Voices: Technology Toolbox
Technology Toolbox highlights new products and technologies designed to improve asset reliability, maintenance productivity, safety, and cost efficiency. Plant Services Contributing Editor Sheila Kennedy focuses on a different functional area each month.
Revolutionary robotics optics and vision systems
Sheila Kennedy says successful plant automation can hinge on how well robots see their surroundings.
Aug 8, 2019
Assigning complex or hard-to-fill roles to robots and cobots reduces the need to outsource positions, move factories offshore, or subject human workers to hazards. Modern optics and vision systems optimize robot performance while protecting against unintended physical contact.
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On-the-go asset condition monitoring
Jul 11, 2019Sheila Kennedy says hyperconnected condition monitoring tools help teams spot problems early.Innovative electrical safety technology
Jun 5, 2019Sheila Kennedy explores tools, training, and materials to help you meet or exceed compliance standards.Bearings are not boring
May 6, 2019Sheila Kennedy says bearings are getting tech-focused updates.Platforms for predictive maintenance and prescriptive maintenance progress
Apr 9, 2019Sheila Kennedy says tools from pattern recognition to self-powered sensors power advanced maintenance.High-tech supply chain solutions
Mar 7, 2019From wearables to services, Sheila Kennedy says new tools are enabling a better grip on supply chain management.Ultrasound is breaking new ground
Feb 11, 2019Sheila Kennedy says ultrasound specialists adapt to new challenges to data collection and management.What can smart analytics do for your reliability team?
Jan 10, 2019Sheila Kennedy says figuring out not just what’s going wrong, but why, is possible as never before.Additive manufacturing reaches new heights
Dec 4, 2018Sheila Kennedy says further advances in 3D printing materials, technologies propel making on demand.Field service management's moment in the spotlight
Nov 16, 2018Sheila Kennedy says connected field service management tools enable better planning, visualization.Move on this: Smart vibration analysis
Oct 10, 2018Sheila Kennedy says better monitoring tools allow for greater flexibility, more-precise diagnostics.Remote compressed air system monitoring: What it looks like today
Sep 4, 2018Sheila Kennedy says keep an eye on compressor performance and spot usage trends with these new solutions.The latest in lubrication tech
Aug 1, 2018Sheila Kennedy says new tools make lubrication measurement and management more frictionless.Warehouse robots: What you need to know as the market ramps up
Jul 31, 2018Sheila Kennedy says smarter, faster robots are changing the game for materials handling and transport.Trash? Not so fast. How to rescue your refuse.
Jun 4, 2018Sheila Kennedy says these companies aim to make the most of used or unwanted stuff.Put Big Data into context in real time
May 21, 2018Sheila Kennedy says make more-strategic decisions thanks to the power of AI and machine learning.Perspectives on IIoT project success
Apr 23, 2018Sheila Kennedy interviews women in tech on how to seize the benefits of smart manufacturing.Smarter analytics for asset health
Mar 22, 2018Sheila Kennedy says advanced analytics tools can help make RxM a reality for more assets, facilities.Infrared for PdM, upgraded
Feb 19, 2018Sheila Kennedy says rugged next-generation IR cameras and sensors offer better quality and context.Solving plant problems with industrial-strength blockchain
Jan 24, 2018Sheila Kennedy examines how remote and predictive maintenance gets a boost via “smart contract” technology.Smart tech comes to pumps
Dec 19, 2017Sheila Kennedy says digital twins and data analytics enable engineering, process improvements.Smart tools: Power to your people
Nov 28, 2017Sheila Kennedy says sophisticated technologies help employees make data-driven maintenance decisions.She leads industrial innovation
Oct 25, 2017Sheila Kennedy speaks with seven women leaders in manufacturing and asset management on what’s driving industry’s new revolution.Engineering the future: Disruptive technologies on the horizon
