manufacturers' monthly magazine, july 2012 issue

A Member of The Linde Group

manmonthly.com.au ANALYSIS >> TECHNOLOGY >> SOLUTIONS

Est. 1961

MANAGEMENT >> Workplace SafetyLimiting workers’ exposure to airborne hazards p.16

July 2012

Prin

t Pos

t App

rove

d PP

2550

03/0

0324

INSIDEIndustry News & Comment >> Coming Events >> New Products

>> Metal Working >> Automation & Robotics >> Production Software

>> Compressors & Pneumatics >> Materials Handling

M A N M . J U L 1 2 . P G 0 0 1 . p d f P a g e 1 1 8 / 0 6 / 1 2 , 1 0 : 0 0 A M

243Loctite® 243™ Since inventing the first threadlocker in 1953 Loctite has been the industry leader in threadlocking technology. The new generation 243 medium strength threadlocker offers improved performance on inactive surfaces, better oil resistance and higher temperature resistance.

Just 1 of over 5,000 Loctite products providing infinite solutions

STRENGTH IN BRAND STRENGTH IN PRODUCT STRENGTH IN INNOVATION STRENGTH IN SUPPORT

To view our complete range of products and receive your FREE Loctite Wallchart

Visit loctite.com.au/MM

LOC0004 297X235 243 MM FA indd 1 22/02/12 12:03 PM

A D _ M A N M H E N J U L _ 1 2 _ F C . p d f P a g e 1 1 5 / 0 6 / 1 2 , 2 : 2 8 P M

manmonthly.com.au Manufacturers’ Monthly JULY 2012 3

Inside JULY 2012

Behind the cover

AFFORDABLE PROFILE CUTTINGPCS3000SR.

��

Phone: +61 (03) 9305 2555 Website: www.profilecuttingsystems.com

100%AUSTRALIANMANUFACTURED

For daily news visit manmonthly.com.au

Associate PublisherMartin [email protected] EditorAlan Johnson Ph: (02) 9422 2325 Fax (02) 9422 2722 [email protected] EditorAnnie Dang Ph: (02) 9422 2964 Fax (02) 9422 2722 [email protected] Welsh Ph: (02) 9422 2898 Fax (02) 9422 2722 [email protected] DesignerRonnie [email protected] DirectorJulie CoughlanProduction Co-ordinatorMary Copland Ph: (02) 9422 2738 [email protected]/Overseas SalesMichael NorthcottPO Box 3069 Eltham VIC 3095 Ph: 0448 077 247 [email protected] NSW SalesAnthony HeadTower 2, 475 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood, NSW 2067. Ph: (02) 0811 3184 Fax: (02) 9422 2722 Mobile: 0414 644 664 [email protected] SalesSharon AmosPO Box 3136, Bracken Ridge QLD 4017 Ph: (07) 3261 8857 Fax: (07) 3261 8347 Mobile: 0417 072 625 [email protected], SA/NT & WA SalesReed Business InformationPh: (02) (02) 0811 3184 [email protected]

Head Office Tower 2, 475 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood NSW 2067 Locked Bag 2999 Chatswood DC Chatswood 2067 Ph: (02) 9422 2999 Fax: (02) 9422 2966Published 11 times a year Subscriptions $140.00 per annum. (inc GST) Overseas prices applyPh: 1300 360 126Printed by Geon Impact Printing 69 – 79 Fallon Street, Brunswick VIC 3056 Ph: (03) 9387 7477

ABN 80 132 719 861Average Net Distribution Period ending March 12 15,300ISSN 0025-2530

BOC are proud to introduce the

GMA and TIG welding arc projectors,

which display the significant differ-

ence BOC shielding gases can make

to your weld.

The GMA arc projector produces

an optically-magnified arc image of a

real, live welding arc which changes

as welding parameters are changed.

The TIG arc projector utilises a

camera, and images are relayed onto

a plasma screen. An interactive dem-

onstration, it allows control over the

selection of shielding gas which in

turn shows the impact on the arc and

travel speed.

The arc projectors are housed in a

portable container and are available

for demonstrations near you.

For more information, contact

BOC on 131 262 or visit www.boc

worldofwelding.com.au

4 Editorial Why there is no cheap LNG

6 Comment Regulating electrical product

standards

8 Analysis News Innovations focus brings

rewards

Carbon tax does have a silver

lining

Expanded role for industry

16 Management Airborne hazards unmasked

19 IT@MM Middleware, bridging the gap

Siemens PLM Connections

event

Touch panel PC

ERP software

22 What’s New Latest products for Australian

manufacturers

Flange pressure transmitters

Modular valve and block

assembly system

Frequency inverters with

variance control

Swarf resistant energy chain

32 Metal Working Surviving the rise of low-cost

economies

Arc projector shows welding

effect

Durable grade option for insert

drills

38 Compressors & Pneumatics Lowering compressed air costs

Safety air guns with chip shields

44 Materials Handling Countdown revamped DC in

operation

Desktop printers for light-duty

labeling

Industrial printers with thermal

transfer capabilities

16

20

44

A Member of The Linde Group

manmonthly.com.au ANALYSIS >> TECHNOLOGY >> SOLUTIONS

Est. 1961

MANAGEMENT >> Workplace SafetyLimiting workers’ exposure to airborne hazards p.16

July 2012

Prin

t Pos

t App

rove

d PP

2550

03/0

0324

INSIDEIndustry News & Comment >> Coming Events >> New Products

>> Metal Working >> Automation & Robotics >> Production Software

>> Compressors & Pneumatics >> Materials Handling

Connecting shop floor with

management systems –

Middleware delivers increased

functionality for manufacturers.

M A N M . J U L 1 2 . P G 0 0 3 . p d f P a g e 3 2 6 / 0 6 / 1 2 , 1 : 4 0 P M

4 JULY 2012 Manufacturers’ Monthly manmonthly.com.au

■ ■ ■ ■

ALAN JOHNSON – Editor [email protected]

THE carbon tax has made

its ugly entrance onto

Australia’s economic land-

scape and is rightly hogging all

the headlines, however we can

be quietly confident that when

Tony Abbott takes over the reins

in Canberra the insidious tax

will become history.

However, this is not the case

with our LNG industry. With

electricity prices soaring, both

sides of politics seem prepared

to sell our gas off at any price

with no regard for domestic

consumption.

Australian manufacturers

depend upon reliable supplies of

energy and resources, priced com-

petitively, in order to manufac-

ture a range of vital commodities.

Despite being in abundance,

access to domestic sources of gas

by local manufacturers is often

made difficult by policy confu-

sion, perverse incentives for

international competitors and

pricing uncertainty or inconsist-

ency. It’s a shortsighted energy

policy that favours sending our

abundant natural resources over-

seas at the lowest point in their

value chain, while other nations

reap the benefits of adding value

to our resources.

James Fazzino, MD and CEO

of Incitec Pivot, says he sees

no reason why we can’t have

a vibrant LNG industry on the

back of a re-invigorated manu-

facturing industry, and also have

some of the gas available for

electricity generation.

We have ended up in this curi-

ous situation where all the gas

on the east coast of Australia is

going to be exported.

He says government on both

sides must recognise that the gas

belongs to the Australian people,

and ensure we end up with a

balanced outcome with a certain

amount set aside for local use;

for consumers and manufactur-

ers rather than just for export.

“Australia needs to look at its

sustainable competitive advantag-

es and exploit those advantages.

“If you look at China, their

advantage has been cheap

labour, but expensive energy.

We can have competitive energy

and expensive labour.”

Fazzino says the mistake we

make is believingthat the glo-

bal gas market is not a free or

fair market. He points out that

Australia has allowed four global

gas majors to take all the gas

and export it.

However, in the US for exam-

ple, President Obama has said

he will keep the vast majority of

its gas on-shore and is going to

build manufacturing off the back

of it. He has a vision of creating

600,000 new manufacturing jobs

from the gas industry.

The US has this endowment

and is leveraging it to create jobs.

One major difference between

the US and here is that the US

has around 3000 gas suppliers,

while we have four multination-

als who monopolise the industry

and sell it offshore; they

clearly don’t have Australia’s

best interests at heart, only

their shareholders.

At the moment, Incitec

Pivot is considering building

an ammonia plant somewhere

in the world. Fazzino says the

location hasn’t been decided

yet, it could be the US, but he

guarantees it won’t happen in

Australia. The difference, he

says, is the supply and the price

of gas; “the value proposition”.

He points out that if you take

gas offshore, for example, you

increase its value by three to

four times. However if the com-

pany produces a complex emul-

sion for explosives, for example,

its value is increased by 20 times.

And if you do that everyone

wins; the government gets more

tax and you build that balanced

economy and all the benefits of

local manufacturing.

“Our rule of thumb is for

every $1 we spend in the plant,

there is another $4 we spend in

the local community.”

Pollies understand the prob-

lem, but they struggle with a

solution. The problem is there is

no silver bullet, yet.

This is about creating well

paid, highly skilled jobs in the

economy and being able to pay

for that via our birthright in

this country, cheap energy – so

Australia can have its cake and

eat it too.

Both sides of politics know the question, but not the answer.

Why no cheap LNG for us?

Overseas competitors are taking advan-

tage of our cheap energy resources.

M A N M . J U L 1 2 . P G 0 0 4 . p d f P a g e 4 2 6 / 0 6 / 1 2 , 8 : 0 2 A M

Forget the pens. Think METER: www.fluke.com.au

The new Fluke 805 Vibration Meter is more than a pen. It’s a Fluke meter that gives you results you can trust, time after time.

Checks the overall vibration, bearings and temperature Ability to export and trend data Four-level scale which quickly assesses problem severity Unique sensor design ensures accurate and repeatable measurements

Contact Fluke Australia today for your demonstration:+61 2 8850 3333 [email protected]

A D _ M A N M F L U J U L _ 1 2 . p d f P a g e 1 2 1 / 0 6 / 1 2 , 3 : 2 9 P M


Getting electrical products up to standard

INNES WILLOX – CEO Australian Industry Group [email protected]

Allowing non-conforming products to saturate the market will breed non-compliant business models.

BUSINESSES manufactur-

ing and supplying products

are concerned at increasing

competition from products that

do not conform to standards and

regulatory requirements.

One recent example is an electri-

cal safety product that badly failed

the relevant standard. Competitors

highlighted the product to electri-

cal safety regulators with multiple

reports over three years before it

was eventually recalled.

However, despite the clear

dangers involved, the regulatory

burden is falling increasingly on

importers and producers who

do the right thing. And despite

government efforts on regulatory

reform in recent years, the burden

associated with business regula-

tion is rising, not falling.

This regulatory burden is being

exacerbated because non-compli-

ant products are unfairly affect-

ing the market for legitimate

product suppliers.

Concerns are heightened in cir-

cumstances where governments

move to impose cost-recovery

enforcement models on industry,

under which businesses feel they

are effectively forced to pay twice:

once to cover the cost of their

own compliance; and secondly to

fund Government enforcement on

non-compliant competitors. There

is clearly a problem with the sys-

tem when a growing number of

companies believe the benefits of

non-compliance outweigh the risk

of being penalised. This is putting

those who are adhering to the

growing regulatory burden at a

huge competitive disadvantage.

The electrical equipment indus-

try is working with regulators to

redesign the current state-based

electrical safety regulations. The

aim is to achieve harmonisation

across jurisdictions; visibility of

equipment suppliers to regulators

and consumers; and increased sur-

veillance and compliance activity.

Ai Group’s own electrical industry

awareness campaign, highlight-

ing to electrical contractors the

dangers and regulatory risks of

purchasing non-conforming prod-

ucts, has also been endorsed by all

electrical regulators.

The entire electrical equipment

supply chain, including manufac-

turers, suppliers and contractor

installers, have serious obliga-

tions under Australian law to

ensure that equipment supplied

or installed meets our compliance

and regulatory standards.

Possible solutions in the elec-

trical equipment sector include

the use of a common compliance

mark and a suggestion that elec-

trical contractors ask equipment

suppliers for proof of compliance.

The regulations in this industry

sector require suppliers to be

able to prove compliance to

product standards.

The wider issue of non-compliant

products across all industry sectors

needs to be addressed by industry

and governments at all levels.

With different regulations,

standards and compliance mecha-

nisms applying in different sec-

tors, there will not be a single

solution across all sectors or prod-

uct issues. Identifying the failure

points in each sector will provide

direction as to the solution for

that sector. Focus will need to be

maintained on areas that are regu-

lated – product safety and claims

of compliance with standards.

If governments do not prioritise

this issue, legitimate businesses

will continue to underperform and

may resort to non-compliant busi-

ness models in order to compete.

M A N M . J U L 1 2 . P G 0 0 6 . p d f P a g e 6 2 6 / 0 6 / 1 2 , 3 : 3 0 P M

Enough said.

Loctite® is the world’s #1 brand of engineering adhesives & sealants. Our solutions reduce cost and increase reliability.

It’s the name you can trust because it delivers the highest level of performance, time after time.

To view our complete range of products and receive your FREE Loctite bottle opener visit

loctite.com.au/MM

STRENGTH IN BRAND STRENGTH IN PRODUCT STRENGTH IN INNOVATION STRENGTH IN SUPPORT

LOC0004 297X235 ENOUGHSAID MM FA R indd 1 22/02/12 12:12 PM

A D _ M A N M H E N J U L _ 1 2 . p d f P a g e 1 1 5 / 0 6 / 1 2 , 2 : 3 0 P M


AnalysisNEWS

AT a time when Australia’s

manufacturing industry

is facing significant chal-

lenges, the recent opening of

ANCA Group’s new facility in

Bayswater North, Melbourne

highlights a real success story.

