NEWS | FEATURES | PRODUCTS | CASE STUDIES April/May 2024 | Issue 480 www.pwemag.co.uk @PWEmagazine1 Which technology is best at reducing energy costs? Inside this issue: 10 > What Wi-Fi 7 means for manufacturing 19 > Exploring the role of standardised workflows in maintenance management 24 > Compressed air with energy efficiency at the core page 32 @plant-&-works-engineering PWE Plant & Works Engineering Since 1981
5-6 June 2024 | NEC Birmingham Crucial networking 100+ exhibitors Insightful content Register for free at www.mandeweek.co.uk or scan this code Part of AGENDA NOW LIVE! Topics to be covered include: Predictive maintenance Industry 4.0 Skills gap The rise of AI Minimising downtime Enterprise asset managmeent Diversity & team culture Automation
Without a steady influx of skilled young individuals emerging from the education system, businesses may find themselves hampered in their growth trajectories compared to global counterparts. Spring Budget: A fine balancing act The response from industry leaders to the Chancellor’s Spring Budget reflects a mix of appreciation and concern. EngineeringUK expressed its appreciation for the government’s declared commitment to investing in critical sectors such as engineering and technology, as well as its support for Small to Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) through initiatives like the Green Industries Growth Accelerator (GIGA). The acknowledgment of the UK’s burgeoning presence in the global technology landscape, likening it to Silicon Valley, evoked a sense of pride shared by many within these sectors. However, amid the commendations lies some disappointment. EngineeringUK’s Head of Policy & Public Affairs, Beatrice Barleon, highlighted a critical gap in the Editor’s Comment ‘ ’ budget’s focus - the need to invest in skilling the future workforce. The absence of concerted efforts to address the shortage of STEM teachers and the consequent impact on young people’s STEM education raises concerns about the UK’s ability to sustain its competitive edge in these crucial sectors. Without a steady influx of skilled young individuals emerging from the education system, businesses may find themselves hampered in their growth trajectories compared to global counterparts. Furthermore, Barleon emphasised the vital role of apprenticeships as crucial training routes for young people aged 16-19, calling for a clear and adequately funded STEM skills plan. This plan, she suggests, should encompass investments in career outreach, education, and sustained funding for STEM teacher professional development. It’s a call for a holistic approach to addressing the skills gap, ensuring that the workforce of tomorrow is equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern technological landscape. Other industry leaders such as Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive of Make UK, acknowledged the budget’s incremental steps towards recognising manufacturing as a linchpin of the future economy. Phipson pointed to the extension of full expensing to leased assets as a boon, particularly for smaller companies within the manufacturing sector. However, he also underscored the need for swift action in translating these announcements into tangible legislative measures, urging the government to expedite the drafting of legislation to make these benefits permanent. The reaction from industry reflects the cautiously optimistic mood about the strides being made but aware of the hurdles that remain. While there is recognition of the government’s efforts to bolster key sectors and support SMEs, there is also a resounding call for a more comprehensive approach to addressing the skills gap and fostering sustained growth. As the budget’s impact unfolds, it remains to be seen how these concerns will be addressed and whether the government’s vision for a thriving, innovative economy will come to fruition. April/May 2024 www.pwemag.co.uk Plant & Works Engineering | 03
MMA & ARC/TIG INVERTER WELDERS Model Min/Max Output Current Electrode Dia. (mm) exc.VAT inc.VAT MMA140A 20A-140A 1.6-3.2 £104.99 £125.99 MMA200A 20A-200A 1.6-3.2 £139.98 £167.98 AT165 10A-160A 2.5/3.2/4.0 £219.98 £263.98 FROM ONLY DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £104.99 £125.99 inc.VAT exc.VAT PORTABLE 1 TONNE GANTRY CRANE CWGC1000 1000 KG PRICE CUT DOUBLE DOUBLE WAS £634.80 inc.VAT £519.00 £622.80 inc.VAT exc.VAT Tough steel construction 'I' beam cross member for added strength ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT 2520-3600mm 1 TONNE FOLDING WORKSHOP CRANE Fully tested to proof load Folding and fixed frames available Robust, rugged construction Overload safety valve CFC100 FROM ONLY DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £219.98 £263.98 inc.VAT exc.VAT HYDRAULIC PRESSES PROFESSIONAL QUALITY Built for tough daily use in automotive/industrial workshops * Available with/without 7 pce pin, bracket & pressing plate kit # Economy model CSA30FP Model exc.VAT inc.VAT CSA4B-4 tonne bench# £169.98 £203.98 CSA10EP 10 tonne bench* £194.99 £233.99 CSA12F 12 tonne floor*# £379.00 £454.80 CSA20FBT◆ 20 tonne floor £489.00 £586.80 CSA30FPB 30 tonne floor £959.00 £1150.80 CSA50FPB 50 tonne floor £1699.00 £2038.80 FROM ONLY DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £169.98 £203.98 inc.VAT exc.VAT ◆ WAS £598.80 inc.VAT DRILL PRESSES Range of precision bench & floor presses for enthusiast, engineering & industrial applications FROM ONLY DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £99.95 £119.94 inc.VAT exc.VAT Model Motor (W) Speeds exc.VAT inc.VAT CDP5EB 350/5 £99.95 £119.94 CDP102B 350/5 £115.95 £139.14 CDP152B 450/12 £209.00 £250.80 CDP202B 450/16 £269.00 £322.80 CDP352F* 550/16 £329.00 £394.80 CDP452B 550/16 £299.00 £358.80 CDP502F 1100/12 £699.00 £838.80 CDP102B B = Bench mounted F = Floor standing * WAS £406.80 inc.VAT HYDRAULIC LIFTING TABLES HTL500 Model Max. Load Table Height Mon-Max exc.VAT inc.VAT HTL300* 300kg 340-900mm £399.00 £478.80 HTL500# 500kg 340-900mm £439.00 £526.80 * WAS £502.80 inc.VAT # WAS £550.80 inc.VAT PRICE CUT NOW FROM ONLY DOUBLE WAS £502.80 inc.VAT £399.00 £478.80 inc.VAT exc.VAT MIG WELDERS Quality machines from Britain’s leading supplier. See online for included accessories 135TE Model Min-Max Amps exc.VAT inc.VAT PRO90 24-90 £249.00 £298.80 135TE Turbo 30-130 £289.98 £347.98 151TE Turbo 30-150 £345.00 £414.00 MIG103NG 35/90 £134.99 £161.99 IMIG100NG 40/100 £149.98 £179.98 HEADER exc.VAT FROM ONLY £298.80 inc.VAT £249.00 SUBMERSIBLE WATER PUMPS #Auto ON/OFF float switch on these models ‡Sewage cutter pump Model Max Flow Max Head exc.VAT inc.VAT PSV3A# 133L 8M £49.98 £59.98 PSV5A# 217L 8M £59.98 £71.98 HIPPO 2 230V 85L 6M £69.98 £83.98 PSV4A# 216L 8M £59.98 £71.98 