Daily News

Energy Renaissance to deliver defence-grade cybersecure battery management system with CSIRO and IMCRC

Energy Renaissance, an Australian lithium-ion battery manufacturer, will develop a defence-grade cybersecure Battery Management System (BMS) for its superStorage family of batteries that are to be manufactured in Tomago, NSW. The A$1.46 million BMS project is jointly funded and developed by Energy Renaissance with Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO and the Innovative Manufacturing CRC (IMCRC). The BMS will monitor and report on the battery’s usage, lifespan and faults through a mobile network to Energy Renaissance and their customers. Communicating through an inverter, the system will enable secure real time data, analytics and remote management to drive down the risk of battery failure and operating costs for grid-scale energy storage users. Brian Craighead, Technology and Development Director of Energy Renaissance said, “The collaboration between Energy Renaissance, CSIRO, and IMCRC will promote an Australian Battery Management System instead of relying on an overseas technology platform. Working together with CSIRO will ensure we can create a world-class defence-grade cybersecure Battery Management System that is fully developed and managed in Australia for critical energy storage infrastructures.” “Software designed and developed in Australia has a strong global reputation and we’ve built a history and track record as an industry. Through this project, we will demonstrate the advantage that Australian intellectual property can bring to a highly competitive energy storage market where a superior Battery Management System is critical for the operating efficiency of a battery.” Dr Adam Best, Principal Research Scientist at CSIRO said, “CSIRO is delighted to be working with Energy Renaissance to develop a Battery Management System that is the ‘nerve centre’ of a battery, and will make batteries safer, more affordable and optimised to operate in high temperature environments. Our partnership with Energy Renaissance validates CSIRO’s capabilities to collaborate, train and transfer skills for the advanced manufacturing of batteries.” David Chuter, CEO […]

Fleet Space Technologies applies for a Federal MMI grant to build 50 nanosatellites a year

Adelaide satellite manufacturer Fleet Space Technologies has applied for a $5 Million Federal government Modern Manufacturing Initiative (MMI) grant so that it can jump from building three hand-built nanosatellites a year to mass-producing 50. Additional support from the South Australian government will supplement nearly $4 Million the company is raising itself. If the grant application is successful, Fleet Space will become a major satellite manufacturing hub and increase its payroll from 31 staff today to 128 by 2024, says its CEO and co-founder Ms Flavia Tata Nardini. Most of the new employees will be engineers and specialist satellite assembly technicians. Fleet Space has spent $12 Million since 2015 on R&D to develop the world’s most advanced beam-steering antenna and to miniaturise its satellites’ communications payload. These make it possible to deliver its Nebula space-based data network using a 10kg nanosatellite where previously this level of connectivity was only possible with a 100kg satellite. The company, which has already launched four nanosatellites, has applied for a $5 million grant under the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources’ Modern Manufacturing Initiative (MMI) to help it make the jump. Fleet Space plans to build a new factory with more than double the space for R&D and manufacturing and has partnered with the University of Adelaide’s Institute of Photonics and Advanced Sensing, local company Redarc Electronics, Hawker Richardson in Melbourne and NSW-based Lintek to build the industrial capability to manufacture these nanosatellites in Australia. The Nebula service for utilities, mining and energy companies uses satellites to connect sensors monitoring critical infrastructure such as remote mine sites, alternative energy sites, gas pipelines and rurally dispersed electricity pylons with central base stations, 24 hours a day. This also allows operators to conduct geological surveys and operate unmanned vehicles such as drones remotely from a proper […]