Officially opening the new

head office of ANCA Group sub-

sidiary, ANCA Motion, Industry

Minister Greg Combet pointed

to ANCA as a role model for the

Australian manufacturing sector

– an innovative company deliver-

ing first class products to a glo-

bal marketplace.

A leader in the design and man-

ufacture of precision machine

tools, the ANCA Group exports

over 99% of its production to the

main industrialised nations of

the world, and spends around 9%

of sales on R&D. ANCA Group

Chairman, Pat Boland, believes

advanced manufacturing requires

excellence in ability, attitude and

training at all levels. “Recent

government initiatives in support

of staff in-service training is an

excellent example of short term

and long term thinking,” he said.

Combet pointed to several gov-

ernment initiatives directed at

facilitating productivity, innova-

tion and competitiveness, includ-

ing the creation of a new $29.8m

Manufacturing Technology

Innovation Centre, and a new loss

carry-back scheme to encourage

companies to invest and inno-

vate by allowing them to offset

a current year tax loss of up to

$1m against tax paid in previous

years; a refund of up to $300,000.

Boland also emphasised the

importance of establishing a

favourable business environment

as a critical factor in successful

manufacturing. “For example

ANCA has significantly ben-

efited from the free trade agree-

ment with the US in cutting

the cost of shipping machines

to their market,” Boland told

Manufacturers’ Monthly.

The agreement with Thailand

has allowed ANCA to develop a

business model where key com-

ponents are manufactured in

Australia and lower value-adding

tasks are performed in Thailand.

Advantage can then be taken

of Thailand’s duty free agree-

ment with China, says Boland.

Innovation focus brings rewards

ANCA exports over 99% of

its production, and spends

around 9% of sales on R&D.

By Hartley Henderson

M A N M . J U L 1 2 . P G 0 0 8 . p d f P a g e 8 2 6 / 0 6 / 1 2 , 8 : 0 6 A M

BIG ASS FAN®

BIG ASS LIZARD

In Our Case, Size Really Does Matter!

Covered by one or more of the following U.S. Patents: 6,244,821; 6,589,016; 6,817,835; 6,939,108; 7,252,478; 7,284,960; 7,654,798; D587,799; D607,988 and other patents pending.

© 2010 Delta T Corporation dba The Big Ass Fan Company. All rights reserved.

100

80

60

40

20

0

240

200

160

120

80

40

060 70 80 90 100 110 120 ˚F15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 ˚C

Phys

ical P

erfo

rman

ce %

Tota

l Wor

k Do

ne ft

lbs x

100

0

NASA Physical Performance at Various Effective Temperatures*

* Effective temperature is the temperature you feel. It is a combination of temperature, humidity, and air speed.

Think one of those little fans can do the same job as a Big Ass Fan? Think again.

Just one 7.3-m Powerfoil® X Plus provides more air flow than 45 noisy pedestal fans combined at only 14% of the operating cost. The result: a more comfortable, productive workforce. Big Ass Fans can lower standard effective temperatures 5.6–11.1 degrees, reducing heat-related accidents† while improving the morale and output of your workforce.

Create a comforting breeze this summer with Powerfoil X Plus. Call (07) 5500 0690 or visit www.BigAssFans.com.au to find out how 3.1- to 7.3-m Big Ass Fans can improve the conditions in your facility.

† ASHRAE Transactions – OR94

An ISO 9001:2008 certified company.

A D _ F E N B I G O C T _ 1 0 . p d f P a g e 1 1 7 / 0 9 / 1 0 , 9 : 4 8 A M


EVENTS

JULY24-26: Queensland Mining &

Engineering (QME) Exhibition

A range of mining community-

focused events and information

sessions will be a major feature of

this year’s QME to be held at the

Mackay Showground, with related

events to be based at the Mackay

Entertainment & Convention

Centre. For more information

call Warren Queenan on 02 9422

2563 or visit www.queenslandminingexpo.com.au

26: AIP Extrusion Blow

Moulding Course

The Australian Institute of

Packaging (AIP) has announced

a new half-day training course on

the Introduction to Extrusion Blow

Moulding. The first course will be

held at the Viewpoint Centre, St

Kilda, Victoria, and will include a

presentation by industry expert

Stephen Barter. For more infor-

mation visit www.aipack.com.au

AUGUST7-9: WA Safety Show

To be held at the Perth Convention

Exhibition Centre, the show will

afford an opportunity to network

and learn from industry experts

via interactive live demonstrations,

dedicated feature areas, free semi-

nars and workshops. For more

information call 03 8672 1200 or

visit www.wasafetyshow.com

23-24: Queensland Supply

Chain & Logistics Conference

Suited to supply chain, logistics,

transport and procurement pro-

fessionals and practitioners, the

event will take place at the Sofitel

Hotel Brisbane. Further informa-

tion and registration details can

be found at www.qldscc.com

28-30: Mining & Engineering

(M&E) NSW Exhibition

A range of mining community-

focused events and information

sessions will be a major feature

of this year’s M&E NSW exhibi-

tion, to be held at the Newcastle

Entertainment Centre. For more

information call Warren Queenan

on 02 9422 2563 or visit www.miningandengineeringnsw.com.au

AnalysisNEWS

WHILE the unpopular

carbon tax comes into

force this month it is

linked to some good news in

the form of the generous $800m

CleanTechnology Investment

Program (CTIP) specifically for

Australian manufacturers.

The goal of the merit-based

program is to support manufac-

turers to maintain competitive-

ness in a carbon constrained

economy through grants for

investment in energy efficient

capital equipment and low emis-

sion technologies, processes

and products.

Michael Ryan, Senior Finance

Broker with Finlease, says the

AusIndustry managed program is

very attractive and spells dollars

for manufacturing companies.

“It is also interesting to note the

tax benefit that flows from the

investment in terms of the depre-

ciation allowance, for example,

using a rate of 10% prime cost, a

deduction of $10,000 is claimable

for every $100,000 in value,” Ryan

told Manufacturers’ Monthly.

“With the 50% grant contribu-

tion plus the depreciation deduc-

tion (on full value) it makes this

opportunity very attractive.”

Mark Gadd, MD of Autonomous

Energy agrees saying this is

really great news for manufactur-

ers, but warns companies should

move quickly.

“From past experience, with

similar programs, the further

into a program the harder it is to

get the money,” he said.

In terms of rebate, Gadd

explains there is an applicant

to grant ratio of either one for

one, or two for one, depending

on turnover, or three for one for

projects over $10m.

“Typically it’s one for one for

companies with an annual turno-

ver of less than $100m, or two for

one if the turnover is higher,” he


Gadd says under the program,

areas of energy saving are very

wide ranging.

“It all depends on what type of

equipment is being upgraded but

lighting is probably the area with

most scope.

“Lighting in most manufactur-

ing plants is inefficient, and there

are some large savings there,

larger than people might think.

“It’s also a more certain energy

efficiency saving, rather than

calculating energy savings in

upgrades to process controls

and high efficiency motors for

example.”

With energy efficiency, Gadd

says it’s really site specific.

“There is not much point in

having a top 10 list of things to

do. You need a professional ener-

gy audit to show exactly how and

where energy can be saved, and

what the costs and savings are,

with the potential for very short

ROIs,” he said.

Getting the moneyGadd says his company offers a

range of products and services

that can be funded by the pro-

gram. “Firstly we determine their

eligibility, that’s just a simple

phone call.

“Then if the company already

has plans for more energy effi-

cient motors and/or lighting, or

other areas, we can work with

them to apply for CTIP funding

or we can work with them to plan

an energy efficiency or renew-

able energy project, including

project design, specifications,

cost feasibility, operating per-

formance requirements. We will

conduct the energy and emission

savings which is a key part of the

application as well as develop

project milestones and budgets.

“The energy and emission sav-

ings can be in the form of an

energy audit, but doesn’t have

to be. In terms of getting the

best energy efficiency options,

an energy audit is the best place

to start, but some clients might

already have done that.

“The cost of the energy audit

can be applied for as part of the

CTIP, in addition to that some

states have their own subsidy pro-

grams for energy audits,” he said.

Another option for reducing

energy consumption and emis-

sions, which is often overlooked

and eligible under CTIP, is solar

photovoltaics (PV), says Gadd.

“The financials on solar PV

have changed dramatically in the

past couple of years and is now

far more feasible than a lot of

other energy efficiency options.

“The costs associated with solar

PV and the costs associated with

the electricity generated by solar

PV are very predictable unlike

gas or co-gen for example.

“In our analysis of solar PV we

have found it much more cost

effective from day one than co-

gen. Once we include the CTIP

funding, we are looking at a ROI

of just over three years, with an

average KW/hr cost of just 2.9c,

compared with today’s electric-

ity costs of 18c per KW/hr. That’s

over a 20 year period.

“These figures apply to any

size manufacturer as the systems

are entirely modular. Size is

determined by roof space and

budget and how much energy

the company is using.

“We don’t oversize the system,

we try to match it to energy

demand. It’s grid interactive,

so if the company is using more

electricity than it is generating,

it’s imported from the grid, if the

solar panels are generating more

than required the electricity is

sold back to the grid,” he said.

Gadd admits that different

levels of electricity will be gen-

erated per year, but says it is

feasible right across Australia.

This is because manufacturers

have large roofs, plus most of

their electricity load is during

the daytime when the solar pan-

els produce electricity, he says.

Up to $800m set to flow

into manufacturers’ coffers.

By Alan Johnson

Carbon tax does have a silver lining

M A N M . J U L 1 2 . P G 0 1 0 . p d f P a g e 1 0 2 6 / 0 6 / 1 2 , 8 : 0 7 A M

ALL WEATHER RANGE 2012

Shown ACE Day/Night High Visibility Flying Jacket - in Orange/Navy (CWIN0051DN)

TRUST ACE FORQuality

Value

Protection

BLA458/0212/INT

Call now for your free ACE 2012 All Weather Range Catalogue or visit blackwoods.com.au/ace to view the catalogue and full range online

A D _ M A N M B L A 1 J U L _ 1 2 . p d f P a g e 1 2 2 / 0 6 / 1 2 , 1 : 5 5 P M


AnalysisNEWS

WHILE Queensland is

riding the resources

boom, the manufactur-

ing industry remains a key com-

ponent of the state’s GSP.

Jim Walker, CEO of QMI

Solutions, says the take out mes-

sage from the organisation’s

recent conference was that

manufacturing is alive and well

in Queensland.

“However the industry is

changing its spots in many cases.

It’s moving from straight manu-

facturing to manufacturing, serv-

ices and solutions,” Walker told

Manufacturers’ Monthly.“Those companies that are

doing well are those that are

embracing and unlocking the

potential of their organisations.

“The new Queensland

Government, the Liberal

National Party, want to build

the economy on four pillars; con-

struction, mining and resources,

and tourism.

“And while manufacturing is

not mentioned, the government

acknowledges that every supply

chain that feeds into everyone

of those pillars has a very strong

element of Australian manufac-

turing,” he said.

Walker says the resource sec-

tor offers exciting opportunities,

but warns manufacturers have to

change some of the ways they go

about their business.

“Many manufacturers have

realised there is actually more

money to be made in other parts

of the value chain, by providing

equipment, and services, to min-

ing companies.

“Successful companies contin-

ue to provide the manufactured

part, but also provide total life

cycle support,” he said.

“One well known Queensland

company has moved from being

a straight manufacturer to a

manufacturing and solutions

company with 75% of its rev-

enue now coming from providing

solutions through life support

to mining companies. The manu-

facturing part of the company

is now a cost centre. It produces

the parts so the company can

service the equipment.”

He says you just have to

look at Rolls Royce to see how

that company has changed

from an aircraft engine manu-

facturer to an integrated turbine

solution provider to the aero-

space industry.

“In fact, Rolls Royce don’t sell

engines to Boeing anymore, they

lease them power by the hour.

And if one breaks, not a problem

they come and fix it.

“That has driven far more

efficiency back into the com-

pany’s manufacturing process,

because now they are responsi-

ble for the total life cycle of that

engine, with more money to be

made in those parts of the life

cycle than just in the straight

production,” he said.

Walker says companies that are

embracing the solution concept,

not just service, are thriving.

“For example, one company

we work with in New Zealand

makes taps.

“The company has come up

with an innovative way to save

water and energy by colliding

two streams of water together so

the person having a shower gets

the feeling of more water over

their body for half the water.

Expanded role for industry

How do I nominate my MP or Industry?• Every Manufacturing and Farming Sector industry group can

participate in the National Launch or in the program itself by nominating on the AMFP website.

• Every Australian can nominate their local Member of Parliament to participate in the program – you could find a cabinet minister working beside you on the shop floor.

• All you have to do is fill in their details on the nomination page of the AMFP website.

What will the program do?• Get MPs and Senators out of Canberra and into the manufacturing

and farming industries.• Close the gap between farmers and manufacturers and their parliamentarians.• Get politicians out of their comfort zones and into the real world – your world.• Legislation is not just about economics; it’s about people, families and

communities.• Show politicians the affect legislation has on industries and the people that rely

on them.• Let them see the issues facing ordinary Australians in Manufacturing and

Farming.

Get your politicians out of their comfort zones

Senator John Madigan

Senator Nick Xenophon

Bob Katter MP

100% non partisan

100% non political

100% not for profit

National launch

Federation Mall

Parliament House Canberra

16 August 2012

Where can I find out more?www.amfp.org.au

By Alan Johnson

Manufacturers have to change

some of the ways they go

about business - Walker.

M A N M . J U L 1 2 . P G 0 1 2 . p d f P a g e 1 2 2 6 / 0 6 / 1 2 , 3 : 3 2 P M


“Now for a new building,

they don’t sell the owners taps

anymore, they provide the

‘hydraulic solution’ for water

and energy saving, and get a cut

of the savings.

“For very little extra effort,

the company is able to appro-

priate value out of a service

through knowledge of its prod-

uct,” he said.