PVP11A‡# 258L 11.0M £89.98 £107.98 HSEC650A‡# 290L 9.5M £249.00 £298.80 FROM ONLY DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £49.98 £59.98 inc.VAT exc.VAT THE FAMOUS HIPPO PUMP DIESEL/PARAFFIN HEATERS Ideal for fast efficient heating Model MAX output exc.VAT WAS inc.VAT NOW inc.VAT XR60B 14.7kW £229.00 £274.80 XR80 20.5kW £279.00 £334.80 XR110 29.3kW £319.00 £394.80 £382.80 XR160 46.9kW £389.00 £478.80 £466.80 XR210 61.5kW £449.00 £550.80 £538.80 XR80 Extra-long run fuel tanks – up to 53 litres Variable heat output with thermostat control FROM ONLY DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £229.00 £274.80 inc.VAT exc.VAT PRO TOOL CHESTS & CABINETS Model Description exc.VAT inc.VAT CBB203C 3 Dr step up £86.99 £104.39 1 CBB209C 9 Dr Chest £154.99 £185.99 2 CBB217C 7 Dr Cabinet £279.00 £334.80 CHROME SPOKED WHEELS 1 FROM ONLY DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £154.99 £185.99 inc.VAT exc.VAT 2 FROM ONLY DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £279.00 £334.80 inc.VAT exc.VAT 5 TONNE FORKLIFT JACK CFT5B HIGH LIFTS UPTO 730mm LOW LIFTS FROM 70mm AND COMMERCIAL VEHICLES FROM ONLY DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £249.00 £298.80 inc.VAT exc.VAT GARAGES/WORKSHOPS Ideal for use as a garage workshop Extra tough triple layer cover Heavy duty powder coated steel tubing Ratchet tight tensioning Model size (LxWxH) m exc.VAT inc.VAT CIG81212 3.6 x 3.6 x 2.5 £249.00 £298.80 CIG81015 4.5 x 3 x 2.4 £279.00 £334.80 CIG81216 4.9 x 3.7 x 2.5 £329.00 £394.80 CIG81020 6.1 x 3 x 2.4 £349.00 £418.80 CIG81220 6.1 x 3.7 x 2.5 £399.00 £478.80 CIG81224 7.3 x 3.7 x 2.5 £499.00 £598.80 CIG1432 9.7x4.3x3.65 £1099.00 £1318.80 CIG1640 12x4.9x4.3 £2599.00 £3118.80 BRIGHT WHITE INTERIOR LENGTH UP TO 40' IDEAL FOR RAIN & SUN PROTECTION FROM ONLY DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £249.00 £298.80 inc.VAT exc.VAT INDUSTRIAL AIR COMPRESSORS Top quality belt driven air compressors for industrial & commercial users inc; garages, factories, workshops and farms. 10 bar/150psi max working pressure †V-Twin *230V Model Air. disp CFM Motor (HP) Air RCVR exc.VAT inc.VAT XEV16/100 (OL)†* 14 3 100ltr £589.00 £706.80 XEV16/150 (OL)†* 14 3 150ltr £659.00 £790.80 XEV16/200(OL)†* 14 3 200ltr £719.00 £862.80 XEV16/150(400V)† 14 3 150ltr £699.00 £838.80 XE37/270 (OL)*# 36 2x 4 270ltr £1459.00£1750.80 XEV16/100 FROM ONLY DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £589.00 £706.80 inc.VAT exc.VAT # WAS £1774.80 inc.VAT INDUSTRIAL SCREW COMPRESSORS Full range includes floor & receiver mounted with/without built-in dryer Air receivers, dryers & filters also available separately from only £129.00 exc.VAT £154.80 inc.VAT CXR40 *Includes Air Receiver and Dryer 40HP + 148.3cfm 5.5HP + 17.1cfm CXR5R 10 bar Proven reliability Super silent Easy maintenance Full digital control Superb build quality. Meets European standards Model cfm Hp RCVR exc.VAT inc.VAT CX3MR 8.5 3 200ltr £2399.00 £2878.80 CXR5R 17.1 5.5 200ltr £2565.00 £3078.00 CXR100N* 37.1 10 – £2695.00 £3234.00 CXR100R 37.1 10 270ltr £3355.00 £4026.00 CXR15N# 53 15 – £3445.00 £4134.00 CXR15R 53 15 270ltr £3895.00 £4674.00 CXR20N 65.3 20 – £3795.00 £4554.00 CXR20R 65.3 20 500ltr £4395.00 £5274.00 CXR30N 106 30 – £6395.00 £7674.00 CXR40N 148.3 40 – £7895.00 £9474.00 CXR50N 187 50 – £9395.00 £11274.00 CXR60N 229 60 – £10995.00 £13194.00 CXR75N ‡ 275 75 – £11895.00 £14274.00 CXR110N 371 100 – £16995.00 £20394.00 FROM ONLY DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £2399.00 £2878.80 inc.VAT exc.VAT # WAS £3594.00 inc.VAT ‡ WAS £4242.00 inc.VAT ◆WAS £14634.00 inc.VAT TURBO FAN GAS HEATERS Offering low cost, efficient heating Model Max. Output kW exc.VAT WAS inc.VAT NOW inc. VAT Little Devil II 10.3 £89.98 £113.99 £107.98 Devil 700 15 £114.99 £143.98 £137.99 Devil 900 24.9 £159.98 £191.98 Devil 1600 36.6 £189.98 £227.98 Devil 2100 49.8 £249.00 £322.80 £298.80 Devil 4000 131 £479.00 £574.80 DUAL VOLTAGE 230& 110 VOLT IN STOCK FROM £214.80 PROPANE GAS FIRED PRICE CUT NOW FROM ONLY DOUBLE WAS £113.99 inc.VAT £89.98 £107.98 inc.VAT exc.VAT INDUSTRIAL STEEL BOLTLESS SHELVING Quick and easy assembly, only a hammer is required CS4600BO FROM ONLY DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £259.00 £310.80 inc.VAT exc.VAT Strong 8mm fibreboard shelves Adjustable shelf height 2000(W) x 600(D) x 2000mm(H) MANY SIZES EXTRA HIGH 78" 2000mm HUGE 600kg CAPACITY PER SHELF EXTRA WIDE 78" 2000mm PETROL & DIESEL PRESSURE WASHERS Honda & Diesel engine models in stock Model Pressure BAR/Psi Engine HP exc.VAT inc.VAT Tiger1800B‡ 110/1595 3 £269.00 £322.80 Tiger2600B 180/2610 4 £379.00 £454.80 Tiger3000B 200/2900 6.5 £399.00 £478.80 PLS195B# 180/2640 5.5 £479.00 £574.80 PLS220 230/3335 9 £679.00 £814.80 PLS265B◆ 225/3263 13 £749.00 £898.80 PLS360 248/3600 13 £998.00 £1197.60 DLS200AL* 200/2900 8.5 £2399.00 £2878.80 *Diesel CAN DRAW OWN WATER PLS265B ‡ WAS £334.80 inc.VAT # WAS £598.80 inc.VAT ◆ WAS £922.80 inc.VAT PRICE CUT NOW FROM ONLY DOUBLE WAS £334.80 inc.VAT £269.00 £322.80 inc.VAT exc.VAT ELECTRIC HEATERS DEVIL 6003 DEVIL 7003 Model Voltage Heat Output exc.VAT inc.VAT Devil 6003 230V 1.5-3kW £64.99 £77.99 Devil 7003* 230V 3kW £64.99 £77.99 Devil 7005 400V 5kW £89.98 £107.98 Devil 6009 400V 4.5-9kW £119.98 £143.98 Devil 7009# 400V 9kW £147.99 £177.59 Devil 6015 400V 5-10-15kW £179.98 £215.98 Devil 7015 400V 15kW £219.98 £263.98 FROM ONLY DDOOUUBBLLEE FOOTER £64.99 £77.99 inc.VAT exc.VAT BEST SELLER * WAS £81.59 inc.VAT # WAS £179.98 inc.VAT BARNSLEY Pontefract Rd, Barnsley, S71 1HA 01226 732297 B’HAM GREAT BARR 4 Birmingham Rd. 0121 358 7977 B’HAM HAY MILLS 1152 Coventry Rd, Hay Mills 0121 7713433 BOLTON 1 Thynne St. BL3 6BD 01204 365799 BRADFORD 105-107 Manningham Lane. BD1 3BN 01274 390962 BRIGHTON 123 Lewes Rd, BN2 3QB 01273 915999 BRISTOL 1-3 Church Rd, Lawrence Hill. BS5 9JJ 0117 935 1060 BURTON UPON TRENT 12a Lichfield St. DE14 3QZ 01283 564 708 CAMBRIDGE 181-183 Histon Road, Cambridge. CB4 3HL 01223 322675 CARDIFF 44-46 City Rd. CF24 3DN 029 2046 5424 CARLISLE 85 London Rd. CA1 2LG 01228 591666 CHELTENHAM 84 Fairview Road. GL52 2EH 01242 514 402 CHESTER 43-45 St. James Street. CH1 3EY 01244 311258 COLCHESTER 4 North Station Rd. CO1 1RE 01206 762831 COVENTRY Bishop St. CV1 1HT 024 7622 4227 CROYDON 423-427 Brighton Rd, Sth Croydon 020 8763 0640 DARLINGTON 214 Northgate. DL1 1RB 01325 380 841 DEAL (KENT) 182-186 High St. CT14 6BQ 01304 373 434 DERBY Derwent St. DE1 2ED 01332 290 931 DONCASTER Wheatley Hall Road 01302 245 999 DUNDEE 24-26 Trades Lane. DD1 3ET 01382 225 140 EDINBURGH 163-171 Piersfield Terrace 0131 659 5919 EXETER 16 Trusham Rd. EX2 8QG 01392 256 744 GATESHEAD 50 Lobley Hill Rd. NE8 4YJ 0191 493 2520 GLASGOW 280 Gt Western Rd. G4 9EJ 0141 332 9231 