Plant & Works Engineering
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Maintaining uptime in Preston water treatment plant

GA Pet Food Partners addressed potential power quality issues at its new Preston water treatment plant by incorporating harmonic mitigation technology. Working with CP Automation, the company implemented P300 active harmonic filters to reduce noise, improve power factor, and ensure compliance with the latest voltage harmonics standards, supporting future growth. PWE reports

Coping with complex packaging machine maintenance

Chris Knight, I/O product specialist at Beckhoff Automation UK, explains how maintenance can keep up with the evolving technological landscape in the packaging industry

Simplifying the challenges of Zone 2 with IP67 Remote I/O solution

Managing Zone 2 environments can be complex and costly, requiring careful attention to safety and compliance. PWE explores how IP67 remote I/O solutions can simplify maintenance, reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency in these areas

A new step towards the future of maintenance

DIMO Maint has announced the acquisition of the Workmate CMMS solution, developed by the British company Cayman Venture, a recognised name in the UK Computerised Maintenance Management System (CMMS) market for over 30 years. This strategic acquisition aligns with DIMO Maint’s ongoing international growth strategy and significantly strengthens its footprint in English-speaking markets

Workmate CMMS Joins DIMO Maint: a new step toward the future of maintenance

A message from Caymen Venture:

Why smart asset management is no longer optional

As industrial sectors face rising costs, labour shortages, and growing sustainability pressures, smart asset management has become essential. By using data-driven strategies, companies can improve reliability, reduce downtime, and enhance cost-efficiency, while also supporting compliance and sustainability goals. Adopting these approaches is crucial for overcoming today’s operational challenges. Matt Kent, Director of Engineering at EMCOR UK explains further

Bridging the gap between CMMS & emerging technologies

CMMS platforms are evolving, but integrating AI, IoT, and machine learning remains a major challenge. Compatibility issues, data inconsistencies, and a lack of expertise hinder adoption. To bridge the gap, businesses must prioritise modular systems, data standardisation, and phased implementation—ensuring technology enhances, rather than complicates, maintenance operations. PWE reports

Avoid common mistakes when selecting ball screws

Ball screws are critical in linear motion systems, relying on proper lubrication, alignment, and contamination control—just like bearings in rotary applications. Avoiding common selection, installation, and maintenance mistakes is key to ensuring their efficiency and longevity. James Chanin, Managing Director, Matara UK reports

The importance of energy efficiency for industrial ESG goals

Thomas Feßl, Business Development Manager at automation supplier COPA-DATA, explores how optimising energy efficiency can help companies to enhance their resilience, improve sustainability and achieve their ESG goals.

Keeping cool under pressure

ICS Cool Energy, in collaboration with Vinci, has completed a vital cooling infrastructure upgrade at Princess Royal University Hospital in Orpington. To ensure continuous operation during the installation of a new system, temporary chillers were installed, providing consistent cooling for the hospital’s operating theatre and essential medical equipment, crucial for patient care. PWE reports.

Generative AI solution to simplify industrial device maintenance

ABB has unveiled My Measurement Assistant+, an AI-powered digital solution designed to streamline maintenance and troubleshooting for measurement devices in industrial settings. The web application utilises generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), cloud computing, and Augmented Reality (AR) to consolidate data from multiple IT and operational technology sources. This provides a single access point for information retrieval, device diagnostics, and remote support.

Bridging the skills gap to secure Britain’s industrial future

Britain’s manufacturing sector faces a critical skills shortage, threatening its ability to apply emerging technologies. Make UK’s Industrial Strategy Skills Commission calls for a Skills Covenant to secure funding, strengthen industry-education ties, and equip workers with practical expertise in automation, AI, and engineering—ensuring the UK remains competitive in advanced manufacturing. PWE reports

Amazon delivers artistry in engineering

Grace Peckett, a Mechatronics Apprentice at Amazon, has been announced as the winner of this year’s Enginuity Skills Awards Trophy Design Competition. She is part of the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) Training Apprenticeship Programme.

South Africa to host global engineering industry's annual gathering

The world's leading engineers and construction industry professionals are set to gather in South Africa, from 21-23 September 2025 when the international engineering federation FIDIC (the International Federation of Consulting Engineers) holds its annual Global Infrastructure Conference in Cape Town.

Made in Britain applications surge following tariffs

The trade organisation representing British manufacturers has seen a surge in membership applications in the last month, as interest in ‘buying British’ grows.

New-look AEMT conference to engineer a sustainable future

As the Association of Electrical and Mechanical Trades (AEMT) celebrates its 80th anniversary, it has announced what the organiser says is an exciting, fresh new approach to its annual conference, which takes place at the British Motor Museum on 18 September this year.

