Latest News
Grid congestion forces machine builders to rethink energy use
08/06/26 09:00
Grid congestion is becoming a practical constraint for industrial investment and machine design, particularly in the UK, where long waiting times for new connections and structural capacity limits are already affecting production plans, for machine builders, Lenze argues that this means a shift in priorities.
A flexible approach to machine safety
05/06/26 10:00
IDEM Safety Switches' DS Range provides a fully configurable safety interlock and control station solution, combining multiple functions in one robust, integrated unit.
Your strong partner for machine building
03/06/26 09:00
Machine building is a global and highly dynamic market. The competition that providers face is tough. It is important to meet customers' requirements and develop a range of products and services that allows machine builders to remain competitive for the long term. The focus is on the cost-effectiveness, quality, flexibility, and performance of the machines. Phoenix Contact offers a comprehensive range of products and services - making a significant contribution to competitiveness.
Why outdated colour conventions can now create reliability and maintenance risks in modern machinery
02/06/26 10:00
For many years, assigning cable function by sheath colour helped simplify installation and reduce assembly mistakes. In modern automation systems, however, that same approach can now create risk, as the experts at motec explain.
Uptime and cyber demands intensify always-on expectations push machine HMI up the OEM agenda
02/06/26 09:00
Machine HMI is rapidly emerging as a frontline issue for UK OEMs, as manufacturers demand greater resilience, usability, and cyber readiness from every asset on the factory floor. No longer just an interface, the HMI is becoming the control hub for data, diagnostics, and decision-making; placing new pressure on machine builders to deliver systems that are both intuitive and uncompromisingly reliable.
HEIDENHAIN launches ILC 3019 inductive linear encoder
01/06/26 13:00
Meet the new ILC 3019 from HEIDENHAIN - the company's new inductive linear encoder designed to empower productivity in modern automation.
Embrace the future with flexible conduit solutions
01/06/26 12:00
In today's demanding environments, cable protection is critical to the safety, performance and longevity of any electrical installation. When using flexible conduit, choosing a reliable and trusted solution is essential to ensure long-term system integrity.
How to choose the right circlip, snap ring or spiral ring for your application
01/06/26 11:00
Retaining rings, also referred to as circlips and snap rings, are mechanical fasteners that form fixed shoulders to secure components in place. Retaining rings deform during installation or removal and return to their original shape after installation, allowing them to maintain secure retention within a machined groove. This makes them a practical fastening solution for applications requiring compact, efficient component retention.
Unlock the potential of your sensors with IO-Link
01/06/26 10:00
Telemecanique Sensors' IO-Link Master removes complexity, reduces costs and shortens commissioning times, whilst increasing machine uptime and productivity.
New generation of industrial connectivity solutions for intralogistics
01/06/26 09:00
LAPP is developing hybrid cabling solutions combining power and data transmission, high-performance cables dedicated to robotic applications, as well as pre-assembled, ready-to-install connection systems.
Ultra-compact low harmonics sensor technology opens-up new opportunities in factory automation
29/05/26 11:00
Merging the precision of optical sensing with the durability and cost-efficiency of magnetic systems are among the key features and benefits of a new compact EB260 encoder recently introduced by sensor specialist Baumer.
OMRON introduces new mast configuration options for AMR
29/05/26 10:00
OMRON Robotics and Safety Technologies has announced expanded configuration options for the OL-450S Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR), adding new mast accessories for cart and load carrier transport across production and intralogistics operations.
Smarter routes to flexible manufacturing
29/05/26 09:00
Beckhoff UK will exhibit at Smart Manufacturing Week at the NEC in Birmingham, from June 3 to 4, 2026. Visitors will be able to see demonstrations of cabinet-free automation and advanced transport technologies for machine builders and manufacturers on stand M140.
New access point with Wi-Fi 6 for industrial automation
28/05/26 11:00
Phoenix Contact is extending its industrial wireless portfolio with new access points from the WLAN 2300 series, which support Wi-Fi 6 functions in accordance with IEEE 802.11ax. The devices can be used to create efficient and powerful WLAN networks with up to 100 devices per virtual access point interface.
Unified safety solution across an entire steel welding facility
28/05/26 10:00
Sensor specialist SICK has supplied bespoke machinery safety solutions company Safety Systems Technology with its Flexi Soft programmable modular safety controller to create one of the largest span configurable safety projects in the UK.
LAPP to showcase future-ready industrial connectivity
28/05/26 09:00
At this year's Drives & Controls 2026, LAPP Limited will present its latest industrial connectivity and automation solutions designed to support smarter, more efficient and future-ready manufacturing environments.
Lenze highlights servo-like performance without classic servo technology
27/05/26 09:00
As packaging machine builders face growing pressure to combine compact design, flexibility and cost efficiency, drive technology is coming under closer scrutiny. At interpack 2026, Lenze used its presence in Hall 6, Stand D50 to show that high dynamic performance does not necessarily depend on classic servo technology.