GLOUCESTER 221A Barton St. GL1 4HY 01452 417 948 GRIMSBY ELLIS WAY, DN32 9BD 01472 354435 HULL 8-10 Holderness Rd. HU9 1EG 01482 223161 ILFORD 746-748 Eastern Ave. IG2 7HU 0208 518 4286 IPSWICH Unit 1 Ipswich Trade Centre, Commercial Road 01473 221253 LEEDS 227-229 Kirkstall Rd. LS4 2AS 0113 231 0400 LEICESTER 69 Melton Rd. LE4 6PN 0116 261 0688 LINCOLN Unit 5. The Pelham Centre. LN5 8HG 01522 543 036 LIVERPOOL 80-88 London Rd. L3 5NF 0151 709 4484 LONDON CATFORD 289/291 Southend Lane SE6 3RS 0208 695 5684 LONDON 6 Kendal Parade, Edmonton N18 020 8803 0861 LONDON 503-507 Lea Bridge Rd. Leyton, E10 020 8558 8284 LUTON Unit 1, 326 Dunstable Rd, Luton LU4 8JS 01582 728 063 MAIDSTONE 57 Upper Stone St. ME15 6HE 01622 769 572 MANCHESTER ALTRINCHAM 71 Manchester Rd. Altrincham 0161 9412 666 MANCHESTER CENTRAL 209 Bury New Road M8 8DU 0161 241 1851 MANCHESTER OPENSHAW Unit 5, Tower Mill, Ashton Old Rd 0161 223 8376 MANSFIELD 169 Chesterfield Rd. South 01623 622160 MIDDLESBROUGH Mandale Triangle, Thornaby 01642 677881 NORWICH 282a Heigham St. NR2 4LZ 01603 766402 NORTHAMPTON Beckett Retail Park, St James’ Mill Rd 01604 267840 NOTTINGHAM 211 Lower Parliament St. 0115 956 1811 PETERBOROUGH 417 Lincoln Rd. Millfield 01733 311770 PLYMOUTH 58-64 Embankment Rd. PL4 9HY 01752 254050 POOLE 137-139 Bournemouth Rd. Parkstone 01202 717913 PORTSMOUTH 277-283 Copnor Rd. Copnor 023 9265 4777 PRESTON 53 Blackpool Rd. PR2 6BU 01772 703263 SHEFFIELD 453 London Rd. Heeley. S2 4HJ 0114 258 0831 SIDCUP 13 Blackfen Parade, Blackfen Rd 0208 3042069 SOUTHAMPTON 516-518 Portswood Rd. 023 8055 7788 SOUTHEND 1139-1141 London Rd. Leigh on Sea 01702 483 742 STOKE-ON-TRENT 382-396 Waterloo Rd. Hanley 01782 287321 SUNDERLAND 13-15 Ryhope Rd. Grangetown 0191 510 8773 SWANSEA 7 Samlet Rd. Llansamlet. SA7 9AG 01792 792969 SWINDON 21 Victoria Rd. SN1 3AW 01793 491717 TWICKENHAM 83-85 Heath Rd.TW1 4AW 020 8892 9117 WARRINGTON Unit 3, Hawley’s Trade Pk. 01925 630 937 WIGAN 2 Harrison Street, WN5 9AU 01942 323 785 WOLVERHAMPTON Parkfield Rd. Bilston 01902 494186 WORCESTER 48a Upper Tything. WR1 1JZ 01905 723451 VISIT YOUR LOCAL SUPERSTORE Open Mon-Fri 8.30-6.00, Sat 8.30-5.30, Sun 10.00-4.00 Calls to the catalogue request number above (0844 880 1265) cost 7p per minute plus your telephone company’s network access charge. For security reasons, calls may be monitored. All prices correct at time of going to press. We reserve the right to change products and prices at any time. Check online for latest prices. All offers subject to availability, E&OE. *Terms & conditions apply see machinemart.co.uk/finance for more details NEW 484 PAGE CATALOGUE GET YOUR FREE COPY! • IN-STORE • ONLINE • PHONE 0844 880 1265 35175 65 SUPERSTORES NATIONWIDE 5 EASY WAYS TO BUY... 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April/May 2024 www.pwemag.co.uk Plant & Works Engineering | 05 Editor: Aaron Blutstein t| 01732 370340 e| editorial@dfamedia.co.uk Content Sub Editor: Leslah Garland t| 01732 370340 e| leslah.garland@dfamedia.co.uk Sales Director: Damien Oxlee t| 01732 370342 e| damien.oxlee@dfamedia.co.uk Sales Manager: Andrew Jell t| 01732 370347 e| andrew.jell@dfamedia.co.uk DFA Direct: Ian Atkinson t| 01732 370340 e| ian.atkinson@dfamedia.co.uk Production Manager & Designer: Chris Davis e| chris.davis@dfamedia.co.uk Marketing Manager: Hope Jepson e| hope.jepson@dfamedia.co.uk Operations Manager: Emma Godden-Wood t| 01732 370340 e| emma.godden-wood@dfamedia.co.uk Reader/Circulation Enquiries: Perception t| +44 (0) 1825 701520 e| cs@perception-sas.com Financial: Finance Department e| accounts@dfamedia.co.uk Managing Director: Ryan Fuller e| ryan.fuller@dfamedia.co.uk Chief Executive Officer: Ian Atkinson e| ian.atkinson@dfamedia.co.uk Published by: DFA Media Group 192 The High Street, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1BE t| 01732 370340 e| info@dfamedia.co.uk w| www.pwemag.co.uk Official Supporters: Printer: Warners, UK © Copyright 2023, DFA Manufacturing Media Ltd ISSN 0262-0227 PWE is a controlled circulation magazine, published 11 times a year. Please contact DFA Media with any subscription enquiries. Paid subscriptions are also available on an annual basis at £100.00 (UK) or £170.00 (Overseas) P+P included. The content of this magazine, website and newsletters do not necessarily express the views of the Editor or publishers. The publishers accept no legal responsibility for loss arising from information in this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be produced or stored in a retrieval system without the written consent of the publishers. COMMENT 3 NEWS 6 A round-up of what’s happening in industry. INSIGHT 10 SMART MANUFACTURING & ENGINEERING WEEK/ MAINTEC 2024 PREVIEW 12 MAINTENANCE MATTERS - INCORPORATING PROBLEM SOLVER 16 Focus on: Plant & Asset Management/ CMMS Tom Cash explains how the role of condition-based maintenance (CBM) helps maintenance engineers recognise gross defects before catastrophe strikes. PROCESS, CONTROLS, & PLANT 24 Focus on: Compressed Air/ Seals, Bearings & Lubrication David De Pril, Director examines ways to consume less energy, produce more, and bring lasting benefits in terms of sustainability, profitability, and effectiveness to your compressed air applications. 30 ENERGY & ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 30 Focus on: Boilers, Burners, & Controls/ Net Zero PWE takes a look at a new system that allows customers to monitor their boiler room from any device, anywhere in the world, to optimise energy and water efficiency, and ensure regulatory compliance. HANDLING & SAFETY MATTERS 34 Focus on: Health & Safety In environments like loading and unloading areas, where safety is paramount, companies face a dual challenge of meeting operational demands while ensuring employee well-being. Wouter Satijn explains further. SPECIAL FOCUS 36 Hire Equipment PRODUCTS & SERVICES DIRECTORY 42 Contents 12 36 28 30 BCAS official media partner Subscribe for your FREE copy now