Sep 12, 2017Sheila Kennedy says explore innovative engineering tools that can help advance plant digitalization.Condition monitoring on the go: Part 2
Aug 22, 2017Sheila Kennedy says smartphone-enabled solutions, multipurpose devices, and an innovative handheld oil analysis tool allow anomalies to be spotted earlier.Fortify your machines' defenses
Jul 21, 2017Sheila Kennedy says combine physical barriers and advanced technologies to keep workers safe.Why you should prioritize prescriptive analytics
Jun 12, 2017From algorithms to hardware, Sheila Kennedy says the new maintenance frontier is coming into view.Sonic gold: Ultrasound on the rise
May 15, 2017Sheila Kennedy says ultrasound is finding a greater role in electrical inspections and as a complement to other tests.Safety is getting smarter
May 8, 2017Sheila Kennedy says high-tech wearables, monitoring tools, and more keep people and plants secure.The eyes have it: New video options give an unprecedented view of asset performance
Mar 21, 2017Sheila Kennedy explores condition monitoring via video.Condition monitoring on the go
Feb 13, 2017Sheila Kennedy says new portable solutions let you monitor machines from anywhere – even your couch.It's a lock: Secure your network
Jan 17, 2017Sheila Kennedy says vendors are joining forces to offer more-robust industrial network security solutions.How the IoT can keep your buildings more comfortable, cost-efficient, and secure
Dec 6, 2016Sheila Kennedy explores the future of smart environment controls.Avoid unplanned motor downtime with the right equipment and processes
Oct 31, 2016Sheila Kennedy explores industrial motor developments.Trends are telling: Detecting and learning from patterns and trends in data
Oct 4, 2016Sheila Kennedy says enable operational improvements through pattern recognition and discovery tools.How to master precision maintenance
Sep 22, 2016Sheila Kennedy says advanced technology allows for more-precise inspections, more-strategic corrections.Women at the forefront of reliability
Aug 17, 2016Sheila Kennedy explores how technology is transforming asset management, from women leading reliability efforts at some of the country's top industrial organizations.Knowledge repositories encourage sharing and collaboration
Jul 18, 2016Sheila Kennedy says new databases help manufacturers be smarter about sourcing, machine use.Tech-centric workforce training: New training models are changing the way we think of workforce development
Jun 22, 2016Sheila Kennedy says discover your options – online and in-person – for mastering critical skills.Slick moves: New lube room tools and tips
May 23, 2016Sheila Kennedy says keep it clean, folks: How to help prevent lubrication contamination.Put the IIoT to work at your plant
Apr 5, 2016Sheila Kennedy explores smart equipment that will help you unleash the potential of the Industrial Internet.Tech that attracts young talent
Mar 3, 2016Sheila Kennedy asks: Does your plant's tech reflect the “new normal”?Mobility add-ons for EAM/CMMS: What you need to know
Feb 2, 2016Sheila Kennedy says new mobile management tools get data to whoever needs it, wherever and whenever.How to make safety automatic
Jan 5, 2016Sheila Kennedy says meet the technologies designed to help you combat new workplace safety challenges.Condition monitoring in the cloud (Part 2)
Dec 1, 2015Sheila Kennedy says the cloud offers new and more-interactive approaches to asset condition monitoring, analysis, and response.Get help with asset performance management with new EAM/CMMS boosters
Nov 10, 2015Sheila Kennedy explores add-ons to enhance your EAM/CMMS.Green greases that work great? Yes
Oct 7, 2015Sheila Kennedy says industrial lubricants are becoming cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable.Women tech leaders: New perspectives, more-robust solutions
Sep 15, 2015Female leaders in technology and industrial production share their perspectives on the evolution of smart manufacturing and the unique voices that women bring to the table.Context-aware technologies: The next frontier in mobile asset management
