Business

The benefits of prototyping using Additive Manufacturing

Prototyping parts is crucial in product improvement projects or when developing new components for industrial manufacturing companies. There is an implicit commercial imperative to generate prototypes rapidly on a repetitive basis for ongoing testing and evaluation. This usually includes integrating tolerances and parts specifications approaching that of the desired final component. The traditional approach to manufacturing prototypes involves creating moulds, assessing a broad range of different materials and assembling parts, usually using several production operations from numerous separate pieces. This can equate to a relatively high cost and require long lead times. The process may also impact project justification initially or delay the availability of prototypes and ultimately, the final component. Additive Manufacturing (AM) – the 3D printing of metallic and polymer, carbon composite parts – is a commercially favourable alternative to traditional prototyping as small volumes can be produced quickly and at lower cost. The creation of parts by layering materials also provides considerable creativity and control over the final shape when compared to traditional methods. Plus, prototyping production times are generally drastically reduced from weeks to hours in most cases. Contemporary developments in printing speeds, technologies and material capabilities have combined to make Additive Manufacturing a viable alternative to traditional methods, offering a competitive edge in product development. There are various printing technologies available, selection of which depends upon a number of factors to achieve optimisation of part cost and quality, but generally base material powders of the material are laid down in microscopic layers, fused within the shape of the part and gradually built up layer by layer to form the finished component. Accuracy is extremely high and complex internal geometries are easily facilitated. The final components can also incorporate post production finishing processes to achieve prototype specifications that meet company requirements. A few additional benefits obtained […]

RS Components helps industries get ahead with the Industrial Internet of Things

RS Components has announced a broad range of industrial electronics solutions supporting designers and engineers to meet increasing and evolving electronics demands. Featuring brands by market-leading global manufacturers, the RS industrial electronics solutions offering includes the latest parts and components for designers and engineers creating smart devices and embracing the Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) to deliver connected solutions for businesses, factory floors, and various industrial environments. Some popular and locally stocked products in Australia and New Zealand include sensors, power and circuit breakers, semiconductors and dev kits as well as test and measurement instruments from leading global brands including Schneider, TE Connectivity, Fluke, Phoenix Contact, Raspberry Pi, and more. Products from the range equip engineers with the tools to unlock productivity through IIOT. High-performance and high-precision tools comply with worldwide standards, and aid in detection and measurement, smart automation, and precision monitoring. Engineers are at the forefront of developing solutions that allow organisations to make informed and timely decisions. Harnessing IIOT enables manufacturers and industrial sectors to have better insight and sharing of data, enabling efficient plant maintenance and process improvements. “With locally-stocked products, we offer reliable access to industrial electronics solutions to help organisations innovate and get ahead swiftly. RS teams are also committed to working closely with customers who are just beginning their IIOT journey,” says Sean Fredericks, President, Asia Pacific at RS Components. Engineers looking to strengthen their IIOT capabilities can now access a reliable stock of over 650,000 industrial and electronic products, sourced from over 2,500 leading suppliers, on the RS websites for Australia and New Zealand. For more information on the expanded products visit: https://au.rs-online.com

