Work-related driving guide

WORKSAFE Victoria and the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) have launched a guide to help reduce deaths and injuries resulting from work-related driving.

TAC road safety senior manager, David Healy said the guide provided practical advice to employers, fleet managers and drivers on measures to reduce risks associated with work-related driving.

Given this high risk profile, the benefits of a work-related driving safety program could be significant and include: reduced death and injury and all their related personal, social and economic costs; greater productivity through increases in vehicle use; and greater ability to manage the fleet safely by using fleet safety and incident information.

WorkSafe executive director, John Merritt said the guide was a resource for employers setting up their own work-related driving safety program.

Key features of a work-related driving safety program should include: purchasing policy based on a minimum of a four star safety rating in the Australasian New Car Assessment Program; involvement of employees and local management; driver information and education; an appropriate vehicle inspection and maintenance program; and an incident and accident follow-up action plan.

Merritt said Victorian workplaces where driving was a requirement of the job should develop and implement policies and practices based on these guidelines as soon as practicable.

The guide deals with work-related driving in a business sequence, beginning with planning before driving, through to on-road risk management, and monitoring and reviews of fleet performance.

For more information contact:

WorkSafe

P – 1800 136 089

W – www.worksafe.vic.gov.au

Pressure hose reels

REEL Tech has introduced the Hannay PW Series of hose reels specifically designed for pressure wash applications.

The PW Series is lightweight, compact and versatile, and made from either 12 or 16 gauge steel, with a black, powder coat finish.

Containing a universal mounting pattern, various mounting kits are available, from round and square tubing mounts to wall and floor pivotable mounting. The PW Series can also be used as a portable unit.

The Series features a permanent direct crank, adjustable split bearing brake assembly, dual side bearing supports, with a pressure rating of up to 4000psi.

The reels are suitable for pressure washing, steam cleaning, spray operations and washdown applications. Pressure cleaning accessories are also available.

For more information contact:

Reel Tech

P – 03 9583 2368

W – www.reeltech.com.au

Slew drive rings

MOTION Technologies has released a new design concept that integrates a worm drive gear with a slew ring.

Called slew drive rings, they are suitable for use with high torque hydraulic motors or geared electric motors.

The rings are available in five frame sizes from 3000 – 20,000Nm output torque with enclosed or open gearing and diameters from 300 – 700mm.

They provides high output drive torque with high radial and axial load capacity, large through bore and are available in a dual drive version for very high output torque.

For more information contact:

Motion Technologies

P – 02 95244782

W – www.motiontech.com.au

Affordable laser coding

THE Solaris eMark laser coder from Matthews has been designed for low volume manufacturers who want the benefits of laser coding at an economical price.

According to the company, the laser is ideal for marking various food, beverage and pharmaceutical materials.

Features include: inexpensive vector laser system for permanent marking/coding; high quality vector codes in stationary and ‘on the fly’ operation; easy integration into new and existing production lines; simple local and remote system control; and ability to code onto a range of substrates, including: coated paper, cardboard, PVC, PET and coated metal.

Multiple I/O signals and field-configurable beam exit direction mean that the Solaris eMark is easily integrated into new or existing production lines, and it has a simple local and remote system control via USB, network and WiFi module.

For more information contact:

Matthews

P – 1800 333 074

W – www.matthews.com.au

High performance turning products

KENNAMETAL has launched Beyond, an entire platform of new high-performance turning products.

With higher metal-removal rates and extended tool life, these products promise to push productivity 30% higher or more for a broad spectrum of metalworking users.

Beyond products comprise a line of 11 new grades applicable to steel, stainless steel, and cast-iron turning applications.

A new post-coat surface treatment improves edge toughness, reliability, and depth-of-cut notch resistance, and micro-polishes the surface to reduce friction and workpiece sticking (BUE).

A fine-grained alumina layer allows for increases in cutting speed, improving productivity and reliability at high cutting temperatures.

The 11 grades consist of five grades and 22 geometries for steel turning; three grades and 10 geometries for cast iron turning; and three grades and eight geometries for stainless steel turning.

All the new Beyond inserts are CVD (chemical vapour deposition) coated.

For more information contact:

Kennametal

P – 1800 666 667

W – www.kennametal.com

Enhanced SCADA networking

CITECT has extended its mobility solutions to allow operational and management personnel to monitor their factories, plants and mining sites from any location.

These solutions enhance the capabilities of a SCADA network by providing access via a greater range of mobile devices.

The system allows employees to be mobile, giving them the freedom to observe plant operations first hand.