Aug 14, 2015Sheila Kennedy explores mobility in context.Smart safety: Helping plants comply with safety regulations and standards
Jul 20, 2015Sheila Kennedy says integrated safety technologies are helping plants avoid their biggest hazards.Condition monitoring in the cloud (Part 1)
Jun 9, 2015A growing number of software and service offerings leverage the cloud to extend the reach and value of predictive and condition-based maintenance (CBM).3D land surveying and GIS: 3D is not just for printing parts
May 19, 2015In this month's Technology Toolbox, explore how 3D tech is revolutionizing plant infrastructure management.Identifying the vulnerabilities at your plant
Apr 20, 2015Get a better grip on protecting your plant, from securing ICS configurations to detecting explosives.Cloud-based climate controls help keep your plant the perfect temperature
Mar 10, 2015Sheila Kennedy says smart systems enable secure remote access, optimize energy consumption across facilities.3D plant imaging and modeling
Jan 19, 2015Sheila Kennedy says improve design visualization as well as plant maintenance and expansion tasks.Thermography solutions in demand: Better, more affordable solutions are at your disposal
Jan 19, 2015Sheila Kennedy says infrared cameras are capturing sharper images of hot processes and distant targets.Remote condition monitoring technologies enable effective, efficient predictive maintenance
Nov 21, 2014Sheila Kennedy examines maintenance from a distance.Enhanced electrical systems improve reliability and availability of industrial processes
Oct 2, 2014Sheila Kennedy says solutions simplify system upgrades, maintenance, and deployment.New twists in turbines: How recent developments are delivering business benefits
Oct 2, 2014Sheila Kennedy says reduced weight, minimal maintenance, and increased efficiency provide cost benefits.ERP and MES software developments turn manufacturing information into profitability
Aug 25, 2014Sheila Kennedy says manage data before it manages you.Does additive manufacturing change everything?
Aug 25, 2014Sheila Kennedy explores the world of printing parts in 3D.Spring into reliability
Jun 22, 2014Sheila Kennedy says solutions and tools fill Reliable Asset World/Ultrasound World X.Georgia showcases industrial technologies at annual event
May 20, 2014Sheila Kennedy unveils new innovations in data, manufacturing, material handling, and energy management.A look at alignment tools
Apr 16, 2014Sheila Kennedy says reduce mechanical-equipment stress, breakdowns, and maintenance.Track energy costs like you would operating costs
Apr 7, 2014Sheila Kennedy says significant savings can result from proactively aggregating, monitoring, and analyzing energy data.Today's robust robotics: Faster, better, cheaper, safer
Apr 7, 2014Sheila Kennedy says take the risk factor out of dangerous or repetitive work.Practical pumps and seals
Jan 28, 2014Sheila Kennedy says innovations improve flow control.Avoid injuries and fines with these technological finds
Jan 6, 2014Sheila Kennedy says sustainable safety is rewarded in uptime, productivity, and employee morale.Power transmission equipment needs PdM, too
Dec 31, 2013Sheila Kennedy says vibration measurement, ultrasonics, and fluid analysis keep motors running.4 reasons bearings are on a roll
Oct 29, 2013Sheila Kennedy says food-safe solutions, engineered surfaces, hydraulic handling, and inspection tools lead the innovations.Discover the latest material handling innovations
Oct 25, 2013Sheila Kennedy says assembly and conveyance benefit from new innovations.Industrial plant networks go wireless
Sep 20, 2013Sheila Kennedy says wireless networking adds speed, intelligence, and safety to industrial plants.Share equipment health for better diagnostics
Aug 16, 2013Sheila Kennedy says monitoring services give maintenance the edge.New predictive maintenance monitoring and diagnostics tools take charge
Jul 19, 2013Sheila Kennedy says predictive technologies can provide a benefit to electrical systems.Is your HVAC system as efficient and reliable as it could be?
