Automating Manufacturing Programme

Issue 16 Spring 2011

News

✔ Internal Circulation List

■ Sales ■ Shop floor ■ Marketing ■ Management ■ HR / Accounts ■ Technical / Design

www.bara.org.uk Issue 23 Autumn 2013

PPMA Show 2014 gaining momentum

Following a phenomenal Total show in June of this year, momentum for the PPMA Show 2014 (30 Sept-2 Oct 2014, NEC Birmingham) is gaining fast, with 150 exhibitors securing over 4,300m2 of floor space 12 months prior to the event! With a focus on innovation, and delivering more features, speakers and product launches than ever before, show organisers are targeting a wide cross-section of visitors, maximising the current optimism within UK manufacturing to highlight the best the industry has to offer. “The PPMA Show 2014 is coming back in-house for the first time in 12 years, organised by the industry for the industry,” comments David Harrison, PPMA Group Exhibitions Manager. “With exhibitors describing Total as their ‘best show ever’ and reports of record sales as a direct result of the event, it’s clear that today’s visitors mean business – the PPMA Show 2014 will be one event you can’t afford to miss.”

Stand space is selling fast – secure your prime location today!www.ppmashow.co.ukE [email protected] +44 (0)20 8773 5513

The PPMA Show 2014 will also incorporate the PPMA Group Industry Awards, for which the deadline for entries has been announced as 4 April 2014. Open to both members and non-members and taking place on 30 September, the Awards cover 12 categories, including ‘Most Innovative Automation System of the Year’, and generate many marketing and press opportunities, heightened brand awareness and increased sales for the winners. To see your company rewarded at this glittering gala event, download an application form from www.ppma.co.uk

Following conservative sales in the first three months of 2013, robot sales for quarter two have accelerated significantly, almost matching the figures for the whole of 2011. The half-year results showed that 1,286 robots were sold, with automotive and automotive component orders making up 79% of the orders. Mike Wilson, BARA Chairman, comments: “Whilst we welcome the level of robot orders from the automotive sector, largely driven by product demand in global emerging markets, it is an ongoing concern that some sectors are still not understanding the potential implications of not automating. Part of the problem in the UK is a short-term approach and the perception that the payback period is considerably longer than it often is, although the Automating Manufacturing Programme has gone a long way towards dispelling this myth,” adds Mike. See feature p2

Robot sales take off in Q2

2014

Industry News

www.bara.org.ukIssue 23 BARA News2

Automating Manufacturing Programme reaches successful conclusion

With UK robot sales by the end of June this year fast approaching figures for the whole of 2011,

and following record breaking robot installation figures for 2012, BARA is celebrating the successful conclusion of its Automating Manufacturing Programme (AMP), which has done much to increase uptake of automation amongst UK manufacturers.

Commencing in September 2011 with government funding of £600,000, the initiative’s primary objective was to help UK manufacturers increase their competitive edge through the benefits of automation, which include increased productivity, reduced waste, improved precision and greater profitability. “The AMP has been a tremendous success, so much so that it was extended by government for a further six months,” says Grant Collier, Head of Marketing for the PPMA Group. “A total of 377 manufacturers around the UK have taken advantage of it and although the programme was primarily aimed at SMEs, we have also welcomed larger companies possessing only limited automation expertise.”

The support from independent experts selected by BARA to provide impartial advice, knowledge and expertise was two-fold; a free review to audit manufacturing operations and identify potential opportunities to apply automation, followed by implementation support. One company which has benefitted from the programme is Modernise UK Ltd, designer and manufacturer of disruptive products for the beer dispensing market, as Director Oliver Brown-Wilkinson explains: “I have completed the process and have found it well-managed and genuinely useful, delivering concepts of production processes I wouldn’t have been able to achieve on my own,” he praises. “We have implemented a mass-production solution much earlier in our development plan, adapting existing machinery for the purpose. We wouldn’t have considered that as a viable option without the consultancy support.”

According to Mike Wilson, BARA Chairman, the AMP has presented business opportunities right across the membership spectrum: “BARA members encompass the full range of UK robotics activities and expertise, from academics working on biological robots to integrators providing systems for the manufacturing industry. The AMP offered huge potential for our members to reach one of the many companies who are actively investigating automation and robotics within their manufacturing strategy.”