The mobility solution allows the solution to be viewed over multiple hardware systems, such as thin-client terminals, PDAs and even mobile phones.

The solution also includes a web client, a maintenance-free, fully functioning extension of a SCADA network that is accessed via Windows Internet Explorer.

The company’s mobility solutions also allow for all clients to be managed from a central location, reducing the operational overheads associated with control system maintenance.

Another advantage of the mobility solutions is increased data security, as a centralised server can be more easily protected.

Security measures are focussed on the server, where all data is processed, with operators having no direct access to the servers.

If a mobile device is lost, SCADA information is safe because the data remains on the server, not on the device.

Citect 02 9496 7518, www.citect.com.

Profibus bus interface module

GE Fanuc Intelligent Platforms has a new Profibus-DP bus interface module (BIM) for its line of 8000 general purpose and intrinsically safe I/O.

The new BIM provides the interface between a Profibus-DP master and up to 32 8000 process I/O modules.

It is designed to the Profibus DPv1 standard, which supports both cyclic and acyclic communications, and a pair of BIMs can be used in a redundant configuration providing for increased reliability and uptime.

The module is about the size of an I/O module, reducing the overall footprint of the system and saving on installation costs.

It supports the pass-through of HART variable and status data with 8-channel HART AI or AO modules. Communications to popular instrument management software, including AMS and FDT- based packages, is over Ethernet.

The FDT applications are supported through DTM software provided by GE Fanuc.

Through this interface, access to all of the smart features of HART devices, calibration and maintenance history for individually addressable devices, and an instrument database, are available to instrument management software packages.

GE Fanuc 02 9531 6144, www.gefanuc.com

Ultrasonic flaw detector

THE TUD 320 ultrasonic flaw detector from Time Group performs its flaw detection functions by way of pulse echo, dual and through-transmission.

There are three detection modes available utilising single and dual probe methods.

Ultrasonic waves can be selected to be positive half-wave, negative half-wave, full wave and radio frequency.

Scanning range is between 2.5mm and 5000mm, with a resolution of 0.1mm between 2.5mm ad 100mm, and with a resolution of 1mm in the range of 100mm to 5000mm.

Gain range is adjustable from 0dB to 110dB. Bandwidth is from 0.2 to 15MHz, divided into three ranges (0.2 to 1; 0.5 to 4; and 3 to 15MHz). Display is via backlit TFT screen.

Power Parameters 1800 623 350. www.parameters.com.au

Air nutsert tool

INDUSTRIAL Air Tools has introduced a new air nutsert tool manufactured in Japan.

The AN-800 nutsert tool comes with five mandrels from M4 up to M10 and pulls aluminium, steel, and stainless steel nutserts.

These features make it a versatile tool suitable for many applications in a production environment.

Industrial Air Tools 1800 627 282.

Infrared thermal imaging system

IRCON has announced its Maxline 2 infrared thermal imaging system is now available with a camera link interface supporting multiple thermal imaging cameras for a variety of automated process control and inspection applications.

The system’s software has built-in input/output relay and networking capabilities, enabling users to manage multiple processes and communicate with other systems, if needed, for greater interoperability and control.

The system provides efficient and reliable in-line solutions for temperature measurement, thermal monitoring and process inspection in the manufacturing and research fields.

Each system offers automatic calibration, ambient temperature and motion correction features, providing an accurate and repeatable perspective of process operations.

Additional features include camera link interface; rugged housing; accessory enclosure; and a full range of other accessories including air purge and water-cooling options.

The camera also offers five temperature ranges and multiple wavelengths, and is able to process full-image (320×240 pixels) temperature radiometry at 60 frames/sec.

Fast frame rate and special algorithms allow temperature measurement of moving processes.

Image data secured by the software can be viewed instantaneously, played back at a later time, or sent directly to an SQL database depending on the application software.

Up to 50 separate temperature measurements can be acquired from each captured thermal image.

AMS Instrumentation 03 9017 8225. www.ams-ic.com.au

Quick load pallet elevator

OPTIMUM Handling Solutions has developed a quick change feature for adjusting the load capacity of its heavy duty scissor lift spring table.

Within 60 seconds, one person can change the springs and have the pallet elevator ready for use on a product of a different weight. No tools are required.

Standard load variations are 250kg, 350kg, 500kg, 600kg, 700kg, 850kg, 950kg and 1200kg. Load variation up to 2000kg is available on the standard unit.

The quick change feature is useful when different shifts are packing product of a different weight.