Jun 25, 2013Sheila Kennedy says more rugged HVAC designs are backed with extended warranty service.Use vibration monitoring to improve PdM and prevent failures before they occur
May 21, 2013Sheila Kennedy says harness the value of monitoring, trending, and diagnosing signs of wear.Rebates and incentives make efficient lighting a bright idea
Apr 30, 2013Sheila Kennedy says new lighting technologies are making cost savings quicker and easier to achieve.Combat corrosive conditions with prevention and early detection
Mar 27, 2013Sheila Kennedy says monitoring and selecting corrosion-resistant materials can aid in the battle.Lock in seal performance
Feb 20, 2013Sheila Kennedy says seal manufacturers are working to improve energy efficiency, leak protection, service life, and uptime.Thermography heats up
Jan 21, 2013Sheila Kennedy says detect hot-spot anomalies early with infrared equipment.Keep up with compressed air
Jan 3, 2013Sheila Kennedy says new technologies allow upgrades for efficiency and optimization.Spice up electrical systems
Nov 27, 2012Sheila Kennedy says circuit breakers, switchboards and transformers get new charges.Increase your boiler's useful life
Oct 4, 2012Sheila Kennedy says new tools can help you manage steam quality, carryover, corrosion and energy consumption.Gain control of your process
Sep 17, 2012Sheila Kennedy says control systems can increase speed, security and reliability.Choose sustainable products for a greener plant
Aug 16, 2012Sheila Kennedy says energy efficiency and emission control keep plants sustainable.Keep current on electrical equipment
Jul 13, 2012Sheila Kennedy shares the latest tools for testing, analysis, protection and control.Fluid handling tools you can use
Jun 5, 2012Sheila Kennedy reveals the latest in pumps, probes and connectors.Take control of temperature
May 1, 2012Sheila Kennedy says heating and cooling equipment just got hotter and cooler.Connect assets to maintenance systems
Apr 3, 2012Sheila Kennedy says industrial networks transform data into actionable information.Lubrication advancements keep plants running
Mar 6, 2012Sheila Kennedy explains how training, testing and formulations continue to improve.How do you make a better bearing?
Jan 30, 2012Sheila Kennedy says better materials, design, protective devices and lubricants mean better bearings.Infrared windows to the wiring
Jan 4, 2012Sheila Kennedy says thermal imaging cameras can see energized electrical equipment without opening cabinets or doors.Tools for motors and drives
Nov 29, 2011Sheila Kennedy says high-tech selection, control, rewinds and energy monitoring are now available.Alternative-energy tools
Nov 1, 2011Sheila Kennedy shows how energy storage, solar tracking, electric charging and waste-heat recycling can support energy systems.Exploratory surgery for equipment
Oct 4, 2011Sheila Kennedy says ultrasonic, vibration and pressure analysis can be done without disruption.What's hot in climate control?
Aug 30, 2011Sheila Kennedy says chillers, compressors, chilled beams and motor pumps offer energy-efficient alternatives.Generation R will take your job
Aug 2, 2011Sheila Kennedy reveals how robotics are making industrial plant maintenance easier and safer.Monitor to reduce energy consumption
Jul 5, 2011Sheila Kennedy recommends power monitoring in real time to lower energy use and cost.Predictive technologies enhance equipment reliability
Jun 7, 2011Sheila Kennedy says predictive tools now offer improved portability, connectivity, affordability and usability.Use technology to ensure the integrity of digital resources and communication links
May 3, 2011Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says industrial networks and communication systems cover themselves to stay free of cyber attack.Utilize motor and drive training, education and support
Apr 6, 2011Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says motor training enhances maintenance efforts.High-tech material handling
Mar 1, 2011Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, explores cranes, drum movers, walkers, lift carts and air conveyors.Innovations in CMMS and EAM are making life easier for the plant maintenance department
Feb 8, 2011Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says CMMS and EAM are expanding their offerings.Wireless sensors, integrated systems, temporary lighting and OLED technology are resolving long-standing lighting limitations
Jan 5, 2011Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says industrial lighting is getting smarter, stronger and more energy-efficient.High-tech industrial coatings find use in the greening and sustainability of the manufacturing plant
Nov 29, 2010Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says advanced chemistry gives industrial coatings new possibilities.Demand response technology in the industrial plant makes immediate economic sense for early adopters
Nov 3, 2010Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says cut power consumption during periods of peak price or demand.Industrial applications find uses for solar energy
Oct 5, 2010Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says tools and equipment that harvest sunlight are growing in number and scope.Alleviate heat exchanger flaws through testing, design and materials
Sep 1, 2010Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says use these methods to confirm the integrity of tubes and tube sheets.Forklift power alternatives
Aug 3, 2010Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says propane and lead-acid are so 1990s compared to the options.Predicting maintenance with NDT
Jun 30, 2010Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says examine the integrity of an object, material or system without harming it.Sensors for extreme temperatures
Jun 2, 2010Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says they go where humans can't.Emission controls
May 4, 2010Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says new technologies are advancing our abilities to contain unsavory emissions.Beyond fluorescent lighting
Mar 31, 2010Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says once-exotic LED, OLED and nanotechnologies are moving mainstream.Electricity is hot
Mar 3, 2010Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, investigates innovations in power distribution, storage and sources.Get pumped
Feb 1, 2010Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says don't let inefficient and inappropriate pumping systems degrade the bottom line.Motor efficiency standards
Jan 6, 2010Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says a worldwide effort will shrink the energy footprint of motor systems.Advances in coating technology
Dec 2, 2009Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, explores thermal indicators, no-cure coatings, diamonds and plant batteries.Are you prepared for the smart grid?
