Smart Manufacturing

Defence companies vie for slice of $35 billion Australian frigate pie

Detailed planning for Australia’s Hunter Class Frigate Program is well underway as local companies vie for a slice of the $35 billion project. Nine anti-submarine warfare frigates will be built by ASC Shipbuilding at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia in what is being described as the largest surface ship project in Australia’s defence history. Construction of the first test blocks for the project will begin towards the end of this year with defence companies now being short-listed to carry out part of the work. Among them is Adelaide defence company AFL services, which has been down-selected for lucrative blast and paint work. AFL services was one of four Australian companies recently invited to tour global defence company BAE Systems’ world-class shipyards in Scotland to inspect painting processes used on the Type 26 Global Combat Ship. This is the reference ship design for Hunter class. “AFL Services has a proud history of working on defence projects, from land vehicles with BAE/Tenix toll defence, and components for Navantia to the Collins Class submarines,” General manager Adam Levi said. AFL Services now has more than 60 staff and winning a slice of the Frigate work would boost projections. ASC Shipbuilding won the head contract to provide the design and build framework of the nine anti-submarine warfare frigates that will be replacing the nation’s eight Anzac Class frigates. ASC Shipbuilding has become a subsidiary of BAE Systems throughout the build process before ownership is returned to the Commonwealth at the completion of the project. The two-year first building of five test blocks at the world-class digital shipyard in Osborne, Adelaide, is beginning in December this year with building of the first frigate expected to commence in 2022. “We appreciate that BAE System is embracing Australian industry content and helping small businesses reach their […]

Voumard 1000 new standard for ID grinding in manufacturing

Hardinge has introduced the Voumard 1000 Universal CNC Internal grinding (IG) machine. The machine offers a high-performance, economical grinder for the widest range of universal internal grinding requirements to obtain fine surface finishes and tight tolerances. The Voumard 1000 is a new standard in ID grinding, providing customers with the ultimate combination of precision, performance in an affordable machine designed to optimise production costs when manufacturing high-precision parts for industries ranging from aerospace to medical. For over 80 years, the Voumard brand has been a global leader in innovative ID/OD grinding with almost 10,000 installed internal grinding machines around the world. Typical applications are grinding operations on parts for hydraulic components, spindles, bearings, or gears as example. Customers can now get the following benefits and features: Innovative Hydrolin hydrostatic guideways provide the highest smallest diameters to enhance productivity. A unique design that does not have coupling joints to perform without any backlash, offers superior positioning accuracy-less corrections, as well as optimised thermodynamics in its direct drive linear motor system for better cooling management. Unique, compact hydrostatic spindle turret configuration for ideal accessibility and larger spectrum of parts. The new system offers a hydrostatic B-axis, with benchmarking positioning repeatability. Advantages in high precision also in non-round grinding and improved accessibility with compact “table turret” collision-free dressing. New compact, ergonomic machine design for better overview during grinding process and accessibility for best in class tool and work piece management. Fanuc 31i control for improved operator access, fast programming and retooling, even for inexperienced operators.

How viable is additive manufacturing?

~ The manufacturing and legal issues surrounding additive manufacturing ~ In 1984, Charles Hull invented the first 3D printer, which used stereolithography to build up a plastic product layer by layer. Over 35 years later, additive manufacturing (AM) is drastically altering a range of industries, from manufacturing to the medical sector. But what are the limitations of the technology? H In some applications, component manufacturing is shifting away from traditional subtractive machining methods and towards additive manufacturing techniques. The broadening of the applications of AM is causing manufacturers to assess the viability of using it in their own facilities. To do this, there are a few considerations to make before turning to 3D technology. Quality not quantity When moving from one manufacturing method to another, quality is a huge factor, particularly in highly regulated industries like aerospace and medical devices. In fact, quality has been one of the major hurdles to the widespread adoption of AM. One critical consideration is that quality and consistency must be the same machine to machine, regardless of location. Powder bed fusion is one of the most frequently used additive manufacturing methods and there is a possibility that it may introduce defects. However, if the process has a constant thermal gradient, it can prevent warping of the product, avoiding the introduction of defects due to incorrect temperatures. Another concern is that unsintered powder will degrade as a result of heat exposure and that this could impact quality, although regular changing of the powder can prevent this from becoming an issue. When investing in an AM system, manufacturers can overcome quality concerns by working with an experienced partner, who provides training and support on best practice. Those looking to invest in AM parts produced elsewhere should be mindful of their supplier’s approach to quality, to ensure […]