AVEVA and OSIsoft combine to unlock potential for industrial organisations

Industrial Software Market Leaders Introduce ‘Performance Intelligence’ to create Industrial Software and Data Leadership AVEVA, a global leader in engineering and industrial software, has joined forces with OSIsoft to meet the expanding information management needs of industrial companies and accelerate their digital transformation. The combined portfolio brings OSIsoft’s world-class data management together with AVEVA’s leading industrial software to unlock Performance Intelligence. Providing greater operational agility and resilience, Performance Intelligence connects information and artificial intelligence (AI) with human insight, to enable faster and more accurate decision making, helping industries boost sustainability. By pairing the trusted capabilities of OSIsoft’s PI System with the leading industrial software of AVEVA, Performance Intelligence gives the people behind essential processes the rich, reliable data they need to better measure and understand the entire industrial lifecycle. Areas where Performance Intelligence is likely to have the most impact will include organisational productivity, operational agility, and sustainability. The global big data and analytics market is growing exponentially and projected to be worth $274 billion by 2022. Staying ahead of the curve requires a new understanding of the scope and scale of industrial information to leverage that data effectively. Insight into industrial information from edge to enterprise reduces downtime, production costs, and energy consumption – optimising resources and driving sustainability. The combined software portfolio is driving digital transformation for over 20,000 customers globally, operational efficiency to empower people, industries, and communities. Craig Hayman, CEO at AVEVA, said, “Together we’re redefining the capabilities of industrial software. Through Performance Intelligence, we can see worlds of data from bold new angles, and inspire better understanding of complex value chains, to boost performance and drive sustainability. The combined impact of AVEVA and OSIsoft will enable our customers to manage complex industries more efficiently. Our expanded capabilities elevate AVEVA’s commitment to deliver operational agility that […]

Hydraulink “can do” Dandenong branch rewarded for hard work during tough Covid conditions

The hardworking attitude and “can do” ethos of the Hydraulink Dandenong branch has earned the accolades of Managing Director Denis Matulin, for the staff’s dedication during challenging Covid conditions. The extended Covid lockdowns posed major challenges for this Victorian branch, as it did for many businesses across the state. But Hydraulink Sales and Service Technicians (HSSTs), along with branch staff, rose to the challenge, and worked within strict hygiene rules to provide breakdown services and other hydraulic work required by busy industries seeking maximum uptime. “Hydraulics are vital to all hard working machinery, and businesses in industries such as forestry, agriculture, construction, civil engineering, materials handling and food and beverage needed our help more than ever,” said Mr Matulin. “It was harder to travel, harder to sign in to individual sites, and there were a lot more rules, but I’m incredibly proud that our whole team rose to the task and remained open throughout the entire pandemic, providing vital service to industry,” he said. The Hydraulink Dandenong branch is part of a network of more than 400 hydraulic service points across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. The network operates under the market signature “best under pressure” and delivers essential, safety-compliant and traceable hydraulic hose, fittings and services with expertise to industries requiring prompt, quality 24/7 service – either on-site or off-site. Service Awards In addition to praise for the branch’s outstanding performance in the past year, Mr Matulin also awarded long-service awards to two staff members. Craig Dorling received his 10 year service award and Aaron Harris received an award for five years of service to the company. “As a company, we seek to form long term partnerships. That applies to customers, suppliers and employees. I’m delighted that these two talented employees continue to provide value to the […]

Disinfecting robot prepares for return of students

Gen2 is using the innovative technology to disinfect the workshop area and main atrium at its HQ and training centre in Cumbria, UK, ahead of welcoming staff and students back to the building. The remotely-operated robot was developed by Forth in Cumbria last year as a response to the fight against Covid-19. The firm is known for its innovations to solve complex industry challenges all over the world in nuclear, oil and gas, renewables and other sectors. Disinfecting of the workshop area and main atrium will enhance current Covid-19 safety measures in place throughout the building, and provide extra peace of mind for staff and students. Gen2 has worked closely with Forth over a number of years delivering apprenticeship programmes and training for the engineering firm, which is based in Maryport, Cleator Moor and Barrow in Cumbria. The Forth team developed the disinfecting robot in a matter of weeks by combining its tracked robot, vapour cannon, camera and lights. The robot is able to be worked remotely, controlled from a safe distance, to disinfect any area – inside or outside – to help the country safely emerge from lockdown. It can be used in offices, warehouses, transport hubs, schools, shopping complexes, or on the streets, anywhere inside or outside, wherever it’s required. It can be deployed in any building or any area, before people return after lockdown to make sure the space they are going back to is safe to use, and can be regularly re-used to decontaminate areas, whether that’s once a week or several times a day. Radio-controlled, wireless and tetherless, the disinfecting robot can perform fogging or misting. It has the ability to climb flights of stairs and can disinfect large areas in a matter of minutes. It works in a similar way to a vapour cigarette […]