Tomorrow's Engineers Week dates announced

EngineeringUK has announced dates for its national campaign, Tomorrow’s Engineers Week, which celebrates and showcases careers in engineering and technology. 

Enhancing machining capabilities

ASG Arrowsmith, a leading precision aerospace subcontract specialist, part of the Manchester based ASG Group, has announced it has significantly enhanced its machining capabilities with a recent investment in two new multi-spindle CNC machines.

Enabling modern manufacturing

Resistors are indispensable in the transition to smarter, safer and more sustainable factories, but their contribution is often overlooked. Mike Torbitt, managing director of resistor manufacturer Cressall, explains how resistors ensure the reliability and efficiency of factory operations, from motor control to safely stopping equipment in the case of emergencies

BCAS launches new compressed air industry apprentice pack

The British Compressed Air Society (BCAS) has launched a new apprenticeship pack, to guide employers, apprentices and their parents throughout the process.

Enhancing efficiency in burner technology

Optimising industrial burner technology enhances efficiency, reduces emissions, and cuts costs. Through advanced modulation, fuel flexibility, and digital monitoring, businesses can achieve significant energy savings while meeting sustainability and regulatory goals. PWE reports

MATE ROV winners to set sail for Michigan

Pupils from Mintlaw Academy will head off to Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary in Alpena, United States after winning the MATE Scotland ROV competition held at Robert Gordon University (RGU).

Where next for the fourth utility?

Compressed air is a proven source of reliable and sustainable power for industrial operations. Now, with technologies such as remote monitoring and AI optimisation, it is set to enter a new era of performance and efficiency.

Driving growth, innovation, and efficiency

Beldam Crossley a leading engineering and manufacturing firm has announced a major investment of £650,000 in cutting-edge equipment and facility upgrades to enhance its production capabilities, meet increasing demand, and drive efficiency across operations.

Guidance on above ground storage tanks

EEMUA has announced it has published Edition 6 of its highly respected guidance EEMUA Publication 159, ‘Above ground flat bottomed storage tanks – a guide to inspection, maintenance and repair’.

Driving pneumatic innovation in automation

Anthony Smith, Managing Director of Metal Work Pneumatic UK, discusses with PWE’s Aaron Blutstein the enduring role of pneumatics amid the rise of AI and robotics. With a strong focus on people, innovation, and customer collaboration, the company’s new Milton Keynes facility expands its capacity for bespoke solutions, while leveraging AI to enhance the customer experience and strengthen its people-centric approach.

ECA Edmundson apprentice award launched

Nominations are now open for the 50th ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year award.

AI and the skills gap under the spotlight at UKCW London

The rise of AI in construction and its effect on the skills gap - both positive and negative - will be one of the key topics of conversation at next month’s UK Construction Week London, which returns to the ExCeL from May 7th to 9th.

Innovative project accelerates digital transformation

A groundbreaking human-centered approach to change management has played a pivotal role in accelerating digital transformation within Rolls-Royce’s manufacturing supply chain.

LEEA appointed liaison for ISO/TC 96 Cranes Technical Committee

The Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) has announced that it has been appointed as a liaison for the ISO/TC 96 Cranes Technical Committee. This is a significant milestone that strengthens LEEA’s ability to represent the interests of its members on a global stage, and to collaborate with key international bodies, such as the European Commission, World Customs Organisation, and International Labour Organisation.

Tackling HVAC challenges

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems maintain air quality, regulate temperature, and ensure manufacturing processes run smoothly. Yet, these systems are also among the biggest energy consumers, a major source of carbon emissions, and a significant cost burden for businesses. As the UK accelerates towards net-zero targets, industries face mounting pressure to rethink their HVAC strategies. PWE reports.

Capula launches Smart Digital Operations

Capula, a leading provider of advanced operational technology and industrial digitalisation, has announced it has introduced its Smart Digital Operations (SDO) service to support the nuclear sector's evolving safety, efficiency, and sustainability needs.

ABB launches ABB Ability Industrial Knowledge Vault

ABB has announced the introduction of ABB Ability Industrial Knowledge Vault, a generative AI-driven solution designed to solve the growing challenge of knowledge loss in industrial environments.

Leeds Manufacturing Festival 2025 attracts record sponsorship

A record number of sponsors are backing this year’s Leeds Manufacturing Festival, as employers in the region look to innovative ways to address the sector’s skills gap and inspire a new generation of talent to consider careers in the industry.