One such company is Advanex Europe, component manufacturer of high precision springs. “We were already partway through a process of investigating automation for some of our more traditional manufacturing processes when I found out about the AMP at the PPMA Show 2011,” explains Chris Howarth, Pharmaceutical Engineer. “The fact that the programme was government endorsed was attractive and provided the perfect opportunity for us to accept help from an outside body. The advice was hugely relevant and steered us into a position of greater confidence in what we wanted to do.

“We currently have two sets of five machines running manually in a process involving high precision spring components for a medical product,” continues Chris. “Automating this process will reduce the amount of machinery required, increase production speed and reduce labour costs, due to inbuilt quality controls and increased energy efficiency from power saving capabilities. The cost advantage is expected be worthwhile, with a payback potentially of less than one year – and the obvious benefit to the customer of a price reduction keeps us ahead of the competition,” adds Chris, who confirms that although the quoting process is still underway, the Universal Robot from R A Rodriguez (UK) has proved impressive: “We found the settings and interaction very intuitive,” he enthuses.

Following an upturn in growth and confidence, things are now looking positive for the UK’s manufacturing sector – and thanks to the success of BARA’s Automated Manufacturing Programme, many manufacturers can soon reap the rewards of replacing traditional manufacturing techniques with automated alternatives.www.automatingmanufacturing.co.uk

Chris Howarth from Advanex Europe has found the advice received through the Automating Manufacturing Programme to be ‘hugely relevant’

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Members’ News & Views

The Universal Robot from R. A. Rodriguez, a simple and low cost robotic arm, is now accompanied by new software to make programming even easier. This latest release also includes ‘force mode’, which allows the robot’s actions to be controlled by force value rather than position, making it ideal for pushing or pulling a workpiece. www.rarodriguez.co.uk

Universal Robot even easier to use

The Quick Release Feeder (QRF) from RNA provides a low cost option for machinery requiring regular cleaning or rapid changeover between products. Taking just seconds, the QRF’s tool-less changeover involves only one drive system, reducing downtime to almost zero. www.rnaautomation.com

Rapid changeover from RNA

New from Phoenix Contact, PT Power 95 high-current terminals allow for easy connection and wiring of rigid or flexible ferruled conductors up to 95 mm², without the need for tools. Rated at 232 A and 1500 V, the range includes several terminal types, including preassembled terminal blocks and flange terminal blocks for direct mounting without mounting rails.www.phoenixcontact.co.uk

High current terminals with push-in connection technology

Festo technology has been instrumental in the development of an innovative flip-top spice jar lid for Bart Ingredients. The ‘Spoonkler’ can be opened in either spoon or sprinkle mode, with designers PCE Automation employing a side entry robot that uses a Festo high speed electric axis and pneumatics. www.festo.com

Festo’s high speed electronic axis spices up automation

The UK’s premier robotics conference, Towards Autonomous Robotics Systems (TAROS 13) focused on the presentation and discussion of the latest results and methods in autonomous robotics research and applications. Held at St. Anne’s College, Oxford, on 28-30 August 2013 and organised by Dr. Stephen Cameron and Dr. Ashutosh Natraj, the first two days were devoted to academic presentations and featured 70 participants from across five continents. Topics of the plenary talks included the use of robots to conduct biological research; shared maps for autonomous driverless cars; and the robocup robot competition.

The Springer Best Paper Award was won by a team from Germany’s Festo Ag, led by Nina Gaissert, for the development of a superbly engineered robotic dragonfly, while the Nehmzow Student Best Paper Award went to the USA’s Nima Keivan and Gabe Sibley for their ‘Parkour Cars’ project, which demonstrated a real-time planning system for a robotic toy car performing acrobatic jumps. On the event’s final day, the ‘Industry Day’ was held with the support of BARA, the Academic Forum for Robotics, KTN/BIS (Phil Williams) and the IET, attracting 102 participants and 15 speakers. Focusing on the forthcoming research call for Horizon 2020, an EU framework programme for research and innovation, a particular highlight was a presentation on the ECHORD++ initiative and the EU Robotics Innovation Facility node at Bristol Robotics Laboratory (Farid Dailami), open to industry for free preliminary research works.

