Plazmax, a leading manufacturer of CNC plasma cutting systems, is set to demonstrate its cutting-edge technology at Australian Manufacturing Week in Sydney at the Sydney International Convention Centre from April 17 to 19, 2024. Alongside their Australian Distributor, Semco, Plazmax will be conducting live cutting demonstrations featuring their flagship CutAce cutting system at Booth MT920 in Halls 1-3. The CutAce system embodies Plazmax’s commitment to excellence, incorporating Hypertherm’s world-leading XPR plasma cutting technology alongside Plazmax’s proprietary innovations. These innovations allow Plazmax to maximise the potential of Hypertherm’s exceptional product, enabling capabilities that set their systems apart from the competition. Three key differentiators define Plazmax’s presence in the CNC plasma cutting market: 1. Increased Productivity: Plazmax’s proprietary laser height sensing module delivers a minimum productivity increase of 28% over conventional CNC Plasma systems, ensuring efficient and cost-effective operations for their clients. 2. Advanced Taper Correction: The CutAce system boasts the ability to cut taper-free holes at speeds and costs surpassing non-plasma processes, while also exceeding the 1:1 hole-to-plate ratio limitations of other plasma systems. 3. Superior Bevelling: Plazmax sets a new standard in beveling, offering faster, more accurate, and intricately detailed bevels compared to other plasma systems currently available in the market. Plazmax Technical Director and Founding Partner, Brad Johnston, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming event, saying “Our presence at Australian Manufacturing Week underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence in the CNC plasma cutting industry. We are excited to showcase the capabilities of our CutAce system, which not only integrates “Hypertherm’s cutting-edge technology but also demonstrates our proprietary advancements that redefine productivity, precision, and versatility in plasma cutting. We look forward to engaging with industry professionals and demonstrating how Plazmax continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in metal fabrication.” Attendees of Australian Manufacturing Week are invited to […]
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2024 Australian Small Business Awards -manufacturing and food manufacturing finalists
From more than 5,500 entrants, less than 30 have made the Manufacturing and Food Manufacturing Finalists Lists of the 2024 Australian Small Business Champion Awards – the nation’s pinnacle recognition awards programme that celebrates the achievements and considerable economic, social and cultural contribution of today’s 2.5 million small business operators from right across the country. This year marks the 26th consecutive year of the Champion Awards and its most successful year to-date, with more entries received this year than any year prior. Free to enter and judged by an independent panel with small business experience, the Awards specifically highlight the finest of Australia’s small businesses in the retail, services, and manufacturing industries across a total of more than 100 categories. An independent national survey recently commissioned by Precedent Productions, which coordinates the Awards, found that an overwhelming majority (74 per cent) of Australian small businesses would rather purchase from an Australian manufacturer or supplier even if it meant paying more. Steve Loe, Founder of the Australian Small Business Champion Awards and Managing Director of Precedent Productions, says now more than ever is the time to strongly support the nation’s most hardest working sector. “I believe the resilience of Australia’s small business community is more evident today than ever before in recent memory, and it is absolutely deserving of national recognition. “The remarkable quantity and quality of submissions we received this year is testament to the triumphant spirit of so many small business operators – absolutely including those from manufacturing industries. We’re very much looking forward to celebrating the very best of this nation’s small businesspeople in spectacular style this April,” adds Mr Loe. Winners of the 2024 Australian Small Business Champion Awards will be revealed via two National Presentation Evening Gala events at Sydney’s The Star on 12 and 13 […]
Push-to-Talk technology successfully demonstrated on Fleet Space’s Centauri-4 satellite
Fleet Space and SmartSat collaboration leads to breakthrough in tactical communication capabilities. SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre (SmartSat) has commended Fleet Space Technologies’ successful demonstration of satellite-enabled Push-to-Talk (PTT) capabilities as part of the Defence Space Command-funded ASCEND2LEO project. SmartSat and Safety from Space supported Fleet Space by adapting a variant of the ‘Beagle’ communications waveform, developed under previously SmartSat-funded projects, which Fleet Space implemented on the Centauri-4 satellite for this demonstration. This milestone in PTT capabilities opens a path to more secure, reliable, instantaneous communications across vast distances using highly advanced microsatellite architectures. ASCEND2LEO’s