Dynamic inclination sensors with IO-Link
26/05/26 09:00
ifm has announced the launch of its new JBC series dynamic inclination sensors, providing a highly accurate angle measurement solution for applications prone to heavy shock and vibration.
Surge protection for the busbar with integrated voltage pick-off
25/05/26 10:00
The new FLT-SEC-ZP2-…-SV combined lightning current and surge arrester from Phoenix Contact is said to set new standards in the protection of meter panels. The low overall width of the surge protection leaves plenty of space for the other components mounted on the busbar.
People and machinery safely in harmony
25/05/26 09:00
Pilz has provided safety consulting and thorough training for dairy company Bega Group, bringing the 'Spirit of Safety' to life.
RBTX presents a journey into automation
12/04/24 11:00
In a dynamic convergence of industry experts, innovators, and enthusiasts, igus, recently hosted the RBTX Low-Cost Robotics Live Workshop. This event, held at the North of England Robotics Innovation Centre (NERIC), brought together numerous users of low-cost robotics as well as automation novices.
Festo and QM Systems collaborate to develop new automated mass testing system
12/04/24 09:30
Industrial automation specialist Festo and systems integrator QM Systems have collaborated on the evolution of a new automated laboratory system that fills, caps and labels test vials at speeds of up to 3000 vials per hour.
The rise of modular robots and the importance of drive train design
11/04/24 13:00
For lightweight robots, modular designs are increasingly popular thanks to the flexible deployment they enable for specialised tasks. As part of an in-house robot build, optimising the drive train that powers and controls each joint is vital to the robot’s performance. The most effective way of achieving this is by developing the drive train as a complete module, as Roman Berger, maxon’s head of business development for robotics, explains.
Neura Robotics and OMRON forge strategic alliance
11/04/24 11:00
Neura Robotics and OMRON Robotics and Safety Technologies are excited to announce their strategic partnership which aims to revolutionise the manufacturing industry by introducing cognitive robots into factory automation, leveraging advanced AI capabilities to enhance efficiency, flexibility, and safety.
Apex Dynamics gearbox drives Europe’s largest electricity-generating waterwheel
11/04/24 10:00
Technology from Apex Dynamics is driving the largest diameter electricity-generating waterwheel in Europe.
A deep dive into custom drive design
10/04/24 16:00
What do you do when a standard, off-the-shelf motor, gearbox or actuator can’t meet the requirements of the application? Stewart Goulding, managing director of EMS, discusses the design and manufacture of custom actuators.
New cylindrical roller bearings for heavy-duty industrial gearboxes
10/04/24 15:00
Schaeffler has introduced a new series of rolling bearings for heavy-duty industrial gearboxes. The NJ23-ILR series is compact yet offers a very high dynamic load capacity.
Ecology, economy and social aspects in balance at TSUBAKI KABELSCHLEPP
10/04/24 14:00
Fully aware of the complexity of the topic, TSUBAKI KABELSCHLEPP says it has been successful with a comprehensive sustainability strategy.
Growth opportunities for systems integrators with universal automation
10/04/24 12:00
Fabrice Jadot, Next Gen Automation SVP at Schneider Electric, discusses how automation can unlock great value for systems integrators.
Addressing the needs and challenges faced by LabVIEW users
10/04/24 10:00
Beckhoff UK was a gold sponsor at LabVIEW technical event GDevCON. Here, technical support engineer Chris Knight explains the vital function that inputs and outputs (I/O) communication plays in connecting systems, exchanging data and ensuring efficient automation.
‘Employee perspectives’: An insight into engineering careers
09/04/24 13:45
There is not one singular blueprint that can lead to a career in the engineering industry. It offers a variety of roles, open to people from diverse backgrounds. To highlight the diversity of skills and experiences in engineering, global engineering technologies company, Renishaw, has created the ‘Employee perspectives’ series.
Save 80% build time with Module Connect, plus RBTX demo
08/04/24 13:20
Would your company like to save multiple hours and cash for every machine you build? At MACH 2024, igus presents Module Connect, a unique and elegant engineering design to help machine users save assembly time.
Reaping the rewards of 3D printing
05/04/24 10:00
Tim Stratton, tooling department leader at the Schaeffler UK plant in Sheffield, discusses some of the cost savings the plant is seeing by investing in 3D printers for production tooling, as well as additional benefits in health and safety, ergonomics and freeing up valuable CNC machining capacity.
The ECI 123 Splus inductive rotary encoder with built-in vibration analysis
05/04/24 09:00
Featuring a built-in accelerometer, the new HEIDENHAIN ECI 123 Splus rotary encoder enables position measurement and vibration analysis in a single component. This added functionality simplifies condition monitoring and maintenance planning in high-wear automated systems.