Government’s roleRather than punitive actions

by government, Walker says we

should create an environment

where the owners of the major

mining projects are motivated to

use local industry.

“The most important require-

ment is to ensure local manu-

facturers have the capabilities,

skills and capacity required.

“There is a range of strate-

gies the government has put in

place to assist, these include us

at QMI, and MSQ plus ICN and

Enterprise Connect.

“Together we have a number

of programs, either free or heav-

ily subsidised, where we can

assist companies to make sure

they have the right processes in

place, and that they are produc-

tive and efficient, and have qual-

ity and environmental processes

in place to position them best.

“This new Queensland

government has an absolute

commitment to creating an

environment where local indus-

try can compete. Now it’s up to

local industry to make sure

they are prepared.

“There is enormous oppor-

tunity for manufacturers in

Queensland, it is a very strong

part of the economy and sup-

ports the Government’s four pil-

lars,” Walker explained.

“We have to make sure

the industry is positioned for

the future and one very impor-

tant part of that is having the

skills and capacity, and that

is what our recent conference

‘Making Queensland’s Future’

was all about.

“Manufacturers need to

address four key issues to sur-

vive: having the right skills to

meet demand; ensuring their

processes are efficient; having

the capability to deliver; and

looking for innovative ways to

improve business,” he said.

FOR YOUR NEAREST DISTRIBUTOR PLEASE CONTACT BOGE HEAD OFFICE: (03) 5940 3266

Discover the BOGE edge:www.boge.net.au

The BOGE brand:First-Class-Engineering made in Germany


Dex

iD

ex®®n®on®

is a

is a

reg

regi

stee

isre

d

etr

adrad

emar

emar

k of

k of

Dex

Dex

ion oni

(Aus

Aus

(al

tral

ia) a)P

ty

Pt

Lim

iLiiLLLLLLL

ted

.ddd

FS

EA

/DE

DE

A/D

E/D

E/D

E/D

E/D

EX

057

X05

7X

05X

050577

A D _ M A N M D E X J U N _ 1 2 _ 1 . p d f P a g e 1 2 7 / 0 4 / 1 2 , 9 : 5 7 A M

TODAY’S DEXION®:YOUR PARTNER IN SYSTEMS INTEGRATION.Choosing the right systems integration partner is a critical decision and will directly impact the success of your project.

Dexion has a proven track record working with some of Australia’s blue-chip corporations. We’ve helped them to create smarter integrated systems solutions.

The Dexion approach is unique, in that we will source the best available technology from a range of specialist partners from around the world. Our philosophy is simple: fi nd whatever it takes to achieve the best possible outcome for our customers.

For more information regarding Dexion’s systems integration expertise, visit us at www.dexion.com.au or call 1800 100 050.

A D _ M A N M D E X J U N _ 1 2 _ 2 . p d f P a g e 1 2 7 / 0 4 / 1 2 , 9 : 5 9 A M


AnalylsisMANAGEMENT

FUMES, dusts and other

inhalable toxins are

among the most dangerous

of all workplace hazards.

Managers and workers need to

be aware, these toxins can cause

asthma, chronic obstructive pul-

monary disease, asbestosis and

cancers of the respiratory sys-

tem, such as mesothelioma and

lung cancer.

Some of these conditions

have swift consequences, while

others have long latency periods.

This makes it essential for

managers of factories, work-

shops, warehouses – and any

workplace where airborne haz-

ards are at play – to minimise

workers’ exposure to dust and

other particulates, fumes, gases

and smoke.

According to a recent Safe

Work Australia report, approxi-

mately 39% of Australian work-

ers are exposed to airborne haz-

ards in the workplace.

Occupations with the high-

est likelihoods of exposure to

airborne hazards include tech-

nicians, trades workers and

machine operators. The research

data reveals 23% of Australian

workers who reported exposure

to airborne hazards were not

supplied with controls for the

conditions. An additional 22%

only received one control for

airborne hazards, while the rest

reported that they had more

than one control.

Managers should take note,

companies that fail to comply

with set exposure limits can be

hit with hefty fines.

Don Brereton, Micronair Dust

Control’s MD, recommends peri-

odic monitoring of air quality in

a workplace to determine the

level of contaminants workers

are exposed to.

“When dealing with dust, it

is important to remove the dust

closest to the source rather than

letting the dust escape and deal-

ing with it at that stage.

“When capturing dust parti-

cles, it is better to focus on the

work zone – the 2 to 3 metres

around the machine operator.

“Another essential step is

to change the air in the room,

rather than just re-circulate it,”

Brereton told Manufacturers’ Monthly.

“Devices such as particle size

assessors can provide readings on

the number of grams of airborne

contaminants that exist per cubic

metre of air in a work zone.

“Some of these devices also

identify what types of particles

are present. These measure-

ments are useful in checking

whether the concentration of

particles in a work zone is over

the limit,” he said.

Airborne hazards unmaskedThey may be small, often invisible, but airborne contaminants in the workplace

can be deadly. Angela Welsh reports.

Factory workers are

often unknowingly

exposed to a range

of harmful dusts

and fumes.

continued on page 18


SPS 003

The Aussie born and bred work boot designed to work best for you

Our Mongrels SP Series was designed to incorporate the most significant technological, comfort and safety features into one

premium range. Now Mongrels have expanded the SP designation to meet the requirements of different work conditions.

For example the mining industry and light manufacturing industries have very different needs. Now, along with SP>P Originals we

offer SP>R, SP>S, SP>Z, SP>T and SP>N ranges. Take a look on our website or call for a Mongrel salesman for more information.

Victor Footwear 15 George Young St. Auburn NSW 2144 p: 02 8667 2555 f: 02 8667 2500 e: [email protected] w: www.mongrelboots.com.au

Because what you do makes a difference to the boots you wear

SP RANGE

Mongrel SP Range

Many workers don’t require a steel toe cap. So Mongrelshas provided a number ofnon-safety styles from ridingboots to classic elastic sidedboots and a security range.

Our Trade range featuringhigh spec features matchedwith a comfort innersole and value for money ruggedleather uppers.

The revolutionary ZipSiderstyle allows for great ankle support with easy on and off features required bymany trades.

The lightweight, work bootwith aluminium toe-cap andadvance Sport technologysoling.

The high tech rubber-soledwork boot that’s built to take the heat no matter howrugged the conditions – heatresistant soles up to 300˚C

Features many of the original and popular styles of our SP Premium Rangelaunched in 2006.

SPS 003

The Aussie born and bred work boot designed to work best for you

Our Mongrels SP Series was designed to incorporate the most significant technological, comfort and safety features into one

premium range. Now Mongrels have expanded the SP designation to meet the requirements of different work conditions.

For example the mining industry and light manufacturing industries have very different needs. Now, along with SP>P Originals we

offer SP>R, SP>S, SP>Z, SP>T and SP>N ranges. Take a look on our website or call for a Mongrel salesman for more information.

Victor Footwear 15 George Young St. Auburn NSW 2144 p: 02 8667 2555 f: 02 8667 2500 e: [email protected] w: www.mongrelboots.com.au

Because what you do makes a difference to the boots you wear

SP RANGE

Mongrel SP Range

Many workers don’t requirea steel toe cap. So Mongrelshas provided a number ofnon-safety styles from ridingboots to classic elastic sidedboots and a security range.

Our Trade range featuringhigh spec features matchedwith a comfort innersole and value for money ruggedleather uppers.

The revolutionary ZipSiderstyle allows for great ankle support with easy on andoff features required bymany trades.

The lightweight, work bootwith aluminium toe-cap andadvance Sport technologysoling.

The high tech rubber-soledwork boot that’s built to take the heat no matter howrugged the conditions – heatresistant soles up to 300˚C

Features many of theoriginal and popular stylesof our SP Premium Rangelaunched in 2006.

A D _ M A N M V I C J U L _ 1 2 . p d f P a g e 1 1 6 / 0 4 / 1 2 , 3 : 3 4 : 0 1 P M A E S T


Analysis MANAGEMENT

Employers responsibleDavid Morton, Fume and Dust

Control’s MD, said it is the

employers’ responsibility to sup-

ply a safe working environment

for all employees and people vis-

iting the site.

“The manufacturer also has

a responsibility to the local

government (council) and the

Environmental Protection

Authority (EPA),” he added.

“Obviously the first step is to

identify the hazard. This can be

hard in some cases as quite often

no two manufacturing proc-

esses are the same and there

has to be an honest exchange of

information between the client

and ourselves which is always

kept confidential,” Morton told


“Once we have identified the

hazard, we look at putting con-

trols in place, this can sometimes

be as easy as putting a lid on an

open container to contain the

contaminant, changing the work

method or materials, so that the

operator and the environment is

not affected,” he explained.

“When we have looked at all

the options in consultation with

our client we will make recom-

mendations to control, filter or

capture the airborne contami-

nant at source prior to the opera-

tor’s breathing zone.”

Morton explained that there

are many quick and simple

solutions on the market at the

moment, from fume arms to dust

collectors and scrubbers, all of

which limit workers’ exposure to

airborne contaminants.

One solution is to adopt a sepa-

ration method that removes a

complete spectrum of pollutants

such as mists, vapours, gases,

dusts and smoke, including super-

fine particles.

Paul Fowler, Dimac Tooling’s

MD, points out that the term

‘fine dust’ refers to the mass

of all particles with a diameter

below 10μm included in the total

dust quantity.

“Grinding machines with

very high cooling lubricant

pressures and corresponding

rotation rates for instance can

produce extremely small parti-

cles that are more like vapour

than solid matter,” Fowler told


“We are dealing with a

molecule range with sizes of

about 0.001μm. The admis-

sible air pollution Workplace

Exposure Limit (WEL) is

10mg/m³ for cooling lubricant

vapours and aerosols with a

flash point above 100°C that

are emitted during metal

processing,” he said.

“The same limiting value

applies to processing machines

with a minimum lubrication

system. This exposure limit is

two hundred times as high as

the limit for outdoor air pollu-

tion,” he added.

Manufacturers should also be

aware that Regulation 49 of the

Workplace Exposure Standards

for Airborne Contaminants

requires any person conducting

a business or undertaking to

ensure that no person in their

workplace is exposed to concen-

trations of airborne contami-

nants that exceed the standards

for those substances.

Exposure standards can be

defined as exposure over an

8-hour period, a peak limitation

or a short-term limit.

Penalties for violating this

legislation are $6,000 for busi-

nesses owned by an individual

and $30,000 for those governed

by a corporate body.

Violation of the legislation

could also create vulnerability

for potential litigation from

employees in the future.

Dimac Tooling 03 9561 6155,

www.dimac.com.au

Fume & Dust Control 07 3388 1131,

www.fumeanddust.com.au

Micronair Dust Control 03 9720 7244,

www.micronair.com.au

continued on page 18 Penalties for violating airborne contaminants

standards can range from $6,000 to $30,000.



TechnologyIT@MM

Emerging in the 1980s

when distributed client

server systems became

popular, middleware has been

reinvented in various shapes and

forms, but only recently has the

concept proven its worth in the

manufacturing realm.

If you use mobile applica-

tions or cloud computing in your

company, you are already using

a form of middleware, allowing

your mobile to talk to your con-

trol system and then report the

goings-on in the plant. Similarly,

if you have implemented a soft-

ware system to synchronise your

MES (Manufacturing Execution

System) and ERP (Enterprise

Resource Planning) systems,

you are also already using

middleware.

Adrian Albert, IBM’s local

executive for Websphere, says

it’s often referred to as ‘the dash

in client-server’ as it provides

the software layer that lies

between an operating system

and applications, and its goal

is to reduce the complexity of

developing, running and manag-

ing applications.

“Middleware software sup-

ports business applications and

is increasingly becoming more

intelligent and enabling organi-

sations to develop enhanced

products and solutions.

“IBM typically hosts work-

shops with clients and prospects

to scope out a prospective solu-

tion that addresses a client’s

particular need,” Albert told


Increased visibilityManufacturing operations today

can be very complex and inflex-

ible, which adds cost, lengthens

delivery time and increases

project risk by threatening

business agility. However, as

managers realise the benefits of

developing visibility across their

operation, more companies are

turning to middleware.

Middleware for manufacturers

can provide functionality such

as automated decisions, service-

oriented integration, business

process management, information

security, event processing, report-

ing and systems management.

It can also incorporate portal

technology used to build private

and public information about

employees and customers, as

well as business intelligence

such as real-time reporting tools.

According to Oracle’s ANZ

Fusion Middleware principle

product manager, Alex Peattie,

middleware can provide a com-

petitive advantage for manufac-

turers by creating an automated

How manufacturers can use middleware as the glue that binds management

systems with the shop floor. By Sarah Falson.

Middleware -

connecting shop

floor data with

ERP systems.


Bridging the gap

M A N M . J U L 1 2 . P G 0 1 9 . p d f P a g e 1 9 2 6 / 0 6 / 1 2 , 1 2 : 3 3 P M


TechnologyIT@MM

and managed end-to-end system.

“A manufacturing organisa-

tion’s eco-system typically con-

sists of individual applications to

manage production, supply chain

execution, sales and operations,

logistics and transport.

“Middleware orchestrates

each of these components, pass-

ing the relevant information

between them to optimise the

overall outcome,” Peattie told


According to Peattie, middle-

ware can be a comprehensive

family of products, which allows

you to adopt the solutions as you

require them.

“But it is imperative its com-

ponents are seamlessly pre-inte-

grated to help you create, run,

and manage agile and intelligent

business applications,” he warns.

“Manufacturers may want to

develop mobile interfaces to

existing control systems on the

shop floor.

“Middleware integration

and user interface technology

could be used to enable this

type of solution, enhancing con-

trol systems to provide updates,

alerts and reports to a user’s

mobile device.