The Industry Day proved popular with both sectors – academia was interested in discovering real issues faced by industry to which it could help find a solution, while industry delegates looked to identifying existing academic solutions that could quickly resolve their predicted future problems. Following participants’ desire to establish a TAROS Industry Day networking group, a LinkedIn professional group is currently being created, helping to further strengthen ties between industry and academia.www.affr.org.uk

Academic Forum in Robotics – TAROS review

Festo’s award-winning micro aerial vehicle, inspired by the mechanics of dragonfly flight

Following its 2011 North American launch, the Pack 301 IN from Bosch Packaging Technology is now available in Europe. Developed for the packaging of soft, sticky, flexible or difficult to handle products, the inverted horizontal flow wrapper transports the packaging film from below, while the product is fed directly from the feeding system onto the film, enhancing hygiene and product safety.www.boschpackaging.com

Flexible packaging with Pack 301 IN


Inside this issue>Total review .....................................................................p2PPMA Show 2014 preview .............................................p4All change for Gulfood....................................................p5Dealing with the Low Voltage Directive ........................p7Machinery Directory 2013/14 ........................................p9

Newswww.ppma.co.uk Issue 23 Autumn 2013



GroupTotal success bodes well for the PPMA Show 2014

The success of this year’s Total Processing and Packaging Exhibition, which highlighted the current sense of optimism surrounding the UK machinery supply sector, has lead to a flurry of stand bookings for the PPMA Show 2014 (30 September-2 October 2014, NEC Birmingham). With just under a year to go until the event, the first to fall under the direct control of the PPMA for 12 years, over 150 exhibitors have already snapped up almost 4,300m2 of floor space.

Held in June of this year at Hall 5, NEC Birmingham, the same hall as the PPMA Show 2014, Total proved a resounding success, attracting over 8,000 visitors and more than 400 exhibitors, many of whom reported outstanding sales figures from leads gained at the show (see p2-3). As a result, the PPMA Show 2014 is now gaining real momentum. “Organised by the industry, for the industry, the PPMA Show 2014 has a real buzz surrounding it,” comments David Harrison, PPMA Group Exhibitions Manager. “There’s a growing sense of optimism running throughout the UK machinery supply sector and the PPMA Show 2014 is the perfect place to demonstrate the best it has to offer. The theme of the show is innovation, and we are aiming to deliver more features, more speakers and more product launches than ever before. We are targeting a wide cross-section of potential visitors and working hard to attract a greater audience to the biggest UK processing and packaging machinery show of the year, also incorporating industrial vision and robotics and automation. This is one event you can’t afford to miss.”

Stand space is selling fast – secure your prime location at the PPMA Show 2014 today.www.ppmashow.co.ukE [email protected] +44 (0)20 8773 5513

PPMA Group Industry Awards entry deadline announced

Open to both members and non-members alike, the deadline for entering the PPMA Group Industry Awards 2014 (30 September 2014, NEC Birmingham) has been revealed as 4 April 2014. Covering 12 categories, the Awards celebrate the success of our most innovative and forward-thinking companies and have become a firm fixture in the industry calendar, generating valuable marketing and press opportunities, heightened brand awareness and increased sales for the winners. To see your company rewarded at this glittering gala event, download an application form from www.ppma.co.uk

2014

Categories:• Most Innovative Processing or Packaging Machine• Most Innovative Ancillary Equipment• Processing and Packaging Machinery Manufacturer of the Year• Most Innovative Machine Vision Project of the Year

• Most Innovative Automation System of the Year

• Polymer Equipment Manufacturer or Distributor of the Year

• Exporter of the Year• Exceptional Sales or Company

Growth Award• Partnership of the Year• Apprentice of the Year• Customer Service Award• Outstanding Achievement

2 www.ppma.co.ukIssue 23 Group News

Total Review

Bringing together leading experts from across the processing and packaging industries to share the latest advice, reveal groundbreaking innovations and put the spotlight on the sector’s pressing issues, the atmosphere at the show was decidedly optimistic, as noted by Simon Taylor, Sales and Marketing Director for Endoline: “Total offered a timely reminder that we really do appear to be looking at an upturn in economic fortune. There was a general sense of optimism at the show and a purposeful demeanour to this year’s visitors that has been missing from recent UK shows. The presence of some very important European companies also supported the view that the UK is on the move again.”

