Category Archives: Engineering

Engineering, News

Match made in tooling leads to press investment at MACH 2024

A specialist supplier to F1, automotive and aerospace sectors is looking to increase its tool try-out capacity by purchasing its first Bruderer press at MACH 2024.

Alan Spargo Ltd, which celebrates 50 years in business in 2025, has invested in a BSTA 40-tonne machine to help it provide its growing list of customers with the option to test tooling solutions at high speed before they go into production.

The technology can offer up to 1000 strokes per minute at precision accuracy and will support the High Wycombe firm’s desire to increase sales past the £3m mark this year.

It builds on a long-term tooling relationship between the company and Bruderer UK, which has culminated in the development of a turnkey production line for MACH 24 this week, the country’s largest industrial show.

Specialist tooling from Alan Spargo has been developed in just six weeks to run on the Telford-based company’s BSTL 350-88 high speed press, the first time it has ever been run in the UK.

Located on Stand 6-482 at the NEC, the machine comes into its own for precision and continuity and uses up to 30% less energy when compared to older machine models.

Adrian Haller, Managing Director of Bruderer UK, commented: “Alan Spargo works with some of the most demanding customers in the world, thanks to its ability to manufacture precision components and complex tooling.

“The latest investment in a 40-tonne high speed press reinforces this position and gives it additional capacity to try-out new tools at its Buckinghamshire facility, ensuring that the client can tweak stroke speeds and have complete confidence that – when it takes receipt of the tooling – it is going to run at high speed and with absolute accuracy.”

He continued: “This is the natural next step in the relationship, as we have worked together on several projects to build bespoke tooling that can be used on a number of our presses situated in some of the best engineering houses in the UK.”

Alan Spargo is very much a family affair, with the original founder’s sons Michael and Peter now running the business, with the latter’s son Sam Spargo recently joining the business.

Together the company supplies engineering solutions for customers involved in electronics, electric vehicles, solar panels, medical, defence and construction from its Coronation Road facility in High Wycombe.

Peter Spargo, Director, picked up the story: “Our customers are continually pushing the boundaries when it comes to tool performance, and we must respond. One of the ways we can do this is by giving them access to even more tool try-out capabilities and that’s why we’ve pressed the button on our first investment in Bruderer technology.

“This complements our other presses and, importantly, gives us a press that can deliver high-speed performance, testing the tool to its maximum. We’ve already got several existing and new customers who can take advantage of this.

“The last twelve months have been very good for us, and we’ve extended the workforce to 22, with the opportunity to recruit more staff, including new apprentices.”

Bruderer’s production line at MACH will leave Birmingham at the end of the show and make its way to the company’s £multi-million facility that is currently being built at Hortonwood in Telford.

It will form part of a demonstration facility that will be able to prove out machine tools, as well as being used as a potential training ground for future apprentices.

“The BSTL 350-88 high speed press, along with servo-feeder, de-coiler and Alan Spargo tooling represents a £500,000 investment and highlights how committed we are to creating a world class facility in the heart of Shropshire,” added Adrian Haller.

He concluded: “Construction work is progressing well, and we should be open for business in October, with up to six jobs set to be created across service, engineering and finance.”

For further information, please visit www.bruderer.com or www.alanspargoltd.com

Engineering, News

Edwin James Group Accelerates Acquisition Trail to Drive Ambitious Growth

Engineering services provider Edwin James Group is accelerating its acquisition trail to fuel ambitious growth plans. Following the successful purchase of specialist control systems integration services provider ACS in January, the Group is actively seeking additional opportunities that will strengthen an already broad proposition.

By acquiring companies that strengthen its offerings in key strategic areas, including digital, process and sustainability, Edwin James aims to reinforce its position as a leader in the UK engineering services sector.

In 2023, Edwin James Group secured secondary investment from funds under management by Aliter Capital LLP (Aliter), providing a robust platform for its buy-and-build strategy. This capital has paved the way for the next phase of growth.

To execute its expansion plans, the Group has appointed Daniel Longden as its first head of corporate development. A qualified chartered accountant, Daniel brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles at K3 Capital Group Plc and JLA Group.

