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Top 5 Plant Engineering content: April 10-16, 2023
The top 5 Plant Engineering content from the past week covered control of work systems, packaging, strategic automation plans and more. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Benefits of using a control of work system in a manufacturing facility
Many plant managers and environmental, health and safety (EHS) professionals can manage regulatory requirements for dangerous environments more easily as part of a larger control of work system.
Seven clean-in-place design best practices
An effective clean-in-place design should be built with a facility's specific needs in mind while reducing contamination and water consumption.
Long-term growth trajectory remains positive for forklift market
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there's been supply chain issues causing some trouble with the market, but growth projections remain positive.
Fluid dispensing for assembly of medical and life sciences devices
COVID-19 prompted reassessment for medical device manufacturers upgrading assembly fluid dispensing capabilities
In-depth understanding leads to decisive site selection
Navigating site viability to meet multi-stakeholder goals requires clearly articulating needs and requirements.
Industrial robots have moved from maturity into a fast-growth phase
As a result of COVID-19, the industrial robot market has moved from a mature and conservative phase into an exciting, fast-growth, almost start-up-like phase.
Advice on meeting engineering recruiting goals
There is a major push by system integrators and other engineering firms to find qualified talent, but the COVID-19 pandemic has created a shift in many ways. Two experts offer advice on finding the right engineering talent.
Laser technology works to plug methane gas leaks
Colorado researchers are using laser technology to detect natural gas, which is invisible to the eye, leaking from pipes at sites, in real time.
Textile filter testing could help with carbon capture
North Carolina State University researchers have developed a design for a filter that could help remove carbon dioxide from flue gas emissions and air.
Layered COVID-19 controls significantly reduce risks
QuaRAD method quantifies efficacy across thousands of scenarios; rating system anticipated
Four ways to unshackle the supply chain
COVID-19 has caused many supply chain challenges, but being proactive and aggressive can help manufacturers reduce potential headaches. Four tips are highlighted.
Turning face masks into smart monitoring devices
Northwestern Engineering researchers have developed a new smart sensor called FaceBit, which is a quarter-sized sensor that uses a tiny magnet to attach to any N95, cloth or surgical face mask.
Nanotube-based sensor can detect COVID-19 proteins
MIT engineers have designed a nanotube-based sensor that can detect COVID-19 without any antibody and could be used for other pandemic, improving worker health.
Are HEPA filters the best choice for a facility?
HEPA filters are a necessity for many plant environments, but the level of filtration can vary, more isn’t necessarily better
UV light is effective, safe deterrent against COVID-19 in public places
A specific ultraviolet (UV) wavelength was found to be effective in killing the COVID-19 virus as well as other respiratory viruses while still being safe for public use.
Capacity planning in a post-COVID manufacturing world
Capacity and supply-chain strategies help manufactures remain competitive
Capturing carbon, and selling it
Although CO2 is a large part of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, processed CO2 is a valuable product with an attractive revenue stream
Manufacturers encourage COVID-19 vaccinations but stop short of mandates
Manufacturing supply chains continue to adapt to COVID-19 and vaccinations are one way. A recent report indicates, however, a slight majority are encouraging their employees to get the vaccine.
Engineers develop COVID-19 saliva test
Engineers at MIT and Harvard University have designed a small tabletop device that can detect COVID-19 from a saliva sample in about an hour.
Airport logistic automation market stays strong in spite of COVID-19
Overall airport logistics automation sales only fell by 5% in 2020, from $4.3 billion in 2019 to $4.1 billion in 2021, and is expected to have a gradual rebound in the next few years, according to Interact Analysis.
Six ways COVID-19 will change food plant design
COVID-19 has impacted the way food plant facilities are being built from restrooms to automation and worker satisfaction and overall safety.
How manufacturing has changed post-pandemic
Manufacturing has changed a lot due to the COVID-19 pandemic as technologies thought to be happening down the road are happening now. Five key drivers are highlighted.
Four ways site location can affect construction costs
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the cost of construction materials has skyrocketed, labor is scarce and demand is surging. But that doesn’t mean the food supply chain can stop.