Gold Coast yacht manufacturer sells out of orders for next three years

The multi-billion-dollar global luxury boat industry is experiencing such a boom brought on by the pandemic, that it is fuelling a burst of new locally designed and produced motor yacht models, as well as sales and exports. Offering the freedom to escape home-based lockdowns, circumnavigate international travel restrictions, and holiday by avoiding crowds, the return of premium yachts has been one of the striking global trends to emerge from Covid-19. Family-owned luxury yacht manufacturer, Maritimo, is based within the Gold Coast’s Marine Precinct – one of the most advanced and highly respected marine clusters in the southern hemisphere. Maritimo said interest from buoyant domestic and international markets had exploded in the past 18 months. Maritimo Director of Design Tom Barry-Cotter said the boatbuilding giant was positioned to experience 20 per cent annual growth year-on-year over the next three years, with orders for new motor yachts sold out beyond mid-2024. “Everything from web traffic to enquiry and sales figures are at record highs,” Barry-Cotter said. He said two key factors were driving growth – a strengthening global economy and Maritimo’s large scale new model roll-out. On the back of rising wealth, the global market for luxury craft is projected to jump to US$84.7 by 2027. This is up from US$64.1 billion in 2020 when the Covid crisis began, according to the latest Yacht Industry Global Market Trajectory and Analytics report. “Boating is a safe, family-friendly activity and has certainly become an ideal alternative to international recreational travel during the past 18 months,” Barry-Cotter said. Even from markets where travel wasn’t so heavily restricted, such as the United States, Maritimo was experiencing record sales and enquiries, he said. “We are seeing record interest and sales from Australia, New Zealand and North America,” he said. “Over 50 per cent of our production is […]

New General Manager for DECO Australia

DECO Australia is pleased to announce that Richard Hamber has been appointed as the company’s new General Manager. As a growing Australian family business, the restructure and new appointment comes as long-serving General Manger and family member Meika Doonan moves into a Strategic Advisory position from mid next year when she returns from maternity leave. Richard brings intimate knowledge of DECO Australia and their range of building products and finishing technologies from his previous positions as Research & Development Manager and Industrial Business Manager. He also brings extensive industry experience having previously held roles at the Australian Window Association for over seven years, which included the management of the Window Energy Rating Scheme, development of energy efficiency tools, assessing changes to energy efficiency compliance and working on sustainability related projects. A graduate of the Standard’s Australia ‘Young Leaders Program’, Richard has also participated in numerous national and international bodies including QualiCoat, the Australian Institute of Surface Finishing and Environmental Product Declarations. I have no doubt that Richard will continue to drive DECO Australia forward as we expand and grow well into the future said Ross Doonan, Director DECO Australia. “He has a fantastic understanding of our business and its core values, a great eye for design and innovation, and will bring great structure and focus for our team to drive DECO’s continued success.” DECO Australia is a family-owned Australian business and leading manufacturer of architectural building products, splashbacks and signage, as well as surface finishes and protective coatings and pre-treatments for applications within the automotive, engineering, cookware, medical and defence industries.

Kimberly-Clark Professional® & RS join forces to support Aussies getting back-to-work

As Australians head back to work, after another lock-down buying their own toilet paper… RS Components are excited to announce their partnership with Kimberly-Clark Professional®. Along with their own RS Pro maintenance products, they are making sure their expanded range supports Aussies getting back on-site or into the office. Kimberly-Clark Professional® is known for delivering leading-edge solutions for a safer, healthier, and more productive workplace. From office buildings, schools, hotels, healthcare facilities and food preparation areas to laboratories, processing plants and manufacturing environments, the RS- Kimberly-Clark Professional® partnership will benchmark safety and cleanliness in the workplace. “At Kimberly-Clark Professional® we value our strategic relationships with partners like RS Components who share our values and commitment to making a positive impact on people and how they work,” says Jamie Rivett of KCP. “RS Components has a rich history of connecting customer needs with best product supply solutions and by working closely with RS Components Australia, we are accelerating our efforts to create Exceptional Workplaces.” The partnership means 170 new products added to the RS range including well-known brands Kleenex®, Scott®, Wypall® and Kimtech®. “Our local partnership with Kimberly-Clark Professional® and the addition of 170 new Cleaning, Hygiene, and Safety products is a substantial boost to our local offer and underlines our commitment to provide our customers with the most comprehensive selection of products that suit the Australian market,” explained Scott Philbrook, MD, RS Components ANZ.