News 6 | Plant & Works Engineering www.pwemag.co.uk April/May 2024 A recent report by RS, a global provider of industrial product and service solutions, in collaboration with The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS), sheds light on the current landscape for professionals involved in maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) procurement. Titled ‘Maintaining Focus,’ the 2024 Indirect Procurement Report marks the seventh annual survey of its kind, drawing insights from a diverse pool of global participants representing various sectors such as manufacturing, public sector, energy, logistics & retail, transport, defence, and technology. The respondents, ranging from operational to senior and directorial roles, provided valuable perspectives on prevalent challenges and emerging trends in the field. This year’s survey notably saw a substantial increase in participation from the UK and Ireland, with 323 respondents, including a significant number of younger individuals and first-time participants. Moreover, a higher-thanusual percentage of smaller and medium-sized enterprises contributed to the survey, enriching its breadth and depth. Key themes that emerged from the survey underscored the enduring challenges faced by MRO procurement professionals, including talent attraction, adverse macroeconomic conditions, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns, and technological advancements. Among the top challenges cited were the imperative to ensure sustainable and ethical procurement practices, enhance asset performance, and navigate reduced operational budgets. Pressures related to inventory cost reduction and the escalation of indirect material expenses, such as MRO supplies, also featured prominently. Emma Botfield, managing director for the UK & Ireland at RS, expressed optimism regarding the heightened engagement of procurement professionals in addressing critical business issues, particularly amidst financial pressures. Botfield emphasised the enduring commitment to the ESG agenda among firms, noting the pivotal role of procurement teams in translating intentions into actionable strategies. The survey revealed a noteworthy willingness among respondents to invest in more sustainable products, with 82% indicating a readiness to pay a premium. Helen Alder, head of knowledge and learning development at CIPS, interpreted this as a positive shift towards long-term thinking, albeit amidst persistent pressure to deliver cost savings and navigate short-term upheavals. Despite the commendable strides towards sustainability, procurement professionals face multifaceted challenges, including the management of aging assets and risks associated with counterfeit products. Botfield stressed the importance of fostering robust relationships across the organisation, particularly with engineering teams, to identify and prioritise investment needs effectively. Effective supplier management emerged as a linchpin for procurement success, necessitating a re-evaluation of supplier portfolios and enhanced communication strategies. Botfield highlighted the complexity of these issues and underscored the value of trusted partnerships in navigating them effectively. The report paints a nuanced picture of the MRO procurement landscape, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for professionals in the field. The full 2024 Indirect Procurement report can be found at: https://uk.rsonline.com/web/content/m/indirectprocurement-report Report highlights challenges and opportunities for MRO procurement professionals Pump industry excellence acknowledged at 2024 awards ceremony The British Pump Manufacturers Association (BPMA) recently hosted its annual Pump Industry Awards presentation at St George’s Park in Staffordshire. With a notable increase in submissions across eight categories, this year’s event showcased outstanding entries from various sectors within pump manufacturing and distribution. The evening underscored achievements in business and professional standards within the industry. Martin Bayfield, former England and British & Irish Lions rugby player, provided entertainment, underscoring the return to in-person gatherings. The event fostered networking opportunities, reinforcing the significance of personal connections within the sector. Dale Croker, Managing Director of KSB in the UK and BPMA President, opened the ceremony by commending finalists for their contributions to innovation, skills development, and service delivery. He highlighted BPMA’s role in advocating for regulatory frameworks conducive to operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Wayne Rose, BPMA Director and CEO, expressed satisfaction with the event’s engagement, emphasising its role in recognising industry achievements. He praised the quality of submissions and reiterated the importance of the awards in supporting the pump sector. Bob Tichband, Chief Operating Officer at SPP Pumps, a long-standing supporter of BPMA, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the association’s support for UK pump manufacturers. SPP Pumps received the prestigious ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ award for the second consecutive year and the ‘Rising Star’ accolade for employee Ben Warren.
News April/May 2024 www.pwemag.co.uk Plant & Works Engineering | 07 The winners of the eight categories, recognising achievements up to December 2023, were announced as follows: Product of the Year: CREST PUMPS – Assoma AVF-C Pump Project of the Year: KSB and Cornish Metals – South Crofty Tin Mine Environmental Contribution of the Year: BEDFORD PUMPS – Indonesia Flood Mitigation Project Manufacturer of the Year: SPP Pumps Distributor of the Year: Anglo Pumps Supplier of the Year: EMiR Software Contribution to Skills & Training: JOHN CRANE – DISCOVER Graduate Engineers Programme Rising Star Award: Ben Warren – SPP PUMPS Additionally, a charitable donation was made to WaterAid, reflecting the industry’s commitment to social responsibility. Experts urge for comprehensive skills strategy at National Manufacturing Summit Industry experts convened at The National Manufacturing Summit 2024 held at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry, UK, to address the need of a comprehensive skills strategy to keep pace with innovation in the manufacturing sector. The summit, which took place on the 14th of March, brought together leaders from the UK’s advanced manufacturing industry to deliberate on the future workforce needs. Discussions centred on addressing the ongoing labour shortage and devising strategies to upskill the existing workforce. Among the prominent organisations represented were the MTC, Lloyds Bank, Dell Technologies, Drone Major, Data Shack, Epicor, and Schneider Electric. The event attracted over 400 stakeholders and manufacturing experts in attendance, with an additional 6000 participants engaging online throughout the day. Central to the deliberations was the role of automation in complementing the future workforce and the importance of preparing employees now to seamlessly adopt future technologies, thereby ensuring that the next generation of engineers possesses the requisite skills. A noteworthy aspect of the summit was the involvement of schools from Coventry and Warwickshire, with 45 students aged 14-17 given the opportunity to participate in the discussions and tour the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre (AMTC). Additionally, attendees, including students, had the chance to meet Richard Browning, founder