The current state of the maintenance function
Urgent issues face the manufacturing industries amidst resurgence.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles June 7-13, 2021
Articles about tips on calibration for automation and control engineers, advanced valve diagnostic drive savings, how to build scalable data models with MQTT Sparkplugs, and more were Plant Engineering’s five most clicked articles from June 7-13, 2021. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Managed services close the gap in adopting edge computing
A practical solution for limited staffing adds assurance at the edge.
Slower than expected manufacturing recovery expected post COVID-19
Interact Analysis said in June that good performances by the US, South Korea and China are offset by Europe and Japan, expected to make swift recoveries, and India and Brazil, where slow recoveries are expected. The semiconductor sector is holding back some manufacturing, and some inflation is expected.
Four ways manufacturers can grow post COVID-19
Manufacturers remain resilient and strong in the wake of the pandemic, but there are steps they can take to be better prepared for the latest anomalous event.
How to make your virtual Kaizen initiative a success
See steps on how to schedule and plan the next Kaizen event and ensure everything is accounted for to make it successful.
Augmented reality can transform manual labor
As AR-driven spatial computing makes its way into industrial workplace settings through real-time step-by-step instructions and remote mentoring, even the most complex and intricate tasks will no longer require extensive experience to manage and complete them effectively.
Data-driven decisions improves COVID-19 vaccine production
Process engineers enabled with advanced analytics can have better operational control.
How to engage employees through plant optimization
Plant optimization results in much more than increase productivity and KPIs.
Supply chain management lessons for manufacturers
The COVID-19 pandemic has taught several supply chains lessons that can be valuable for the future.
How to ensure OT cybersecurity
Despite advances, operational technology network cybersecurity still lags information technology cybersecurity.
What a bad or non-existent maintenance program costs manufacturers
A maintenance program is only as good as the work put in behind it and the effort going forward. Planned maintenance, rather than reacting to a problem, can save companies enormously in the long term.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles May 3-9, 2021
Articles about how to keep spare part inventories accurate for maintenance departments, cybersecurity throwback attack, and energy management for industrial networks were Plant Engineering’s five most clicked articles from May 3-9, 2021. Miss something? You can catch up here.
Effective communication in a high-noise environment
High-noise manufacturing environments are already difficult places to communicate, but COVID-19 and social distancing make it even harder. Learn how to overcome this challenge.
Protective cleanroom clothing essentials
Everything that enters a cleanroom must also be highly regulated to prevent the inadvertent introduction of pollutants, which includes protective cleanroom clothing.
New production sources for tungsten are critical for increased global supply
Little known tungsten has a multitude of use cases
Effective communication in a socially distanced world
Manufacturing facilities have unique challenges because of constant ambient background noise that limits effective communication. Practice and investing in the right technology can help mitigate these problems.
Post-pandemic, employee wellness powered by predictive analytics
Who else is tired of talking about COVID-19?
Global manufacturing contraction lower than expected in 2020
The manufacturing industry output (MIO) tracker from Interact Analysis reveals a stronger than expected overall global manufacturing performance in 2020.
Commitment to the work: One constant in a changing world
2020 Plant Engineering Salary Survey: Who we are, what we think and what we earn
Change packaging to meet grocery delivery demand
Food manufacturers may have to adapt their packaging to meet the requirements of grocery delivery due to COVID-19.
China, U.S. leading manufacturing charge from COVID-19 shock
Global manufacturing economic forecasts in the wake of COVID-19 have improved thanks to stronger than expected recoveries from the U.S. and China, but there is a long road to recovery, particularly for some key industries.
Global manufacturing outlook post-COVID mixed depending on sector, region
COVID-19's impact on manufacturing for the short- and long-term depends on the particular industry and the region, though recovery is eventually expected to reach 2019 levels according to Interact Analysis.
Learning lessons and taking back control
While we are still embroiled in the battle to contain and defeat COVID-19, nobody truly knows the eventual outcomes, but we can begin to assess the impacts and respond positively to change.