Silostore offers first-to-market composite silos

Silostore, Australia’s leading designer, manufacturer, and supplier of Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) composite silos, has revolutionised silo production by using a first-to-market, composite design. Silostore composite silos make handling of dry goods and liquids a far better experience for the end-user when compared to traditional materials such as concrete, aluminium, and steel for many reasons. “We have designed a world-class composite silo that gives the Australian market a more sustainable and far superior solution,” said Jerry Pridham, Director of Silostore. “The fact that we have been able to design and then manufacture such a revolutionary product right here in New South Wales is a phenomenal outcome for our industry.” The silos are fully sealed, have a very high insulation value, and do not rust. In addition, they are light-weight, easy to install, and virtually maintenance free. Externally, they are 100% UV-resistant, while internally they have a glass-like finish that ensures no internal catch points and excellent outflow properties. Zero condensation is also a bonus for grain storage and it also helps keeps the inside walls clean and reduces the risk of lump formation. Silostore silos include a market-leading 25-year warranty, never seen before in the industry. Silostore silos are ideal for the agriculture and food manufacturing sectors, as well as businesses such as seed and grain merchants, commercial bakeries and flour mills, pulp and paper, renewable energy, pet foods and liquid fertilizer industries. The superior weight-to-strength ratios and flexible design properties make them suitable for virtually any storage application across these sectors. With unforeseen events such as the Covid-19 pandemic, businesses are rethinking their global supply chains and looking for in-country solutions. As Australia’s only supplier of premium composite silos — backed by a proud century-long history as a leading manufacturer and supplier — Silostore can help combat the threat […]

Celebrating important role of women in resources

Resources and energy employers today celebrate the critically important role of women to the industry’s present and future success. This International Women’s Day, Australian Resources and Energy Group AMMA is also proud to highlight its ongoing work to assist mining, oil and gas, and allied sector employers to attract and retain more female employees, managers, and c-level executives. These initiatives include: The Australian Women in Resources Alliance (AWRA): In its ninth year, the industry’s leading national diversity and inclusion initiative facilitates programs, support and guidance to assist employers in building their diversity and inclusion capability. AWRA Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Board: A passionate committee of senior industry leaders who assist with diversity and inclusion program design and improvement; identify new priorities and facilitate engagement between AWRA and wider industry. AWRA Knowledge Centre: Providing employers with the latest industry information, tools and best-practices for diversity and inclusion policies and workplace cultures. Bright Future STEM Primary Schools Program: In its third year of building awareness amongst primary school students of the industry’s diverse and rewarding careers including through hands-on STEM activities and female role model presentations. In addition, AMMA regularly delivers its Appropriate Workplace Behaviours training to member company employees, with a strong focus on discrimination, sexual harassment and inclusive workplace culture. With technology and innovation transforming the industry, AMMA Director Operations Tara Diamond said it was important to highlight exciting new opportunities for highly skilled women to enter the resources and energy workforce. “AMMA is proud to guide and support resources and energy employers in their commitment to increase female workforce and leadership representation,” Ms Diamond said. “Many employers are looking to fully realise the wide-ranging benefits of increased female participation and have developed industry-leading policies and initiatives to attract and develop women in the resources […]

Another $1.2 billion for apprentices’ subsidy, with post-JobKeeper targeted package imminent