successful demonstration for the Australian Defence Force Joint Capabilities Group showed that Fleet Space’s Centauri satellites can be re-programmed to deliver high-quality, fit-for-purpose voice capabilities while in orbit. Voice capabilities for Fleet Space’s Centauri satellite were enabled via a software update, establishing a proof of concept for the Regenerative Voice System architecture underlying the ASCEND2LEO program. As a result, this demonstration validated the ability of highly adaptable microsatellite constellations to rapidly deliver purpose-built, high-quality SATCOM capabilities at scale to meet complex needs in diverse scenarios. ASCEND2LEO’s achievement was commended by Peter Kerr, SmartSat’s Defence & National Security Coordinator, who drove the concept for SmartSat’s involvement in the project by adapting and delivering the Beagle waveform. “Enabling an entirely new voice capability for a satellite that is already in orbit is a tremendous technical accomplishment. With this proof of concept, SmartSat is playing a critical role in helping the Australian industry develop SATCOM resiliency for Australian Defence and validate the Regenerative Voice System architecture, a powerful and ambitious approach undertaken by the ASCEND2LEO program.” During the live demonstration, hosted by the Defence Science & Technology Group (DSTG), Fleet Space’s PTT capabilities have met strict performance criteria for one-way voice transmission including voice quality, reliability, and link persistence across […]
Women in Hydraulink: Lara Richardson drives focus on quality, friendly, and efficient service
Hydraulink Newcastle Branch Service Technician, Lara Richardson, right, with Branch Manager, Tim Ferris, left. A woman helping to serve the hydraulics industry in the busy Newcastle NSW region, is placing a strong and enduring focus on providing high quality, friendly, and efficient service. Lara Richardson is a Branch Service Technician with Hydraulink Newcastle, part of the national Hydraulink hydraulic hose and service network, which includes 13 company-owned sites in Australia, 135 network partners, and 150 service vehicles offering 24/7 onsite and mobile services. Hydraulink Newcastle serves a broad diversity of industry, including mining, earthmoving, civil works, industrial, councils, and farming. Lara’s role is in the workshop, where she makes hydraulic hoses, responds to quotes, and has a direct customer-facing role, as she solves hydraulic problems. “I really enjoy all aspects of my role, and our customers appreciate that we can get the job done quickly. Sometimes they’ve been told elsewhere that a job takes an hour, so they’ve come to Hydraulink, and we know that’s a five minute task, so we get it happening right away,” says Lara. “Of course, some jobs do take more than an hour, so we always give a realistic estimate, while striving to minimise downtime so a customer can get their machine back up and running, and earning them money again,” she adds. Embrace the challenge Lara understands that the hydraulics industry comes with a range of challenges, but sees this as a positive sign and encourages everyone to give it a go. “As long as you’ve got a supportive team around you, like I do here at Hydraulink Newcastle, the challenges are what makes the day interesting. Everyone here, from the Branch Manager Tim Ferris, through to all the staff, are supportive and helpful, so it gives me the confidence to put my […]
Pathways forged for indigenous youth in uniform design and production
Australian Defence Apparel (ADA) proudly announces an industry-first collaboration with Indigenous Design Labs (IDL), marking a significant milestone set to champion and showcase Indigenous youth creativity and community engagement. Chris Dixon, CEO of ADA, emphasised the significance of this collaboration within the Defence and manufacturing sectors, stating, “This pioneering partnership not only represents a groundbreaking endeavour in crafting new apparel, but also underscores ADA and IDL’s commitment to driving positive change and fostering cultural appreciation within Australia’s apparel manufacturing landscape, aligning closely with ADA’s Reconciliation Action Plan. Through innovative design, community engagement, and social responsibility, ADA and IDL are poised to set new standards for inclusive practices.” Phase one of the collaboration will see IDL creating modern and contemporary print artwork applicable to uniforms, bringing a fresh aesthetic to ADA’s warehousing and manufacturing operational crew. Phase two of the collaboration will launch an 8-week training program, integrated into a real[1]world uniform development project, where IDL youth will collaborate with ADA designers to develop a new clothing range from concept to prototype and manufacturing. The launch will coincide with Closing the Gap Day on 21 March 2024, amplifying the initiative’s significance and sparking conversation around social cohesion and economic empowerment. Leigh Harris, Indigenous business owner of ingeous studios and IDL Founder highlighted, “Indigenous Design Labs consist of a team of young creatives focusing on abstract and contemporary designs that reflect a diverse representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We view every opportunity as a chance to contribute to and expand upon the ongoing narrative of Indigenous design.” Sheree Jacobs, IDL Torres Strait Mentor, added, “We are passionate about ensuring equal opportunities for individuals in regional areas. Partnering with a significant organisation such as ADA, not only grants access to urban opportunities but also empowers us to showcase what is […]