Nov 4, 2009Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, explores how the smart grid links you and the utility, with benefits to both.New seal refinements include novel designs
Sep 30, 2009Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, explores how refinements broaden applications, improve reliability and reduce costs.New technologies help avoid machine faults
Sep 3, 2009Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, explains how new technologies can ease the task of avoiding downtime and cost.Key attributes of high-performance valves
Aug 6, 2009Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, explores the key attributes of high-performance valves.Keep your floors strong and durable through UV curing
Jul 1, 2009Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says properly cured plant floors are stronger, more durable and resistant to wear, water and cracking.Condition monitoring offers a whole new world of maintenance
May 27, 2009Sheila Kennedy, contributing editor, says it's a new world for the maintenance profession.Industrial-strength RFID penetrates metals
Apr 29, 2009Contributing Editor Sheila Kennedy demonstrates how signals from industrial-strength units can even penetrate metals.High-tech options give conventional metals a run for their money
Apr 7, 2009Contributing Editor Sheila Kennedy reports that high-tech options have steel, brass, copper and other metals on the run.Emerging sensor technologies
Mar 9, 2009Contributing Editor Sheila Kennedy investigates emerging sensor technologies that take on G-forces, vibration, embrittlement and odors.The latest in lubricant solutions
Feb 10, 2009Contributing Editor Sheila Kennedy reports on the latest lubricant solutions that address performance, safety, ecology, lubricity and simplicity.Bearing technology shows great advances
Jan 13, 2009In the New Year, Contributing Editor Sheila Kennedy says the flowering of technology will help green your plant.Advances in valve-control improve functionality
Dec 2, 2008Contributing Editor Sheila Kennedy reports that advances in valve-control materials, design and construction improve performance, reduce costs and simplify maintenance.Optimize compressed air systems
Nov 5, 2008Contributing Editor Sheila Kennedy explains how to optimize compressed air quality, moisture, energy and priorities.New motor designs improve efficiency, reliability, and control
Oct 7, 2008Contributing Editor Sheila Kennedy reports that construction changes are improving energy efficiency, reliability and process control, and for good reason.Better drives and motors power lively competition
Sep 5, 2008Contributing Editor Sheila Kennedy reports that better motors, drivers, controllers and systems are powering a lively competition.Predicting motor failure
Aug 11, 2008Power signatures reveal potential problems with performance and reliability.Keep pressure under control with the right diaphragm seals
Jul 9, 2008Contributing Editor Sheila Kennedy details smart ways to keep pressure at bay.New features to extend the life and capabilities of mechanical seals
Jun 4, 2008Contributing editor Sheila Kennedy reports on new features that help mechanical seals last longer and handle tougher environments.Raise reliability in your power distribution with creative approaches
May 1, 2008Sheila Kennedy reports that maintenance and repairs must be proactive if they are to ensure electrical quality and reliability.Are plant surveillance technologies compromising your privacy?
