volatility

Sensors that keep up with the volatility

Manufacturers’ Monthly speaks with Michael Matheson, electrical and instrument engineer for explosives at Orica Yarwun, and Graeme Corder, Brisbane area manager for VEGA Australia, about how the “VEGAPULS 64” non-contact radar level transmitter has been instrumental in maintaining operations at Orica. 
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Chain lube keeps ag machines running smooth

In line with recent innovations in the field of lubrication, aerosols and adhesive technology, most modern harvester machines contain a self-oiling reservoir or a self-greasing board for providing an ongoing source of lubrication.  However, according to Angela Chardon, the Managing Director at Candan Industries – who produce the popular INOX lubricants – many farmers still prefer a ‘hands on’ approach’ to their machine maintenance and often use machines that require manual lubrication. Candan’s premium grade product, the INOX MX9 No-Chukka Chain Lube, has been a best-seller at BSC since its introduction to the market in 2007.  “We tested it numerous times with different oil viscosities to get the right balance. It contains the extreme pressure friction modifier PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) for slick performance and special tackifiers to bond to the chain,” explains Angela. “These properties give it increased lubrication for reduction in the wear of the chain and helps in reducing operating temperatures.”  On a farm, there are always a few machines that use chains for hoisting, hauling, conveying, or driving a motor. The combine harvester is one such machine. A combine is used for harvesting crops such as oats, wheat, barley, rye, corn, sunflower, linseed, canola, and soybeans. The machine is used to collect seeds or edible parts which are placed at the top of the grains, while inedible or damaged parts are discarded behind into the field.  The large link chains require lubrication to operate the rotary elements of the harvesting and threshing units.  A combine harvester also aids in the placement and storing of the harvested crops. The processes performed by a combine harvester include multiple activities such as cutting, hauling, and moving crops to a threshing location.   Read More
Federal

Federal opposition leader visits DECO manufacturing facility

Federal opposition leader Anthony Albanese visited Australian manufacturer, DECO Australia, on 7 October to learn more about the company’s innovative manufacturing processes and products and discuss issues facing Australian manufacturing SMEs. 
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Danone

End-to-end Traceability: The Danone Journey

We are all consumers, which is why we are more and more concerned about the food we eat and its safety. We have also become more responsible consumers, buying more green and sustainable products. Further, this fact has been accelerated during the global pandemic we are still facing worldwide.
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power

Manufacturing requires power. Keep your systems running with innovative technology.

Unplanned power outages can be costly both from a production and financial point of view for those operating manufacturing sites. Even a short outage can become a major problem, with some factory floor equipment shutting down immediately as the power is cut, forcing motors, drive systems, conveyor belts, and other machinery to stop and then begin the process of resetting.
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STEM

Industry, schools and governments must work together to foster STEM career pathways

Weld Australia is calling on industry, schools and governments to work together to develop and deliver STEM programs that engage, excite and attract students. Australia needs a vibrant national STEM skills program that illuminates the opportunities available in careers like welding and manufacturing for kids and parents alike. 
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lubricant

Tech support made easy for oils and lubricant

A few years ago, Thomas Higgins decided to start his own business repairing header equipment for the harvest season from his home on Eyre Peninsula in the South Australian grain belt.  He promoted his business by word of mouth, operating solely on referrals and repeat business. It was not long before he identified some issues with the recommended oils and lubricants on his John Deere headers, finding some components were prematurely failing. Chris Wheatley, the Agriculture, Food & Beverage Manager at BSC in Adelaide had been supporting Thomas’ business needs for several months and was quick to suggest that Thomas consult with Viva Energy’s, Shell Lubricants Technical Helpdesk Service so that he could better assess his lubrication options.  “It’s an efficient option,” says Chris. “I felt Thomas would benefit from having that service on hand when he’s out there in the field alone. He can have peace of mind knowing the oils he is using will keep his machines running optimally.”  When it comes to aftermarket service on his lubricant products, Thomas has come to rely on the Shell Lubricants Helpdesk for quick solutions.  “Sometimes it’s easier to consult the professionals when it comes to technical advice regarding the selection of optimum oils for specific situations, rather than to do all the research yourself, which would eat into time that would be better spent elsewhere,’ says Thomas.  Read More
productivity

Four strategies to increase labour and equipment productivity in manufacturing

Manufacturing in the 21st century is becoming more competitive than ever with margins getting tighter. The businesses in this sector are now having to look closely at their efficiencies and productivity and by re-evaluating the use of known technologies and considering newer relatively untried technologies to introduce competitive advantage to their organisations. 
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Scallog

Scallog robot lifts shelves using LINAK actuator

Due to the strong growth in e-commerce, intralogistics is faced with the challenge of handling small batch sizes as well as large quantities in the shortest possible time. With its mobile robot ‘Boby’, the French company Scallog offers a system that can transport even heavy shelves including goods. The lifting system uses the LINAK actuator LA36. 
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