New KSC XA Tactile Switches from Littelfuse Deliver Soft Sound Tactile Feedback for Enhanced User Experience

KSC XA Series Soft Sound Tactile Switches are an effective solution for applications requiring quiet, reliable tactile feedback. Designed for surface-mount technology (SMT) applications, the KSC XA switches deliver an innovative soft sound for a quieter user experience, an extended cage for potting compatibility, and a high actuation force option for precise, deliberate operation. These characteristics make the KSC XA switches ideal for industries where noise reduction, durability, and reliability are critical, such as automotive, medical, industrial, and premium consumer electronics. The KSC XA series offers engineers an innovative combination of soft tactile feedback, compact size, and high environmental resistance. With an IP67 rating for protection against dust and moisture and a robust hard actuator design, the KSC XA switches ensure long-lasting performance in harsh environments. Their extended cage design supports encapsulation with potting material, providing additional protection against corrosion and environmental stress.

Design Systems Canada: The Future of Supply Chains in Canada - Forging Strength Through Change

Design Systems Canada Provides Insights on the Future of Supply Chains in Canada

The current state of Canadian manufacturing and its intricate supply chain is one of significant change. Over the past few years, global events have exposed vulnerabilities, forcing us to rethink how we move goods and materials. The reality is stark: relying solely on distant, complex supply lines leaves businesses exposed. Recent disruptions have taught us that lesson. Within these challenges lie significant opportunities. Currently there is a powerful shift towards supply chain resilience; a concept that goes beyond simply recovering from setbacks. It’s about building systems that anticipate and withstand shocks. One crucial strategy gaining traction is nearshoring. Bringing production closer to home not only reduces lead times and shipping costs but also strengthens local economies. Consider this: a recent study by the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) indicated that 78% of Canadian manufacturers are actively exploring or have implemented nearshoring strategies. This trend isn’t just a fleeting response; it’s a strategic move to build long-term stability. The role of Supply Chain Ontario and similar initiatives cannot be overstated. These programs are vital in fostering collaboration, providing resources, and driving innovation. They are helping businesses navigate the complexities of modern supply chains, from implementing advanced technologies to optimizing logistics. But what about the future? How can Canada truly solidify its position in the global marketplace? It’s about more than just reacting to crises. It’s about proactive planning, embracing technology, and fostering strong partnerships.

Electromate: eX715MG – Web & Outdoor HMI

The eX715MG Web HMI combines high-performance sunlight-readable display with state-of-the-art connectivity features and top browsing performance in a great design maintaining as a design commitment the fact that the product is likely to be used in environments where the safety of operators is at risk. The eX715MG is the ideal choice for all demanding IIoT edge applications in outdoor and extreme environments such as marine and process industries where powerful and performing HTML5 web browser is needed. The glass projected capacitive touchscreen and the brilliant 15-inch widescreen display with a resolution of 1920×1080 are bonded to guarantee the highest optical performance and resistance in such environments.

Rittal: Baying Systems TS 8 Enclosures

Due to its symmetrical profile in terms of width and depth, the TS 8 baying system, made from carbon steel, saves considerable space and facilitates easy internal installation. It also allows a baying arrangement on all sides. In addition, the integrated, automatic potential equalization of all enclosure panels and the triple machining of the surface ensures maximum safety. Supplies included are the enclosure frame, door(s) right-hand door catch on single-door enclosures may be swapped to the left, roof plate, rear panel, 4 eyebolts, lock with 3 mm double-bit, base plates, mounting panel, 2 TS punched rails, 18 x 38 mm, 2 support strips fitted in the enclosure depth

Rockwell Automation Revolutionizes Motor Controls with Smarter & Safer M100 Electronic Motor Starter 

The M100 Electronic Motor Starter enables industrial organizations to simplify panel wiring and reduce component and engineering complexities with advanced functional safety solutions and more refined motor starting capabilities.  Rockwell’s traditional motor starters lay a robust foundation for customizable motor control solutions including starting, stopping and protecting motors. Building on this legacy, the new M100 Electronic Motor Starter seamlessly integrates into intelligent motor control setups, boosting productivity and minimizing downtime. It serves as a cost-effective, space-efficient option, boasting an extensive range of features designed to improve performance across various applications. Notably, the M100 incorporates point-on-wave (POW) switching technology. The new M100 Electronic Motor Starter offers zero stacking with no derating up to 55C, providing flexibility in installation without compromising performance. Removable terminal blocks, available in both screw and push-in variants, add convenience and adaptability. The M100 also supports direct-on-line (DOL), reversing, and safety capabilities in the same form factor, showcasing its flexibility in various operational scenarios.