How 3D printing will transform design and engineering in the future

3D printing is now mainstream within schools and businesses because of its flexibility and ability to unleash users’ creativity. 3D printing offers a fast, inexpensive way to create prototypes, test ideas, and even manufacture components and products for commercial sale or use. This is triggering a change in the way organisations build and design their products. The results include cost reductions and the ability to improve products by applying design thinking principles such as latticing, part consolidation, and light weighting. On top of this, savings in supply-chains, product storage, and waste can be realised. 3D printing is maturing and changing quickly, and so too is the future of engineering and design. For example, the automotive industry can now benefit from much shorter lead times when using 3D printing, which allows for much faster development and testing of components. As 3D printing technology evolves, and new materials are developed, products that were previously not viable to print because of size, accuracy and material constraints become feasible. There has been a huge surge across the industry recently towards end-use parts. 3D printing’s ability to manufacture and combine parts has become more effective and is increasingly being integrated into an augmented manufacturing process. For example, dentistry companies can embed 3D printing into manufacturing process to create digitally engineered moulds for patients. 3D printing has made this process much more cost effective. Eric Holtsmark, general manager – strategy, transformation and technology, Konica Minolta Australia, said, “The future of product development can also be aided by 3D printing. The design of consumer goods such as electronics depends heavily on current market needs. As these needs change, 3D printing not only offers manufacturers a way to adapt quickly by shortening the design stage, but also the ability to produce cost-effective short production runs to test the […]

Cardboard boxes on conveyor rollers ready to be shipped by courier for distribution

Datalogic AV500 industrial scanner enhances efficiency and accuracy

Datalogic’s new high-performance AV500™ 2D image-based reader enhances scanning efficiency and accuracy for high speed logistics conveyor applications, airport baggage handling systems, as well as static reading applications A new industrial scanner that extends the functionality of unattended data capture solutions is being introduced to Australasia and South East Asia by automatic data capture and process automation leader, Datalogic. The AV500 2D image-based reader incorporates several industry-leading features that allow the scanner to be used in a wider range of logistics, transport, distribution, retail and airport applications than were previously possible, without compromising on accuracy. Automated data capture systems radically advance the efficiency and reliability of inputting data, which used to be a time-consuming manual practice. Unattended data capture advances this further, with the automated processes and technology not requiring supervision from a person. “Advantages of unattended data capture solutions include improved accuracy and speed, improved cost-efficiency, reduced errors, faster turnaround times and reduced frustrations with paperwork or tedious tasks,” says Mr Mike Svetal, Senior Product Manager, Datalogic. “Datalogic’s new AV500 scanner enables unattended data capture to function to the highest levels of precision and efficiency, due to its industry-leading high-resolution 5 MP sensor, image acquisition at 32 frames per second, dynamic or adjustable focus, and multiple lens options,” he said. “The AV500 means that multiple reading attempts are no longer needed, because this powerful scanner covers a large area within a single image,” said Mr Svetal. “Additionally, the variable dynamic focus of the optical system increases the working depth of field of the camera, and its toggle mode provides variable focus for applications without the need for distance input, reducing overall system costs without sacrificing performance.” The rugged scanners come with IP65 rated metal enclosures, suitable for harsh environments with operating temperatures from 0 to 50 °C (32 to […]

Wefapress food grade plastics conform to global food and hygiene regulations

Plastics used in food preparation and processing areas need to conform to a special set of regulations, to ensure that all food they come in contact with remains safe to eat. To optimise food equipment hygiene compliance, engineering plastics leader Cut To Size Plastics is introducing the globally proven Wefapress Beck + Co. GmbH Food Secure Products (FSP) range to Australia and New Zealand. The FSP range has been certified to EU Regulation 10/2011, which is among the strictest standards in the world. EU Regulation 10/2011 covers areas such as starting substances, production aids, migration tests, declaration of conformity, traceability and good manufacturing practice. “Because these plastics meet all the requirements of the EU standards, which are some of the strictest globally, they set a very high standard locally for food safe materials,” said Mr Laurie Green, Managing Director, Cut To Size Plastics, which has been distributing plastics from leading German supplier, Wefapress, for decades. Work in the food industry is subject to strict hygiene standards that also apply in interaction with plastics. Plastics in this segment must be physiologically harmless in order to come in contact with food. This not only protects the health of the consumer, but also the composition of the food and its organoleptic properties. Wefapress has been a leader in food safety for decades. When the latest regulations came out, some of the items considered to be new standards of best-practice had been a matter of course for them for many years already. Key elements of Food Secure compliance Regulations around what materials can be used on food preparation surfaces and equipment centre around five key points: List of starting substances and production aids. Defines the materials to be used for production: Authorised are only the starting substances and production aids from the ‘Union List’ […]

Ultrasonic flaw detectors with interactive technology

The new WAVE Flaw detector from Sonatest employs interactive scan plan technology that allows the you to map the geometry of the part to be inspected and see the path of the ultrasonic beam through the material by overlaying it onto the scan plan. All the useful parameters can be pre-set and recalled in two clicks. The fact that the parameters can be set by supervisors over a wireless network and not altered by operators makes for good integrity of data which is easily recalled and analysed. The unit’s features include Gates, DAC/Split DAC, TCG, AVG/DGS, AWS, API, CSC, TKY & Complex Shapes (all as standard), as well as WiFi, Audio Recording and an 10 hour battery life. Unlike the touchscreens used in older flaw detectors, the WAVE’s UTouch technology works well through rubber gloves and is even able to make the distinction between a finger and couplant. Being only 1.7kg and IP67 rated with a 7” wide (1024x 600 resolution) screen makes the Wave an exceptional unit. The ability to track and show beam path is an excellent feature for training in ultrasonics so it is clear where the beam path is travelling. The unique Curved Surface Correction function makes this a very special ultrasonic set with unmatched functions and features.