“Middleware event manage-

ment systems can allow manufac-

turers to handle the vast amount

of sensory data that can be col-

lected from SCADA systems,”

Peattie said.

Implementing middlewareSince every company faces

unique challenges, each middle-

ware solution will be different.

Solutions can range in price

from tens to hundreds of thou-

sands of dollars, depending on

licenses and engineering servic-

es. Importantly, many companies

that sell MES or ERP can also

provide a middleware solution

to link the two areas.

Rockwell Automation’s South

Pacific Information Solutions

sales executive, Serena Moreno,

says most traditional manufac-

turers run production systems

in isolation, sometimes linked

tightly to control.

“Middleware is the glue that

binds the different levels of

the ISA 95 Communication

Standard (global standard for

info communication in an

enterprise) together. It provides

the ability to automate the link

and write the points of interac-

tion that you want between the

layers (eg layer 0-5).

“Middleware helps you link

everything up.

“The power that can be lever-

aged by tightly coupling your

ERP, MES and control layers

translates to significant opera-

tional savings and performance

improvements.

“The ERP layer provides

business system information

and the MES layer provides

visibility into the shop floor

through production manage-

ment, materials management,

quality and compliance.

“Tightly coupling these func-

tions with the control layer

provides real time information

from the manufacturing plant

level. Coupling these layers

through middleware is the key

to operational efficiencies,”

Moreno said.

IBM Australia and New Zealand 132 426,

www.ibm.com/au

Oracle ANZ 1300 366 386, www.oracle.com/au

Rockwell Automation Australia 1800 762 593,

au.rockwellautomation.com

continued from page 19Siemens PLM ConnectionsSIEMENS PLM will host its first

Connection Event in Australia. The

event is part of a set of annual uni-

fied user conferences that connects

leading industry analysts, peers,

partners and Siemens executives

from around the globe.

The 2-day event will discuss how

Siemens PLM Software’s HD-PLM

vision is helping manufacturing and

engineering users make smarter

decisions and better products. Other

topics discussed will include effec-

tively managing big data and systems

integration, customer success stories

and the latest Siemens PLM product

launches, such as NX 8 Teamcenter

9, Solid Edge ST 5, and the new

Insight XT, with a products breakout

session, parallel industry discussions

and networking opportunities.

Held in Melbourne on July 24

(Enterprise Day) and 25 (Velocity

Day), Siemens PLM Connections

will bring together more than 300

enterprise and mid-market partners

and customers to discuss industry,

key trends and the future as seen by

Australian manufacturers. www.plm.automation.siemens.com



Touch panel PC

BACKPLANE Systems

Technology has announced the

release of Avalue’s LPC-1203

touch panel PC.

The PC is powered by an Intel

Atom N270 processor, which

reduces the power usage and

saves operation costs.

The decrease of thermal ener-

gy makes the computer a high

safety and green product under

a fanless condition.

The unit comes with a 12”

touch panel LED backlight

screen, which supports resolu-

tion up to 1024x768. Using the

modular system-on-module

design concept, the PC supports

diversified performance levels

such as COMe/ETX CPU mod-

ules and lower scalable base-

board. It also allows the user to

group the boards according to

individual needs.

The entire PC is water-proof,

including front panel, rear data

transmission connectors, and

power sources.

Backplane Systems Technology 02 9457 6400

www.backplane.com.au

The PC has a high level of

water/dust-proofing.

ERP software updatedORACLE has released JD

Edwards EnterpriseOne Version

9.1 designed to help custom-

ers further streamline business

processes.

Extensive updates in the ERP

software’s new release include

enhancements such as One View

Reporting that allows busi-

ness users to create interactive

reports without IT support.

User interface updates

include predictive auto suggest

search and query refinement

capabilities.

Oracle www.oracle.com

M I L L I O N S O F O P T I O N S

Call +1-612-7299365FAX +1-612-7298910 • [email protected]

WWW.BOKERS.COM/MANM

WASHERS FREE CATALOGUE

New Metric Edition!

Fast Delivery

26,000 Sizes26266,0,0,0000000 SS Sizizizeseses

2,000 Materials



What’sNewSee more new products at manmonthly.com.au

AUTOMATED Control Engineering

and STS have released the ATM/F/

Ex flange pressure transmitter.

Manufactured from stainless steel,

the pressure transmitter has a com-

pact design and is designed for use in

hazardous environments.

The transmitter features a piezore-

sistive measuring element and can be

calibrated for use in most common

pressure units.

The safety features include reverse

polarity and short circuit protection,

with an additional option for surge

(lightning) protection according to EN

61000-4-5.

The transmitter is capable of meas-

uring pressure between ranges of

100mbar to 25bar to an accuracy of ≤

± 0.50/ 0.25 /0.10 % FS.

The operating temperature of the

transmitter ranges from -25°C up to

85°C, while the process temperature

can span -25°C up to 100°C

The output signal produced by the

pressure transmitter is 4 to 20mA, the

company states.Automated Control Engineering

02 4954 5004, www.aceg.com.au

MICRO-EPSILON’S new high-speed

non-contact optoNCDT 2300 laser

displacement sensor is now available

from Bestech Australia.

The latest high precision model of

laser sensor utilises the triangulated

beam principle, and has a frequency

response of up to 50kHz.

The laser triangulation sensor can

be set up to measure vibration of the

target or its position, displacement,

or in some instances thickness. It will

be available in five full scale ranges

from 2mm to 100mm.

The resolution of the sensor is

from 0.1μm, and its non-linearity is

from ±0.4μm.

To simplify installation and set-up,

all the electronics are integrated in the

compact (80mm x 75mm) housing.

A new development included in the

sensor is the A-RTSC (Advanced Real

Time Surface Compensation) technol-

ogy. This feature, an enhancement

of the manufacturer’s existing RTSC

technology enables the laser sensor to

achieve the above specified precision

and reliability.

The output signal also remains pre-

cise when the sensor is focussed on

rough and irregular surfaced materials.Bestech Australia 03 9540 5100, www.

bestech.com.au

High speed non-contact laser

displacement sensor

Flange pressure transmitter

The flange pressure transmitter is

suitable for use in hazardous areas.

The sensor has a frequency

response of up to 50kHz.

Hearing protection communication system

HONEYWELL Safety Products has

introduced the Quietpro QP100Ex

hearing protection and communica-

tion system.

The system is able perform a cali-

bration to detect a suitable fit and ade-

quate hearing protection for the user.

It alerts users prior to over expo-

sure to excessive noise and includes

volume control buttons which allow

the user to adjust the level of the sur-

rounding sound accordingly.

Honeywell Safety Products 1300 273 608,

www.honeywellsafety.com



BÜRKERT has released a modular

valve and block package designed

to create block systems quickly

and easily.

The modular solution features a

stainless steel pneumatically actuated

valve and standard block modules with

eight standard port channels. Strainers,

check valves, and sensors can also be

included in block construction.

The block and valve system sup-

ports media to 180°C, 16 bar and 600

mm2/s viscosity, and has a chemical

resistance for process media including

water, alcohols, oils, fuels, hydraulic

fluids, salt solutions, alkali solutions,

organic solvents, steam, and air.

System configuration eliminates the

use of elbows and t-adapters, and

reduces connections to a minimum,

to avoid leaks and deliver high overall

system performance relative to tradi-

tional block solutions.

The system is suitable for manufac-

tured blocks and any solution where

high system capability and environ-

mental integrity is necessary.

The externally piloted valves feature

a compact design.

They are available with threaded,

external threaded and welding con-

nection ports.Bürkert Fluid Control Systems 1300 888 868,

www. Bürkert.com.au

Modular valve and block assembly system

The block systems support

media to 180°C, 16bar and

600mm2/s viscosity.

INTERMEC has released the PR2 and

PR3 model of mobile receipt printers for

use in direct store delivery (DSD), field

service, route accounting, mobile point

of sale and electronic citation.

The printers can be used in con-

junction with the company’s mobile

computers, with shared charging, dock-

ing, accessories and remote manage-

ment capabilities. They are compatible

with the FlexDock system which, and

according to the company, they offer a

new level of efficiency for docking and

charging. The printers are equipped

with a belt clip and optional belt loop

or shoulder strap so they may be fas-

tened to the body. Users are able to

keep track of battery usage so they

may be replaced before the battery runs

out. Field-replaceable batteries can be

charged independently of the printer,

which is said to reduce battery replace-

ment costs. Intermec 02 9330 4400, www.intermec.com

Mobile receipt printers The printers are equipped

with a belt clip and optional

belt loop or shoulder strap.



What’sNEW

Copy

Head

Subhead

Solenoid valves are the most used fluidic control device.

Bürkert has been manufacturing solenoid valves for 60

years, and continues active R&D. Our track record of

‘firsts’ says it all:

• Inventor of the now-ubiquitous Cable Plug

• Creator of the first ‘industrial’ solenoid valve

• Designer of the original encapsulated solenoid coil

• Patentee of the ‘Twin-Power’ design to reduce power

consumption by 75%

Make Bürkert your first call for solenoid valves.

Reliable & robust

Complete range & spares

Competitive & bulk rates

Solenoid Valves

Think Bürkert for „First“

Tel 1300 888 868

www.burkert.com.au

Modular industrial patch panel

MADISON Technologies has launched

the new Belden modular industrial

patch panel (MIPP), which combines

copper and fibre management in the

one solution.

Designed for industrial use, the

MIPP aims to provide functionality

and reliability in order to contribute to

the uptime and availability of systems.

The unit offers a connection between

cables and Ethernet switches.

According to the company, instal-

lation of the patch panel is quick and

easy, saving time and reducing initial

set-up costs. At the same time, the

MIPP offers efficient system manage-

ment that requires low maintenance.

Using patchcords to connect to

active equipment, cables can be termi-

nated outside the cabinet in an organ-

ised and structured manner to ensure

the reliability levels are maintained. The

small housing, high port density and

modularity keep cabinet space to a

minimum. The MIPP is suitable for use

in machine building, transportation,

alternative power generation, power

transportation and distribution, and oil

and gas markets.

Madison Technologies 1300 606 359,

www.madisontech.com.au

The industrial patch panel combines

copper and fibre management.

WEIDMULLER has released its IES

series of industrial Ethernet switches

to supersede its existing range. The

new series is designed to handle the

increasingly complex tasks of monitor-

ing and controlling operational data.

With three ranges to choose from,

the series offers a choice of Fast

Ethernet or Gigabit Ethernet managed

switches with various port combina-

tions. Users can select from entry

level IES21 Fast Ethernet, IES31 Fast

Ethernet with Gigabit Uplink, up to

IES41 full Gigabit Ethernet switches.

The switches feature Ring redundan-

cy with floating master, latest security

features, IGMP snooping and a built

in virtual cable tester. In addition, they

meet all current Australian standards.

The switches are designed to with-

stand operating temperatures up to

85ºC as well as excessive vibration.

Weidmuller 1300 914 822,

www.weidmuller.com.au

Managed industrial Ethernet switches

The managed Ethernet switches feature

MSTP for additional redundancy

Positive-drive

conveyor belting

AMMERAAL has developed the

Aeon-50 sprocket-driven positive-

drive conveyor belting.

According to the manufacturers,

the belting technology eliminates

tracking and slippage problems.

It is fabric-free and simple to

sanitise, making it suitable for the

food manufacturing industry.

Made of 3mm Blue FDA

approved, 95 Shore A poly-

urethane, the conveyor belting is

high-cut, non-absorbent and abra-

sion resistant.

The belting is available in a

smooth top surface or a diamond

embossed form for easy release

and low friction surface.

According to the company,

the Aeon-50 is a hygienic, easy-

to-clean conveyor belting char-

acterised by its high cut and

abrasion resistance, and non-

absorbent aspects.

Ammeraal Conveyor Belting 03 9794 8870,

www.ammeraal.com.au



High-pressure spiral hose

ENZED has introduced a compact

high-pressure spiral hose, which has

a bend radius 50% smaller than its

conventional equivalent.

Manufactured to ISO 18752-DC

specifications, the parent com-

pany, Parker Hannifin, claims that its

Compact Spiral Hose in 5000psi and

6000psi specifications is a world-first.

The hose is designed to allow sim-

ple installation.

It is also lightweight and compact

in size. With half the bend radius of

its SAE spiral hose equivalent, the

company says the spiral hose can

reduce the length required from 20

to 55%.

The hose also has a small outside

diameter, which results in less physi-

cal effort in bending and routing.

Parker Hannifin (Australia) 02 6055 7100,

www.enzed.com.au

The hydraulic hose has a small bend

radius, and a small outside diameter.

High-speed data transfer module

GE Intelligent Platforms has released

the new SPR507B, four channel serial

FPDP interface PMC/XMC module.

It offers a total bandwidth of up to

1.4GB per second and features Xilinx

Virtex-6 FPGA for high speed serial

data transfers.

The interface module is available

in either a PMC module for legacy

systems or as an XMC module.

It is designed to be more easily

deployed in confined spaces,

where cooling can be a challenge

and where the environment is

subject to extremes of heat, shock

and vibration.

The low Latency protocol used in

serial FPDP and the noise immunity

of the fibre-based data transport is

the ideal combination for applications

which require a dedicated data link

to run between sources of data to a

remote processing station.

The interface module allows for

fibre lengths up to 10km with the

choice of single mode fibre.

In addition, it delivers a transfer

rate of around 30% and includes 1GB

of high speed on-board storage in

FIFO configuration.

The architecture of the module

allows for each fibre link to be config-

ured independently, providing for mul-

tiple baud rates to be simultaneously

supported. Each link can operate in

either direction.

The SPR507B is said to minimise

long term cost of ownership.