of Gravity Industries, and witness first-hand the company’s technology, alongside the latest advancements in drone technologies. Dr. Graham Hoare, CEO of MTC, remarked on the Government’s Advanced Manufacturing Plan as a positive step towards fostering innovation in the sector. However, he emphasised the urgent need for the workforce to adapt to the rapidly changing technological landscape. Dr. Hoare stressed the importance of both training a new generation of workers and upskilling and reskilling the existing workforce to meet the evolving demands of the industry. He called for industry leaders to collaborate with academia and relevant training providers to outline a comprehensive strategy in this regard. The National Manufacturing Summit, an annual event launched in 2021, serves as a platform for UK manufacturers to exchange best practices, knowledge, and strategic insights. The British Compressed Air Society (BCAS) has appointed Terry Collier as its Learning and Development Officer. Terry joins BCAS with significant experience in the delivery of training programmes, gained in a variety of roles within industry and the public sector, most recently as Apprenticeship Manager at Celsa Steel UK. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Leadership & Management (FInstLM), an Associate Member of CIPD (AssocCIPD) and holds an MBA and a diploma in Human Resource Management. Terry’s first area of focus concerns the NVQ requirements for the CSCS card scheme, which is necessary for BCAS members working in the construction sector. In addition, he plans to develop the BCAS Compressed Air and Vacuum Technician apprenticeship scheme further. BCAS appoints Terry Collier dedicated, industry-approved course that delivers the specific engineering skills required in the compressed air and vacuum industry. The BCAS board, with the support and expertise from Terry, will be working with BCAS members to help achieve suitable apprenticeship funding and to attract engineers into the sector. With compressed air used so extensively, in applications across the manufacturing sector, keeping pace with changing industry demands is vital. BCAS has long been recognised as a provider of training and development for engineers, technical professionals and users of compressed air. Through its eLearning portal, it is helping to deliver relevant training direct to users. Terry will therefore work on the development of further training courses to help BCAS members, their employees and customers to keep abreast The Scheme was first launched in 2021 in response to demand from BCAS members for a
News 08 | Plant & Works Engineering www.pwemag.co.uk April/May 2024 Make UK published its first quarter manufacturing outlook and revised economic forecasts recently which threw up some interesting findings. At a headline level the results were mixed, with anaemic growth forecast for the sector in the next two years in the face of a flat UK economy and weak conditions in overseas markets, especially in Europe where Germany is in recession. However, despite this, confidence levels among companies remain robust, with investment and recruitment intentions holding up. However, what was most striking is that, while the overall picture is weak, it masks stark sectoral and regional imbalances. Electronics, aerospace and food and drink are powering ahead, whilst the South East and Wales are performing substantially better than other regions and devolved Nations. This highlights that there is now a direct link between sectoral and regional performance, as electronics and food and drink are the largest and second largest sectors respectively in the South East, while Wales has a very large aerospace supply chain. According to Make UK, these imbalances for both sectors, Nations and regions are now becoming permanent, with the strong performance of manufacturing in the South East yet further evidence that levelling up is failing to address regional economic imbalances. Given the rate at which industry is accelerating its use of digital technologies the electronics sector is set to grow even faster while food and drink is the biggest manufacturing sector, accounting for 14% of total manufacturing output. With the investment in cleaner and greener aerospace travel, not to mention the current huge order books for new aircraft and a very likely increase in defence spending the aerospace sector is also likely to see continued significant growth. Wales in particular is likely to benefit from the growth in aerospace given its large supply chain and the fact manufacturing overall accounts for a fifth of the Welsh economy, the highest percentage of any UK devolved Nation or English Region. Looking forward, these imbalances are going to be a major challenge for the next Government of whatever colour as part of any industrial strategy. By MAKE UK chief executive, Stephen Phipson MAKE uk - the manufacturers’ organisation monthly news comment of the latest changes in the compressed air and vacuum industry – from legislative updates to best practice, to health and safety. In conjunction with the ongoing development of new apprenticeships, Terry will also be exploring a new coaching and mentoring course, which will be designed to help BCAS members develop apprentices to their full potential. ERIKS Industrial Services and Festo UK & Ireland are celebrating the 25th anniversary of their partnership with a host of activities that will develop the relationship further and continue to grow business for their mutual benefit. The two businesses started working with each other in the 1990s, firstly at a local level but as Paul Lynch, Chief Commercial Officer for UK & Ireland at ERIKS commented: “We wanted to become a national presence in the UK with a pneumatics offering and we wanted that brand to be Festo due to the quality of their products. Festo were looking, for the first time, at what they could achieve by embracing distribution, which wasn’t part of their DNA, and so both businesses took a leap of faith on each other and here we are 25 years later celebrating our silver wedding anniversary.” The full catalogue of Festo’s standard products is available via ERIKS with the fast-moving products stocked at their FCE (Fulfilment Centre of Expertise) in Oldbury as well as the range of configurable products. A recent area of development has been the addition of energy saving services such as compressed air audits that the two businesses are working closely on. Andy Parker-Bates, Relationship Development Manager at Festo highlighted other initiatives where the two businesses are combining their strengths: “We recently had 12 of ERIKS’ sales team take part in their P111 Fundamentals in Pneumatics training course at our Northampton