Apr 2, 2008Sheila Kennedy reports on how today's camera systems do more than snap pictures or videos.Hydrogen fuel cells are an exciting development for material handling
Mar 7, 2008Sheila Kennedy says fuel cells have the power to move you, especially when it comes to materials-handling equipment.High technology helps keep the calm in a crisis
Feb 8, 2008Sheila Kennedy says crisis management benefits from a dose of high technology.How sensors are streamlining the process of predictive maintenance
Jan 4, 2008Sheila Kennedy reports that a new generation of sensors is poised to revolutionize predictive maintenance.A new generation of sensors is poised to revolutionize predictive maintenance
Dec 26, 2007New software and emerging technologies are simplifying condition monitoring and streamlining the process of predictive maintenance.Know your position
Dec 14, 2007Encoders can handle the environment, the application and size limitationsKeep bad things from happening to good people with access control
Oct 16, 2007Could your plant be turned into a weapon of mass destruction? Could the goods you manufacture be intentionally contaminated or your hazardous materials stolen? Keep bad things from happening to good people, plants and products.Control valve diagnostics
Aug 8, 2007Health monitoring leaves fewer reasons to live with stiction, wrong-sizing and excessive wear.Compact, efficient, economical pumps and motors through fluid power
Jul 6, 2007Fluid power technology is producing hydraulic pumps and motors that are more compact, efficient and economical than ever before.Be careful with dropping VOC levels
Jun 4, 2007Arc flash protective gear standards
May 17, 2007Follow standards when selecting personal protection for arc flash hazards.Mechatronics empower power transmission
May 17, 2007Integrating mechanics, electronics and software empowers power transmission.Modern VSDs are more capable than ever
Apr 11, 2007The goal of a variable-speed drive (VSD) is to modulate motor speed to reduce power demand and generate energy savings. Drive options constantly change, and how you match motor and drive affects system efficiency. Understanding the VSDs effect on speed and resonant frequencies can reduce a motors life-cycle cost.The incredible shrinking heat exchanger
Mar 26, 2007Heat exchangers are getting increasingly compact and efficient. Enhanced, compact, ultra-compact, microscale and mesoscale variations are on the market or in development. Continuing innovations in nanotechnology and fuel cells promise further advances in heat exchanger miniaturization.Follow standards when selecting personal protection for arc flash hazards
Mar 20, 2007Wearing personal protective equipment is necessary in reducing injury from electrical arc flash accidents, but it's no substitute for proper safety training, among other best practices in arc flash safety.Innovative flow and management technologies help you reach regulated emission levels
Nov 29, 2006High fuel costs, strict emission regulations and environmental and safety concerns are inspiring innovation in flow and emission management technologies.Superior storage and retrieval
Oct 31, 2006The automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) of yesterday are being upgraded or supplemented with innovative technologies that solve specific operational challenges. New products on the market are faster, more efficient, have additional safety features, and are easier to learn and use.Green flooring initiatives on the rise
Oct 19, 2006A variety of health and safety standards, environmental regulations and federal programs are influencing development of new floor care products. Among the goals of the green flooring initiatives are minimizing toxic ingredients, chemical releases and frequency of stripping and recoating.Green energy technology has a big positive effect on the bottom line
Sep 11, 2006Lighting control is among the strategies that improve economic and environmental performance. Such systems can curb lighting energy costs by more than 50%, defer lamp replacement costs by cutting burn hours and encourage predictive maintenance practices, says Sheila Kennedy in her latest Technology Toolbox column.Turn roofing problems into energy solutions
Jul 26, 2006New techniques are being developed to minimize the onus of repairs and frequency of replacement, and to convert roofing liabilities into energy-producing assets.On prime movers, macro and micro
Jul 10, 2006Industry and Mother Nature have both developed highly efficient motors.Seal manufacturers improving on reliability
Apr 27, 2006Historically, mechanical seals were designed with very flat, parallel faces, and nearly a century passed before this basic principle saw any notable change. New and emerging manufacturing technologies provide greater flexibility in seal design, the goal being greater reliability, even in the most demanding applications.New tools for PdM
Mar 15, 2006Learn about condition monitoring beyond oil analysis, temperature and vibration in Sheila Kennedy's monthly Technology Toolbox column.Poorly-performing valves are a pump system's weakest link
Mar 7, 2006Dont let control valves be a pumping systems weakest link, advises Sheila Kennedy in this month's Technology Toolbox.The end of the oil change?