Australian Iot company buddy’s up with major lighting manufacturer

Buddy Technologies Limited has licensed its software suite to Hong Kong-based Eastfield Lighting as part of a 10-year multi-product agreement. The agreement provides for a non-refundable payment of US$250,000 to initiate the arrangement, and further provides for a license fee per piece of manufactured product powered by Buddy’s LIFX platform. Buddy listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) in December 2015 and established its Australian headquarters in Adelaide, South Australia in 2016. It announced the acquisition of smart lighting technology company, LIFX, earlier this year. Eastfield is a prominent manufacturer of lighting products in southeast China, manufacturing well in excess of 10 million lights per year, including the company’s LIFX brand of smart lights. Buddy’s founder and Chief Executive Officer David McLauchlan spent 15 years working for Microsoft in Seattle, founding Buddy Platform, and acting as an advisor to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation before moving to South Australia. In addition to manufacturing consumer lighting products, Eastfield is also a prominent manufacturer of high bay lighting, outdoor lighting, streetlights and other commercial products. “Having spent a lot of time at Eastfield’s factory in Shenzhen and seeing the vast scale at which they manufacture lighting products, I’m delighted to have the opportunity to work with Eastfield on making their products smart, and delivering even greater value to their customers globally,” McLauchlan said. “The fastest way for us to place our technologies into some of the most prominent brands and products in the world, is to do so via partnerships with their manufacturers such as this. “This agreement is a big win for our commercial licensing team and for future customers of Eastfield’s lighting products.” Buddy’s consumer business trades under the LIFX brand and has established a leading market position as a provider of smart lighting solutions. The company’s suite of Wi-Fi […]

sonnen receives Australia’s Research and Development Investment Award

sonnen has won an award from The Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment (MTTI) for its direct investment in Elizabeth, South Australia to manufacture sonnenBatteries bringing new skills and capabilities to Australia and creating export opportunities for its home batteries to Asia Pacific. sonnen received the Research & Development Investment Award at the 57th Australian Export Awards in Canberra. The Investment Award pays tribute to an international company or joint venture that has made an enduring contribution to the Australian economy through creating or safeguarding jobs, cultivating innovation or developing new industry capability in Australia, facilitating the expansion of Australian industry within global supply chains and making a difference to the local community. Nathan Dunn, CEO of sonnen Asia Pacific said, “We are honoured to receive the Research & Development Investment Award. sonnen established a manufacturing facility at the former Holden factory as it provided a perfect opportunity for us to leverage the skills that South Australia has built in its workforce for manufacturing. We’ve hired former Holden employees and equipped them with new skills and jobs to build a cleantech manufacturing industry right here in Australia.” “As part of our commitment to innovation, we have created a small research and development team in South Australia that looks into how we are adapting sonnenBatteries for deployment in Australia and to support the rollout of Virtual Power Plants. With the growth in the adoption of rooftop solar, we have the capacity to export sonnenBatteries to Asia Pacific creating new economic opportunities for our country.” sonnen commenced the manufacturing of home batteries in November 2018 and it produces sonnenBatteries that are installed in Australia and exported to New Zealand. sonnen’s home batteries are certified Australian Made and recognised by the South Australian Office of the Industry Advocate (OAIC) as a manufacturer of […]

Lightweight spectroscopic camera automates colour Inspections

Epson has developed a compact, lightweight spectroscopic camera that can be integrated in manufacturing lines. The company will launch its first spectroscopic camera, one that captures light across the visible spectrum, in the 2020 fiscal year ending March 2021. Differences in colour can occur between products in different production lots in ordinary manufacturing processes. A spectroscopic camera can be used by manufacturers to perform the following inspections to control these differences to a certain extent and ensure product quality: Colour variation inspections Surface coating inspections The RGB cameras currently used in these inspections are unable to capture detailed colour information and are not always able to distinguish between subtle differences in colour. Consequently, most visual inspections relied on human colour perception. However, colour perception varies among individuals, and human error puts manufacturers at risk of shipping defective goods. Time and cost constraints make colour management an issue in many industries. Spectroscopic cameras have traditionally been large and expensive, and those equipped with line sensors may have to composite images after scanning, adding to the time and expense. Epson has developed an optimal solution for colour management processes with a compact, lightweight spectroscopic camera that can be integrated into manufacturing lines, that can automate and quantify inspections, and output images without the time and trouble of compositing. This spectroscopic camera will enable manufacturers to manage colour in their manufacturing processes more easily than ever before. Features About the same compactness and weight as an RGB camera. Can be installed in manufacturing lines. Integral field spectroscopy. Can focus on an area, measure the colours, and distinguish colours of a target object within the visible light range. Image processing functions needed on manufacturing lines can be used along with spectral imaging functions.

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