facility which enables them to provide a first line of support to the customers and we also train many of ERIKS’ end users either at our HQ on at their own site.” Over the years there have been a number of firsts achieved as a result of the partnership. ERIKS was Festo’s first £1 million annual spend account in the UK and the first distributor to spend £1 million pounds annually. It was also the first EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) Distributor for Festo and there has been a “Logistics revolution” according to Paul Lynch, which in the early years saw Festo products transported daily from Northampton to Halesowen and then out to the local branch network. “That was seen as cutting edge back in the day” says Paul “but now we are not reliant on a local branch network to deliver products. We have removed that obstacle from our system, and we now ship directly overnight from the FCE which is the Amazon-type experience people now expect. “Rather than unpacking boxes our local teams are now focused on helping customers solve supply chain and technical challenges. They have the time and the knowledge to understand their customers’ businesses and to solve their problems practically and quickly”. Of the future relationship, Swapnil Khedekar, Head of operations at Festo UK and Ireland said: “Distribution is a big part of our global strategy going forward, but we have some big topics ahead of us in relation to both technology change, the move away from pneumatics to electrical systems and the shift in terms of knowledge, not just for specifying the parts but also how to maintain them in the future. The work we are doing with ERIKS helps us address these topics.” Andy Parker-Bates, Relationship Development Manager added: “In pneumatics our future direction is more around intelligence, capability and the monitoring and control of compressed air. To be able to benefit from that end users need to be able to work with partners that have got those skills. Last year we had an ‘automation day’ which ERIKS attended, and this enabled them to assist customers in those areas. It’s an area we are developing together.” ERIKS & Festo celebrate partnership 25th Anniversary
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10 | Plant & Works Engineering www.pwemag.co.uk April/May 2024 Insight The Wi-Fi 6E successor is here, and it promises to significantly boost the speed and stability of your wireless connections. With rapid speeds, enhanced capacity and lower latency, Wi-Fi 7 is set to improve the way we connect and protect. However, it’s not just our homes where it will have an impact. Wi-Fi 7, also known as IEEE 802.11be Extremely High Throughput EHT, marks the next phase in the evolution of wireless technology. It ensures faster speeds, improved stability and enhanced security, also involving Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA4) support. WPA4 builds upon the foundations laid by its predecessor, WPA3, which implemented vast improvements in encryption and authentication methods. The security certification, with Wi-Fi 7, is further bolstering wireless network security, where digital threats are becoming more frequent and sophisticated. Interestingly, manufacturers have been implementing pre-certified Wi-Fi 7 chipsets in devices since 2022, so let’s explore how manufacturers can benefit from Wi-Fi 7 or at least start the upgrading process — even if they’re a wireless standard or two behind. Cyber security A recent report by Guardz, a cybersecurity company, which analysed small and medium enterprises (SMEs), revealed that 57 per cent of SMEs have experienced a cybersecurity breach. The survey also revealed that 31% of respondents stated that their business had been targeted by a breach in the past 12 months alone. With manufacturers wanting to secure their operations, Wi-Fi 7 integrates a significant security feature — called Multi-Link Operation (MLO). This allows multiple radios inside a device to talk to another device at the same time but across different radio bands. In an industrial setting, Internet of Things (IoT) devices often have limited processing power and memory, making traditional security measures challenging to implement directly on the devices themselves. MLO allows for the integration of security controls across various layers of the IoT ecosystem, including network gateways, cloud platforms and edge computing devices. For example, implementing firewalls, multifactor authentication and data encryption shields production data from cyber threats. This approach ensures that security measures are distributed throughout the IoT infrastructure, providing in-depth defence against potential threats. Scaling up Plant managers know better than most how essential a reliable internet connection is when it comes to productivity, efficiency and overall business performance. This means that they will want to know exactly where else this new Wi-Fi update will impact their business-critical processes. The improved rate of data transmission and reduced latency will enhance the capabilities of IoT devices, meaning that warehouses and facilities are still leveraging the data from smart devices. Improved data transmission allows cloudbased processes to work faster and support greater capacity, making it ideal for businesses looking to scale their operations. Wi-Fi 7’s reduced latency also ensures workers across sites remain connected, coupled with fewer outages. For example, Wi-Fi 7’s high throughput and low latency will be particularly useful for robotics in manufacturing. This comes as the specification supports more connections per access point than previous iterations, making it perfect for factories with thousands of devices. Pathway to Wi-Fi 7 Therefore, it is no surprise that confidence is growing when investing in wireless technology. According to WBA Annual Industry Report 2024, more than 41 per cent of respondents plan to deploy Wi-Fi 7 by the end of 2024, with Wi-Fi 7, 6E and 6 at the top of the wireless technologies list. What’s more, the biggest driver for Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E adoption has been enterprise digitalisation initiatives. However, for manufacturers looking to advance their cloud computing, security and scalability, the role of a knowledgeable automation parts supplier is crucial. By offering Wi-Fi 7 compatible hardware, such as routers, access points and IoT devices, manufacturers can upgrade their infrastructure for improved data transmission rates and reduced latency reliably. For further information please visit: https://foxmere.com/ What Wi-Fi 7 means for manufacturing Tom Cash, from automation parts supplier, Foxmere, explores some of the potential industrial applications for Wi-Fi 7.