Manufacturers need to rethink global supply chain, production
A study from the University of Birmingham says manufacturers need to redesign and reform their supply chains or global production networks (GPN) if they want to prosper in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Four challenges and four recommendations for manufacturing in the COVID-19 pandemic
As the economy grows after the COVID-19 pandemic slowdown, manufacturers face challenges and opportunities including industrial disaster recovery, manufacturing supply chains, manufacturer staffing, transparency, and manufacturing investments.
Survey on impact of COVID-19 on electronics industry released
Recent results of a survey on the impact of the coronavirus displayed a shift towards more positive expectations and minimal impact to the electronic components industry.
COVID-19 impact on engineering, engineers
Engineers like facts and seek credible information sources on COVID-19 (Coronavirus) effects to the engineering-related world. Engineers also have technologies, processes and expert advice that can help. See Control Engineering highlights.
CMMS upgrades in wastewater: Lessons for a smooth transition
A more advanced system improves operation and maintenance—if done correctly.
Reshaping the future
Exal’s aluminum package factory is building momentum and helping to rebuild Youngstown.
Natural refrigerants impact component design and selection
Refrigeration/cooling system manufacturers are replacing the old classes of chemical refrigerants that emit potent greenhouse gases, but it can be a challenge to determine its impact on component design and selection.
Do you have a disaster plan ready?
What happens when you face the worst of circumstances?
Media Mist Collector
CLARCOR Industrial Air introduces its new mist media collector. It was engineered specifically to capture oil mist and coolant contaminants, while increasing efficiency and extending filter life.
Motion detecting fan
AirEye shuts off when you leave and turns on when you return, generating energy savings every day.
2017 Engineering Leader Under 40: Sivan Cohen, PE, 32
General Manager, Ayyeka Inc., Los Angeles, Calif.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles, September 4-10: compressed air savings, boiler replacement, benefits of LEDs, and more
Articles about compressed air savings, boiler replacement, the benefits of LEDs, motor repair tips, and overlooked compressed air truths were Plant Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, September 4-10. Were you out? You can catch up here.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles, August 28- September 3: boiler replacement, large engine-generator, motor repair, and more
Articles about boiler replacement, large engine-generator, motor repair, reducing energy waste, and big data were Plant Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, August 28- September 3. Were you out? You can catch up here.
CHP helps growth in the greenhouse
Commercial greenhouse production requires energy for lighting, heating and ventilation. Often the best solution is combined heat and power (CHP) – on-site electric generation that also utilizes the byproduct heat for climate control in the greenhouse.
Next generation air compressors
The Next Generation R-Series 200-250kW line of rotary screw air compressors is designed to improve overall system efficiency for customers with high-capacity air requirements.
Insulation deficiencies can harm plants, people
Proper attention provides better energy management, reduced operational failure
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles: January 9-January 15: Lowering compressed air costs, methods for motor testing, keeping DC motors healthy, more
Articles about lowering compressed air costs, methods for motor testing, keeping DC motors healthy, NFPA 70E compliance, and VFD efficiency were Plant Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, January 9-January 15. Were you out? You can catch up here.
Biobased/biodegradable coatings system
The biobased and biodegradable System replaces harzardous synthetic chemicals with safe, green alternatives for corrosion protection in metalworking industries.
The two most common methods of motor testing
Regular testing of the electrical motors provides many benefits, including financial savings, energy conservation, improved safety and increased uptime.
PMI ends 2016 on a note of optimism
Manufacturing index jumps to highest level since March 2015 as production, new orders are sharply higher.
AHR attendees project strong growth in 2017
Survey portends “a stellar year” for HVACR market ahead of January 30 expo.
Finding value in open architecture
Schneider Electric platform looks to “empower the workforce”.
OSS oil-water seperator
Atlas Copco adds OSS to range of oil-water sperators for condensate treatment in low-flow compressors.
Optical IR sensing turbidity analyzer
The TR86 combines precision turbidity analysis with the flexibility to add a second measurement, including dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, oxygen reduction potential (ORP), conductivity or various pION parameters.
Rotary screw air compressors
Rotary screw air compressors with variable speed drive that increases energy efficiency by up to 35 percent.