Skills development in Teesside receives £478,000 funding boost from ECITB

Skills development in Teesside has received a £478,000 funding boost from the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) amid growing demand for workers in the region.

Power down, pump smarter

David Strain, technical director at industrial water equipment supplier Technidrive, explains how VSDs are enhancing pump energy efficiency and performance

Schneider Electric celebrates World Water Day 2025

Schneider Electric, a global technology leader, has announced it marked the United Nations’ World Water Day on 22 March 2025 with a new white paper ready for the beginning of the UK water industry’s AMP8 regulatory period on 1 April 2025.

Driving AI accessibility for predictive maintenance

The transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on predictive maintenance in industrial automation is becoming increasingly evident. The integration of AI with existing maintenance systems presents both challenges and opportunities for manufacturers seeking to enhance efficiency and reduce downtime. PWE reports.

Overcoming supply chain issues key to solving the clean energy conundrum

The success of the government’s plan to accelerate the UK energy transition depends on its ability to overcome wider supply chain challenges, according to energy solutions and temperature control specialist Aggreko.

Tackling HVAC challenges

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems maintain air quality, regulate temperature, and ensure manufacturing processes run smoothly. Yet, these systems are also among the biggest energy consumers, a major source of carbon emissions, and a significant cost burden for businesses. As the UK accelerates towards net-zero targets, industries face mounting pressure to rethink their HVAC strategies. PWE reports.

Where next for the fourth utility?

Compressed air is a proven source of reliable and sustainable power for industrial operations. Now, with technologies such as remote monitoring and AI optimisation, it is set to enter a new era of performance and efficiency.

Reaching for a better grip with robots

The industrial robotics sector continues to experience strong growth, with operational stock at approximately four million robots according to statistics from the International Federation of Robotics. Improvements in robotic grippers have helped accelerate industrial robot uptake, but is there room for further development? Ross Turnbull, Director of Business Development and Product Engineering at ASIC design and supply company Swindon Silicon Systems, explains further

Apprenticeship programme opens engineering opportunities for young people in Anglesey

Joloda Hydraroll, in partnership with Coleg Menai, is offering three apprenticeship opportunities to young people in Anglesey. The programme provides valuable work experience in engineering, helping to develop local talent while supporting career growth at the company’s leading manufacturing facility, renowned for its expertise in freight solutions. PWE reports.

Enabling modern manufacturing

Resistors are indispensable in the transition to smarter, safer and more sustainable factories, but their contribution is often overlooked. Mike Torbitt, managing director of resistor manufacturer Cressall, explains how resistors ensure the reliability and efficiency of factory operations, from motor control to safely stopping equipment in the case of emergencies

The companies supporting women to succeed in powered access

This International Women’s Day, under the theme #AccelerateAction, Nationwide Platforms says it is calling on the industry to move faster toward true equality and inclusion. As a leader in the powered access sector, Nationwide Platforms is actively working to accelerate progress by welcoming more women into the industry and providing the support they need to succeed. 25 year old Jessica Taylor, a certified IPAF trainer, is one of the many women breaking new ground, proving that expertise and leadership have no gender.

Driving AI accessibility for predictive maintenance

The transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on predictive maintenance in industrial automation is becoming increasingly evident. The integration of AI with existing maintenance systems presents both challenges and opportunities for manufacturers seeking to enhance efficiency and reduce downtime. PWE reports.

Power down, pump smarter

David Strain, technical director at industrial water equipment supplier Technidrive, explains how VSDs are enhancing pump energy efficiency and performance

Driving pneumatic innovation in automation

Anthony Smith, Managing Director of Metal Work Pneumatic UK, discusses with PWE’s Aaron Blutstein the enduring role of pneumatics amid the rise of AI and robotics. With a strong focus on people, innovation, and customer collaboration, the company’s new Milton Keynes facility expands its capacity for bespoke solutions, while leveraging AI to enhance the customer experience and strengthen its people-centric approach.

Driving pneumatic innovation in automation

Anthony Smith, Managing Director of Metal Work Pneumatic UK, discusses with PWE’s Aaron Blutstein the enduring role of pneumatics amid the rise of AI and robotics. With a strong focus on people, innovation, and customer collaboration, the company’s new Milton Keynes facility expands its capacity for bespoke solutions, while leveraging AI to enhance the customer experience and strengthen its people-centric approach.

Pumping solution resolves foaming challenges in starch production

Lyckeby’s potato starch plant in Sweden has modernised production with high performance Sulzer pumps, optimising efficiency, handling foamy liquids, reducing energy use, and ensuring reliable, cost-effective operation for long-term sustainability. PWE reports.