Commenting on the Group’s plans, Christopher Kehoe, CEO of Edwin James Group, said: “Our recent successes, including a 22% increase in turnover last fiscal year and substantial additions to our forward order book, have positioned us well for accelerated growth. Daniel’s expertise in acquisitions will be instrumental in executing our buy-and-build strategy.”

Daniel Longden, head of corporate development, continued: “It’s great to be joining Edwin James Group at such a pivotal time. The market landscape is notably fragmented, and our vision of creating a cohesive service offering for customers is gaining traction. With the Group’s impressive history of organic growth, I am confident that strategic M&A initiatives will propel our expansion and generate substantial value for our stakeholders”.

 

Engineering, News

Instaspark launches specialist commercial electrical brand, Orbem, following national expansion

Electrical services provider, Instaspark, has today announced the launch of Orbem, a specialist electrical firm servicing the commercial sector.

The news follows a year of unprecedented growth for Instaspark, reaching a turnover of over circa £1.6million in 2023, driving geographical expansion across the UK, and securing multiple lucrative contracts including Co-Op, Haribo and True Learning Partnership.

Having built partnerships with major companies and brands across a wide range of industries, Directors Brandon Rowlands, Chris Stott, and Rob Stone announced the launch of Orbem to further expand the firm’s commercial offering.

Orbem will specialise in a wide range of electrical solutions, including electrical fit-out projects across all major industries, LED lighting upgrades, commercial EV charging and renewable energy solutions.

Part of the Instaloft Group, which turned over in excess of £22 Million in 2023 and aim to achieve over £30m in 2024, Orbem will continue the brand’s commitment to excellence in their values; quality, innovation and reliability, creating tailor-made electrical solutions and cultivating long-term commercial partnerships.

Speaking on the launch of Orbem, Director Brandon Rowlands said: “We are delighted to bring Orbem to the market, and we view it as a massive step towards our goal of changing the face of electrical contracting. Borne from our success at Instaspark, we identified the need for a dedicated commercial brand and we couldn’t be more proud of making that dream a reality.”

Founder of the Instaloft Group and joint Director of Orbem, Rob Stone, confirmed: “I’m proud to introduce Orbem Specialist Electrical, our latest venture, dedicated to providing top-tier commercial electrical services across the UK to a vast range of sectors. With our core values being the centre of our partnerships with our clients, we look forward to meeting the growing demands of this exciting sector and deliver unparalleled services and professionalism.”

Headquartered in Telford with regional offices in Huddersfield, Reading and Southampton, Orbem is already operating throughout retail, defence, education, manufacturing and other sectors with plans to expand in all sectors, and already on track to turn over in excess of £3.3 million this year.

For more information, visit:

https://www.orbem-electrical.co.uk/

Appointments, Engineering, News

Edwin James Group focuses on multi-skilling with new Academy lead

Leading multi-disciplinary engineering services provider, Edwin James Group, has appointed Geoff Bruce to head up the EJ Academy supporting learning and development (L&D) for the group. The newly created role is part of the company’s strategic growth plan and will increase focus on lifelong learning and managing the industry skills gap.

Geoff, who joined the business in March 2023, will lead learning and development efforts across the entire group under The EJ Academy banner.

The EJ Academy programme is designed to support upskilling and reskilling and provides comprehensive learning opportunities from apprentice to boardroom. It delivers training across disciplines to develop the multi-skilled engineers of the future. It also supports the embedding of company processes, bringing together efforts to shape and reinforce the company’s culture.

 

Commenting on the appointment, Mark Longley, corporate services director, Edwin James Group said: “Learning and development plays a key role in our ambition to set a new standard in the UK engineering services sector. As we grow, it’s important that we have the right training and processes in place to ensure that all colleagues have the same experience and can make the most of the opportunities that the group can offer.

“We have a commitment to nurturing talent from within, and Geoff’s appointment reflects his outstanding contributions since joining the company.”

 

Geoff Bruce continued, “This role is an opportunity to build on the values that drew me to Edwin James Group in the first place. Fostering a welcoming environment, bridging the skills gap, and nurturing talent from within all speak to what matters most to me: creating a company where everyone feels valued, supported, and ready to excel.”