Six food safety areas to examine during operational facility improvements
Ensure construction doesn’t put your food manufacturing plant at risk.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles August 8-14: Four causes of water hammer damage, managing air quality, IR inspections, more
Articles about four causes of water hammer damage, managing air quality, IR inspections, CMMS benefits and functions, and Big Data were Plant Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, August 8-14. Were you out? You can catch up here.
Natural gas infrared heating
Perfect solution for many spaces: Take care with sizing, selection and placement of infrared tubes and panels to maximize comfort and efficiency.
Sweetening the absorption option
Today’s single-stage absorbers can generate chilled water from hot water as low in temperature as 190°F.
Natural gas supports green efforts
Natural gas is increasingly being chosen to replace other fossil fuels which produce much higher levels of greenhouse gas emissions.
Precision linear motion drive
The Precision Motion Drive System is a Model RG rolling ring linear drive integrated with a motion controller for precision linear motion applications.
AutomationDirect extends RHINO power supply line
AutomationDirect’s RHINO PSB series of DIN rail power supplies includes the PSB48-480S single-phase input, 48VDC output power supply.
Choosing the right strategy to stay on the safe side
There’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach on maintenance.
Four causes of water hammer, and how to prevent damage
It’s a safety and maintenance issue—and it is preventable.
How to manage air quality to improve worker health, product quality
Curtain walls and HVLS fans can improve air particulate exhaustion.
Air quality Webcast: Your questions answered
Additional questions from the July 26 "Keep your cool while keeping your facilities cool" webcast are answered here.
Vacuum filter systems
Eriez HydroFlow, a rolled media vacuum filter system, eliminates the need for multiple filters, frees up valuable floor space, and provides a consistent quality of solids separation to increase productivity.
ABB simplifies active optoelectronic protective devices
ABB simplifies active optoelectronic protective devices with Orion Safety Light Curtains that saves time and costs.
Webcast: Keep your cool while keeping your facilities cool
Making sure a plant is a comfortable place to work is more than just HR rules and mutual respect. Some days, it’s about making sure the workers are actually physically comfortable. The conditions within a plant have an impact on productivity, work quality and safety, and ensuring those working conditions are every bit as important as other factors on the plant floor.
Safety sensors
The Eden OSSD safety sensors allow safe in-series wiring of multiple sensors.
Compact signal conditioners
Signal conditioners for non-hazardous areas that are extremely compact and UL certified.
Metal recovery and water recycling technology
The Enviro-Clean Process recovers heavy metals such as chromium, copper, zinc, lead, cadmium, mercury, nickel, silver, and manganese from groundwater, process and waste streams.
Pressure switch for tough environments
Sigma-Netics Inc. has added a 2-pin Deutsch connector option to its 784 Series of ruggedized pressure switches. The 2-pin option allows the 784 Series to serve a wider range of applications, including those with limited installation space.
Vortex flow transmitter
The Huba 210 Series Vortex Flow Transmitter is designed for water and water/glycol based heat exchange systems and other fluids compatible with the materials of construction.
Cube evaporative condenser models
The Cube™ Evaporative Condenser product line is ideal for industrial refrigeration applications that require safe design, installation, and operation with ammonia and other refrigerants.
Floor mounted fume hoods
The UniMax series of hoods has been expanded to include wide selection of models that feature fire suppression systems to meet California requirements.
Online heater selection tool
The online heater selection tool is a resource to select the proper heater technologies for mounting or dismounting bearings in rotating machinery in plant operations across industries.
Four steps to becoming a data-driven service organization
It’s more important than ever for field service organizations to have strategies in place to measure performance, and becoming data driven is the best way to make those measurements clear and actionable.
Insulated coil boxes
Insulated coil boxes for room-by-room temperature control.
Do you have air leaking from your pipes?
In many facilities, one of the prime culprits for energy waste is compressed air or compressed gas leaks. Although these are very common, they are often difficult to detect through a visual inspection.
Environmental monitoring system
The viewLinc environmental monitoring system leverages wireless communications capabilities in order to utilize logging devices that communicate in obstructed environments.
Can compressed air systems be a source of contamination?
Two ways to prevent contaminated air in your food facility.
4-port isolated USB hub
The USB-104-IHUB is ideal for factory automation, hospital and medical, energy management, military/mission-critical, transportation, security systems, and process monitoring applications.