Mouser: Carlo Gavazzi – CON M8 & M12 IP67 Cord Sets

Carlo Gavazzi CON M8 and M12 IP67 Cord sets feature 3 or 4 wires for the M8 version and 3, 4, or 5 wires for the M12 version. These cord sets are available with a straight or right-angle plug with either a female or male orientation. Additionally, these cord sets come in single- or double-ended designs and offer standard lengths of 2m or 5m. Specifications include an IP67 protection degree, PVC cable jacket, and a wide operating temperature range of -25°C to +80°C. Carlo Gavazzi CON M8 and M12 IP67 Cord sets are constructed with high-quality materials and designed to provide easy installation and maintenance.

Wieland: HMI ECO Touch Panels

The industrial grade HMI ECO touch panels have become essential for all machines and systems as they are purposefully used for visualization, operation and diagnosis purposes. Critical machine status information is immediately visible to the operator to reach the highest level of overall equipment effectiveness. HMI panels allow a smooth operation of a machine and in case of a machine failure enable the initiation of adequate countermeasures since all important machine data are available. Together with the samos PRO safety controller, the HMI forms an ideal solution for your complete automation. With the “MyLogo” campaign Wieland offers you a customized design with your own logo and individual color scheme.

Product News | General Manufacturing | Industry | Smart Factory

ManuAuto: BALLUFF BCS0027 – Capacitive Sensor for Object Detection

Balluff BCS0027 capacitive sensors reliably detect objects over long distances. They are suitable for non-contacting detection of solid bodies made of glass, wood, metal, plastic, composite materials, liquids, and bulk materials. This is achievable through plastic walls and other non-metallic packaging. The capacitive sensors are not affected by color, dust, and reflective, glossy, or transparent surfaces.

Techspan: Fusetek Medium Voltage “E” & “R” Rated Fuses

MV fuses are current and energy limiting fuses intended for the backup protection of medium voltage motor control. They are non-venting. MVR fuses have integral striker/indicators and have standardized dimensions compatible with today’s
5.5kV motor control gear. They are fully interchangeable with other manufacturers’ fuses of the same type and rating. They feature a ‘field toughened’ element design which makes them less susceptible to mechanical damage during shipping and installation while also providing superior cycling characteristics.

Weidmuller: U-Control M3000/M4000 – Modular Controls for Industrial Automation & IoT Applications

In the course of automation, more and more physical devices are being integrated into networks. This is driving the trend towards convergence of IT and OT systems. The new modular u-control M3000 and M4000 control systems point the way to the future. With u-control M3000, automation solutions can be perfectly integrated into the IoT. The powerful controller also works as an edge device for providing local information in the network and can be expanded by connecting function modules – ideal for automation and IIoT applications. u-control M4000 also offers two CPU cores, two Ethernet interfaces and more RAM, NVRAM, and flash memory for complex edge computing in automation.

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Siemens to Establish Global AI Manufacturing Technologies R&D Center for Battery Production in Canada

Siemens will invest CAD$150 million (ca. €97 million) over five years to establish a Global AI Manufacturing Technologies Research and Development (R&D) Center for Battery Production in Canada. The new R&D center, located initially at Siemens Canada’s head office in Oakville, as well as in Toronto and Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, will focus on developing cutting-edge AI manufacturing technologies with an initial emphasis on battery and electric vehicle (EV) production. It will leverage Siemens’ expertise in AI, edge computing, machine vision, digital twins, and cybersecurity to drive innovation and efficiency in battery production, while fostering collaboration with higher education institutions and battery manufacturers. Expected outcomes of the work to be conducted at the R&D center include higher, consistent quality in battery production, increased workforce productivity and capacity, reduction of battery scrap, and improved recycling and circularity. With the Global AI Manufacturing Technologies R&D Center for Battery Production, Siemens will contribute to the Canadian government’s strategy to become a global leader in battery manufacturing.