Jan 26, 2006In this month's Technology Toolbox, Shiela Kennedy writes that nanotechnology-based liquid and solid lubricants may last forever.Efficient lighting systems can save your plant
Dec 13, 2005Efficient lighting systems can save your plant in regards to both energy costs and maintenance hours.Keep your refrigerants under control
Dec 7, 2005The environment and your budget will appreciate the effortDon't let air compressors blow away your bottom line
Nov 21, 2005Keys to keeping air compressor systems from putting downward pressure on the bottom line.Robotic floor cleaning on the horizon
Oct 5, 2005Originally designed for consumer use but quickly adopted for military and government applications, floor cleaning robots are evolving steadily and increasingly appealing to managers in a range of commercial establishments. But, their readiness for industrial environments depends on the application.Real-time power output monitoring tells you what your drive can really do
Sep 22, 2005Monitoring power output in real time reveals the true capability of a drive system.Roof has problems, but money's tight? Consider a do-it-yourself approach
Aug 23, 2005With thermography technology becoming increasingly affordable, plants on a tight budget can consider a do-it-yourself approach.Rotating equipment can enhance the data in your plant network
Jul 27, 2005Rotating equipment can feed real-time operating data into your plant network.The right coating can keep its substrate safe
Jun 8, 2005Industrial coatings enhance the properties of a substrate and increase its service life. The right coatings can endure severe temperatures, moisture and humidity, fumes, chemicals and abrasion.Want a simple way to improve equipment uptime? Try proactive lubrication
Jun 6, 2005It's a slick, simple, cost-effective way to increase equipment uptime.Remote diagnostics improve safety and efficiency
Apr 12, 2005Remote diagnostics can assist you in picking up some efficiency in your plant. Read Contributing Editor Sheila Kennedy's piece on this innovation.Monitor and reduce corrosion with these helpful tips
Mar 31, 2005Corrosion is inevitable in your plant and reduces the useful life of equipment and increases the risk of litigation. Learn how to monitor corrosion and save on corrosion-related costs.Energy deregulation allows freedom in provider choice
Feb 23, 2005Businesses operating in a deregulated energy market are free to choose their electricity provider. Perhaps its time you look around and see if you can save on energy costs.Incident tracking software helps keep mistakes from repeating themselves
Jan 6, 2005With the right incident tracking software, you can reduce recurrent failures, improve safety and reliability, save and avoid costs, and improve performance.NFPA 70E: Why comply?
Nov 18, 2004The newly released NFPA 70E has a whole new look and content. It covers protection for electrical workers from hazards such as shock, arc blasts and explosions initiated by electricity, outside conductors and more. Its a must-read for all electrical workers and their employers.Winter weather can be a hassle for even the most prepared plants
Oct 19, 2004How to save your roof when Old Man Winter makes a surprise attackOutdoor lighting that improves visibility, saves energy, and complies with dark sky standards
Sep 21, 2004Improve visibility and save energy with outdoor lighting that complies with dark sky inititativesOpen season for open standards
Aug 4, 2004Sign it away?
Aug 3, 2004In 2001, the future of Kinleith Mill was uncertain. It needed to achieve considerable ongoing efficiency improvements to remain viable. To accomplish this, drastic restructuring of the business was required, affecting maintenance, stores and operations.Advances in process piping expand options
Jul 15, 2004Fun ways to generate interest in manufacturing
Jun 10, 2004Read about some fun ways to generate interest in your profession.Reasonable, responsible steps for tackling security challenges
May 21, 2004There is no ironclad method of securing your plant from every possible emergency. There are, however, reasonable and responsible steps that you can take to mitigate your greatest security challenges.In the right applications, VSDs save you a bundle
Apr 20, 2004Do VSDs always generate energy savings?Safety under pressure
Feb 25, 2004A plant-wide energy assessment helps your bottom line
Feb 5, 2004Contributing Editor Sheila Kennedy explains how a plant-wide assessment of energy usage can lead to significant bottom-line cost savings and increased competitiveness.