 

Edwin James Group recently announced the acquisition of control systems integration provider, ACS, as part of the group’s buy-and-build growth strategy. The deal adds additional specialist engineering capacity and further enhances the group’s industrial digital skillset.

 

Engineering, News, Technology

Edwin James Group drives growth with strategic acquisition.

Technology-led engineering services provider Edwin James Group has completed the acquisition of Automated Control Solutions Holdings Limited and its subsidiaries Automated Control Solutions Limited and ACS Electrical Engineering Limited, together trading as ACS.

The deal, agreed for an undisclosed sum, will expand the Group’s digitalisation offering, growing its systems integration and OT automation capacity. All staff will be retained, including the leadership team, who will work closely with group CEO Christopher Kehoe and EJ Peak Technology Solutions executive director Michael Thomas to integrate the business.

The strategic acquisition further strengthens Edwin James’ process engineering capabilities and provides additional capacity to support customers’ sustainability, digital and energy transitions. As part of the company’s buy-and-build strategy, it positions the Group for further growth.

Established in 1998, Burton-based ACS is a control systems integration services provider that delivers services across two divisions: Systems Integration and Electrical Engineering. The business specialises in software and electrical based control solutions for the manufacturing sector and focuses on working with large corporate customers in the food and beverage, brewing and liquid processing industries.

Commenting on the deal, Christopher Kehoe, CEO at Edwin James Group, said: “ACS is a business we have known and admired for some time, and we believe their blend of skills, knowledge and specialist experience is a perfect complementary fit for our business.  With shared customers and a highly skilled team, ACS will enhance our existing industrial digital skillset. Following our successful funding round with Aliter Capital in February last year, we have been executing our buy-and-build growth strategy. ACS is a testament to our commitment to strategic expansion.”

Mr Kehoe continued: “ACS is a well-run business and I’m looking forward to working with Paul and the team to integrate ACS into the Group.”

Paul Cantrill, managing director at ACS said: “It’s really exciting to be joining the Edwin James Group. Our two businesses share a number of customers and the same values including a commitment to high quality service.

“Edwin James is going from strength to strength, and being part of a national organisation will provide structure and greater scope for growth for ACS and its employees.”

Edwin James Group recently announced a robust financial performance for the year ending February 2023. The Group reported a turnover of £175m, up 22%, with the order book expanding from £545m in 2022 to £800m in February 2023.

 

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Pictured left to right:  Edwin Simpkin (ACS), Wayne Letts (ACS), Paul Cantrill (ACS), Christopher Kehoe (EJ), Niall Watson (ACS), Michael Thomas (EJ Peak)

Birmingham, Engineering, Manchester, News, Science

Birmingham-based engineering giant adi Group opens new Life Sciences division in Manchester

UK engineering firm, the adi Group, is continuing to strengthen its position in the marketplace with the launch of a new Life Sciences Division, it can be announced today.

The Group, which has a HQ in Birmingham and operates across 12 sites in the UK and Ireland, said the launch forms part of an exciting new phase in their ongoing development.

Via a new Manchester-based Division, from today the team at the adi Group will be working to directly support the requirements of the global life sciences industry.

The Division – based at Ashton Old Baths, Tameside, is made up of 13 people and two more will be joining in September.

Those spearheading the division’s output will be offering groundbreaking end-to-end project servicing capabilities which focus on the creation and management of sophisticated environments.

They will focus on delivering vital medical products that can be produced safely, compliantly, and sustainably.

The Division will utilise cutting-edge digital twin technology, where the team will essentially have a virtual representation of the client’s project.  This will allow them to make concept changes within the virtual world before making a decision in real life.

The adi Group say this will not only mitigate risk, but also provide a shared collaborative environment with real-time yield data where all parties can view and assess progress.

This, in turn, will deliver clients with an opportunity to adjust parameters to meet the demands of the project as and when required.

Commenting on the launch of the new Division, Darren Lewis, who was recently appointed managing director and head of adi Life Sciences division, said: “I’m excited to be leading the new division, which is backed by an elite team of high-quality professionals.  This is an exciting new branch to add to an already largely established engineering firm with various divisions across a wide range of major industries in the engineering and manufacturing sectors.