The good, the bad and the future of generative AI
03/04/24 12:30
In the manufacturing industry, generative AI is being introduced at every step, from design to maintenance of assets. Here Stephen Hayes, managing director of Beckhoff UK, explores the benefits and risks of introducing generative AI into your manufacturing process.
chainflex cables without PFAS: Safer for people, the environment and business
03/04/24 11:45
igus chainflex cables for robotics and other industrial applications do not contain harmful PTFE and PFAS chemicals, likely to be banned by the EU – now demonstrated with the ‘PFAS free’ seal.
Schneider Electric announces Global Alliance Partner Program Award winners
08/03/24 09:30
Schneider Electric has announced the winners of the 2023 Global Alliance Excellence Awards. Throughout 2023, Schneider Electric’s Alliance Partners supported customers in the digitalisation of industrial automation, delivering value with innovative initiatives, solutions and services.
Configurable small controller now with FailSafe over EtherCAT connection
08/03/24 08:07
For efficient production, it should be possible to seamlessly integrate safety concepts into machine concepts. That is why the PNOZmulti 2 configurable safe small controller from Pilz supports the open communication system EtherCAT in combination with the safe protocol Safety-over-EtherCAT FSoE (FailSafe over EtherCAT).
Configurable small controller now with FailSafe over EtherCAT connection
08/03/24 08:07
For efficient production, it should be possible to seamlessly integrate safety concepts into machine concepts. That is why the PNOZmulti 2 configurable safe small controller from Pilz supports the open communication system EtherCAT in combination with the safe protocol Safety-over-EtherCAT FSoE (FailSafe over EtherCAT).
Green electricity from hundreds of ancient windmills
06/03/24 08:50
Sailwind 4, a student project in Germany, will reuse old windmills for power generation. igus has supported the project with 10,000 euros and has provided the young engineers with lubrication-free linear guides and polymer bearings, which ensure low-maintenance operation of the windmills.
Machine safety indication can greatly increase productivity
05/03/24 15:00
Safety standards have strict requirements for muting lamps and safety indicators, which cannot be ignored. Supplemental indication that does not form part of the safety system, but acts as guidance to the operator and other workers, can have a dramatic effect on increasing productivity, as the experts at Turck Banner explain.
Unlock time and cost savings with igus Module Connect
05/03/24 14:00
In today’s fast-paced industrial landscape, efficiency and cost-effectiveness are crucial. Enter the igus Module Connect, a connector solution that streamlines your operations, enhances productivity and puts money back in your pocket.
Industry must enhance cybersecurity practices
05/03/24 13:00
In the wake of upcoming NIS 2 legislative changes that will impact the whole supply chain, Schneider Electric cybersecurity solutions and services business lead Victor Lough is urging businesses to enhance cybersecurity practices against a backdrop of a dynamic legislative landscape.
Visit maxon at SPACE-COMM EXPO
05/03/24 11:00
maxon is exhibiting at SPACE-COMM EXPO, stand L2, at the Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre, 6-7 March. The exhibition is the UK’s largest space industry event and maxon will present its drive systems for space applications.
EMS to exhibit FAULHABER motor range
04/03/24 10:00
EMS will be exhibiting at Medical Technology UK from 13-14 March at the Coventry Building Society Arena, showcasing a range of reliable, highly precise motion solutions for the medical technology industry, including the new FAULHABER IEP3 incremental encoder and expanded linear actuator L-series.
Lenze launches the most powerful motor driven roller currently on the market
29/02/24 10:50
Less complexity, fewer variants, more efficiency, more power and simpler, faster commissioning and maintenance – that’s what Lenze is promising with a revolutionary new magnetic motor driven roller (MDR) to support intralogistics customers, driving the future of conveying.
OMRON awarded third EcoVadis Platinum Rating for sustainability performance
29/02/24 10:15
OMRON has achieved the prestigious Platinum rating from EcoVadis, placing it in the top 1% of all businesses assessed for sustainability performance. This marks the third time that OMRON has received this international recognition.
SICK W10 swipe-and-set-up touchscreen sensor is a world first
28/02/24 12:00
SICK has unveiled what it says is the world’s first photoelectric sensor with a touchscreen display, heralding the future for universal and easy-set-up sensing. The SICK W10 is a versatile all-in-one sensor that represents a major step forward in precise detection technology, adaptable for countless industrial automation applications.
Schneider Electric launches EcoStruxure Plant Lean Management
28/02/24 10:00
Schneider Electric has launched EcoStruxure Plant Lean Management, a digital solution that collects and aggregates data across industrial operations to develop key performance indicators (KPIs) for short interval management (SIM) meetings, where shop floor teams review production cycles and identify issues and actions that need to be implemented.
Power supplies for extreme ambient conditions
28/02/24 09:45
The new third generation Trio Power power supply from Phoenix Contact is now available for the first time with a protective coating on the PCB. This enables reliable use, even under extreme ambient conditions.