The term “Automation” was coined in 1946, when Ford engineer Del Harder named the department that would replace the company’s research and experimentation assembly-line workers with machines. He took the noun “Automation” meaning self-operating mechanism, and turned it into a verb “to automate”. Today, there is a growing awareness that automation can greatly improve productivity and increase supply chain transparency across all industries, including rail. However, the technology selected for inventory management determines the level of visibility you have across a facility. Here Chris Billinge, business development director of supply chain specialist TFC, explains the capabilities of digital inventory management technology in the rail industry.

The Fume Eliminator GoMax is the ultimate solution for welding fume extraction, perfect for robotic, cobot, and manual welding. With high efficiency and user-friendliness, GoMax captures welding fumes directly at the source, reducing the risk of exposure to harmful substances and ensuring a cleaner working environment. Read more by visiting the website.

Whoever guarantees quality should rely on quality: Introducing the revolutionary DMP instrument series for tactile and non-destructive coating thickness measurement of magnetizable and non-magnetizable base materials. The versatile DMP instruments are convincing in their robust, modern design and being equipped with digital probes and new software for extensive evaluations. These devices shine with a modern look and come with numerous new features, including an all-aluminium housing with IP64, a soft bumper to protect against falls, scratch-resistant and chemical-resistant display with Gorilla Glass, the ability to limit monitoring via light, sound and vibration, a replaceable and quickly rechargeable battery, and the simplest data transfers via USB-C and Bluetooth. All DMP instruments are available with our new digital probes, which offer outstanding accuracy and the highest repeatability as well as smart and future-proof connectivity via USB-C interface. Additionally, with the help of the F-adapter, users can also continue to use the full performance of our analogue probes and thus benefit from the largest probe portfolio on the market. The new Tactile Suite software is the most intuitive and modern software in tactile coating thickness measurement. It features a modern design, innovative user guidance and extensive functionalities. These include automatic device and probe recognition, immediate data transfer to Excel in real time via USB-C and Bluetooth, and extensive options for conveniently creating reports and evaluations. Discover the next generation of tactile coating thickness measurement!

In the pursuit of net-zero sustainability and business longevity, it is now more than ever a vital component to the workplace to improve and continually evolve standards in business processes to help better protect the planet, people and production. Please visit the website to read more.

Easyfairs today announced the acquisition of UK Metals Expo Limited. This move seamlessly complements Europe’s largest network of powerhouse industrial events, which boasts 30+ manufacturing and industrial processing exhibitions and earlier this year saw Southern Manufacturing & Electronics added to Easyfairs’ distinguished portfolio. Since its launch in 2022, UK Metals Expo has become firmly established as the annual event uniting the entire metals supply chain. The event has experienced phenomenal year on year growth in visitor attendance and exhibitor participation and enjoys the support of all key trade associations in the sector. This growth, coupled with strong enthusiasm from all stakeholders for networking and learning opportunities, has positioned the event as a significant force shaping the future of the metals sector in the UK. The next edition will take place on 10 & 11 September 2025 at the NEC Birmingham and will welcome 380 exhibitors. UK Metals Expo joins a powerful portfolio of established Easyfairs events, including the UK-based Advanced Engineering and Southern Manufacturing & Electronics. The obvious synergies between the events, including strong relationships with leading industry associations, not to mention the enhanced network of key visitor and exhibitor brands and complete supply chain coverage, offer more annual touch points for stakeholders to connect and do business. This melting pot of knowledge, experts, suppliers, technology and creativity will be perfectly placed to serve the entire UK manufacturing value chain, 365 days a year, and with innovation at its heart. UK Metals Expo also becomes part of a portfolio of European events including: Metal Madrid – part of Advanced Manufacturing Madrid – Spain’s largest annual gathering for manufacturing, machining and metal processing; Metavak in The Netherlands; and Journée de Métal in Belgium, to name but a few.

As energy costs continue to rise, improving efficiency across industrial equipment has become a real priority for many businesses. At dryR, energy efficiency sits at the heart of every solution. Our desiccant dehumidifiers are designed to deliver reliable moisture control while using less energy, helping businesses manage running costs. In cold or low-humidity environments, keeping conditions stable is essential. Traditional compressor dehumidifiers often struggle in these conditions and may use more power just to maintain performance. Desiccant dehumidifiers are built to work efficiently in colder spaces. This is why energy efficiency matters when choosing the right dehumidifier. Unlike compressor models that struggle or stop working in low temperatures, desiccant dehumidifiers continue to perform efficiently in colder environments. This makes them a good option for unheated spaces such as garages, basements and storage areas. They work effectively in temperatures below 10°C and help maintain a stable low-humidity environment without high energy use. The same technology is used in specialist settings. Ice rinks rely on desiccant systems to control moisture in cold air. This prevents condensation and fog and helps keep the ice surface in good condition. One of the main advantages of desiccant dehumidifiers is their ability to dry spaces faster. In warmer, more humid environments, they may use more power (250 – 550W), but they finish drying tasks more quickly. Achieving maximum energy efficiency with a desiccant dehumidifier depends on several factors. Proper setup, maintenance, and usage are essential to ensure that the dehumidifier operates at peak performance without using unnecessary energy. Many modern desiccant dehumidifiers come equipped with energy-saving modes, such as “Smart Energy Mode,” which adjusts the unit’s power usage based on the target humidity level.