“It was an opportunity to bring a high-performing team of like minded people to an already established and successful business. The basis of adi Group has always been to provide a service with a multifaceted end-to-end approach, and we want to utilise those values for the new division to become a single point of responsibility for our clients.”

Mr Lewis, who has 30 years of experience in Pharma, said his aim is for the adi Group  to be the “partner of choice” in the life sciences sector. He also wants to deliver sophisticated solutions via efficient and effective designs aligned with the requirements and end goal of the clients.

Paul Smith, Chief Operating Officer of the adi Group, added:  “I’m thrilled to see a new team of progressive, technologically advanced experts within life sciences – the potential is enormous, bringing a service offering to the market that is entirely new and which conceptualizses the production of the life-saving medical products of tomorrow.”

The new division has been set up in Manchester-based offices that have been acquired to provide an innovative and modern space for the new team.

It becomes the second office in the North-West for adi Group, which is headquartered in the West-Midlands, but has primary hub offices across the UK and Ireland and project offices across a range of all the regions.

The adi Group has previous experience and partnerships working with 15 out of the top 20 pharmaceutical companies in the world , and has delivered a variety of projects across many years.

 

Engineering, Manufacturing

Benefits and Usage: What’s a Cross Roller Bearing?

Cross roller bearings are a fundamental component of many mechanical and engineering applications. But, what’s a cross roller bearing exactly?, how are they used, and what benefits do they offer? In this blog post, we delve into these questions and explore the integral role that cross roller bearings play in our modern technological landscape.

 

What is a Cross Roller Bearing?

A cross roller bearing is a type of rolling-element bearing that separates moving parts and sustains high radial loads. The unique feature of a cross roller bearing is that the rollers are arranged perpendicular to each other, through the spaces provided in the inner and outer rings, hence the term “cross roller.” This arrangement helps to evenly distribute loads across a larger surface area, providing higher precision, greater rigidity, and increased efficiency over other types of bearings.

 

The Benefits of Cross Roller Bearings

Cross roller bearings offer numerous advantages that make them a popular choice in various mechanical and engineering applications.

 

  1. High Load Capacity:

Because the rollers are arranged in a cross, they can bear loads from multiple directions – radial, axial and moment loads. This makes them ideal for use in applications that require high load capacity, such as robotics and industrial machinery.

 

  1. High Precision:

The cross-roller design minimizes the elastic deformation caused by the load. This results in superior running accuracy, making these bearings ideal for precision applications such as CNC machines, medical equipment, and measuring instruments.

 

  1. Space Efficiency:

Cross roller bearings have a compact design. They can support large loads while taking up less space than other bearings with similar load capacities. This space efficiency can enable more streamlined designs in machinery and equipment.

 

  1. Reduced Friction:

The rolling motion of the bearings reduces friction compared to the sliding motion of plain bearings. This reduction in friction can result in lower operating temperatures, longer service life, and improved energy efficiency.

 

The Usage of Cross Roller Bearings

Given their unique characteristics, cross roller bearings find their use in a variety of applications. Here are some examples:

 

  1. Industrial Robotics:

In the realm of industrial automation, cross roller bearings are utilized for their high precision and rigidity. They are a perfect fit for the robotic arms which require precise movements even under high loads.

 

  1. Medical Equipment:

In the medical field, equipment like MRI machines, CT scanners, and surgical robots demand high precision and reliability. The low friction and high load capacity of cross roller bearings make them ideal for such applications.

 

  1. Aerospace:

The aerospace industry requires components that offer high precision, reliability, and load capacity. Whether it’s in the engines or the control systems of an aircraft, cross roller bearings can play a crucial role.

 

  1. Telecommunication Equipment:

In the telecommunications industry, cross roller bearings are often used in satellite dish positioning systems where high precision is needed to accurately align the dish to receive or transmit signals.

 

Improving Efficiency and Reducing Noise:

One underrated benefit of cross roller bearings is their ability to improve the operational efficiency of machinery. Due to their unique design, cross roller bearings help reduce the amount of wasted movement, leading to more efficient energy use. This feature can contribute significantly to cost savings in energy-intensive sectors. Moreover, these bearings can operate at a lower noise level compared to other types, making them ideal for use in environments where noise reduction is crucial.