Metromatics 1300 589 932,

www.metromatics.com.au

The interface module is designed for high

speed remote data gathering

BRONSON Safety has introduced a

new range of carborundum-modified

angle plates to provide protection

against slips in the workplace.

The angle plates are suitable for

applications such as the rungs of lad-

ders or other applications where stair

nosing is not practical. They come in a

range of sizes and profiles, and in yel-

low, black and grey finishes. The plates

are UV-stabilised and epoxy-coated to

withstand harsh conditions. Bronson Safety 1300 359 545,

www.bronsonsafety.com.au

Anti-slip angle plates



SEW-Eurodrive has launched the

Movitrac LTP B frequency inverter.

The new series offers variable con-

trol modes of various motors types.

The inverters are available with a

high degree of protection enclosure

throughout the power range.

The series has been designed for

universal use offering a high level

of motor control of both induction

and permanent-magnet synchronous

motors (with or without encoder

feedback). A wide range of control

options including an ‘energy sav-

ing function’ makes the series an

optimum drive solution in terms of

efficiency and energy consumption,

according to the company.

A range of I/O and communication

interfaces ensure quick and efficient

integration into a variety of control

systems. An intuitive parameter struc-

ture with standard factory settings

and an integrated key pad shortens

the commissioning process.

The frequency inverter is available

in six frame sizes from 0.75 kW to

160 kW for a supply voltage of 230 V

or 400 V.

The inverter is comes in two

housing variants, IP20 for cabinet

mounting and IP55 field mounting,

suitable for operation in challenging

ambient conditions.

The unit is fitted with a dedicated

‘Safe Torque Off’ binary input which

immediately disables the drive in

Emergency conditions.

Delivering up to 200% torque from

zero speed, the inverter is recom-

mended for applications with inherent

high starting torque characteristics,

such as conveyors, crushers, winders

and mixers.

SEW-Eurodrive 1300 331 968,

www.sew-eurodrive.com.au

New series frequency inverter with variable

control modes

What’sNEW

No fuel costsThe cost to recharge an electric forklift is minimal compared to the equivalent fuel required to operate an engine-powered truck. Electric users also save time and eliminate the safety risks associated with constantly changing gas bottles.

No dirty exhaust fumesWith fume-free operation, electric forklifts contribute to a clean and healthy workplace – they are better for your people and better for the environment!

Quieter operationEngine-powered forklifts can be very noisy, especially in enclosed spaces. Electrics, on the other hand, are quiet operators that let the user focus on driving, optimising productivity and safety, and minimising operator fatigue.

Greater reliabilityWith a lot less moving parts, electric forklifts are intrinsically more reliable than engine-powered units. They are also much more durable with many 30+ year-old Nichiyu forklifts still in operation throughout Australia.

Low maintenance costsElectric forklifts are also much cheaper to maintain than engine-powered trucks, with operating/maintenance costs per hour often less than half that of comparable gas trucks.

Nichiyu Forklifts Australia Pty Ltd 25 Liberty Rd Huntingwood NSW 2148. Tel: +61 (0) 2 9672 7430. Fax: +61 (0) 2 9672 7423.

33 Kilkenny Court Dandenong VIC 3175. Tel: +61 (0) 3 9554 6555. Fax: +61 (0) 3 9794 7307.

Tel: 1300 369 899 Email: [email protected] Web: www.nichiyu.com.au

EFFECTIVE COMPLIANCE FOR THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

1300 134 223 1300 307 895 [email protected]

www.storemasta.com.au

EFEFFECTCTIVIVE COMPLIAANCE FMANUFACTURING INDUST

FOR THETRY

SETTING THE STANDARDS WITH INNOVATIVE SAFE STORAGE SOLUTIONS

• Relocatable bulk stores• Safety cabinets• Gas cylinder stores• Lube stations• Bunding• Safety showers• Custom design to suit your situationDESIGNED AND MANUFACTURED IN AUSTRALIA

SSSSSS

protecting the

The frequency inverter offers

up to 160kW of nominal power.



TREOTHAM has released a new

42mm design size of the Igus RX plas-

tic energy chain.

The company claims the energy

tube is almost 100% airtight, after 2.7g

chips were tested over 251,900 cycles.

The product was also tested under-

water to comply with the absolute

airtight requirement, IP40.

The 42mm size is available with the

addition of a high temperature variant

that is said to be resistant to swarf up

to 850°C, and a reverse bending radius

(RBR) variant.

The curved, edgeless design ena-

bles chips of varying sizes to glide off

while the connection elements and fit-

tings are concealed to prevent contact

with any swarf.

The energy chain can be easily

swung open in the outer radius.

Treotham 1300 615 110, www.igus.com.au

✓ Machinery re-supported✓ Slab movement fixed✓ Factories, warehouses✓ Drives & houses too✓ Fast: most jobs in a day✓ Immediately trafficable✓ Structural resin injection

We re-levelbuildings!

1800 623 312 [email protected] 623 312 [email protected]

70+ years experienceNichiyu is the largest dedicated and most experienced electric forklift manufacturer in Japan, having produced the country’s first electric forklift in 1939.

Superior build-qualityWith its on-going commitment to excellence in design and manufacturing, Nichiyu has achieved an unrivalled reputation for reliability and durability.

Proven, reliable technologyNichiyu’s on-going technology innovations including Japan’s first AGVs and automated forklifts, enclosed cabins for cold storage and explosion-proof forklifts for hazardous areas have greatly enhanced forklift performance, reliability and safety.

High levels of safetyFrom ergonomically-designed operator cabins to impact absorbing masts, travel speed-sensitive lift control, auto-lifting stop and laser pointers for accurate pallet handling and a host of other features, Nichiyu delivers the ultimate in safety in even the toughest of applications.

Factory flameproofingNichiyu is the only electric forklift supplier in Australia that can offer factory-fitted flameproofing for all hazardous goods handling classes and zones.

Swarf resistant energy chain

The energy chain is resistant

to dirt, heat and humidity.

Shouldered-to-HDPE transition coupling

VICTAULIC has launched the Style

SC998 Shouldered-to-HDPE transition

coupling.

The new couple provides a one-

piece, mechanical joint between shoul-

dered IPS and HDPE piping and helps

reduce installation time.

The manufacturers claim the new

product provides an economical and

efficient way to join plain end HDPE

pipes to shouldered IPS pipes, valves

and fittings.

While the shouldered end of the

coupling utilises the design of the

company’s existing range of shoul-

dered couplings, the HDPE end of the

housing features rows of gripping teeth

which bite down on the plain end pipe,

resulting in a firm connection around

the circumference of the pipe.

The coupling is recommended

for use in situations where speed is

essential, such as in ground water and

air equipment hook ups.

Available in 63mm and 110mm, the

coupling is intended for piping with

standard dimension ratios ranging

from 21 to 7.4. It conforms to AS/NZS

4130 and PE 80 or 100.

Victaulic 1300 742 842, www.victaulic.com

The coupling simplifies transitions with one

mechanical joint.



Multipoint calibra-

tion viscometer

SHEEN Instruments has developed

a new viscometer for measuring

Newtonian and non-Newtonian

fluids. The Digital Krebs Viscometer

measures viscosity at a set speed

shear rate.

During measurement, a paddle is

immersed in a vessel containing a

fixed volume of the sample material.

A constant speed motor drives the

paddle at 200rpm.

The torque induced is proportional

to the viscosity of the sample and

may be converted into viscosity or

weight units.

The dimensions of the paddle

conform to the specification of

ASTM D562.

The instrument displays Krebs

units, grams or poise. It has a mag-

netic base for positive sample loca-

tion, and multipoint calibration across

torque range.

The viscometer can store up to

nine measurements and has an RS

232 output for printing. Novasys Group 03 9752 3766,

www.novasys.com.au

BEUMER Group has developed the

Paletpac high-capacity layer palletiser.

This flexible unit stacks Polyethylene

(PE) and Polypropylene (PP) bags, lay-

er-by-layer, on pallets of all common

sizes up to a stack height of 2.4m with

geometrical accuracy and stability. The

user can set the parameters depending

on the objects to be stacked.

The palletiser is fitted with a clamp-

type turning device or double belt turn-

ing device which moves the filled bags

quickly and gently into the required

position. Even bags filled with granu-

late can be palletised in a gentle and

dimensionally stable manner.

For particularly demanding product

handling tasks, such as bags filled

with PE granulates which have a par-

ticular flow behavior or bags which

are subjected to high temperatures

and high humidity, the manufacturers

have chosen ventilated and specially

coated layer stacking table in the pal-

letising process.

The ventilation produces a cushion

of air between bag and layer stacking

table. This prevents bags sticking to

the supporting surface and enables

them to be palletised stably.

The stretch hood medium high-

capacity packaging machine is dis-

tinguished by high throughput and

reliable film handling. The low energy

consumption, low compressed air

requirement and the ability to process

recyclable packaging film make the

machine an efficient and environmen-

tally friendly pallet-packaging option.

Beumer Group Australia 02 9450 0380

www.beumergroup.com

Turnkey systems for the chemical industry

What’sNEW

The palletiser stacks stock layer-by-layer

up to a height of 2.4m.

Servo drives for precision motion control

METRONIX’S new range of servo

drives offer a high peak current capa-

bility allowing machine builders to

boost acceleration times.

An increased overcurrent capability

of four times the continuous output

rating is being offered as standard on

the company’s ARS 2000 FS range of

Ethernet-compatible servo drives. The

capability can be exploited in many

common motion control applications to

increase the speed of moves and the

overall throughput of machines. The

drives can sustain the overcurrent for

half a second, providing considerable

flexibility for the system builder. Metronix (Apex Tool Group) 02 6058 0300,

www.apextoolgroup.com



ALLEN Coding Systems has released

its latest multi-head thermal printer,

the TP 4000.

The printer is available with 52mm

or 106mm print-heads and offers

operating speeds of up to 600 units

per minute.

The printer’s multiple print-heads

allow for greater speeds and its auto-

matic code sensors reduce the chance

of operator errors.

The thermal printer can print high

resolution images with no hot stamp

characters to get lost or damaged. It

can also print barcodes, 2D codes and

logos. The ink prints dry straight away.

The single modular unit can be inte-

grated on to all types of intermittent-

motion packaging equipment, includ-

ing horizontal form fill and seal, over-

wrapping, bagging, thermoforming and

blister pack lines.

The thermal printer is a versatile

way of printing variable information

onto multi-lane intermittent packaging

machine films.

Other features include: program-

mable ribbon; self-contained program-

ming handset for fast editing and

creation of print designs; non-tamper

automatic code change option for

elimination of operator error; and

optional PCMCIA card for data transfer

and memory extension.

Result Packaging 03 9706 4474,

www.resultpackaging.com.au

Multi-head thermal printer

Multiple print-heads allow for greater printing speeds.

3M has released its series

of Versaflo Respirator Systems,

designed to protect workers

operating in a range of hazard-

ous environments for long peri-

ods of time.

The product range has three

modules: an air delivery unit, a

headtop and a breathing tube

that can be combined into dif-

ferent configurations to deal with

changing environments, hazards

and comfort preferences.

The S-Series Headcovers and

Hoods can be worn by more

users due to new sizing and

adjustment options.

The M-Series Faceshields and

Helmets are lightweight, compact

and provide integrated protection

from multiple hazards.

The TR-300 Powered Air

Respirator is a slimline air deliv-

ery unit for environments with

particulate hazards.

3M 136 136,

www.3m.com/au/PPESafety

The respirators protect workers in

hazardous operating environments.

Respirator systems



BOWEN Group’s Mezzanine

Gates are designed to eliminate the

risk of fall by providing safe and

controlled access while loading

palletised items onto elevated mez-

zanine areas, using a forklift or other

lifting device.

The gate protects the fall edge

during mezzanine loading opera-

tions ensuring the safety of person-

nel when working on raised storage

areas in warehouses.

The pallet safety gates provide a

double barrier for optimum safety.

They are high-strength, yet light-

weight designed to ensure ease

of operation.

The gates are manufactured from

high grade structural aluminium for-

reliability and durability.

A modular, kit form assembly

allows for rapid and simple

installation.

The gates are supplied with gas

struts for ease of use.

They feature a powder coated in

a Safety Yellow finish for optimum

visibility.

The gates are designed and manu-

factured to comply with AS1657 and

relevant WHS Codes of Practice/

Guidelines.

According to Bowen, the gates

are designed to provide high level

of safety for personnel in specific

danger area.

The company supplies a range

of mezzanine pallet safety gates for

loading onto elevated areas.

Bowen 03 9721 5600,

www.bowengroup.com.au

Pallet load gates for controlled access for loading

What’sNEW

The gates provide protection

for workers loading palletised

items onto mezzanine areas.

Look Out Collision

awareness sensors

MATERIALS Handling has intro-

duced the Look Out Collision

Awareness Sensors, the new

safety partner in racking, halls,

doors loading docks aisles and

overhead doors.

To lessen the change of injury

due to collision in dangerous inter-

sections, on corners, and with

objects in the workers’ blind spots,

the company offers a versatile line

of rack mounted and ceiling sus-

pended safety sensors.

These sensors will alert

pedestrians, forklift operators or

other mobile machinery opera-

tors that someone or something is

approaching around the corner to

prevent a collision.

The products are designed to

prevent accidents and potential

costly situations in the warehouse,

yard or office.

The sensors are quiet, yet also

easy to see, understand and

respond to.

When the sensors detect move-

ment in blind spots around a corner

or a doorway, they begin to flash

a warning to the pedestrian or

machine operator who is approach-

ing that intersection.

In addition, sensors will signal the

blind spot as to movement from the

other side.

Materials Handling 1300 650 035,

www.materialshandling.com.au



Level switches

TRIMOD Besta has introduced a

range of level switches suitable for

extreme process applications.

A key feature of the new level

switches is its three-module design

concept comprising the switch mod-

ule, the flange and the float.