Experts from leading processing, packaging and pharmaceutical organisations, including Marks and Spencer, Dairy Crest, B&Q, GSK and Siemens delivered free-to-attend seminars across three dedicated areas including the Pakex Innovation Hub sponsored by Markem Imaje, The Manufacturing Forum sponsored by Linx Printing Technologies and the Interphex Theatre sponsored by Bürkert Fluid Control Systems. “The seminar was a success, attracting a lot of interested people with good questions,” comments Andrew Speck, Commercial and Environmental Packaging Manager for Marks and Spencer. “The people who got in touch with us afterwards are looking to learn more about how M&S work sustainably, which is great as it puts us in a position where we are recognised as a forward thinking company.”

Many of the show’s exhibitors reported high levels of good quality sales leads and product enquiries, including Harry Norman, Managing Director of Olympus Automation: “It’s highly unusual to take circa £1m worth of orders at a show, reflecting the market’s excitement in our products.” The exhibition’s first day also saw Partners in Packaging, Quasar Automation and Ilapak announce a significant contract to install a new biscuit

The Total Processing and Packaging Exhibition lived up to its billing as the UK’s largest three-day exhibition, attracting 8,731 visitors to the NEC Birmingham on 4-6 June 2013 to experience the latest production line solutions, material developments and product innovations from over 400 exhibiting companies.

A total success!

“Total provided a steady flow of visitors each day, and is undoubtedly the best trade event to meet new prospects and catch-up with existing customers working in the food process and packing industry.” Dennis Allison, Pacepacker Services Ltd

processing line. “Our first day was a resounding success,” enthuses Duncan Macintyre, Director of Partners in Packaging. “Within five minutes of the doors opening, we’d secured a significant contract with Quasar Automation. It just goes to show that while lead times on exhibitions can sometimes be longer, there are plenty of opportunities for the taking.”

With additional features including the Ones to Watch competition, the PPMA Group Industry Awards and the Product Innovation Wall, there was plenty to entertain visitors and exhibitors alike at Total 2013, as Graham Earl, Exhibition Director, concludes: “This year’s Total has certainly reflected the scale and ambition of the UK’s packaging and processing industries. We had a number of first-time exhibitors at this year’s show and it’s been great to hear such positive feedback about the value of exhibiting. We’re also delighted with the feedback that the show has been able to provide visitors with an opportunity to learn from the experts, gain insight into the industry’s hot topics and build on new and existing relationships.”

“This was our first time at Total and there was a good cross-mix of clients and potential customers that we wouldn’t usually have come into contact with. The two days produced over 30 leads – now we have to try and convert them!” Kevin Horne, Renmar Ltd

The busy exhibition hall highlighted the current industry optimism

There was plenty of product innovation on show at this year’s Total

3www.ppma.co.uk Group News Issue 23

Total Review

For the industry, by the industry

Coming back in-house for the first time in 12 years and following hot on the heels of an outstanding Total, the PPMA Show 2014 is shaping up to be

next year’s must-attend event. See p4 for full details.www.ppmashow.co.uk

“We had a very good number of enquiries, particularly from new customers. The majority had a genuine interest, were discussing short to medium term projects and were decision makers. The fact that we have already converted some of these enquires into orders indicates that the economy is looking healthy, with companies keen to invest.” Sarah Ketchin, Fortress Technology (Europe) Ltd

“The seminar programme was great, showcasing a wide range of topics and companies.” Hollie Parsons, Videojet Technologies Ltd

Show news and highlightsRecord quarter for UPM ConveyorsUPM Conveyors has reported a record quarter following the Total show, which surpassed all expectations in terms of enquiries received for product handling systems and orders taken on-stand. “Our success at Total proves that genuine applications exist for automation of product flow with integration to other equipment – one major food processor showed a payback of only six months on an outlay of circa £150,000,” says Roy Fowler, Sales and Marketing Director.www.upmconveyors.co.uk

Dustcontrol’s DC11 quietly plugs and playsDust extraction specialist Dustcontrol UK introduced its latest centralised dust vacuum system at the show. The DC 11 Module is a complete central unit for source extraction and industrial cleaning as James Miller, UK General Manager, explains: “With the DC 11 Module, we deliver a complete unit which is very easy to install thanks to its ‘plug and play’ capability. The product has been designed to produce more vacuum/kW and can have 1-6 extraction points working at the same time. It also has a maximum noise level of 65 dB (A) and can be equipped with a HEPA filter.” www.dustcontroluk.co.uk