Insight April/May 2024 www.pwemag.co.uk Plant & Works Engineering | 11 The dangers posed by combustible dust are so potentially serious that implementing the minimum safety measures of a mitigation plan and risk assessment are either legally required or highly recommended for most production facilities around the world – even those where the likelihood of an explosion is incredibly small. This makes being familiar with the specific standards and codes in your region – or regions, given the inevitable geographical variations – vital. In the EU, two main directives are legally required, with ATEX 153 outlining minimum requirements for the health and safety of employees, and ATEX 114 ensuring that equipment suppliers such as Donaldson provide the most-effective solutions to make potentially explosive atmospheres safer. Previously known as ATEX 137 or the ‘social’ or ‘workplace’ directive, ATEX 153 1999/92/EC requirements oblige employers to evaluate the potential risk at their premises, whether or not explosive dust is likely. Assuming they have sufficient knowledge, this risk assessment can be performed – on a regular basis – by the employer’s own Health & Safety personnel, using the checklist in Article 8 of the Directive to help address current combustible dust risks. Integrating risk-mitigation planning may well reduce financial outlay while keeping the explosion risk-assessment process on track. And, while the most advanced mitigation technologies may have higher initial price tags, when compared with the overall cost of a combustion event, including the potential loss of life resulting from secondary explosions, premium options that reduce downtime, cleanup and damage will invariably seem much-less expensive in the long-term. From a legislative viewpoint, the most important aspect is to maintain all explosionprevention documentation, highlighting the steps and mitigations that were (or were not) taken, should an incident occur. An assessment involves classifying the factory into zones, differentiating between gas or dust explosion risks and their potential likelihood. Harmonized standards from the EN60079 series outline this classification, ranging from No Risk where there is no potential gas or dust atmosphere in the factory, through Zone 22 (or Zone 2 for gas) where the risk may be present for up to 10 hours per year, Zone 21 (Zone 1 for gas) where there is danger for up to 1000 hours per year, and finally Zone 20 (Zone 0 for gas) where there is frequent or continuous risk. Bear in mind that any major changes or new processes – perhaps as a result of increased production rates or advancements in technology – will require a new explosion protection document, so identifying any future plans for remodelling or expansion will be extremely worthwhile. Should process changes lead to the need for a different ATEX certification, equipment can be modified but will need recertification from a notified body or expert to ensure CE conformity. Constructor’s challenge A prime example of Zone 20 would be the constant dust cloud inside a dust collector (see Figure 1). This highlights the importance of ensuring that any such equipment – including protective systems such as isolation devices, safety devices such as overload protection devices, or components such as vent ducts – is fully compliant with ATEX 114 Directive 2014/34/EU (formerly ATEX 95). By compelling constructors to carry out an Ignition Hazard Analysis, evaluating the risk level of hot surfaces, flames and hot gasses, mechanically generated sparks and static electricity, etc, end-users can rest assured that the equipment they install is not a potential ignition source. In legislative terms, there is again a distinction made in terms of dust zoning and gas zoning, as well as underground (Group I) and aboveground (Group II) equipment. As a leading manufacturer of Group II equipment, Donaldson can selfdeclare equipment providing the lowest (Normal) level of protection for gas and dust (3G or 3D), as well as for non-electrical aspects of the High (2G or 2D) level equipment. A notified body is responsible for approval of its electrical systems, however, and for all aspects of the top level of protection. This Very High (1G or 1D) category ensures that no ignition source is present during normal operation, as well as in the event of malfunctions. And it is at this point where the two ATEX directives intertwine, with the specific level of protection required for operation in a previously specified zone now becoming apparent. So, for example, Zone 22, the lowest dust danger zone, will require 3D-level equipment, while 1D protection will be needed in Zone 20. Manufacturers, of course, are also obliged to supply equipment with the correct markings and provide clear information on any residual risks, safe use and any limits. Conforming equipment will clearly display ATEX identification in the form of the hexagon, followed by numbers stating the equipment group (e.g. II for above ground) and the safety category (e.g. 1 for Zone 20/0), plus the letter D or G to signify the type of explosive atmosphere. The next two sets of markings verify the dust group (combustible, conductive or non-conductive) and temperature class. For further information please visit: https://www.donaldson.com/ ATEX compliance keeps combustible dust explosions at bay Melina Diaz, Product Engineering Manager at Donaldson, outlines the steps required to comply with legislation designed to ensure workplaces are optimally placed to minimise the possibility of combustible dust creating an explosion risk. Figure 1: example of zoning dust collector
12 | Plant & Works Engineering www.pwemag.co.uk April/May 2024 Smart Manufacturing & Engineering Week 2024 Preview Across its two halls, six exhibitions, two summits and eight education theatres Smart Manufacturing & Engineering Week 2024 (SM&E Week) addresses the key issues that concern manufacturing and engineering businesses, irrespective of the market sector they serve. The main themes that the wide-ranging event covers are innovation, the supply chain, sustainability, digital transformation and people and skills. To those familiar with SM&E Week it will come as no surprise that education and peer to peer learning plays an important role. This year Maintec has its own dedicated Solutions Theatre that will host a keynote address on each day of the event as well as a schedule of end user led sessions and new technology presentations with a particular focus on how AI AI takes centre stage at Smart Manufacturing & Engineering Week The live events for Smart Manufacturing & Engineering Week 2024 take place at the NEC, Birmingham on the 5th and 6th June. PWE takes a look at what visitors can expect both at the event overall and particularly at Maintec. technology is beginning to permeate the maintenance sector. The Maintec Solutions Theatre Keynote address on 5th June is presented