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Electrical Drawings, Schematics, and Wiring Diagrams: How to Read Them

Electrical Drawings, Schematics, and Wiring Diagrams: How to Read Them

In order to trace control system problems to the core, the ability to read and interpret various resources, from facility-level diagrams to machine-level wiring layouts, is critical.


Understanding Single-stage vs. Multi-stage Pneumatic Devices

Understanding Single-stage vs. Multi-stage Pneumatic Devices

This article looks at vacuum ejectors and vacuum pumps, specifically outlining the difference between single and multi-stage versions of each type, and common applications.


Enhance Workplace Efficiency with Patlite’s Bluetooth Stack Lights

Enhance Workplace Efficiency with Patlite’s Bluetooth Stack Lights

Patlite is improving workplace communication and safety with a stack light using Bluetooth control. This system eliminates complex wiring by transmitting signals directly to compatible output devices.


News Jan 11, 2024 by Austin Futrell
Star-Delta Wiring for Reduced Voltage Starting of 3-Phase Motors

Star-Delta Wiring for Reduced Voltage Starting of 3-Phase Motors

Digital controls like VFDs and soft starts have advantages by elongating start time, but simple strategies for starting motors with a reduced current draw, like star-delta (or wye-delta) are common.


New Compact Valve From Schmalz Centralizes Vacuum Gripping

New Compact Valve From Schmalz Centralizes Vacuum Gripping

The new LQE compact valves from Schmalz feature a small, lightweight design that can be mounted directly to robotic arms to reduce system complexity, featuring IO-Link for data monitoring.


News Dec 30, 2023 by Damond Goodwin
How Does a Circuit Breaker Work?

How Does a Circuit Breaker Work?

We depend on circuit breakers all the time, even when you have a day off or work from home. These overcurrent protection devices keep machines running safely, reducing the risk of fires and arcing.


KEB Automation Releases DL4 Servo Motors For Equipment Manufacturers

KEB Automation Releases DL4 Servo Motors For Equipment Manufacturers

KEB Automation has launched the DL4, an 8-pole AC servo motor in three frame sizes with torque ratings from 11 to 520 Nm and power ratings up to 77 kW for the largest models.


News Dec 19, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
ABB Announces Real Progress Campaign to Accelerate Global Industry

ABB Announces Real Progress Campaign to Accelerate Global Industry

ABB has recently launched a campaign known as the "Real Progress" initiative aimed at fastening global sustainability through technology and expertise in process industries.


News Dec 18, 2023 by Bob Odhiambo
Schmalz Introduces New Compact Multi-Stage Vacuum Generator

Schmalz Introduces New Compact Multi-Stage Vacuum Generator

Schmalz has launched a new multi-stage compact ejector for efficient vacuum gripping solutions, with vacuum compensation available for non-uniform grip surfaces.


News Dec 18, 2023 by Damond Goodwin
Monitor Current and Machine Health With Sensing Coils From Banner

Monitor Current and Machine Health With Sensing Coils From Banner

Banner Engineering has introduced a flexible, easy-open loop current monitoring sensor for constant monitoring of electrical currents up to 6000 amps.


News Dec 16, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
Banner Releases Flexible, Industrial-Grade RGB Strip Light

Banner Releases Flexible, Industrial-Grade RGB Strip Light

Banner Engineering has recently released a new flexible multicolored strip light with industrial protocols that can be installed on curved or slim surfaces to provide greater visibility.


News Dec 15, 2023 by Bob Odhiambo
Understanding the 17xx | Your Rockwell/Allen-Bradley Hardware Encyclopedia

Understanding the 17xx | Your Rockwell/Allen-Bradley Hardware Encyclopedia

Rockwell Automation’s Allen-Bradley control hardware catalog has long included many series that start with 17xx, but what are these lineups, and what function do they serve?


Mennekes Announces New Range of Ganged Motor Disconnect Switches

Mennekes Announces New Range of Ganged Motor Disconnect Switches

Mennekes has released a multi-gange 30 to 60-amp disconnect assembly, featuring a modular design for ease of engineering and a sloped top for protection in harsh washdown environments.


News Dec 14, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
What is a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)?

What is a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)?

When we need to change the speed of an industrial motor, whether to control a process or save energy costs, we turn to the variable frequency drive, better known simply as a VFD.


Strain Gauges: Real-World Considerations and Typical Applications

Strain Gauges: Real-World Considerations and Typical Applications

In this article, we will explore real-world considerations for strain gauge performance and typical applications. We’ll be talking about foil and wire strain gauges, but ignoring semiconductors.


New UR30 From Universal Robots: Heavy Payload in a Compact Size

New UR30 From Universal Robots: Heavy Payload in a Compact Size

Universal Robots has announced the release of the UR30, a collaborative robot featuring the heaviest payload in the UR catalog and a maximum reach meeting or exceeding many previous models.


News Dec 06, 2023 by Seth Price
Strain Gauges: Basic Operating Principles, Materials, and Properties

Strain Gauges: Basic Operating Principles, Materials, and Properties

For being no more than a thin piece of metal, the strain gauge is a versatile measurement tool, from small switches to multi-ton machines. In this article, learn the operating principles and properties.


Web-Based HMIs: Future Or Fad? HMI Project and KEB Say ‘It’s Here’

Web-Based HMIs: Future Or Fad? HMI Project and KEB Say ‘It’s Here’

Partners HMI Project and KEB Automation have launched HELIO, a new web-based HMI application for creating interactive web pages that can control and monitor automated equipment.


News Nov 26, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
PLC Input and Output Module Troubleshooting Techniques

PLC Input and Output Module Troubleshooting Techniques

When inputs or outputs stop working, the equipment fails to respond and money starts slipping away. Dive into the concept of troubleshooting I/O without ever opening the PLC software.


Kawasaki’s Latest Through-arm Arc Welding Robot Now in North America

Kawasaki’s Latest Through-arm Arc Welding Robot Now in North America

Kawasaki Robotics’ latest industrial robot to hit the North American market brings compact precision and speed to the company’s BA series of through-arm cable arc welding robots.


News Nov 20, 2023 by Bob Odhiambo