Another feature is its solid steel heavy duty turntable that eliminates the possibility of entrapment of foreign objects or debris while in operation.

For more information contact:

Optimum

P – 1800 066 008

W – www.optimumgroup.com.au

Desktop 3D printer

THE Alaris 30 desktop 3D printer has been designed to offer high quality and high speed in an office-friendly system.

According to the company, the printer’s PolyJet-driven Alaris 30 jets VeroWhite deftly models material and gel-like FullCure provides material support.

The print heads synchronously jet identical amounts of materials onto the tray, resulting in accurate models with smooth surfaces.

Models are smoothly surfaced and finely detailed; the strong material and highly accurate printing enable thin walls and small moving parts.

The models are ideal for ideal for painting, functional, fit and form testing, and vacuum forming.

The 300 x 200 x 150mm build tray enables large models or many small parts to be built simultaneously, saving time and cost.

It can also operate as a network printer, so multiple designers in an office can send their files to be printed.

The desktop printer uses sealed 1kg bottles of resins and the printed models are fully cured on the build tray, so there is no need for special plumbing or ventilation.

The printer is available from XYZ Innovation.

For more information contact:

Arrk Australia

P – 03 9815 6010

W – www.xyzinnovation.com.au

Modular bus coupler

LUMBERG Automation, represented in Australia by Soanar, has developed a new bus coupler with Profinet interface for the modular, decentralised LioN-Link system.

This bus coupler has an integrated switch that enables Profinet network wiring in Profibus network line topology.

In addition, there is an integrated web server which can be activated via a standard TCP/IP connection.

Via this connection information can be called up and settings can be made using a standard web browser: in addition to calling up device information it is possible to set IP addresses directly.

Diagnostics data of the connected LioN-Link I/O module are displayed as well as status information.

The integration of a monitoring function makes it possible to monitor the sensors and actuators connected to the I/O modules. The diagram of the LioN-Link system structure in the web browser also helps.

These useful tools considerably simplify working with the system, in particular its startup, installation and maintenance.

For more information contact:

Soanar

P – 03 9724 0888

W – www.soanar.com

Power-tool actuated swing clamps

DESIGNED for actuation by an impact wrench or nut runner, these swing clamps have been designed to provide fast, economical clamping and unclamping to offer improved productivity.

The high performance clamps from IMAO use a power tool to complete the clamping and unclamping of workpieces in a short period of time, and more economically than with hydraulic clamps.

The Quick-Acting version is for use by an operator with an impact wrench.

The clamp arm swings in the clockwise direction only and the action of these clamps is to swing in swift response to the turning speed of the impact wrench.

It then moves down for positive clamping and the short clamp-arm travel ensures quick clamping.

The Spiral-Acting version is for use in robotic production lines where robots use a nut runner to automate the process.

It has an internal spiral groove that allows the clamp arm to swing positively in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions.

The clamp arm swings then moves down for positive clamping in a matter of seconds.

Each version is available in two sizes, one with a clamping force of 6,000N and the other with 10,000N. They can be ordered with or without a standard clamp arm and, for custom arms, full dimensional information is provided.

For more information contact:

Romheld Automation

P – 1800 465 348

W – www.romheld.com.au

Controller range extended

ROCKWELL Automation has launched the Allen-Bradley CompactLogix L23 controller that extends the functionality of the Logix control platform to small machine-level control applications.

The controller leverages the control engine, development tools, network and operator interface technologies, and communications services of the Logix control platform.

Controller applications are developed using RSLogix 5000 programming software, allowing users to move seamlessly from one control application to another with no additional program development or training.

The controller supports advanced Integrated Architecture features including ‘alarms and events’ and ‘drive integration’, which are traditionally managed via a dedicated human-machine interface (HMI) or a separate programming package.

Use of a common database between FactoryTalk View and PanelView Plus offers easy HMI integration and reduces duplicate development efforts in both the controller and the HMI.

Programming time can be reduced and errors that can occur through code duplication can be minimised.

Featuring an integrated CPU, power supply and on-board I/O all in a compact housing, the new controller is equipped with 512kB of memory, and can accommodate up to three ‘continuous’, ‘periodic’, or ‘event’ tasks and four programs.

Initially offered in three I/O and communications configurations, the controller provides users with high levels of functionality and flexibility.

Integrated EtherNet/IP ports and pre-configured I/O streamline installation, commissioning and operation, and permit simplified networking to other controllers and plant-floor devices.

It can also accommodate up to two Compact I/O or communications cards.