Foxboro smart pH10 sensor and transmitter
Foxboro smart pH10 sensor and transmitter combine a rugged polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) body with capabilities for customers who need high performance and long life with easy and fast calibrations.
Ozone analyzer with reagent-less sensor design
The plumb and play OZ80 ozone analyzer features a reagent-less sensor design to help process and plant engineers achieve accurate measurements in harsh environments.
How to find value in a KPI lifecycle
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are part of a lifecycle because KPIs are continuously defined, redefined, and are even sometimes abandoned. Explicitly defining a KPI lifecycle provides an impetus for the development of methods and tools that enhance performance.
Five elements of KPI lifecycle
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) have a lifecycle with a similarly cyclic pattern: from definition to collection to set composition to implementation to assessment and back to definition. Manufacturers who use KPIs naturally implement this lifecycle, but there is some real value to clearly and carefully articulate the elements of the lifecycle.
AC drives for hazardous locations
The VACON X5 HazLo AC drive is ideal for applications in refineries, utility gas plants, and hazardous locations.
Improve your food plant’s sustainability with five tips
The best options with return on investment (ROI) in mind.
5 things poultry processors can learn from Bell & Evan’s new chicken plant
Lessons from state-of-the-art chicken packaging, further processing and storage facility.
5 types of systems of low-charge packaged refrigeration equipment
Packaged refrigeration series.
Starting 2016 on a course to profitability
Eight "P" processes that produce progress.
5S: A process for your business
5S is a thought process designed to resolve a type of problem that occurs throughout your business. Apply that seemingly simple tool accordingly and you'll be surprised by all the costly clutter that you can eliminate.
What coffee producers can learn from Starbucks’ award-winning coffee plant
Learn the five challenges that all coffee producers face and how to overcome them through innovative solutions.
Specialty lubricants: The time has come
The extra initial cost of synthetics can be worth the improvements.
Adjusting to new food safety regulations in the 21st century
Unsanitary products, and in some cases outbreaks of disease, have led to a groundswell of support for new regulations, and Washington has responded.
Turn your air compressors into a sustainable source of energy
Converting recycled heat energy is a positive step forward to sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint of a plant.
Out of space? Maybe not!
What space challenges does your facility grapple with, and how are you solving them?
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles, February 8-14: Beverage manufacturer breaking tradition, operators in EMP, risk assessments and global requirements, more
Articles about how a beverage manufacturer broke U.S. traditions, involving operators in EMP, risk assessment as a global requirement, the IIoT offering economic and operational benefits, and OEE scores were Plant Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, February 8-14. Were you out last week? You can catch up here.
Retractable sensor housings
The InTrac 781/784 series of retractable sensor housings with locking systems are designed to tolerate extreme process conditions such as chemical, petrochemical, pulp and paper, or utilities applications.
Rooftop features for HVAC systems
Efficiency, control capabilities part of a wider range of system applications
Dairy processing industry is evolving
Finding ways to improve energy efficiency.
Save that condensate!
Perhaps the best opportunity for a quick payback in improving a steam system is evaluation and improvement of the condensate return system. Returning as much of the condensate as possible to the boiler feedwater stream pays rewards in two ways.
New process heating tool
A new assessment tool became available to simplify these calculations, allowing managers to evaluate these manufacturing steps and to determine if there are better, less costly methods.
Five strategies for finding waste in compressed air systems
Using all available tools, including strategies such as infrared detection, can find unseen compressed air leaks.
A hot problem, a cool solution
Manufacturers come together to develop a better foundry coat.
2015 Engineering Leader Under 40: Kori Shane, 38
Safety and Environmental Manager, Schneider Electric; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; BS Environmental Health, Illinois State University
Peristaltic pump with integrated stepper motor
Unoverse Boxer 9000 Peristaltic Pump features integrated stepper motor for dispensing of liquids for applications such as bionengineering and medical devices.
Coalescing filters
The coalescing filters protect sensitive pneumatic equipment from the harmful effects of air line contamination.
Flow transmitters
These flow transmitters monitor liquid media and provide an analog output proportional to flow rate for various flow applications.
