Maximizing Motor Efficiency: Navigating the Impact of VFDs on Motors

Maximizing Motor Efficiency: Navigating the Impact of VFDs on Motors

Running a motor directly from the power source produces uniform, sinusoidal waveforms but wastes energy due to continuous speed operation regardless of the load requirements. To enhance efficiency, variable frequency drives (VFDs) control motor speed, reduce energy consumption, and minimize equipment wear. However, VFDs use pulse-width modulation (PWM) to supply electrical pulses instead of a true voltage waveform, generating harmful harmonics that can damage motors, cables, and bearings.

The Path to Net Zero with Smart Building Technologies from ABB

The Path to Net Zero with Smart Building Technologies from ABB

By Krystie Johnston – Building operations account for 30% of global final energy consumption and 26% of global energy-related emissions. This sector, if entirely net zero, would contribute a significant percentage to reduced CO2 emissions worldwide1. In fact, technologies exist already to help buildings reach net zero today. Robert Palajsa, Territory manager for the smart power and smart buildings division for southern Ontario at ABB Canada discusses what ABB has to offer and how companies and industries can expedite their path to net zero, starting right now. 

Eplan Platform 2024: Why It’s Worth Switching to the New Version

Eplan Platform 2024: Why It’s Worth Switching to the New Version

By Sean Mulherrin, International Solutions Architect, EPLAN – With the highlights of the new Eplan Platform 2024, Eplan continues to make engineering and circuit diagram creation as efficient and convenient as possible for users. We take a look at the most important innovations, where exactly they are in the software and how users can use the optimizations for themselves. In our article, we take a closer look at what makes the new version (even) better than its predecessors from the user’s point of view and why a version change is worthwhile.

The Digital Substation: Thinking “Outside the Box” Could Play a Crucial Role in the Future of Substation Automation

The Digital Substation: Thinking “Outside the Box” Could Play a Crucial Role in the Future of Substation Automation

The future of power system substations may be redefined by the application of virtualization. At least that is what an increasing number of utilities are envisioning as they explore the opportunity for increased virtualization in substation design. In this future, there would be a significant reduction in the hardware used in substations. Instead, tasks will be carried out on cloud servers, marking a noticeable shift from the current reliance on extensive racks of hardware.

Helping McMaster University Adapt its Buildings for the Future
|

Helping McMaster University Adapt its Buildings for the Future

McMaster University is using technology to better control and manage its legacy thermal systems and create smarter buildings. Carmichael Engineering Ltd., a Canadian systems integrator, worked closely with ABB Canada’s experts and its highly adaptable smart building platform, ABB Cylon, to improve energy efficiency, enhance user adaptability, and leverage innovative technologies in locations across campus.

FLIR’s Thermal Camera Technology: A Crucial Component in Industrial Settings

FLIR’s Thermal Camera Technology: A Crucial Component in Industrial Settings

Thermal imaging technologies like the ones by FLIR improve safety, operational efficiency, and cost savings in many automated and industrial applications. By capturing the infrared radiation emitted by an object or process, it identifies thermal anomalies that warrant further investigation by experts. Today, thermography is more sophisticated and accessible than ever, making is easy for anyone to begin to benefit from this technology. Rob Milner, Business Development Director, FLIR, a Teledyne Technologies company, discusses their latest wide-angle thermal lens and how industries are benefiting from thermal imaging right now.

Consider The OEM Your Machine Tool Service and Support Specialist

Consider The OEM Your Machine Tool Service and Support Specialist

When it comes to service and support from third-party suppliers, the phrase “jack of all trades and master of none” sums up the situation in some instances. While many third-party machine service and repair companies are quite capable, they typically work on a myriad of machine types and brands and aren’t always as well versed on the nuances of a particular model/brand as are the machine’s OEM.

Cobot Palletizers Evolve with Longer Reach, Heavier Payloads and Easy Interfaces

Cobot Palletizers Evolve with Longer Reach, Heavier Payloads and Easy Interfaces

Robotic palletizing has been a game changer in packaging lines and warehouses for decades, but some considered automation not an option over concerns like space limitations and lack of robotic programming expertise. Collaborative robots have been opening up new automation avenues in many applications, but it wasn’t until higher-payload and longer-reach cobots, like FANUC’s CRX-25iA and CR-35iB, that are now causing many to reconsider automating palletizing to boost efficiency and productivity.