Fenn Foods makes Australian Financial Reviews Fast 100 List

Leading Australian producer and marketer of premium plant-based foods Fenn Foods, has been awarded position #55 on the prestigious AFR Fast 100 List for 2021. This latest achievement recognises the significant progress and growth of the company over the past few years, “Our focus on innovation has seen us become one of the 100 fastest growing companies in Australia,” says Fenn Foods CEO and Co-founder Alejandro Cancino. “The resulting capability to enter into new categories will help us build our brand awareness as leaders in premium plant-based food categories.” With Australia’s plant-based meat industry demonstrating strong upward trajectory towards its $3 billion potential by 20301, Fenn Foods’ growth trajectory is set to continue. The company’s dedicated plant-based foods production facility on the Sunshine Coast in QLD, in combination with its continued investment in market intelligence and R&D; provides the platform to validate and launch new products and formats, supporting the category’s growth in both retail and foodservice markets, through leading quality, taste and texture. 1 The Food Frontier, 2020 State of the Industry Report Fenn Foods is Australia’s leading plant-based protein producer with one of the largest locally produced food service range in the country as well as a consumer-favourite retail brand, vEEF®. Founded by renowned chef, Alejandro Cancino, the company has achieved massive growth. Fenn Foods distribute nationwide and are entering new categories every year. The company is dedicated to innovation with an experienced R&D team working on perfecting taste and texture profiles of existing items and crafting world-first products. This focus has enabled the company to champion plant-based foods, change Australia’s protein culture and position vEEF® as the consumer favourite.

Winners announced for Premier’s Sustainability Awards 2021

An impressive list of organisations, communities, and individuals have been announced as winners of this year’s Premier’s Sustainability Awards. The awards, now in their 19th year, recognise Victorians across the state who have demonstrated leadership and innovation in sustainable practices. Winners were announced at an online ceremony on, presented by The Hon Lily D’Ambrosio, Minister for Energy, Environment, and Climate Change, with a program to improve farming practices in the Macedon Ranges and a volunteer-led initiative to restore oyster reefs in Corio Bay receiving the top awards selected by Premier Daniel Andrews. Sustainability Victoria Chief Executive Officer, Claire Ferres Miles congratulated the winners, recognising the outstanding calibre of entries received. “We received inspiring entries for this year’s Premier’s Sustainability Awards across multiple sectors and industries, and our 2021 winners are role models for all Victorians and across Australia,” Ms Ferres Miles said. “Sustainability Victoria is proud to be showcasing the extraordinary achievements of Victoria’s innovators, as together we accelerate our transition to a circular, climate-resilient clean economy.” Winners of the 2021 Premier’s Sustainability Awards: Premier’s Recognition Award: The Nature Conservancy Australia for the Bringing Back Victoria’s Lost Oyster Reefs project to improve one of Victoria’s most prized assets – Port Phillip Bay. More than 40 volunteers from 16 different groups helped to restore one hectare of native oyster reef in Corio Bay and test a new method for reef restoration. Premier’s Regional Recognition Award: Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s Healthy Landscapes for Healthy Livestock project, which aims to build the capacity of local farmers to implement regenerative agriculture techniques to improve soil health, enhance biodiversity and boost resilience to a changing climate, resulting in 100% of participants changing land management practices. Clean, affordable, and secure energy: • Community Champion: Black Stump Technologies • Industry leader: Allume Energy Climate action • Community […]

Royal Wolf lifts club’s spirits

The surprise donation of a shipping container has thrilled a Queensland-based sporting club recovering from theft, vandalism and the ravages of Covid-19. In June 2020, Wynnum Wolves Football Club on Brisbane’s bayside was left devastated after thieves stole soccer equipment and recycled cans worth thousands of dollars. In November, tragedy struck again when vandals ruined new facilities worth more than $50,000. On hearing of the century-old club’s struggles, national shipping container company Royal Wolf stepped in, surprising club members with the donation of a shipping container to store and secure equipment for its community teams. The gesture represented a meeting of wolf packs – two similarly named organisations that value the contribution made by community groups at a grassroots level. Wynnum Wolves Football Club president, Rabieh Krayem, says the club was humbled to be singled out for the donation. He says the theft of 5000 recycling cans as well as valuable club equipment and the subsequent vandalism had been heartbreaking for club members, who volunteered hours of their free time to raise funds to improve club facilities, and to lower fees so more children could enjoy the sport. “Even the kids couldn’t work it out,” says Mr Krayem. “Why would someone come and steal our cans? I think it shocked the kids, but I also think it united the club and brought our members together and other people into the club. “I think when you’re part of a community, people will come. When you see the amount of kids here and the numbers growing, you know that this club means a lot more than just a football team. “It’s part of the community, part of the fabric of Wynnum.” Like many community groups across Australia, the Wynnum Wolves faced an uphill battle to maintain morale during the Covid-19 lockdown. Games […]

