Top 5 Plant Engineering content over the past week covered VFDs and electricity use, compressed air service, wearable air curtain blocks and more. Links to each article below.

1. How to reduce plant electricity use with VFDs

The current generation of variable frequency drives (VFDs) have onboard data acquisition and processing that are connected to the network making them powerhouse assets for the modern plant.

2. Predictive maintenance’s role in routine compressed air system service

From oil sampling, vibration analysis and connected devices, predictive maintenance done as part of the system’s regular service schedule can keep a compressed air system running efficiently.

3. Wearable air curtain blocks almost all aerosols

Headworn tech developed by a University of Michigan startup is designed to protect agricultural and industrial workers from airborne pathogens.

4. How manufacturers keep workers safe, reduce hazards

Safety is a major part of manufacturing and there are many facets to consider, but how companies approach it is quite different, even if there are universal truths all should abide by.

5. Predictive and preventive maintenance in the age of AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) can help enhance predictive and preventive maintenance in manufacturing, but it’s important for users to know which types are appropriate based on the setting and need.

The list was developed using CFE Media’s web analytics for stories viewed on plantengineering.com, August 5-11, 2024, for articles published within the last two months.

Chris Vavra, senior editor, Plant Engineering, WTWH Media LLC, cvavra@wtwhmedia.com.

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