 

Customizable Design and Flexibility:

Cross roller bearings are also customizable, making them suitable for a vast array of applications. They come in many different sizes and can be made with various materials based on specific requirements. Whether it’s a large-scale industrial machine or a small precision instrument, there’s a cross roller bearing suitable for it. This flexibility allows designers and engineers to have more freedom when conceptualizing and creating their machinery.

 

Improving Durability and Lifespan of Machinery:

Cross roller bearings can significantly enhance the durability and lifespan of machinery. The cross-roller design spreads the load evenly across the bearings, reducing the pressure on individual parts and minimizing wear and tear. This results in fewer breakdowns and less maintenance, which can save significant time and money over the lifespan of a machine.

 

Top Providers of Cross Roller Bearings

When it comes to sourcing cross roller bearings, it’s essential to choose a provider known for their quality, precision, and reliability. Here are some of the top providers in the industry:

THK: This Japanese company is a pioneer in the field of linear motion systems. THK’s cross roller bearings are known for their high precision, quality, and durability, and are widely used in numerous industries including robotics, aerospace, and medical equipment.

IKO International: A part of the Nippon Thompson Co., Ltd., IKO has carved out a reputation for providing high-quality cross roller bearings. Their products offer high rotational accuracy and are ideal for parts requiring compactness and high rigidity where space is at a premium.

Schaeffler: This German-based company, operating under the INA and FAG brands, provides a wide range of bearing solutions. Their cross roller bearings are known for high load carrying capacity, rigidity and compactness.

SKF: A Swedish company with more than a century’s worth of bearing manufacturing experience, SKF offers reliable and high-quality cross roller bearings that can handle heavy loads from all directions.

Timken: A U.S.-based manufacturer, Timken is another top player in the bearing industry. Their cross roller bearings are designed for high-precision applications such as turntables and index tables.

 

 

Cross roller bearings are a small but critical component that helps make much of our modern technology function efficiently. Whether in the aerospace sector, medical field, industrial machinery, or telecommunications, these components provide significant benefits due to their design and functionality.

 

Understanding their benefits and usage can help businesses and engineers make more informed decisions in product development, maintenance, and other operational tasks. It showcases how an efficient design can lead to significant improvements in the performance of various systems, highlighting the remarkable world of engineering that often goes unseen in our everyday lives.

 

Whether you are an engineer, a business leader, or an interested individual, appreciating the importance of components like cross roller bearings can help you better understand and navigate the technological world around us.

 

 

Careers, Diversity, Engineering, News, STEM

International Women In Engineering Day: Working In Water As A Woman Is A Secure And Lifelong Career

International Women in Engineering Day is upon us again and reminds us to celebrate the fantastic women excelling in their fields.

Over the last decade, engineering and broader STEM has been a much more attractive proposition for young women embarking on their careers than ever before. But we must do more to create balance and encourage more women into the sector.

What better way to do this than to meet the amazing women doing incredible jobs in the sector to hear about their experiences?

 

Meet: Holly Palmer, Contracts Manager at Alpheus Environmental

 

What is your current role, and how did you get there?

“I am Contracts Manager at Alpheus Environmental. I began my career at Alpheus at 16 years old where I was Helpdesk Co-ordinator and promoted to Helpdesk Manager a few years later. I then began a more technical role and have been in my current role for nearly 10 years.”

 

What does a typical workday look like for you?

“As my title suggests, I am responsible for the day-to-day delivery of our contracts, coordinating a growing team of field engineers on sites and across the business. My role is to ensure we deliver everything we are contractually obliged to, whilst working closely with our customers to evolve and improve any element of the contract as the relationship evolves.”

Was it always your dream to get into a role in the engineering sector?

“It would be safe to say it wasn’t my dream to get into this or any other engineering role if I am being honest. I left school and moved on to my A Levels. I had no idea what I really wanted to do, had no distinct long-term plan. At the time I recruited for Alpheus I was still studying for my A-Levels, I was speaking to the lady I was babysitting for about not being sure that A-Levels were right for me at the time, and she mentioned that there was a job going at Alpheus if I wanted to take a break from studying for a while.

