In a modern industrial automation scenario, whether we call it Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) or Industry 4.0, the core premise is that devices on the plant floor generate massive amounts of data, which is collected, analyzed and converted into business value.

Upgrading your industrial PC is a significant investment of both time and money. Since Industrial PCs impact so many systems and processes, changes are met with an understandable level of hesitation. Many businesses forgo upgrades for too long, losing out on powerful performance improvements that can save time and reduce costs. So how do you know when it’s time to upgrade your industrial PC? Here are a few things to look for.

As industrial systems become more complex, the need for more sophisticated controls increases. Choosing the right industrial PC can make the difference between a streamlined, independent system with pinpoint precision and a sluggish one requiring regular upkeep. Here’s what to look for when choosing an industrial PC that will serve you now and into the future.

Electro-Matic Ventures today announced that it will now offer the Teamcenter® portfolio, the world’s most widely used digital lifecycle management software, the Tecnomatix® portfolio, the industry-leading digital manufacturing software, NX™ software, a leading integrated solution for computer-aided design, manufacturing and engineering (CAD/CAM/CAE), and the Simcenter™ portfolio, a robust suite of simulation software and test solutions from Siemens PLM Software. Electro-Matic Ventures currently operates in Michigan, Northern Ohio and distributes Siemens’ TIA hardware and software products and solutions.

The annual Manufacturing in America (MiA) event brings together hundreds of manufacturing and automation experts from all over the world to see, learn about, and experience the latest technology in the industry. Well-known for their commitment to innovation, Siemens consistently brings cutting-edge technology to MiA. We’re pleased to welcome Colm Gavin, an expert in digitalization and a 17-year Siemens veteran, back to MiA this year to present on Siemens’ latest innovations. His topic this year: commissioning production and perfecting manufacturing processes through a virtual copy—the Digital Twin. Let’s take a brief preview of the Digital Twin, and see what you can expect at this MiA presentation.

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Industry 4.0 were buzzwords long before they presented real advantages or opportunities to most companies. Though they took some time to come of age, the many interconnected devices and the sophisticated networks and software connecting them are now real considerations for businesses large and small, worldwide, in 2019. As we enter the last stretch of the 2000’s second decade, the futuristic promises of the Industrial Internet of Things and Industry 4.0 have become realities. However, with these opportunities comes a number of risks.

The switch from UL508 to UL 60947-4, which were originally instituted in 2012 and became officially required in 2017, presented some challenges to manufacturers and engineers, especially those working with international clients. Siemens, Rittal, and other leading manufacturers have tried to make this transition easier, and facilitate international trade, by providing components that meet both UL and EIC regulations. Understanding that industrial engineers are responsible for not only their own safety, but also successful electrical design to protect the entire plant and all the staff, Siemens and Rittal have also provided information to help engineers navigate these changes and stay safe on the job.

What if I told you that bigger is not always better? Many engineers know that this is the case when it comes to injection molding machines. Larger injection molding machinery is less portable, more difficult to house and typically requires more maintenance. If a machine exists with the same clamping force, half the footprint at a lower cost, why wouldn’t you use it? A superior design utilizing mechanical advantage makes this possible. In this blog we’ll show you how mechanical advantage works, and how the V-Mold can reduce the footprint and costs of plastic injection molding. 

Idea, product concept, initial design, prototype, final design, bridge production, market feedback, and final production are all phases that a new product may go through before it can be mass produced and sold successfully. Moving through these various phases quickly and economically is critical to the success of a new product launch. Vertical Injection Molding Technology should be considered as an efficient solution to both prototyping plastic parts and bridge production phases of the new product launches. This technology enables you to prototype plastic parts more easily and move to full production faster.