maintenance, repair, and operations) supply chains to enhance maintenance strategies and operational efficiency. PWE explores the key findings, focusing on the implications for maintenance professionals and offering strategies to optimise maintenance practices through improved MRO supply chain management.

West Midlands companies offered opportunity to work with Aston University biochar experts

Companies that want to collaborate on government-backed environmental projects are being urged to contact Aston University’s Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI).

Engineering apprentice saves employer 86% on operational pump costs

A University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre apprentice has helped the UK's largest aircrete block manufacturer slash operational pump costs by 86% by significantly reducing water usage, repair costs and downtime.

Cooling system upgrade cuts energy costs and boosts efficiency at polymer plant

Polypipe Building Services has significantly cut energy costs by up to £36,000 annually with the installation of a new process water cooling system at its Aylesford plant. Designed by Isocool and incorporating Eurochiller’s free air coolers, the system reduces energy consumption by utilising ambient air for cooling.

Safeguarding renewable energy with power quality

As renewable energy facilities upgrade, mitigating harmonic noise is essential for reliable operation. A leading control systems supplier partnered with CP Automation to address this challenge, implementing active harmonic filters and uninterruptible power supply systems. This collaboration aimed to enhance power quality, prolong equipment lifespan, and safeguard continuous energy flow. PWE reports.

From local roots to global reach

Few stories in manufactuirng exemplify innovation and perseverance as effectively as that of Combilift. Martin McVicar, the co-founder and CEO, recently received the prestigious title of Irish Exporter of the Year, a reflection of the company's remarkable journey since its establishment in 1998. PWE reports

Securing open automation in the IIoT age

Stephen Hayes, managing director of automation and control technology specialist, Beckhoff UK, explores how companies can strengthen cybersecurity in open automation systems and safeguard their connected factories

The role of humidity sensors in maintaining optimal conditions

Monitoring the amount of water vapour in the air, humidity sensors are essential to ensuring optimal environmental conditions for a range of industries, from manufacturing to agriculture and facility management. Ross Turnbull, Director of Business Development and Product Engineering at custom IC design and supply specialist, Swindon Silicon Systems, explains how humidity sensors keep the air clean and ensure an optimal industrial environment.

Addressing the skills gap in the face of climate change

A recent Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) survey reveals a significant skills gap in the engineering sector, particularly in the context of addressing climate change. While many UK employers are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact, there is widespread concern about the lack of necessary skills and training within the workforce. Etienne Fourie, Technical Sales Manager at Babcock Wanson, takes a closer look.

The hidden drain on manufacturers' finances and resources

Libby Peacock, a compressed air specialist at Rubix, has highlighted the significant financial challenges faced by production facilities across Europe due to air leakage. She emphasises that this often-overlooked issue can lead to substantial financial losses as well as serious environmental consequences. PWE reports.

Harnessing Supply Chain 4.0 to minimise unplanned downtime

Tom Cash, director of automation parts supplier Foxmere, explains how Supply Chain 4.0 technologies will help manufacturers prevent unplanned downtime.

RS releases ‘Performance in Focus’ 2024 maintenance engineering report

RS, a digitally enabled global distributor of product and service solutions for industrial customers, has released the ‘Performance in Focus’ 2024 Maintenance Engineering Report in conjunction with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). This is based on findings from a survey that aimed to uncover the challenges facing the profession and its priorities

Report reveals key strategies for boosting maintenance efficiency

A new industry report underscores the critical importance of optimising MRO (maintenance, repair, and operations) supply chains to enhance maintenance strategies and operational efficiency. PWE explores the key findings, focusing on the implications for maintenance professionals and offering strategies to optimise maintenance practices through improved MRO supply chain management.

Boosting industrial efficiency through energy audits

The British Pump Manufacturers Association (BPMA) has made a call to action for businesses within the UK’s industrial sector, urging them to prioritise energy audits as a vital strategy for improving operational efficiency. PWE reports

New five strategies guide to enhancing MRO efficiency

ERIKS, a leading specialised industrial service provider, has released a new guide designed to help manufacturers streamline their MRO operations. The guide, called 5 ways to enhance your Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) supply chain, offers practical strategies to improve procurement, storeroom discipline, data management, and operational efficiency in the face of evolving industrial challenges

Roadmap to IoT Success with legacy manufacturing equipment

Lynn Loughmiller, Software Engineering Manager at DELMIAWorks, takes a closer look at how IoT can be an effective tool when working with existing equipment, and looking at just how efficient it may be

Ensuring global health and safety standards in manufacturing

Ensuring health and safety in the workplace is critical for operational excellence and employee wellbeing. PWE explores how Air Products, a global gases manufacturer, is striving to achieve zero accidents worldwide by implementing a standardised Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) management system across its diverse international operations.

Tomorrow's Engineers Week

Tomorrow’s Engineers Week 2024, hosted by EngineeringUK, is set to spark a nationwide wave of enthusiasm among young people aged 11 to 14 with an exhilarating celebration of engineering and technology careers.

Competition launches to find next generation of UK space technology entrepreneurs

Innovate UK has announced it has launched the NextGen Space Challenge 2024, a key initiative designed to unearth the UK’s next generation of space technology entrepreneurs.

The evolution and challenges of burner technology

PWE looks at the critical issues facing burner technology in manufacturing, focusing on environmental regulations and the impact of digitalisation.

Students inspired by ‘awesome’ interactive STEM activities

Sixth Form pupils with special education needs have been inspired by the latest technology used in industry during an action-packed visit from experts at Sellafield Ltd’s Engineering Centre of Excellence.

London Packaging Week tops 5,000 visitors for the first time in its history

London Packaging Week 2024 has announced a new attendance record, solidifying its position as a premier event for packaging innovation across beauty, luxury, food, drink and FMCG sectors.