“I got the job. I started a week later. My view was that I would spend a year in the job, bank some money and return to my A Levels. That didn’t quite go to plan, I was engrained in the businesses working with amazing colleagues – several women – and growing my knowledge of wastewater and water recycling. I became invested and was subsequently promoted in 2008 to Supervisor and was suddenly managing people older than myself. I had carved myself a career and didn’t need to return to my A Levels, but thanks to Alpheus financially supporting my I did a HNC in Business, and then I funded a HND myself remotely to.”

 

Did you worry about, or have you experienced, any issues being a woman in your role?

“I wouldn’t say I was worried about any issues I may face; I would have just considered it a challenge. My gender does not define my abilities, and thanks to the support of my team, the vast majority being men, I have been able to do my job without my gender even being considered. Likewise with our customers, I don’t face any misogyny. Not to say it wasn’t present in the past. There have been a few times where I have advised on the telephone and given my expert opinion, only for the contact to get in touch with a male colleague – in the same office – to get their opinion. It is hard to put into words the feelings this rose in me. But rather than let it define me, I just continue to give my opinion and use my knowledge and to prove my credentials. Someone coming into the industry, especially young women, may find some things a little awkward. For instance, some of the older generation may refer to you as ‘darling’ or ‘sweetheart’. But honestly, it doesn’t mean anything. Its cultural and I know there is nothing behind it. These same men trust my opinions, work hard in the team.”

 

Have you met or worked with other influential women in engineering who inspire you?

“I began my career working with several great women on the helpdesk and I looked up to them all. I learned so much from them, and they had been working on a majority male environment longer than myself. Every woman that works at the company is great. We have some highly intelligent people – one of my colleagues has a doctorate in Wastewater Management – and she blows my mind with her knowledge. We have women of all walks of life working at Alpheus, these women have incredible knowledge and experience in their individual roles, and they are all fundamental to a successful team.

 

What can the engineering sector do to inspire and attract young women to the profession?

“It stems from school age, initially. Career days we would learn about roles such as nurses or police officers, often parents of a pupil. You would never see anyone from STEM careers. I think it would be great if Alpheus and similar companies could spend the time visiting schools and promoting the sector. I also think school tours – small groups for no more than half an hour – are a great way of building excitement in what we do, especially at primary school age when their curiosity is building. We can’t deny that to children poo is funny. My niece calls where I work the ‘Poo Office’. But starting from something funny and giggly like poo and showing how we convert that to clean and clear water, seems magic. Its exciting. It is a great way to get them engaged.

“One final thing to say is to the board and managers of all STEM companies; you need more female representation at that level, certainly in decision making. As time progresses, we will see more women in senior positions, but in the short term if you are planning to make changes to policies or working practices, make sure women have a say. It’s the only way to prove how dedicated we are to equality.”

Engineering, Manufacturing, News

Swedish Quality Castors and Wheels Rolling into UK Industries

As the UK’s industrial sector continues to evolve, and adapt to the challenges of the 21st century, businesses are constantly looking for innovative ways to improve efficiency. One area of innovation often overlooked is that of industrial wheels and castors, a niche where a Swedish manufacturer has carved out a significant reputation.

 

Driving Efficiency and Sustainability

Manufacturing premium wheels and castors from its base in Sweden, Swede-Wheels has been revolutionising the way industries move goods within their production facilities. The company’s designs and commitment to quality have placed them at the forefront of this specialised sector, enabling them to provide solutions that significantly enhance operational efficiency across a wide range of industries.

 

The Impact on UK Businesses

Why is this relevant to UK businesses? Productivity is the cornerstone of successful industry, and the ability to move goods seamlessly within a manufacturing or distribution environment can drastically impact these metrics. The significance of reliable, durable and easy-to-maneuver castors and wheels in a busy industrial setting cannot be overstated.

These products can bring about an array of benefits for businesses. For example, they offer a superior lifespan compared to generic offerings, reducing replacement costs and minimising equipment downtime. They have also been designed to have very high corrosion resistance. The stainless castors often are therefore suitable for purposes where hygiene is important, such as:

  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Kitchen equipment
  • Food and beverage industry
  • Architectural applications

 

Safety, Versatility and Confidence

The ergonomic designs mean less effort is required to move heavy loads, reducing the risk of strain injuries among staff and increasing overall operational efficiency. The wide range of products is adaptable to different applications, offering the versatility to support various industries – from food production and healthcare to heavy manufacturing and logistics.