Rob Stummer, CEO Asia Pacific, SYSPRO AUS MN

“MOM’s” the word for manufacturers getting a competitive edge

By Rob Stummer, Asia Pacific CEO at SYSPRO The manufacturing sector is incredible with how almost two years into a ‘new normal’, a pandemic is not letting the industry reduce the productions of goods that the world demands. What has remained constant is the expectation that costs and waste stay minimal while the business functions efficiently. Without a doubt, manufacturing is a globally competitive industry that’s often responding to market supply and demands. The unpredictability of some market conditions can make it challenging for domestic manufacturers to often operate efficiently but there are solutions that can help business gain a competitive edge through better operational efficiencies. Most factories have a myriad of data sources that are often neither connected nor integrated. To harness the power of big data analytics and operational optimisation in manufacturing, it is critical to ensure interoperability between data sources. The issue is that from a data collection perspective, every machine can in theory generate megabytes of data that is often not used to its full potential. But what is the best way to improve operational efficiency in a manufacturing environment? Manufacturers should fully embrace connected and automated manufacturing by digitally transforming their operational processes, because connecting with machines to read real-time data without manual inputs will drive efficiency and transparency to manage operational performance better. The best way to achieve this is to ensure the intelligent interconnectivity between automation, digitisation and data analytics, which will drive transformative change within their operations and help them realise the promise of Industry 4.0. The changes this industrial revolution promises are profound and over the next decade, forward-thinking manufacturers will transform themselves through digital interconnectivity. Industry 4.0 is heralding a transformation in the manufacturing sector by facilitating new ways for humans and machines to work together and empowering manufacturers to achieve greater insights, reduce the risk of error and make better decisions. It encompasses three technological trends driving this transformation: interconnectivity, intelligence and automation. It converges […]

Funding growth of nano satellite technology -$26.4m round

·Fleet Space Technologies has secured $26.4m (USD) in investment, valuing the company at $126 million (USD). This represents a major step forward for Fleet Space Technologies, which is committed to creating the world’s most advanced low-power satellite network, securing planet-wide coverage for millions of compatible Internet of Things (IoT) devices by using its in-house Nanosatellite technology. The funding will underpin significant expansion in Fleet Space’s manufacturing footprint and will expand the company’s highly skilled workforce. The investment, which exceeded the initially targeted $25m (USD) is a clear endorsement of Fleet Space’s vision. The Australian start-up, co-founded by Flavia Tata Nardini and Matt Pearson, has created the most advanced smallsat payload yet delivered to orbit. These smallsat devices, roughly the size of a shoebox, generate ten times more throughput per kilo than larger spacecraft and will support radical new efficiencies for hundreds of industries using IoT. This will transform the ability of companies and institutions to manage and control their remote assets across the world and in real time, 24 hours a day, even in remote areas, where cellular connectivity is not available and where operations are critical. The investment also represents a firm commitment to Australia’s rapidly emerging space industry, which the Federal Government plans to grow to a $12 billion, ranking the sector among the nation’s fastest growing industries. Its expansion in the region will also create 70 jobs, including many highly desirable science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) positions in the first phase of growth. These roles not only secure a bright future for the country’s technical innovators and critical thinkers, but will support in making Australia a home for innovative solutions that drive positive change on a global scale. The International Data Corporation predicts that there will be more than 14 billion connected, low-power devices by 2025. To unlock the […]

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