Switch modules are available with

electric, electronic or pneumatic out-

put signals.

The switches are shock and vibra-

tion resistant. High and low temper-

ature and explosion proof versions

are available.

Standard housings offer IP65

ingress protection but IP67 and

IP68 options are available for use in

extreme environmental conditions.

To simplify installation, the switch-

es have a hinged cover, captive

screws and the self-lifting terminal

clamps. For convenience of wiring,

the connection diagram is shown on

the inside of the hinged lid.

A range of floats, made of stain-

less steel, Hastelloy C or high quality

plastics, are available to suit various

densities and pressure ranges. Control Components 02 9542 8977,

www.controlcomponents.com.au

CAPITAL Safety Australia has released

its new DELTA II Fall Protection Full

Body Harness Range, the next genera-

tion harness in the popular Delta style.

The new range includes enhanced

features typically only available on the

company’s premium models.

It incorporates the patented

No-Tangle design, stand-up spring

loaded dorsal D-ring, velcro-covered

label pack that protects the new per-

manent indented print labels.

The harnesses include quick con-

nect buckles for fast and efficient

donning, and REPEL technology web-

bing that provides superior abrasion

resistance, repels liquids and is natu-

rally self-cleaning. A rip-stitch impact

indicator allows the user to quickly and

easily inspect the harness and identify

if it has been involved in a fall.

Easy grip end tabs make for hassle-

free adjustments. Each harness is

packed in a bonus reusable harness

storage duffle bag. Capital Safety 1800 245 002,

www.deltaII.capitalsafety.com.au

Body harnesses for fall protection

Coordinate multiple axes for precise motion control and synchronise

servo drives with variable frequency drives - all on a standard,

unmodified Ethernet network. EtherNet/IP helps to deliver an

open, high performance solution for multi-axis, distributed motion

and drive control. Rockwell Automation and its partner, Cisco, have been driving

these developments so that you can take standard, unmodified Ethernet and do

extraordinary things.

See something extraordinary at:

www.apac.rockwellautomation.com/ethernetip/MMM

EtherNet/IP ENABLING HIGH-SPEED SYNCHRONISED MOTION CONTROL ON STANDARD, UNMODIFIED ETHERNET.

The harnesses feature a stand-up

spring loaded dorsal D-ring.

Circuit breakers with high cut-out protection

PHOENIX Contact has released a new

range of electronic and thermomagnet-

ic circuit breakers designed to protect

devices from surges and short circuits.

The one-channel, pluggable circuit

breakers enable modular designs

for selective power distribution.

Coding between the base element

and the plug is said to ensure error-

free placing. The connector’s catch

mechanism holds the circuit breakers

securely in place even in harsh instal-

lation environments. The push-in con-

nection terminals make it possible to

connect wires without any tools, while

the bridge system means all circuit

breakers can be readily combined

according to individual needs.

The electronic circuit breakers work

with active current limitation. This

delays immediate cut-outs due to tem-

porary power surges. Phoenix Contact 1300 786 411,

www.phoenixcontact.com.au



Metalworking& MACHINE TOOLS

IT goes without saying that

the uncertainty in the

local economy, brought

about by the woes of European

economies, the unknown

impact of the carbon tax, a high

Australian dollar, and China’s

continuing climb to manufac-

turing superpower is creating

rough waters for the local sheet-

metal industry.

Andrew Macquart, president

of the Sheetmetal Industry

Association, says a combination

of economic pressures as well

as the dominance of Asia’s man-

ufacturing industry has seen

the local sheetmetal industry

shift its focus to smaller volume

production that yields faster

lead times.

“Australia’s sheetmetal indus-

try is becoming one of quick

turn-around, small-run quanti-

ties. Traditional large volume

producers are continuing to

move offshore for lower cost

production to countries, such as

China where quality is improv-

ing and supply is becoming

more reliable,” Macquart told


According to Macquart, Asia’s

strong manufacturing sector has

a bigger effect on manufacturers

who produce their own products

in large volumes, such as Rheem

or Sunbeam, or companies who

make domestic commercial prod-

ucts in volume.

However as most local sheet-

metal manufacturers are in

the business of manufacturing

smaller volume, on demand

products for other industries; its

production is harder to be off-

shored. But it has not stopped

companies from trying, and most

often unsuccessfully.

Macquart, who is also MD

of Alumac Industries, a small

Sydney-based sheetmetal fabri-

cation company, says that while

lower-cost economies provide an

attractive landscape for compa-

nies to off-shore the manufacture

of products that don’t require

technical know-how to make, the

draw backs are often longer lead

times and lower quality products.

Navigating the wayOne company successfully riding

the waves is sheetmetal manu-

facturing contractor Advance

Metal Products, based in

Sydney’s south west.

Over the past 10 years the

company has made considerable

investments to diversify it busi-

ness including the addition of a

product manufacturing arm mak-

ing industrial and office storage

equipment, plus an in-house

design team to meet customer

demand for cost-effective manu-

facturer of goods.

The company’s MD, Ian Stone,

says the company can now

produce or customise in low

volumes or on short notice, and

with very short lead times.

“It means we can supply more

cost-effectively because we can

design a product and supply it

within two to four weeks, which

is the same as shipping time

from Asian countries,” Stone


He admits the company has

experienced difficult trading for

a long period, but these changes

have helped to improve business,

so much so that he is confident

to start investing in some major

capital equipment. However,

he is quick to mention that the

whole process is not all rosy.

“When you loose major con-

tracts to China, what are you

going to do? You’re certainly

going to restructure, downsize

and change your way of thinking.

It’s what we had to do,” he said.

Stone says that it has been “a

long slow climb back to pros-

perity” and that is the way it is

likely to continue for the next

five to 10 years in light of the

way the economic outlook is for

manufacturing in Australia, and

also globally.

“I think a common theme for

many sheetmetal manufacturers

is that we have to contend with

imports from low cost-economies,

particularly China.

“We have to navigate our way

through this as manufacturers

and the best way to do this is to

become more flexible. We have

to rely more on design and be

able to customise and be very

flexible with our lead times.

“We also have to work inter-

nally because there are a lot of

things we can’t control outside

our business, but there are many

things we can control inside the

business, and that includes learn-

ing to become more lean, estab-

lish good training programs, and

focusing on better ways to do

things within the organisation.”

Stone says asking suppliers for

cheaper prices can only take you

so far, but working to improve

business practices can lead to

greater efficiency.

He suggests looking into trade-

shows, building an online strat-

egy and developing good promo-

tional materials as some things

other sheetmetal manufacturers

can do as part of their “internal”

focus to promote their business.

Another key factor to consider

is to implement practices that will

make your business more unique

as well as flexible, he says.

Sheetmetal Industry Association 02 9525

2177, www.sheetmetalaustralia.com.au

Advanced Metal Products 02 8796 6222,

www.advancemetal.com.au

With the rise of low-cost economies and their continued improvements in

quality and lead time, Australian sheetmetal manufacturers are forced to rethink

and modernise in order to survive. Annie Dang writes.

Volume production is a

thing of the past; now it’s

about quick turn-around,

small-run quantities.

Surviving troubled waters


Servicing the Manufacturing Industry for over 30 years

Hydraulic and Industrial hose and fittings

92 Service and Supply Centres Australia wide

National fleet of 320+ fully stocked mobile service workshops

Rapid response time, 24 hours 7 days

All Service and Supply Centres ISO9001:2008 accredited

NATA certified hose testing facility

Registered training organisation

Nationally accredited and certified technicians

National pricing policy

A D _ M A N M P I R M A R _ 1 2 . p d f P a g e 1 1 4 / 0 2 / 1 2 , 9 : 1 9 A M


Metalworking & MACHINE TOOLS

JK LASERS has launched a 2kW

fiber laser – the JK2000FL – a

viable and cost-effective alter-

native to traditional CO2 and

Nd:YAG laser sources.

Offering excellent beam qual-

ity and high processing powers,

the fiber laser can be used with

different diameter processing

fibers from 100μm to 300μm, for

cutting and welding sheet metal.

The laser can cut 15mm thick

low carbon steel (LCS), 6mm alu-

minium alloys and 10mm stain-

less steel (304SS). It can also

weld 8mm LCS and 304SS.

Accelerating throughput with-

out compromising quality, the

company says the laser is ideal

for automotive applications such

as tailored blank welding, com-

ponent welding, remote welding

and hydroformed tube cutting.

In the aerospace industry, it

can be used for titanium welding

of aircraft skins and structures,

as well as laser cladding.

The laser delivers a stable

output power from switch on, as

well as a consistent focused spot

size and beam profile over the

complete power range. Raymax Lasers 02 9979 7646,

www.raymax.com.au

Delivering high processing powers

The laser is fitted with detachable

plug in, pre-aligned (PIPA) beam

delivery fibers.

Arc projectors

demonstrate the

welding effect

BOC has introduced the GMA and

TIG arc projector – a state of the

art training and demonstration tool

which displays the significant dif-

ference shielding gases can make

to various welds – designed to help

manufacturers optimise results and

cut costs, to the Australian market.

The projector can be used to

highlight the effect on the welding

arc when different gases are used. It

also provides an interactive display,

which allows the customer/trainee

to control the shielding gas used

and see the impact on the arc type

(GMA), travel speed and surface

appearance, thus helping them

determine the welding gas to use.

By projecting the welding arc on

to a screen, the projectors enable

large-scale training and demonstra-

tions to larger audiences. According

to the company, the projector

improves product transparency

and makes selecting the right prod-

uct easier, resulting in significant

improvements in efficiencies, pro-

ductivity and quality for end-users.

Choosing the right shielding gas

can reportedly result in savings of

more than $3 per metre of weld by

keeping traditional cost drivers such

as labour and welding wire lower,

depending upon the specific appli-

cation, and can deliver improve-

ments in surface appearance,

welding speed, metallurgy and

mechanical properties, weld geom-

etry, arc stability, metal transfer and

shielding effect.BOC 131 262,

www.boc.com.au

Compact welders

KEMPPI has launched its new

range of compact MIG/MAG

welders for the modern mechan-

ic and smash repair workshop.

The new series of welders

is built using the company’s

latest power source platform.

Available with 180, 250 and

320 A power sources, users can

choose from seven models and

from either a Regular (R) or

Adaptive (A) control panel inter-

face.

The company claims the new

technology can reduce energy

costs by more than 10% when

compared to conventional step

controlled power sources.

The welders feature Brights

cabinet lighting for easy wire

loading in low light conditions,

a WireLine service alert func-

tion that signals routine wire-

path maintenance needs, plus

the integrated GasMate chassis

design, which makes gas cylin-

der loading and machine move-

ment easy and safe.

The compact welding units are

designed with one thing in mind

– the user. From the convenient

waist-height LCD control panel

and simple parameter control,

to the improved chassis design,

parts tray and LED cabinet light-

ing, the welders are designed

to deliver an easy, accurate and

effective welding experience.Kemppi 1300 465 374, www.kemppi.com

Durable grade option for insert drills

SECO Tools has developed a new

grade option for its Performax

range of insert drills.

The DP3000 grade option is

an extension of the DP2000

grade, both of which feature

the company’s Duratomic coat-

ing technology. This technol-

ogy is able to produce a hard

structure due to the particular

arrangement of aluminium and

oxygen atoms.

The toughness of the new

grade options come from the

gradient design of the substrate

on which the coating is applied.

Specifically, the cobalt content is

enriched at the surface and reach-

es a depth of 20 to 25 microns.

The substrate also contains a

layer of titanium carbon nitride

and another of aluminium oxide.

The new insert grade range

includes two physical vapour

deposition (PVD)-coated grades:

T250D—suitable for stainless

steels and super alloys; and

T400D, designed for use on centre

inserts in a range of materials.

According to the manufactur-

ers, the drill body has internal

coolant channels and optimised

flute design, which allows for

reliable chip evacuation. Seco Tools 1300 557 326,

www.secotools.com/auThe new grade option features an

abrasion-resistant coating.


With 30 years experience, Mardev can can provide you a list for your next

direct marketing campaign.

FOR A FREE QUOTE CONTACT LEANDRO ABIZ on 02 9422 2642 or email

[email protected]

B2B SPECIALISTS

M A R 1 9 6 9 _ F P _ A D v 2 . p d f P a g e 1 1 7 / 0 5 / 1 2 , 9 : 2 8 A M


Metalworking & MACHINE TOOLS

HYPERTHERM has launched

the Powermax105, a new

105amp air plasma system for

hand and automated cutting and

gouging designed to cut 32mm

thick metal, and sever metal up

to 50mm thick.

Based on the same tech-

nology platform as the

Powermax65 and Powermax85,

the Powermax105 has been

designed to deliver faster cut

speed, improved cut quality,

and industry leading consum-

able life for better performance

and a lower operating cost.

It comes with seven different

torch options for cutting and

gouging versatility, whether

done by hand, machine, or robot,

and is reportedly easy-to-operate

with its simple controls and pat-

ented SmartSense technology

that automatically adjusts gas

pressure for better, more effi-

cient cutting.

The technology also detects

when consumables have reached

end-of-life. According to the

company, this system is the

most versatile in its class and is

able to meet demanding metal

cutting and gouging tasks for

industrial applications.Westgate Hi-Tech Machinery 03 9391 1133,

www.westgatehitech.com.au

FUTURE

VISIONSHARED

21 YEARS1991

2012

Want to future proof your business ?

Integra SystemsMANUFACTURING INNOVATIONS

Bring your product ideas to life and secure new market opportunities through innovation. Enjoy sustainable product outcomes.

Multi-award winning Integra Systems converts concepts into globally competitive products utilising world-class engineering design expertise and state-of-the-art technologies, right here in Australia.

Let’s talk. We listen. We understand.