International Womens Day Profile:Ella Shakeri,Swisslog System Design Engineer
Breaking barriers: Ella Shakeri encourages more women to enter STEM and automation fields (Pic)Swisslog System Design Engineer, Ella Shakeri. Swisslog System Design Engineer, Ella Shakeri, is encouraging more women to enter STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) jobs in general, and in particular her chosen field of career satisfaction, warehouse automation. According to a 2023 report by the Australian Government’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources, women make up only 37% of university enrolments in STEM courses, and only 15% of STEM-qualified jobs are held by women. The report also showed that women’s participation in STEM fields in Australia is increasing year-on-year, which Ella says will benefit industry more broadly. “The world of warehouse automation is a rapidly growing and dynamic industry that requires constant adaptation to meet evolving needs. By embracing a more diverse range of perspectives, we can drive innovation and better meet the complex needs of the future. It is through this diversity of thought that we will be able to develop new solutions and stay ahead of the curve in this exciting field.” Ella Shakeri says that automation is a dynamic industry and “by embracing a more diverse range of perspectives, we can drive innovation and better meet the complex needs of the future. “The theme for International Women’s Day in 2024 is ‘Inspire Inclusion’ and I believe that is the ideal way to pave the way for the future, break down barriers, and encourage more women to join STEM careers, and be a part of new innovations.”OMEN Ella has worked for warehousing and intralogistics leader, Swisslog, for the past two years, and in similar industries for the past seven. Her role as System Design Engineer involves working with customers to understand specific requirements and performing data analysis to design a solution that provides the best […]
International Women’s Day Profile: Lisa Wise, Hydraulink
Women in Hydraulink: Lisa Wise relishes problem-solving job A woman grasping her hydraulics career with both hands (literally), is enjoying the problem-solving nature of a job where no two days are the same. Lisa Wise is a Hydraulic Sales and Service Technician (HSST) based on the Gold Coast, part of the national Hydraulink hydraulic hose and service network, which includes 13 company-owned sites in Australia, 135 network partners, and 150 service vehicles offering 24/7 onsite and mobile services. Hydraulink Gold Coast services industries including earthmoving, civil contracting, trucking and transport, and a broad range of industrial companies with machinery powered by hydraulics. “Customers value that we’re friendly, fast, and solutions-focused, so we can get their machinery back up and running again,” says Lisa. “For some customers, machinery downtime means they aren’t earning money for that period, so they really appreciate that we do everything we can to solve their hydraulics problems quickly, and with uniform standards of quality and safety,” she adds. Lisa’s job includes working on machinery and trucks, as well as making hydraulic hoses to customer specifications, and resealing hydraulic cylinders. “I love this role because no two days are the same. We have to think quickly, get our hands dirty, and come up with new solutions. You never get bored!” she says. Supportive atmosphere In the lead up to International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8, Lisa reflects on working in the hydraulics industry, which is one that typically attracts more men than women to join the profession each year. “For any woman that’s mechanically minded, likes working with machinery, and enjoys problem solving, I’d encourage them to give it a go,” she says. This year’s IWD theme is “inspire inclusion,” so Lisa hopes to inspire others and continue to foster the supportive environment she has experienced […]
One million ‘Introduction to AI’ scholarships available to Australians
Artificial intelligence (AI) ‘scholarships’ are now on offer to one million Australians, in a bid to increase the nation’s literacy of a technology estimated to be worth $4 trillion to the economy by the early 2030s. The free ‘Introduction to Artificial Intelligence’ microskill course is provided by the National AI Centre (NAIC), coordinated by Australia’s national science agency – CSIRO, and the Institute of Applied Technology Digital (IATD). The course will provide a non-technical introduction to AI fundamentals and is designed for people at the beginning their AI literacy journey. This makes it ideal for workers seeking to upskill, individuals starting their career in AI, and small to medium business owners. With many small to medium enterprises (SMEs) grappling with the challenge of adopting AI, NAIC Director Stela Solar said the course is the perfect opportunity for business owners to build their AI understanding. “SMEs make up over 98 per cent of Australia’s economy, and ‘Introduction to AI’ is their opportunity to learn how they can use this revolutionary technology to enhance their operations, services, and market competitiveness,” Ms Solar said. Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA) CEO Luke Achterstraat welcomed the introduction of the course, praising its ability to provide small businesses with the knowledge needed to unlock AI’s vast opportunities. “Small businesses are a main source of innovation in Australia – they are entrepreneurs who try new ideas, test new products and usually back themselves with their own capital. “This microskill course will help build confidence and competency for small businesses as they navigate the AI landscape.” Director of IATD Operations Helen Fremlin said the accessibility of the course will empower Australians nation-wide to advance their AI understanding. “No programming or computer science background is required for students to enrol, and the virtual nature of this course […]
Supportive atmosphere drives Avnil Singh to kick career goals with Hydraulink
Hydraulink Purchasing and Logistics Officer, Avnil Singh A driven young man with initiative and integrity is expanding his skills and furthering his career with the support of the national hydraulic hose, fittings, and service organisation, Hydraulink. Avnil Singh started with Hydraulink as a casual warehouse operative, then moved into quality control, and he is now a purchasing and logistics officer operating across Australia out of the company headquarters in Smithfield NSW. “Hydraulink feels like one giant family. From the top floor to the shop floor, everyone is willing to help, and it sets up a hugely supportive atmosphere, where you are encouraged to be your best,” says Avnil, who has just completed a diploma in logistics. “Logistics is my biggest area of interest, but at the moment I’m enjoying the challenges of learning about all aspects of the Hydraulink business across all industries, from mining to road and civil works, to earthmoving, and everything else,” he adds. “One aspect I like about working for Hydraulink is that the products have a real impact in the world. They are helping machinery that builds roads, extracts minerals, shifts earth, and other physical tasks, and that feels rewarding.” Hydraulink’s extensive national network includes 13 company-owned sites in Australia, 135 network partners, and 150 service vehicles offering 24/7 onsite and mobile services to the same uniformly high levels of outstanding service, safety, standards compliance, traceability, and diverse machinery and equipment knowledge. Learning new skills Avnil points out that the shift from picking and packing to purchasing and logistics meant he had to switch from the physical moving of parts to the electronic moving of parts. “I find it refreshing to learn new skills, and this was a great opportunity for me. I believe one of the most important parts of my current role […]
Decarbonisation spend to reduce in declining economic conditions
Nearly half of Australian businesses are likely to reduce their spend on decarbonisation initiatives if macroeconomic conditions worsen, according to ENGIE Impact, a sustainability and decarbonisation advisory firm. The finding is based on analysis of data from ENGIE Impact’s latest Net Zero Report titled “Aligning Corporate Vision with Decarbonisation Realities.” The annual global report delves into corporate perspectives on decarbonisation transformation readiness, challenges to implementation and the major decarbonisation roadblocks companies must overcome to reach Net Zero. The study surveyed more than 500 senior executives from the world’s largest companies, each employing more than 10,000 people. Australian organisations surveyed ranged in annual turnover from USD$500 million to over USD$10 billion, and included businesses in the technology, finance, retail, mining, industrial manufacturing, healthcare, real estate, and food and beverage industries. “Reducing spending on decarbonisation initiatives could severely hinder an organisation’s ability to set itself up for the future,” said James Ramsay, Managing Director and Head of Australia, ENGIE Impact. “Now is not the time to Australian organisations to halt progress or investment. They just need to rethink how they measure the success of their decarbonisation strategy.” Few Australian organisations see decarbonisation as a commercial imperative When asked to list their top two choices on how their organisation thinks about its carbon reduction commitments, just 29 per cent of Australians listed decarbonisation as a commercial issue compared to 33 per cent of global peers. Additionally, 58 per cent of Australian businesses see financial ROI as a measure of decarbonisation success versus 44 per cent globally. These responses are in line with findings from last year’s Net Zero report, which found that Australian organisations rank achieving long term cost savings as the top driver of their decarbonisation strategy and goals (44 per cent of respondents), compared to the leading response from global counterparts […]