In industrial facilities, electric motors drive everything from conveyor belts to fans and compressors. Now, with the cost of energy rising, manufacturers are trying to find new ways to reduce consumption - and motors are in the spotlight. Here Tom Cash, director of automation parts supplier Foxmere, explains how manufacturers can improve motor control through the use of soft starters, variable frequency drives (VFDs) and DC motors.

Stephen Hayes, managing director of automation and control technology specialist Beckhoff UK, explains the role of advanced automation in helping warehouses achieve seamless fulfilment across all sales channels.

When the requirements of a specific flow application or the industrial process demands cannot be adequately met by a standard flow meter, Titan Enterprises is often able to develop optimised solutions, with examples being dual-flow meters for the beverage industry.

Food safety specialist Fortress Technology analyses the dairy industry's role in enhancing global food security through sustainable production, particularly in the rapidly expanding global milk powder market.

Schneider Electric has launched the new ultra-compact Lexium SCARA (Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm), a high-speed industrial robot, part of its industrial automation portfolio.

Mettler-Toledo Product Inspection has extended its Combination inspection portfolio with the launch of new CM (checkweighing and metal detection) and CX (checkweighing and x-ray) Combination Systems.

Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Solutions (WMFTS) will showcase its diverse product range during the PPMA Show, highlighting its peristaltic and sinusoidal pumps which enable companies to optimise efficiencies and increase productivity while reducing energy costs, water use and waste with shear-sensitive pumping.

With challenges to traditional agricultural approaches continuing, including a reduced workforce, the sector will increasingly rely on robotics and automation. This shift is raising the dependence on motion systems, based around DC motor technology, to power these new agricultural systems. maxon's Martin Leahy explains.

At Hannover Messe 2024, Siemens unveiled the first generative AI product tailored for engineering in an industrial environment, called the Siemens Industrial Copilot. Tom Cash, director of automation parts supplier Foxmere, explains how the shift from theory to practical application of generative AI-powered tools will benefit engineers.

EAO announces the launch of its new Series 46 EcoTouch product line. This all-inclusive range of industrial-rated switches offers a comprehensive variety of reliable 22mm raised and 30mm flush mount switches that are easy to assemble and are a cost-effective option for harsh and aggressive environments.