It’s clear that the role of industrial wheels and castors extends far beyond mere functionality. They have the potential to influence significant business metrics, from cost savings to employee safety and productivity. As UK businesses continue to seek out opportunities for improvement in an increasingly competitive global landscape, turning to proven innovators like Swede-Wheel can provide a welcome boost to their operations.

 

The Power of Small Innovations

Every seemingly small innovation, such as the premium wheels and castors, can mean a significant improvement in efficiency and cost-effectiveness for UK businesses. So, perhaps it’s time to pay more attention to the innovations that keep businesses going smoothly. These innovations are often the unsung heroes of the industrial sector. They may not grab headlines like significant technological breakthroughs, but they are essential in shaping the UK’s industrial landscape. Here are some examples:

 

Energy-efficient LED lighting: The shift from traditional lighting to LED has been transformative. LED lights consume significantly less power and have a longer lifespan.

 

Industrial IoT Sensors: Sensors that monitor machinery can alert operators to potential failures before they occur, reducing costly downtime. Similarly, sensors can monitor environmental conditions, enhancing safety and productivity.

 

Biodegradable Packaging: Switching to biodegradable and recyclable materials can dramatically reduce a company’s carbon footprint, aiding sustainability efforts and improving brand image.

 

Robotic Process Automation (RPA): RPA allows businesses to automate mundane, repetitive tasks, freeing up employees to focus on more complex tasks.

 

High-strength Fasteners: These small components are crucial in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and aerospace. Innovations in materials and design have led to fasteners that are stronger, lighter, and more resistant to corrosion.

 

When integrated into the wider industrial landscape, these innovations deliver significant improvements in productivity, efficiency, safety, and sustainability. As such, they continue to underline the immense value and potential of small-scale innovation in UK industries.

Business Advice, Engineering

How to Choose a Load Cell for Crane Scales?

Crane scales have various crucial applications in different industries, especially during unloading and loading operations. Crane scales help to measure the weight of different types of loads. Besides weight measurement, crane scales also help to prevent overloads, weighing during manufacture, weighing in foundries, shipment weighing, and controlled cable tensioning. A load cell is a crucial component of a crane scale. This device mainly helps to measure weight and pulling force. There are two major application areas for load cells, such as controlled cable tensioning and the Bollard pull test. For the measurement of tension or pulling force and weight, you can use wired or wireless load cells.

The main advantage of using a wireless load cell is that you can remotely handle the device and manage workflow efficiently. However, when it comes to choosing the right load cell for crane scales, you need to consider plenty of things.

What is a Load Cell?

A load cell is a device that converts a pulling force or tension into an electrical signal. This electrical signal can be measured. If you increase the applied force on the load cell, then the electrical signal will change correspondingly. In this way, load cells help us to measure the weight and tension of a load.

How to Choose a Load Cell?

Wired or Wireless Load Cell:

In recent times, people are preferring wireless load cells more than wired load cells. A wireless load cell measures the applied pull or force efficiently and displays the accurate measurement on a remote display. Thus, it eliminates the need of connecting the display to the load cell with a cable as well as eliminates the limitation of the cable length. Wireless load cells are easy to install and have significant applications in foundries and various high-temperature environments where you cannot use cable due to high temperature. Wireless displays provide you with the reading from a safe distance.

Portability:

When you are choosing a 300t ton load cell, you should consider the portability of the device. Even though these load cells are capable of measuring weight up to 300 ton, you can find these devices in small dimensions and weights. The lightweight and small dimensions of the load cell are essential to carry the device easily, especially when telecom or electric utility workers are using them for climbing services.

Battery-Life:

The battery life of your load cell is another area that you need to consider. You should choose a load cell that has at least 2000 hours of battery life so that you can continuously work for months without swapping batteries.

Accuracy:

To monitor the tension load efficiently and ensure safety, the load cell has to be highly accurate. High accuracy of 0.1% is desirable for the right load cell.

Reliability:

Lastly, you should focus on the reliability of the load cell. To get a reliable load cell for crane scales, you should purchase the device from a reputed manufacturer. If the load cell is reliable, you can measure the weights safely.