Complexity, regulation draining for global engineers: IHS study
Faster design cycles and fewer engineers mean a more challenging environment.
Acrylic silicone topcoat
Cortec Corporation's VpCI-386 HT Black is a high heat resistant water-based acrylic silicone primer/topcoat that provides protection in harsh, outdoor unsheltered applications.
Free chlorine sensors
FCL real-time free chlorine sensors use the amperometric measurement technology for water treatment and disinfection.
Ultraviolet disinfectant systems
Portable area sanitizer safely and conveniently delivers germicidal ultraviolet disinfection for a multitude of commercial and industrial applications
Five things to consider when selecting a site for your new plant
Selecting a new plant site can be a difficult process. To ensure you make the right decision, follow these five rules to keep things on track.
Semi-custom packaged rooftop system
Addison's PR series semi-custom packaged rooftop system improves indoor air quality and energy efficiency.
Reaping the rewards of data-driven efficiency
Benefits of LED lighting go beyond ROI to system-wide data mining
2014 Engineering Leader Under 40: Mahesh Singh
Deputy Manager, Environment Health and Safety; Roulunds Braking India Pvt. Ltd.; Sonepat, Haryana
UV air disinfection unit
UV air disinfection units safely destroy bacteria, mold and viruses.
Moisture Barrier Paper
Cortec presents patented EcoShield Paper and Linerboard's new product is coated with a water based barrier that is recyclable and repulpable.
USB 2.0 Micro B Extension Cables
USB 2.0 Micro B Extension Cables are handy male-to-female cables are used to extend phone charger cables and other USB 2.0 micro B enabled peripherals
Metal recovery and water recycling
The ENVIRO-CLEAN PROCESS recovers heavy metals such as chromium, copper, zinc, lead, cadmium, mercury, nickel, silver, and manganese from groundwater, process and waste streams.
How the EPA’s clean water regulations will impact manufacturers
For more than 10 years, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been working to update the regulations for water intake at industrial and power facilities, including manufacturing plants, as part of the Clean Water Act. Manufacturers are now gearing up to comply with the new terms.
Achieving energy efficiency for small and mid-sized manufacturers
During Plant Engineering's May 15 webcast, Ethan Rogers, a senior program manager for industry at ACEEE, discussed practical ways small and mid-sized manufacturers can implement energy efficiency programs.
Reduce HVAC energy consumption with FHP and VFD operations
Air-cooled chillers can take up a lot of room while expending massive amounts of energy. Integrating FHP and VFD operations is one way to cap energy consumption.
Flexible cooling solutions for plants
Understand the basics of how to choose and use portable cooling equipment for a range of applications.
Top 5 Plant Engineering articles, Feb. 10-16, 2014
Were you out last week? Miss something? Here are Plant Engineering’s five most clicked articles from last week, Feb. 10-16, 2014, including articles about planned maintenance, Legionella, Schneider and Invensys, industrial internet, and millennials in the workforce.
Proper air balance in food-processing facilities: 4 benefits
Cut energy costs and control temperature and condensation with an optimal plan
Webcast: Driving Electrical Safety in Your Plant
Plant Engineering presented a Webcast on December 5th at 1 p.m. CT that discussed the importance of PPE to mitigate arc flash dangers and other electrical safety issues.
2013 Product of the Year finalists: Environmental Health
Finalists in the Environmental Health category for the Plant Engineering 2013 Product of the Year competition.
White Paper: Agilent: Handheld Oscilloscopes Help Solve Power, Signal and Current Measurement Challenges
This white paper explains how handheld oscilloscopes can make accurate floating measurements on power control circuits.
Manufacturers cut $1 billion in energy costs through Better Plants program
Department of Energy honors 120 manufacturers for achieving program goals to cut costs, emissions
Instant knowledge: A case for steam
A better understanding of the properties of steam may be achieved by understanding the general molecular and atomic structure of matter, and applying this knowledge to ice, water and steam.
ASHRAE 188P and the effects on steam process
With a new standard under review, the HVAC industry prepares to adjust the new processes of preventing Legionellosis within building water systems.