Scott Morrison will announce today a $1.2 billion extension of the government’s wage subsidy for businesses taking on apprentices, as the government starts to roll out targeted assistance for the post-JobKeeper economy. The Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements’ wage subsidy program will become “demand driven” and in its new stage is expected to generate some 70,000 new apprentice and trainees places. The apprentices have to be signed up before the end of September, and the subsidy will run for 12 months from the date the person starts with their employer. The program, announced last year to help the economic recovery from COVID, provided for a subsidy of 50% of wages paid to an apprentice between October 5 2020 and September 30 2021. The maximum subsidy was $7,000 a quarter. The cost of the first stage was also $1.2 billion. The subsidy rate will remain the same under the extension. The initial phase of the program is fully subscribed, helping create some 100,000 apprenticeships. So far the program has assisted nearly 40,000 businesses take on a new apprentice or trainee. On Monday, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg flagged a package of assistance measures for the post-JobKeeper transition will be unveiled within days. Speaking in Cairns, which has been hard hit from the drying up of international tourists, Frydenberg pointed to aviation as one sector needing support. He said the government wanted “to back businesses that back themselves”. JobKeeper ends late this month. The government has always insisted it will not extend it, but it is also anxious to prevent its end causing setbacks in sectors that are still struggling. Shadow treasurer Jim Chalmers said JobKeeper should be extended for the Cairns area. Also visiting Cairns he said, “There are 8,096 workers and 2,631 small businesses in this local economy which face devastation because of Josh […]

‘Work with Us’ on economic recovery – New resources sector TV campaign

A new TV campaign from Australian Resources and Energy Group AMMA calls on the nation’s political representatives to “work with” employers as they push to secure new major project investment, create jobs and assist with the national economic recovery. Launching today, phase two of AMMA’s ‘Work with Us’ campaign highlights the significant growth potential of Australia’s resources and energy sector. Running on Sky News and social media channels throughout March, the campaign comes as the Australian Parliament considers amendments to the Fair Work Act that would remove a significant amount of risk, uncertainty, and cost from Australia’s industrial relations system. “Australia’s resources and energy employers have kept the economy strong throughout the COVID-19 pandemic,” Steve Knott AM, Chief Executive of AMMA, said. “According to the Department of Industry, we now have $334 billion of new major projects in our national investment pipeline. If all this could be secured, the creation of jobs across construction, production and supply chain operations would easily exceed 100,000. “These projects would also deliver state, territory and federal governments with multiple billions of dollars in revenues, each year for decades on end. Our nation has a very rare opportunity to kick-start its economic recovery with a new wave of investment into one of its most important industries. “But we cannot take this opportunity for granted. The competition for global investment capital is now fiercer than ever. AMMA’s new campaign simply calls on our parliamentarians to ‘work with us’ on converting these opportunities. “They can begin by supporting the Morrison Government’s industrial relations reforms that will encourage employers, employees and unions to work together to secure new investment and growth opportunities. “For example, allowing employers and unions to agree on longer terms for greenfields agreements used in the construction of new major projects, will offer major project […]

Aqueous water heater ends hot water wait

With the average mains supply tap spitting out 10-15 litres of water a minute, it doesn’t take long to become a water waster. And if you are running cold water down the sink while waiting for the hot water to come down the pipe, it is not only wasteful but frustrating. This problem has become larger as pipe runs in households and businesses have become longer, as many premises get larger. Now, the water often has to run a lot further than before from the main water heater, before it comes out hot at the tap. And when you turn off the hot tap again, the hot water sucked into those long pipes cools down again. “It can become a double whammy – you waste more cold water running it down the sink while you spend more money heating it up to travel longer distances to get to you,” says Jay King, who has engineered a solution to the problem in the shape of Aus J’s ruggedly engineered Aqueous MK2 6-litre compact water heater. The Aqueous MK2 6-litre water heater from Aus J Hot Water Solutions is the most compact model yet, designed to provide domestic, commercial, hospitality, food and beverage, and industrial users with near-instant hot water while saving time, energy, water and frustration. With dimensions of just 305 by 305 by 304 mm, it is designed to sit snugly in cupboards near the tap, or under the floor just below them. It is so compact that it is also used in portable catering vehicles and boats, where space is precious, to ensure immediate hot water for washing, hygiene and convenience. Aqueous 6L and 10L models are available in 240v and 12v models, while the complementary Aus J Duoetto 10L water heater incorporates automatically switched 12v/240v operation. The compact […]

«‹ 15 16 17 18 ›»

News Ticker

Daily News