Rockwell 03 9896 0300. www.rockwellautomation.com.au

Multi-user industrial workbench

THE Boscotek hexagonal industrial workbench, from Bosco Storage Solutions, is a multi-user, space-saving workstation consisting of a hexagonal hardwood top with lockable high density storage units at each work position.

Centralised power points are available as an accessory in the middle of the workbench.

Heuer height-adjustable vices can be mounted at each work position and high density cabinets can be fitted with doors or drawers, keyed alike or different.

The bench is ideal as a multi-user workstation or for training purposes. Benches are available in 850mm high x 560mm wide x 605mm deep; and 850mm high x 560mm wide x 755mm deep with a plinth. The work surface is 935mm from the ground.

For more information contact:

Boscotek

P – 02 8796 6288

W – www.boscotek.com.au

Robotic welding cells

NACHI Australia is offering turnkey robot packages for a wide range of applications such as welding, materials handling, palletising, packaging and vision-based bin-picking.

The cells are highly customisable from a basic robot and guarding package to a PLC-based fully automatic cell.

The cells are designed and built in Australia and are Cat 4 safety compliant.

The welding cell consists of a fully automatic welding robot with integrated welder, wire feeder and torch. The external PLC controlled turntable can support a variety of fixtures/tooling and automatic doors.

The design and manufacture of job specific fixtures allows the client to receive a custom product that suits needs and budget. The external PLC greatly improves the efficiency and flexibility of the cell.

Various PLCs are available for the control of the cell. With HMI (Human Machine Interface) all diagnostics, controls and alarms can be available at the touch of button. These systems can vary from simple mimic panels to complex PC based SCADA Systems.

The welding cell comes with a NACHI MV 6/16 robot and AXC controller for easy programming, and is able to control single or two-axis positioners for different payloads.

For more information contact:

Nachi

P – 03 9796 4144

W – www.nachirobotics.com.au

Spindle-driven actuator

FESTO’s spindle-driven cantilever axis EGSA, featuring high-performance mechanical components and a wide choice of motors, reduces cycle times to the absolute minimum.

In contrast to the electrical cantilever axis DGEA, designed for long strokes covering large areas, the strength of the EGSA is in its short stroke. It offers a repetition accuracy of ±0.01mm.

Thanks to open standard interfaces, the EGSA can be integrated into Festo’s modular mechatronic handling and assembly technology system.

The EGSA enables free use of non-Festo motors. The position can be freely defined while a belt transmission attachment makes it possible to mount motors parallel to the EGSA.

A selection of couplings and coupling housings is available for axial mounting.

EGSA is available as a complete solution with a motor and controller or simply as an individual component, depending on the needs of the application.

For more information contact:

Festo

P – 03 9790 3623

W – www.festo.com

ISO plugs and sockets

NHP has introduced a new range of ISO (industrial strength options) plugs and sockets.

The range of IP66-rated plugs and sockets is suitable for industrial, commercial and domestic single and three phase applications, from 10A to 50A; 3, 4 and 5-pin configurations.

The range features extruded ribbed grips, making it easier to remove the plug from the socket, and ensuring a good seal when tightening.

The ISO socket incorporates an isolator that has the facility to padlock in the ON and OFF positions and accepts almost any locking device.

ISO plugs and sockets are made to AS/NZS 3112:2004 and AS/NZS 3123:2005 and their material composition makes them suitable for most industrial and commercial applications.

Engineered and tested in Australia for Australian and New Zealand conditions, the design has been carefully crafted with rounded corners, ensuring there are no small crevices where dirt and grime can easily accumulate, making the ISO plugs and sockets ideal for applications where washdowns are required and cleanliness is essential.

The ISO range is available through authorised electrical wholesalers.

For more information contact:

NHP

P – 9429 2999

W – www.nhp.com.au

Surface markers

DYKEM High Purity markers are suitable for marking on stainless steel or any surface where degradation, contamination or other adverse effects are a concern.

The markers are ideal for aircraft industries, marine industries, power plants, automotive plants, and oil and natural gas refineries.

The High Purity formula contains trace amounts of halogens and low melting metals, and is low in chlorides. The precise formula meets or exceeds the specifications for GE Nuclear Energy, GE Aircraft Engines and the US Energy and Development Administration (nuclear grade).

For convenience, the markers are available in three different barrel types. Australian Warehouse Solutions (AWS) is the exclusive distributor of the markers.

For more information contact:

AWS

P – 1800 023 890

W – www.austwarehouse.com.au