Telephone + 61 3 9359 3133 Web integrasystems.com.au Email [email protected]

The system

delivers better

performance at a

lower operating

cost for industry.

Powerful air plasma system

Stronger, tougher thread mills for hardened materials

SECO has added new thread

mills to its Threadmaster family.

The new products include solu-

tions for hardened materials up

to 60 HR, materials with tensile

strength over 900 N/mm², small

holes and complete drilling,

chamfering and thread milling in

a single operation.

The Drilling Threadmaster

(DTM) features a unique design

that drills, chamfers and mills

a threaded hole in one opera-

tion. Available for applications

in cast iron and aluminium, this

new tool mills threads using heli-

cal interpolation; it also drills

and automatically chamfers the

entry point when the tool reach-

es the bottom of the hole.

The Threadmaster Mini pro-

vides thread milling for small

holes in hard materials, common

in applications ranging from

dental implants to aerospace

components. Provided for thread

dimensions from M1 x 0.25 to

M2.5 x 0.45, this thread mill is

suited for materials with hard-

ness between 45 HR and 60 HR.

The Threadmaster-900 is

suited for materials with tensile

strength over 900 N/mm², and is

available in M4 to M16. Seco Tools Australia 1300 557 326,

www.secotools.comThe new mills are suitable for

hardened materials up to 60 HR.

Cutting inverters

ALL Purpose Abrasives has

released the Cutmaster 40mm

plasma cutting inverters.

The cutting inverters are

specifically designed for high

endurance and maximum cutting

performance with materials up

to 40mm thick. According to the

manufacturers, the inverter sys-

tems offer a duty cycle of 80% in

a 40ºC ambient environment.

With a cutting speed of

250mm/min, the plasma cutting

inverters are designed for heavy-

duty fabrication, construction

and mining applications. They

can also be used for heavy-duty

gouging, piercing and bevelling

applications when fitted with the

correct torch consumables.

Equipped with a SL100 1Torch,

the cutting inverters operate

from a 415V three phase supply.

They feature auto-pilot re-start

and a “True Guard” roll bar. The

units are portable to allow for

simple manoeuvrability. All Purpose Abrasives 02 4628 2800,

www.allpurposeabrasives.com.au



Light fabrication welding machine

CIGWELD has introduced its

WeldSkill 200AC/DC single

phase welding inverter – a dig-

ital controlled unit which is

capable of performing AC/DC

Lift TIG, HF TIG (GTAW) and

Stick (MMAW).

It comes as a complete kit

said to be ideal for the light fab-

rication and maintenance

of mild steels, stainless steels

and aluminum.

The unit features high fre-

quency (HF) start, lift TIG start,

up/down slope, pulse, 2T/4T

trigger function and gas purge

for AC or DC TIG welding,

and is compliant to Australian

Standards AS 60974.1-2006 and

AS 1674.

Optional acccessories include

TIG torch 26FV with remote cur-

rent control (4m lead), and TIG

torch accessory kit.CIGWELD 1300 654 674,

www.cigweld.com.au

The unit is digitally

controlled.

Hydraulic hole puncher

STAINELEC has introduced the

Edilgrappa PB-500 hydraulic

hole puncher, a precision made

cordless puncher that can punch

through 6mm stainless steel,

12mm mild steel and 12mm thick

copper plate. Available in cord-

less and electric models, units are

equipped with adjustable support

and stripping plates.Stainelec Hydraulic Equipment 02 9824

2499, www.stainlec.com.au



Compressors& PNEUMATICS

WITH the carbon tax now

claiming a percentage

of profits, and power

bills increasing by the month,

manufacturers need to think

seriously about techniques to

protect their bottom line.

Air compressors are identified

as one area where savings can

be made, however simply turn-

ing off a piece of manufacturing

equipment when production

runs around the clock is often

not an option.

David Irwin from Atlas Copco

Compressors says when lowering

the cost of running an air compres-

sor it is all about reducing unnec-

essary load on the equipment.

“The lower the pressure, the

less it costs to produce the com-

pressed air, so reducing pressure

losses helps reduce costas. For

every 1 bar pressure loss you

use 7% more energy,” Irwin told


He says manufacturers would

do well to invest in a compres-

sor that has been designed with

efficiency in mind, claiming new

technology can help save up to

30% of the energy currently

used by air compressors.

However he admits it is a two-

edged sword. “Customers need

to spend money to save money

in the long term, and this is not

always easy to justify,” Irwin said.

He explains that pressure loss

starts at the compressor and

the efficiency of the design so

that the compressed air can get

from the element to the outlet

with as minimal pressure loss

as possible.

“Integrating dryers and line

filters also significantly helps in

this regard, but the dryer and

filters must be truly integrated

into the design of the compres-

sor, and not just bolted on to the

compressor outlet,” said Irwin.

Mark Dudman from Kaeser

Compressors Australia says

using the wrong sort of compres-

sor for an application; a ‘leak’ in

the system’s pipes, connectors

and valves; and the design of the

compressor itself can all cause

pressure loss.

“Using multiple compressors

into too small a size header, too

many filters, undersized pipe

reticulation, and incorrect retic-

ulation materials – for example

using a rubber hose instead of

compressed air pipework – can

all mean pressure losses of more

than 1 bar,” he said.

“The costs are not only in

power consumption but also

in servicing the compressors

and ancillaries.

“If the compressor is running

excessive hours just to support

system leaks then that adds cost

for no purpose,” Dudman told


He explains that many com-

pressors now offer built-in

controllers, which help to

reduce power consumption by

continually monitoring an air

system’s requirements.

“Easy-to-use control systems

are capable of upholding com-

pressor operation and air deliv-

ery cutting in or out according to

the air demand, without compro-

mising efficiency,” said Dudman.

Help at handOne way to reduce break-downs,

downtime and energy bills is to

pay for a professional to conduct

an ‘air audit’ on the compressor

system to identify problem areas

and advise where cost savings

can be made.

Audit prices range from

hundreds to thousands of dollars

depending on the requirements

of the site, and manufacturers

can either appoint a third

party to perform the service or

purchase equipment from a sup-

plier that factors the cost of audits

into a customer’s service contract.

Irwin says manufacturers

should make sure that the

company performing the air

audit provides a detailed report

on the expected cost savings

related to fixing any problems

in the system.

“Measuring the air consump-

tion is only a start; the real

trick is to be able to accurately

simulate energy efficiency gains

against alternate energy saving

equipment,” he said.

“A well set up air system

will have strategically placed

isolation valves so that the

affected area can be shut down

and rectified without causing

disruption. Some customers

carry out rectification work in a

down time period like a week-

end,” Irwin said.

Mark Ferguson from Southern

Cross Compressors points out

that air compressors have his-

torically been large, cumber-

some and inefficient pieces of

equipment.

“Which was fine when

electricity cost 1 cent a KW/h.

But with electricity costs now

around 15-25 cents per KW/h

and expected to increase about

15% year-on-year, a regular air

audit is highly recommended,”

Ferguson said.

However, he admits it is some-

times difficult for manufacturers

to know who to go to.

“There are currently no offi-

cial standards in Australia for

conducting air audits and manu-

facturers should be careful to

select a reputable company to

conduct them,” he said.

Atlas Copco Compressors Australia

02 9621 9999, www.atlascopco.com.au

Kaeser Compressors Australia 03 9791 5999,

www.kaeser.com.au

Southern Cross Compressors Australia

1300 098 901,

www.sccompressors.com.au

Air compressors can be costly to run, but knowing your system requirements is the first step to reducing

unnecessary expenditure. Sarah Falson reports.

Lowering compressed air costs

Air audits can be negotiated as part

of a customer’s service contract.


www.kaeser.com.au

Land theright solution!

Landing the right compressed airsolution is just as important to usas it is to your business. The new KAESER CSD rangedelivers more air, more savings andmore time for landing the big one.

To contact your local KAESER Compressor Distributor located Australiawide Call Us Today - 1800 640 611

A D _ F E N K A E A P R _ 1 2 . p d f P a g e 1 2 2 / 0 3 / 1 2 , 4 : 4 9 P M


Compressors & PNEUMATICS

COMPRESSED Air Australia has

released a range of Exair safety

air guns for blowoff, drying or

cleaning needs.

The safety air guns are avail-

able with durable polycarbonate

chip shields designed to protect

workers and help businesses com-

ply with OHSA safety standards.

The company claims that the

chip shields will protect workers

from flying debris which is often

associated with blowing chips

off machined parts. They are

also suitable for keeping coolant

from splashing during drying

operations.

The safety air guns use engi-

neered air nozzles which are

designed to maximise room air

while minimising compressed air

consumption.

There are three safety air

gun models available for vary-

ing applications – lightweight

precision safety air gun, rugged

heavy duty and soft grip safety

air guns.

Compressed Air Australia 1300 448 246,

www.caasafety.com.au

Safety air guns with chip shields

l

Chip shields can be used on safety air

guns with or without an extension pipe

Oil-injected screw compressors ATLAS Copco has launched its

new oil-injected screw compres-

sor GA range from 30 to 90 kW.

There are three value offers in

the GA 30+ to 90 (VSD) range.

The integrated Variable

Speed Drive motor of the GA

37-90 VSD, delivers on aver-

age 35% energy savings, while

avoiding compressor idling time.

The fixed speed variant GA

30+-75+ with IE3/NEMA motor,

offers efficiency and Free Air

Delivery (FAD). The FAD base

GA 37-90 completes the range.

Other advantages of VSD

technology include: no idling

times or blow-off losses, inte-

grated compressor controls and

a start-up under system pres-

sure.

According to the company,

the canopy layout is designed to

reduce temperatures at the ele-

ment by 10°C. Atlas Copco 1800 023 469,

www.atlascopco.com/drivenbyefficiency

Rotary screw

compressors

KAESER’s new fluid-cooled CSD

and CSDX rotary screw compres-

sors offers a motor power range of

45 kW to 90 kW.

The five models of both ranges

cover free air deliveries from 8.3

to 16.1 m³/min (at 8.5 bar) and are

designed for pressures up to 15 bar.

The CSD and CSDX units feature

a large, low speed Sigma Profile

airend equipped with flow-opti-

mised rotors.

The rotary screw airends are pow-

ered by IE3 drive motors for maxi-

mum performance and reliability.

These motors will become obligatory

in the EU from 01.01.2015.

The 1:1 efficient drive design

eliminates the transmission losses

associated with gear or V-belt driven

systems, as the motor directly drives

the airend.

CSD and CSDX compressors

are also available as variable speed

controlled versions.KAESER 1800 670 770,

www.kaeser.com.au


Pn

eum

atic

s an

d A

uto

mat

ion

so

luti

on

s

1800 763 862 Australia [email protected]

5 Port Solenoid ValveSeries SY3000/5000Improve the performance and reliability of your machine with the next generation of solenoid valves and manifolds from SMC.

Solenoid valves - the interface between electronic controllers and pneumatic systems.

During the last 30 years, we have witnessed some dramatic advances in solenoid valve technology. Many automation experts would agree that programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are the brains behind the majority of automated processes with integrated solenoid valves and manifolds being the heart of a machine – effectively controlling the power to drive the machines moving parts.

Just like a human being, when a machines operational health suffers and downtime costs start to spiral out of control, problems of reliability can often be traced back its heart – the solenoid valves and manifolds.

SMC SY -MM- July 2012 indd 1 15/06/2012 11:10:01 AM

A D _ M A N M S M C J U L _ 1 2 . p d f P a g e 1 1 5 / 0 6 / 1 2 , 2 : 1 6 P M


Automation& ROBOTICS

RECENT advancements

in technology allow new

HMI software applica-

tions to be configured to execute

a command when the user

double-clicks on the alarm in the

alarm summary.

Interacting with alarms is

one of the basic functions your

operators expect from their

human-machine interface (HMI)

software. However, if you’re

only using the standard alarming

functions, your operators might

be missing out on lesser-known

features that could help you save

time and ease troubleshooting.

Associated tagsIn an HMI system, it’s useful to

have additional system informa-

tion associated with an alarm for

streamlined reporting and more

effective alarm handling.

An alarm can be associated

with up to four tags that are

recorded in the alarm history log

and also embedded in the alarm

messages visible in an alarm

summary or banner.

By associating tags to include

process data with event infor-

mation and alarm messages,

operators can receive relevant

information automatically that

describes what the system’s envi-

ronment looked like when the

alarm was triggered.

With associated tags, you

get all pertinent information

in one transaction which saves

time and effort because it elimi-

nates the need to run multiple

reports and correlate the data

in separate databases.

Alarm commandsAddressing the cause of an

alarm in a time-efficient manner

is a top priority for operators.

However, an HMI system that

correctly identifies alarm condi-

tions does no good if the opera-

tor still has to click through

multiple screens and open new

programs to access the controls

needed to correct the problem.

Recent advancements allow

new HMI software applications

to be configured to execute a

command when the user double-

clicks on the alarm in the alarm

summary. For instance, an oper-

ator can double-click an active

alarm and have the appropriate

screen displayed for them to

take corrective action.

This is especially effective in

a large HMI system where the

operator must have access to a

process screen or device face-

plate to understand the area of

concern before taking action.

Preconfigured alarmsHMI software should be tightly

integrated with plant-floor con-

trols and enable users to capture


Not just Gearboxes, but Total SolutionsWe make it easier for you by designing solutions for your specifi c needs using our wide range of gearbox products, ancillaries and services. Call us NOW for details.

Brevini PlanetarySamhydraulikVPS BreviniBrevini Winches

Brevini HydraulicsAronHydrappPullmaster

PIV Bevel HelicalEmmegiPT TechPIV Posiplan Phone 1300 657 771 Email [email protected] www.brevini.com.au

Discovering hidden but powerful features of human-machine interface (HMI) soft-

ware can help users save time and ease troubleshooting. Tony Carrara* writes.