The Power of OPC UA in Industrial Automation
|

The Power of OPC UA in Industrial Automation

In the world of industrial automation, the need for seamless communication between devices and systems is paramount. This is where OPC UA (Open Platform Communications United Architecture) comes into play. OPC US is an open and secure communication protocol that enables interoperability between different devices and software applications. This article will explore the significance of OPC UA in manufacturing operations and hot it has revolutionized the way data is transmitted and utilized in the industry.

ISA Reinforces Critical Nature of Automation in Achieving Global Energy Goals in New Position Paper

ISA Reinforces Critical Nature of Automation in Achieving Global Energy Goals in New Position Paper

The International Society of Automation (ISA) has recently announced the publication of a new position paper, “Automation is Critical to Achieving Global Energy Goals.” In this paper, ISA explains the multitude of ways that automation can support energy supply and efficiency. Safe and efficient execution of energy production, storage, and transmission requires the use of proven automation technologies implemented by knowledgeable and skilled automation professionals.

New Year, New Demands: Tips for Eco-Friendly Data Centers in 2024

New Year, New Demands: Tips for Eco-Friendly Data Centers in 2024

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, where data serves as the lifeblood for businesses across diverse industries, the demand for resilient and scalable data centers has witnessed an unprecedented surge. The increasing reliance on artificial intelligence, cloud computing and big data analytics that allows us to lead a modern, digitized, and data-driven life, is driving a substantial increase in the demand for resilient and scalable data centers. As we gear up to navigate the industry demands in the new year, it’s crucial to address the growing environmental concerns surrounding energy-intensive data center operations.  

The Powerbase of Digital Storage Centers: Control and Power Distribution Products

The Powerbase of Digital Storage Centers: Control and Power Distribution Products

Noark dives into the world of digital storage centers and see how control and power distribution products keep these critical information hubs running smoothly. While they may not be the most glamorous gadgets in the tech industry, these essential components play a vital role in ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and safety of digital storage centers. So, let’s embark on this journey to explore how control and power distribution products are the unsung champions of the digital storage world.

SEW-Eurodrive Demonstrates StarterSET for Vertical FFS Machines at ATX 2023

SEW-Eurodrive Demonstrates StarterSET for Vertical FFS Machines at ATX 2023

By Krystie Johnston – Across Canada and around the world, innumerable products are packaged, transported, and processed in a variety of ways before finally being distributed. The packaging machines that assist with this process are vitally important, and when automated, must be able to complete these tasks with various functions and movements. To meet these challenges, SEW-Eurodrive has developed their StarterSET, which consists of pre-selected hardware and software for specific machine types. The StarterSET offers perfectly matched and total automation packages. It can be used as is, as a basic package, or can include flexible adaptation options and countless customized add-ons.

All-in-One Automation Platform: Enabling Data-Driven IIoT with Deterministic Motion Control and Cybersecurity

All-in-One Automation Platform: Enabling Data-Driven IIoT with Deterministic Motion Control and Cybersecurity

As the industrial internet of things (IIoT) continues to gain momentum, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and system integrators (SIs) are faced with the challenge of implementing data collection systems without compromising deterministic motion control or cybersecurity. This article will explore how all-in-one automation platforms can address these concerns, allowing OEMs and SIs to meet customer demands, achieve cost-effective data harvesting, and avoid hidden manufacturing costs.

Machine Safety Strategy in Manufacturing: Why It Matters and How to Get Started

Machine Safety Strategy in Manufacturing: Why It Matters and How to Get Started

Machine-related accidents in the workplace can have devastating consequences, causing injuries, disabilities, and even fatalities. These incidents also result in significant financial losses for businesses. To mitigate these risks, it is crucial for companies to establish a comprehensive machine safety strategy. This strategy should encompass compliance with standards and regulations, hazard identification and risk assessment, implementing safe work procedures, and regular maintenance and inspections. This article will explore the significance of machine safety in industrial workplaces and offer guidance initiating the development of a machine safety strategy.

The Right HMI for Food Processing Machines

The Right HMI for Food Processing Machines

Machines and appliances used in the food processing industry are continuously exposed to dirt and moisture. The operation of these machines must be reliable, safe, and efficient. Besides the demanding conditions under which the machines must operate, hygiene and safety play an important role. Machines must meet strict food safety certification standards. As a result, the control panel must be designed to withstand frequent and thorough cleaning, often under high pressure.