Sanitation standard operating procedure in the meat and poultry food manufacturing plant
Maintaining a high level of cleanliness and controlling pathogenic bacteria growth are frequent challenges within the meat and poultry industry.
Personal air conditioning vest
The Vortec Personal Air Conditioning (PAC) vest has been redesigned to include an integrated belt, allowing a quick connection to cool and warm air
Better Plants program aims at cutting manufacturing energy consumption
GM latest to join DOE effort to reduce energy intensity by 25%
Keep cool! Portable air conditioners offer flexible solutions
Plant engineers can benefit from understanding the basics of how to choose and use portable cooling equipment for a range of applications.
Thomas Perez nominated as next Labor Secretary
Obama says nominee will promote growth; GOP is critical of choice.
Manufacturing Council adds new members
Rockwell Automation’s Mike Laszkiewicz named chairman of 26-member council
Study finds optimism among mid-sized manufacturers
Prime Advantage report shows hiring, capital expenditures will rise in 2013
Industry Voices: William Gaskin
Bill Gaskin is president of the 900-member Precision Metalforming Association (PMA), the full-service trade association representing the $113-billion metalforming industry of North America.
AME names four to 2012 Hall of Fame class
Honorees have diverse talents and skills, a common commitment to excellence.
Data mining from CMMS shows how well you’re doing
Computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) software package schedules maintenance checks, captures data from work orders, issues reports for various scenarios to decisions on capital budgets, new hires, outsourced repairs, and spare parts budgets, and other areas.
Surge in demand for color ultrasound for China
Extensive reform to healthcare services and improved local supplier offerings is driving demand for color ultrasound equipment to new heights, according to a new report.
POY Finalist: Ballistic separator
Finalist in Material Handling Systems in Plant Engineering’s 2011 Product of the Year competition
Opportunity matrix for electronic government and healthcare ID
IMS Research has just published a new report looking at the current and future prospects for smart card technology being used in electronic government and healthcare ID applications. I thought an interesting way of looking at our results would be to produce an “opportunity matrix” detailing the top prospect countries for these markets in 2016.
OSHA increases focus on workplace violence
OSHA's directive comes on the heels of recent investigations of workers being assaulted or killed while in the workplace in three different states.
Rubicon, it’s all about the product mix
While LED adoption continues to grow at a healthy rate in backlighting, LEDs per panel fell significantly in 2H’10, offsetting much of that growth, In addition, the lighting market is still dwarfed by backlighting. As a result, utilization was not as healthy as expected in Q4’10. Thus, less sapphire was required to meet demand. So, if there was a miss, it will likely be on volume.
Manufacturers need software to help manage green projects
Almost half of manufacturers lacked the enterprise technology to manage their environmental footprint, and another 28% had only limited capabilities, according to a study commissioned by IFS North America. When it comes to the ability to measure environmental impacts, middle-market manufacturers did more poorly than did companies with more than $1 billion in revenue.
Natural gas leak repair kit
The Trident-Seal live natural gas repair kit seals active leaks up to 60 psi. It’s suitable for repairing joint leaks, manifold leaks, pinhole leaks, online repairs and live gas leaks. The system’s operating service temperature is -50 to 250 F; application temperature is 0 to 150 F. The kit works with pipes ranging from 1/2 to 21/2 inches in diameter and roll sizes of 2 by 5.
Johnson & Johnson earns Robert W. Campbell Award
The National Safety Council announced that Johnson & Johnson is the 2005 recipient of its Robert W. Campbell Award. Donna M. Cappizzi, Director Worldwide Health and Safety of Johnson & Johnson, accepted the award during the opening session of the National Safety Council's 93 rd Annual Congress & Expo in Orlando.
Reader Forum – 2002-06-15
Absences should be covered under act In the "Human Side of Engineering" in the April 2002 issue, the scenario depicted in the story "Is absence due to chronic ailment justified?" leads to a shaky decision by Plant Engineer Bert Benson. The absences described could very well be covered under the Family/Medical Leave Act.
Metal patch repairs leaks and surfaces
Fixmaster Superior Metal is intended for long-lasting repairs in harsh environments and is recommended for renewing or protecting surfaces subject to corrosion and abrasion.