Proax: The Complete Guide to DIN Rail Types & Applications

DIN rail is a standardized mounting solution that has become the backbone of modern electrical control panels and equipment racks. Originally developed by the German Institute for Standardization (Deutsches Institut für Normung, or DIN), these metal rails have evolved into an essential component across various industries. As an authorized distributor of Phoenix Contact DIN rails, Proax is committed to providing you with comprehensive knowledge about these versatile mounting systems. DIN rail is a metal rail of a standardized type widely used for mounting control equipment in electrical panels and equipment racks. The term “DIN” refers to the German national standards organization that first standardized these rails. Today, DIN rails follow the European standard EN 60715 (formerly DIN EN 50022), which has been adopted worldwide.

ABB: Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs)

Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs) ensure electrical safety in homes, offices and other buildings as well as for industrial applications by protecting electrical installations against overloads and short-circuits. Once a fault is detected, the MCB automatically switches off the electrical circuit to prevent damage to wires and to avoid the risk of fire. MCBs are equipped with two tripping mechanisms: the delayed thermal tripping mechanism for overload protection and the magnetic tripping mechanism for short circuit protection. For 100 years, ABB has continued to innovate MCBs and expand their product line to meet the demands of various applications and markets. ABB’s products are compliant with global product standards such as IEC, UL and CSA. This established and certified portfolio is designed to provide maximum safety for buildings, assets and infrastructure.

SICK Invests in Industrial AI for Automation – Innovative Strength & Cost Management Secure Profitability in Challenging Business Year 2024

Innovation, customer focus and active cost management: SICK, an international provider of sensor-based automation solutions headquartered in Germany, set these focus points and achieved a solid result in the challenging business year 2024. Sales and EBIT decreased, while investments in research and development remained high. In a difficult market environment, SICK performed robustly and was able to further expand its position for Industrial AI on the global automation market. The 2024 financial year was marked by a difficult industrial economic development. Ongoing local crises and geopolitical uncertainties, protectionist measures and the threat of higher import tariffs put the industry under pressure. The global automation market also developed slowly and the anticipated recovery in mid-2024 failed to materialize.

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Mouser: Honeywell Hydrogen Leak Detection Sensor

Honeywell Hydrogen Leak Detection (HLD) Sensor utilizes the Honeywell advanced compensation algorithm to detect hydrogen leaks in different applications. This sensor features precision, reliability, and Thermal Conductivity Detection (TCD) technology, delivering lasting performance for applications that need a highly accurate solution without manual intervention for 10 years. Advanced detection capabilities ensure the identification of hydrogen leakage of ≥50ppm, enabling this sensor to be used in many industries, such as automotive, residential power generators, and industrial safety equipment. When compared to catalytic beads, this sensor offers greater accuracy, extended sensor lifespan, and enhanced resistance to chemical poisoning. Honeywell HLD Sensor is typically adjacent to hydrogen storage tanks, hydrogen gas piping, fuel cells, and vehicle cabins.

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ATS: Using Criticality Analysis to Optimize Your Operations

Your products will come out on top, of course, but the machinery and equipment that ensure their production and quality are likely to be a close second. Conducting a criticality analysis is largely about prioritizing and focusing time and effort on the capital equipment assets you’ve determined to be the most important in your operation. When they become damaged or unavailable, they will have a greater degree of severity on your production. The criticality of an asset is determined by different factors, including its impact on product quality and ability to cause long-term disruptions. Obsolescence risks also play a crucial role, as outdated or unsupported equipment can increase downtime and create maintenance challenges, further impacting operational efficiency. Critical assets are integral to the whole operation, from entire machines all the way down to the component level. If these assets are not functioning or accessible, they pose different risks to the integrity of the operation.

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