The Smart Toolbox is a concept presented by Dura that showcases the next generation of tool access and asset tracking. ​ Using wireless technology, access to all the drawers within the cabinet can be controlled remotely and accessed wirelessly through a smart device and dedicated app. ​ This enables real-time analytics and access control, with users’ permissions updatable in seconds. Using the same app, users can audit tools and assets effortlessly, reporting any lost or damaged equipment and getting reminders to complete audits and calibrations. When a tool is reported as lost or damaged, users and managers are emailed instantly, with the app offering total traceability, keeping track of your assets in real time. The unit features a manual override key should power fail, providing total peace of mind, however most users will never need to worry about losing a key again. For managers, keyless operation removes the burden of tracking access or the requirement to change locks and keys to maintain security.

A bearing is designed to move freely and has multiple moving parts that work together as one unit. Tolerance stack up from both manufacturing and assembly can quickly cause issues. This is where preloading a bearing comes in. Preloading a bearing involves providing a sustained axial load to the bearing. There are two main methods to preload a bearing. The first is solid preload, which is achieved by holding inner and outer races in place with a locking mechanism. The more common, simpler, and less expensive method is spring preload, which is achieved by using a spring to apply a constant axial load on one side. A Smalley single-turn wave spring provides necessary preload force between the inner or outer races while also compensating for any tolerance stack-ups or thermal misalignments. Play is reduced both axially and radially, as depicted in the image below. Controlling play is necessary to maintain bearing functionality and longevity. Preloading a bearing provides constant contact between the bearing type (ball, needle, etc.) and bearing races. The sustained load provided by the spring eliminates axial and radial play, among other benefits. The overall goal of preloading is to prolong bearing life, and therefore, your application. Properly preloading a bearing will prolong bearing life. Using a spring for preload is critical for high-precision or high-speed applications, as it essentially eliminates the need for holding tighter tolerances and helps withstand high operating speeds. Smalley’s bearing preload wave spring SSB series is carefully designed with the application in mind. The two types of single-turn wave springs we offer are gap and overlap. We have over 300+ standard parts available in carbon steel and stainless steel to match popular bearing sizes. As always, our engineering team can assist you in designing a custom preload bearing spring for your unique application. Come and find us on stand G55

The British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing (BINDT) has announced that Howard Garlick has joined the organisation as a Technical and Certification Engineer, effective 23 June 2025. Howard brings a broad background in non-destructive testing (NDT), training and quality systems to the Institute, with over 15 years of experience in both hands-on inspection and educational leadership. Howard joins BINDT following his role as Level 3 Training Manager and Lead Auditor at Lavender International, where he worked from April 2018 to June 2025. During his time there, he was responsible for reviewing and updating the Level 3 training programme. This included replacing outdated third-party textbooks with in-house training materials, revising examination content and contributing to the extensive modernisation of facilities.

Explosive or potentially explosive atmospheres occur in a wide variety of workplaces where fine dust, like aluminium or organic powders, or flammable gases, fumes and hazardous liquids are present. Explosions can cause injuries, damage filter systems, and release contaminated air, posing health risks to workers. Therefore, it is important to select a partner that is experienced in handling these applications and a solution that complies with the latest ATEX and NFPA standards. Visit the website to read more.

As part of BINDT’s ongoing outreach programme, Rebecca Mulholland, Outreach Coordinator, recently had the pleasure of visiting Drayton Park School in Bletchley during its science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) week to deliver a day of STEM engagement centred on non-destructive testing (NDT). Perfectly located near the Red Bull Racing headquarters, Rebecca was also fortunate to be joined by Daryl Shearman, NDT Team Leader at Red Bull Racing. The day kicked off with a whole-school assembly, where pupils aged 4-11 years old were introduced to the fascinating world of NDT. Rebecca and Daryl explained what NDT is, why it matters and how it helps ensure safety and reliability. It was a chance to demystify the subject and show how engineering is not just about building things, but also about making sure they continue to work safely over time. The real excitement began when Rebecca and Daryl joined the two Year 6 classes for a hands-on workshop designed to spark curiosity and plant the seeds for future careers in NDT. Daryl brought an exciting industry perspective to the day, sharing his personal journey into engineering and how he applies NDT techniques to ensure the structural integrity of Formula 1 car components. His talk highlighted the real-world importance of inspection and safety, particularly in high-performance environments such as motorsport. One of the day’s standout moments was Daryl’s live demonstration of ultrasonic testing (UT), using real equipment and test-pieces. The students were fascinated by the ability to ‘see inside’ materials without cutting them open, an eye-opening experience that brought science and technology to life in a tangible, relatable way. Reflecting on the day, Daryl said: “It was a brilliant experience to be involved with as we look to the future with the next generation of NDT engineers."

Whether it’s for industrial, commercial or military applications, compliance is the defining factor when bringing aerospace assets to market. Manufacturers must ensure all components comply with the relevant regulations, which means having a full understanding of each component and where it came from. However, managing and ensuring compliance with these new regulations can be a lengthy and challenging process.

Industrial operations are continuously seeking ways to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. For companies whose operations have an obligatory extraction and filtration centric component in their processes, intelligent airflow control systems offer a powerful solution to change how they mange their extraction and filtration processes. This technology has the potential for not only immediate optimised performance but also substantial financial savings over time. Read more by visiting the website.