by Jonathan Peedell, Head of Maintenance at Bentley Motors. Jonathan’s presentation, The implementation of a Smart world – seamlessly integrating new and old will look at the continued use of standalone and nonconnected equipment and its place in a costconscious Industry 4.0 factory. The presentation will cover wireless and smart sensor technology and how best to make a timely implementation without expensive changes to hardware and software. How to integrate new and old technology and how to continue using old equipment but make it smart and wirelessly connected. Plus, how to make use of Data to create an AI driven, predictable maintenance model for both new and old assets. On day two of the event, 6th June, the Keynote will be delivered by Philip Dewson, Head of Maintenance and Facilities at Brompton Bicycle. Philip’s talk is on the subject of Beyond Bolts and Bearings: Holistic facilities and maintenance management and impact on culture. This presentation unveils a transformative approach to facilities and maintenance management and how to foster a thriving organisational culture to in turn discover how a diverse and innovative maintenance and facilities team can go beyond fixing equipment and impact culture and the bottom line. As well as these keynote addresses there is a full schedule of presentations in the Maintec Solutions Theatre. For example, ERIKS’ Lewis
10.00am Tuesday 11th June - Are robots a worthwhile investment for SMEs? 10.00am Tuesday 10th September - Machine safety: what are the latest regulations? 10.00am Tuesday 12th November - How smart maintenance can slash operating costs? Contact us for more information: Damien Oxlee T: 01732 370342 E: damien.oxlee@dfamedia.co.uk
14 | Plant & Works Engineering www.pwemag.co.uk April/May 2024 Smart Manufacturing & Engineering Week 2024 Preview Bratcher will share the findings of The Maintenance, Repair and Operations Supply Chain, a recently published report that highlights problems and opportunities in the engineering stores, MRO procurement and supply chain arena. There are also many presentations addressing the exciting developments happening in the maintenance sector regarding AI. Ankush, Malhotra, President of Fluke Reliability, will present on the topic of Revolutionising Maintenance: Harnessing AI for Predictive Maintenance and Enhanced Efficiency while Charles, Wright, Director of Data & AI, Columbus will deliver a talk on Simplifying AI Adoption in Manufacturing. Exhibitors SM&E Week brings together a wide variety of the most influential organisations in the sector – from giant global businesses to SMEs to Trade bodies to Startups. Premier partners for the 2024 event include Charter Controls, 3M, Abdex Hose and Couplings, Amazon RME, Binder UK, ELGi Compressors SRL, Emerson Process Management Shared Services, ERIKS Industrial Services Ltd, ETA Enclosures, igus UK, Jenny Science AG, SMC Corporation, Teseo SRL, Lutze and Wurth Electronics. A notable element of the planning for SM&E Week is the advisory council that the organisers bring together. The council includes representatives from the event’s Strategic Partners such as the British Manufacturing Consortium; The Centre for Compressor Technology; the iMechE; Engineering UK; GAMBICA; IED; BFPA; IFM University of Cambridge; The Manufacturer, Made Smarter. These organisations collectively steer the educational element of SM&E Week, ensuring that presenters are addressing the crucial topics that people are interested in and in most cases, they have exhibition stands themselves so that they can talk to their members or answer questions from visitors. The charity partner for SM&E Week is, once again, Engineers Without Borders UK, an organisation focused on ensuring that globally responsible engineering is taught as a principle on engineering degree courses and used within industry. Co-located events As mentioned at the beginning of the article there is a whole host of related activities and attractions taking place during Smart Manufacturing & Engineering Week. Central to SM&E Week are the exhibitions, of which there are three taking place in Hall 4. Of great importance to PWE readers is the newly invigorated Maintec, the UK’s longest standing exhibition dedicated to the maintenance, reliability and asset management industry. To ensure that Maintec visitors access the information they want there will also be a ‘Maintenance Safety Trail’ which visitors can follow to ensure they see the right businesses and technologies dedicated to ensuring maintenance is conducted safely. Also in hall 4 is Smart Factory Expo which is designed to allow manufacturers to be the most efficient, the most sustainable, and the most profitable in the world and where visitors can find the insights, the solutions, and the connections for their digital transformation projects. Similar to Maintec a ‘Cyber Zone Trail’ will be part of the exhibition directing visitors to the technologies and solutions that address cyber threats and the real threat of cyber-attack that manufacturers and other large scale digitally focused businesses face. The Design & Engineering Expo is also in Hall 4 and, as so much at the event, it focuses on innovation so that design and engineering professionals who want to reduce costs, streamline and optimise future design and engineering strategy can find what they need. A major addition to SM&E Week in 2024 are the exhibitions taking place in Hall 5. Preregistration ensures seamless access to all the exhibitions mentioned in this article with a single badge and for 2024 this includes Drives & Controls, Fluid Power & Systems and Air-Tech. Drives & Controls has always been a major exhibition and this year it will be enhanced by being part of SM&E Week. Drives and Controls traditionally brings together suppliers of state-of-the-art equipment covering critical areas such as energy efficiency, machine safety, drives, motors, motion control, robotics and automation and much more. Also in Hall 5 is the Fluid Power & Systems exhibition that focuses on hydraulic and pneumatic equipment for the industrial and mobile markets. This event is endorsed by the British Fluid Power Association who will also have an exhibition stand to meet with its members to discuss their education, training and other needs. Finally, in Hall 5, the Air Tech exhibition focuses on the compressed air, generator and vacuum markets. As you would expect, these exhibitions contain their own educational theatres and are strong additions to the events of the week. As well as the events mentioned in this article taking place at the NEC at the same time are other relevant events including the UK Garage & Bodyshop event run by Messe Frankfurt; Med-Tech Innovation Expo and TCT 3Sixty from Rapid News Group and Subcon from the Mark Allen Group. For further information please visit: https://www.mandeweek.co.uk/
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