Missed opportunities with

HMI alarms and events

Alarms and events are vital;

poorly managed they can be

disasters waiting to happen.



Headland 1300 592 061,

www.headland.com.au

Replacing old robots with new

continued from page 42additional data beyond alarm

and event information.

Collecting data related to envi-

ronmental factors, such as prob-

lems with controllers and other

equipment, can help operators

better understand what is hap-

pening in the system.

Newer HMI applications incor-

porate preconfigured control-sta-

tus alarms that indicate when an

issue with a controller or its con-

nection arises. In addition, opera-

tors should be able to run reports

showing in-depth detail regarding

the conditions of the alarm.

Alarm classesWhen viewing many different

alarms, it can be a time-consuming

task to group like alarms together.

Effectively organising alarms

in an alarm summary or report

can be simple when using alarm

classes in some applications.

The alarm class is a text string

of up to 40 characters that oper-

ators enter when configuring an

alarm. At run time, the value of

the alarm class is recorded in

the alarm history log, and the

content is filtered based on the

value of the alarm class. This

enables you to easily sort or

filter your alarms by function

including, whether for valves

that fail to open or close, pres-

sure, temperature, equipment

running or tank levels.

*Tony Carrara is Rockwell Automation’s FactoryTalk View SE Product Manager 03 9757 1111, www.rockwellautomation.com.au

Energy saving

robots designed

to power down

during downtime.

By John Allen



MaterialsHANDLING

AS part of its ongoing sup-

ply chain enhancement

program, NZ grocery

retailer Countdown recently

commenced operations at its

newly refurbished distribution

centre (DC) at Wiri in Auckland.

The DC now fulfils the role of

a national DC for Countdown’s

slower moving and seasonal

goods. Over a two year period,

the DC grew to over 30,000sqm,

including a new 4,000sqm covered

dock to improve goods receiving.

Jared Day, Countdown’s

National Facilities and

Maintenance Manager, said

updating the outdated facility

had been just as challenging

as building a new one from the

ground up.

“Brownfield projects are

just as complex to manage as

Greenfield start-ups. Efficient

project management is critical

to co-ordinating and scheduling

the various works. You also have

to work out how best to achieve

your operational objectives with-

in the physical constraints of the

structure,” he said.

The company wanted to take

advantage of the DC’s very high

roof height. “We have been able

to install what we believe is the

tallest selective pallet racking

system in New Zealand, with the

system providing 24,000 reserve

pallet storage and over 12,000

pick locations,” Day said.

Throughput rates have ramped

up since start up in 2011, with

the DC now distributing up to

120,000 cartons a week.

Designed and manufactured

by Dematic in Australia, the

ColbyRack high-rise storage sys-

tem includes the tallest single

piece uprights the company has

ever produced.

“At 12m long, the uprights just

fitted into the 40ft shipping con-

tainer,” said Dematic’s Account

Manager, Bob Partridge.

“Our ability to roll longer than

normal uprights enabled our

storage system design to closely

follow the DC’s roofline profile,

which goes as high as 17m in

some places, without splicing the

uprights,” he explained.

“Being able to have a 11.925m

high top beam level, instead

of around 9m in most high-rise

DCs, let us utilise a lot of the air-

space that would have otherwise

have been wasted, resulting in

an additional 3000 pallet stor-

age locations for Countdown,”

Partridge said.

Protecting storage systemsOne of the most critical aspects

affecting the day-to-day opera-

tion of storage systems is how

well they have been designed to

take the inevitable impacts from

forklifts when putting away or

retrieving pallets.

“Even the best forklift opera-

tors can make mistakes from time

to time, and that is why Dematic

has invested in developing a

range of rack protection meas-

ures which prevent or, at worst,

minimise damage from occurring

to the rack,” Partridge said.

Rack safety features included

custom-designed, thicker, wider

uprights manufactured from

quality-approved high tensile

steel and featuring Colby’s rack

profile to increase strength and

impact resistance.

Each upright is secured to the

floor via extra heavy-duty base-

plates fitted with two 125mm

deep chemical anchors.

The racking also uses pro-

filed heavy-duty steel guards

to deflect forklift impact forces

away from the upright, transfer-

ring them into the much stronger

rack frames.

The introduction of upright

protection is said to have virtu-

ally eliminated upright damage,

with this typically being the most

dangerous type of rack damage

and the most costly to repair.

Partridge says the company’s

UU-Beam is new type of beam

designed to solve one of the most

common rack damage problems

in high volume DCs – the fre-

quent impacts to beams around

the 2m level, received when

reach truck operators accidental-

ly back into them while retriev-

ing a pallet from the opposite

face of the rack.

The new UU-Beam is made

from two U-beam sections,

and is said to increase frontal

impact resistance by over 200%,

virtually eliminating damage,

improving workplace safety and

significantly reducing rack main-

tenance costs.

To improve structural rigidity

and make accidental dislodge-

ment practically impossible,

a combination of the com-

pany’s 4-Tang Beam Connector,

which interlocks with the rack

uprights’ patented diamond

slots, and new steel Safety Clip,

which securely fastens beams to

rack uprights has been utilised.

And to improve the safety of

pallet put-away and replenish-

ment, and prevent the possibil-

ity of pallets falling through the

storage system, all pallet loca-

tions above 5m high have been

fitted with wire mesh decks.


The new UU-Beam

is made from two

U-beam sections,

and is said to

increase frontal

impact resistance

by over 200%.

Countdown goes to the top

with its revamped DCA 11.925m high top beam level, the highest in NZ, resulted in an additional 3000

pallet storage locations. Carole McCormick writes.



Belt conveyors for

heavy loads ROBOTUNITS has released the

re-engineered C5N Series of Belt

Conveyors for high payloads of up

to 150kg per metre of conveyor.

These conveyors are based on the

company’s 50mm series of alumini-

um extrusions, which feature a hon-

eycomb design and are specifically

designed to handle high loads.

The conveyors can provide speeds

of between 3 to 55m/min standard

and up to 120m/min on request.

Based on 55mm diameter drive

and idle rollers, they are a cost effec-

tive alternative to the company’s

C8N range of belt conveyors. Robotunits 03 9334 5182,

Maximise Your Operating Efficiency and Workplace Safety

Desktop printers for light duty labelling INTERMEC has introduced

the PC43d and PC43t desktop

printers for light duty labelling

applications in manufacturing,

warehousing, transportation,

and office environments.

The new printers are avail-

able in 4” (10.2cm) direct ther-

mal and 4” thermal transfer,

respectively, and are well-suited

to space-constrained settings.

The PC Series also offers fast

throughput at eight inches per

second (20.3cm/s).

The PC series also includes

the ability for one-handed

media loading and quick con-

figuration via a USB stick, mak-

ing the printers simple to install

and maintain.

The direct thermal printer

offers flexible placement options

with the ability to wall mount or

use battery power.

The PC Series is equipped

with a universal Icon interface

or color LCD in 10 languages for

immediate and intuitive notifica-

tions to maximise uptime.

The series has the acone-

handed media loading and quick

configuration via a USB stick

device, for easy installation and

maintainence.

The PC Series also comes with

modular connectivity options for

easy migration into the existing

network environments.

Intermec 02 9330 4400

www.intermec.com.au

continued from page 44Other safety initiatives include

equipping the DC’s fleet of

rider reach trucks with cameras

to optimise the safe handling

of pallets during put-away and

replenishment. Plus all of the

DC’s 72 reach trucks, stockpick-

ers and pallet trucks are fitted

with the latest Info Link smart

controller safety system.

The integrated monitoring sys-

tem allows only authorised use,

and directs the operator through

a 10 point safety check before

they can use the equipment.

During operation the system

automatically notifies the DC

supervisor if any equipment is

involved in a collision, enabling

Countdown to track when and

where any incidents take place,

and assess the rack for service-

ability straight away.

The safety and efficiency of

forklift battery changing and

charging has also been enhanced

with the implementation of

a new MTC semi-automated

battery management system,

housed in a purpose-built area.

Dematic 02 9486 5555, www.dematic.com.au



Materials HANDLING

DATAMAX-O’Neil has introduced

the new I-Class Mark II high per-

formance industrial printer.

The printer offers 64MB Flash

memory and 32MB DRAM as

standard features. It also has a

die-cast aluminium frame and

metal cabinet to increase

durability. Its modular design

allows for upgrades in the field,

with options such as internal

rewind, thermal transfer and

W-LAN. A gear-driven design

provides for rigorous duty cycles

and reliability.

Insignia 1300 467 446

www.insignia.com.au

CANTIPROWhy Cantipro Racking?

Redstock has redesigned the original Sipag System and now market it as CantiproThe columns are straight, not tapered, giving greater strength.

The bases are bolted, not welded, allowing for lower freight charges and easier handling.

Columns are fi nished in Senzimir (electroplate galvanization) fi nish at no extra charge.

The removable connecting lugs installed through each column giving a good stability

to the whole column row compared with lugs welded only from one column side.

All steel is sourced from europe.

CANTILEVER STORAGE SYSTEMS PTY LTDThe No. 1 Choice in CANTILEVER RACKINGSipag Storage Systems Aust Pty Ltd was established in Australia in 1991, we have

recently changed our name to Cantilever Storage Systems Pty Ltd

We now supply CANTIPRO Cantilever Racking from the Provost/Redstock group of

Companies based in France.

Cantilever Storage Systems Pty Ltd is 100% Australian owned with its manufacturing

facilities in Coff s Harbour NSW.

The CANTIPRO range meets all Australian design standards and an engineer’s certifi cate

can be provided if required.

CANTIPRO Racking systems manufactured, imported and supplied by Cantilever

Storage Systems Pty Ltd are designed to meet a broad variety of individual requirement.

Contact:Tel: (02) 66583744

Email: [email protected]

The printer can automatically

adjust to optimum heat, speed,

darkness and contrast settings.

Industrial printer with thermal transfer capabilities

Delivering superior conveyor belt protectionFLEXCO has introduced the

DRX range of impact beds

designed to provide material

containment and belt protection

in conveyor belt load zones to

the Australian market.

The impact beds feature

Velocity Reduction Technology,

which controls acceleration

to deaden impact energy and

reduces reaction forces to pro-

vide better belt protection, and

a distinctive inverted-design

Impact Bar Supports, which

allows the impact bars to expand

and function properly as a first

level of defence against damag-

ing impact forces.

Isolation Mounts provide a

second level of reaction force

reduction – absorbing additional

impact energy, while minimising

transmission back to the belt.

The impact beds are avail-

able in a range of grades to

take applications from low- to

extreme-impact applications

that require the highest energy

absorption.

They are available in 1.2m

and 1.5m bed lengths, with

standard impact bars that have

13mm of UHMW polyethylene.

Bars with 25mm of UHMW are

also available.Flexco 02 9680 3322, www.flexco.com.au

Handheld solution

DEMATIC has released the Psion

Omnii XT15; a new handheld com-

puter for mobile workers.

Features include: a display screen

that can withstand a 1.25 Joule

impact breakage; sensitive scanners

with good/bad scan indicators; and

a 5000mAH smart battery with up to

20 hours battery life.

The device has six keypad styles

including QWERTY numeric. Each

features an easy-to-use ergonomic

design and ultra-white backlight to

make even one-handed operation in

the dark possible.Dematic 02 9486 5503, www.dematic.com.au


BLA488/0612/INT

FREE TRIAL OFFER!P2 Flat Fold Respirator.Limited Time Only.Prosafe specialises in critical Personal Protective Equipment including glasses and gloves, respirators, as well a number of site safety products, the Prosafe range has a number of safety solutions for your organisation and your people.

Foam nose seal for comfortAdjustable nosepiece for secure seal

Individually packaged for convenient and hygienic storageApproved to AS/NZS 1716:2003 – P2. Suitable for protection against mechanically and thermally generated particles.Effective for agricultural use, mowing, maintenance, repair, cleaning and protection in dusty environments. Sample carton of 20 respirators

Please check the expiry date on the product prior to use and ensure the product is suitable for the intended application. The offer includes a pack of 20 respirators, to the value of $30.80 Inc. GST (Blackwoods Part No. 0443 1686). This offer is limited to 500 packs, limit of 1 pack per company and can only be redeemed by addresses within Australia. Respirators have an imminent expiry date and are suitable for use up until the indicated date. Users may be contacted for feedback on performance in your work environment. Requests for trial offer must be received before close of business 31/07/12.

For your FREE trial offer simply visit:blackwoods.com.au/ProsafeOffer

A D _ M A N M B L A 2 J U L _ 1 2 . p d f P a g e 1 2 5 / 0 6 / 1 2 , 9 : 4 3 A M

EFIC DID MORE THAN FINANCE OUR CONTRACT

When we won the contract to be part of the supply

chain to the massive Queensland Curtis LNG project,

we were delighted. This was an opportunity to further

establish our track record and reputation within the

oil and gas industry in Australia.

However, like other suppliers, we were required

to provide performance bonds in support of our

contractual obligations. We also needed to ensure

that we had access to additional working capital

for other contracts. Yet, as a company without a long

trading history in Australia, we couldn’t get suffi cient

bonding or bank fi nance for our needs.

Luckily we knew in which direction to turn. With the

support of EFIC’s export working capital guarantee

and bonds, we were able to meet the fi nancial

requirements and demonstrate our company’s ability

to take on such challenging projects.

Overcoming fi nancial barriers for exportersVisit efi c.gov.au/mm

THEY ENABLED IT.

Cory Stevens, Managing Director, Lean Field Developments

A D _ M A N M E F I J U N _ 1 2 . p d f P a g e 1 1 4 / 0 5 / 1 2 , 1 : 4 8 P M

manufacturers' monthly magazine, july 2012 issue

Documents