Lock and Loma join forcesDetection specialists Loma Systems and Lock Inspection Systems launched their new collaboration at Total. Joining forces to create ‘the most diverse, technically advanced and service focused operation with global reach’, the two companies displayed eight working systems, including the launch of Loma’s new X5 x-ray and the UK show debut of Lock’s latest PH Pharmaceutical detection system.www.lockinspection.comwww.loma.com

Festo Mechatronics extends Pacepacker portfolio Pacepacker Services, equipment manufacturer and system integrator of pick and place solutions, announced the expansion of its product portfolio to include Festo’s range of Mechatronics pick and place systems. Unlike most other mechanical pick and place solutions, which tend to be highly bespoke and custom built, the Mechatronics ‘off the shelf’ range offers quick and cost effective pick and place components. www.pacepacker.com

“The show provided an excellent platform for us to engage with high-quality prospects who have a serious interest in improving their automation and process performance.” Glynn Edwards, SICK UK Ltd

The three seminar programmes drew large crowds

Andrew Speck of M&S gave a well-received presentation at the free-to-attend seminar area

Partners in Packaging, Quasar Automation and Ilapak secured a contract on the first day of the show


PPMA Show 2014 preview

The PPMA Show 2014 is gearing up to be the highlight of the year for anyone involved in the automation, industrial vision, processing and packaging industries. Organised by the industry, for the industry, the show is coming back in-house for the first time in 12 years and there’s already a real buzz surrounding it, with over 150 exhibitors confirmed almost a year in advance, taking 4,300m2 of floor space.

Taking place at the NEC Birmingham on 30 September-2 October 2014, the PPMA Show 2014 comes hot on the heels of this year’s outstanding Total Processing and Packaging Exhibition, which saw over 8,000 visitors flock to experience the latest production line solutions, developments and innovations from more than 400 exhibitors, many of whom reported exceptional leads and sales as a direct result of the event. With Olympus Automation taking circa £1m worth of orders, Partners in Packaging, Ilapak and Quasar Automation securing a significant contract on the show’s first day, and UPM Conveyors declaring it their ‘best exhibition ever’, it’s clear that today’s visitors mean business.

The PPMA Show 2014 is promising to take full advantage of the current optimism surrounding the UK machinery supply sector with a packed programme offering plenty to satisfy both visitors and exhibitors alike, including the Product Innovation Wall, The Ones to Watch presentation, The Manufacturing Forum – Industry

Early birds snap up 4,300m2 of floor space at the PPMA Show 2014!

Innovation (incorporating a host of lively seminars), and the PPMA Group Industry Awards. The event will focus on innovation, targeting a wider cross-section of potential visitors than ever before, and with stand space selling fast it’s clear that the PPMA Show 2014 is one event not to be missed. Contact Show Director David Harrison today to find out how your company can benefit from the greatest show of the year!www.ppmashow.co.ukE [email protected] +44 (0)20 8773 5513

Meet the teamSALES

David HarrisonExhibitions Manager“Innovation will be a big theme at the event, as we know this is what visitors want to see. I would encourage exhibitors to announce any show launches prior to the event, to help us

demonstrate the best innovations and developments our thriving industry has to offer, and to take advantage of our new media services, such as the show app, our enhanced show website (including video and brochure upload) and editorial opportunities in our industry leading magazines.”

Scott McKennaExhibition Sales Manager“Despite the PPMA Show 2014 being just under a year away, we are already getting very excited for what will be a major flagship event for the industry. The improving economy, coupled with

the return of the show to the Association’s control, will ensure that this is a very buoyant event for everyone involved.”

Lucy LockyerShow Sales and Administration“With the floorplan filling up fast, there’s already a real buzz about the PPMA Show 2014, with lots of excitement and enthusiasm from our loyal exhibitors. Our dynamic marketing team is pulling

out all the stops, and I can’t wait to be part of what I know is going to be an amazing show!”

MARKETINGGrant CollierHead of Marketing and Publishing“We’re looking to attract visitors to the PPMA Show 2014 from a wider variety of sectors than ever before and are investing heavily in marketing the event, not just through e-marketing, but also

via significantly increased direct marketing postal campaigns, journal inserts, newsletters, and editorial and advertising opportunities in industry publications.”

Tom FisherEvents and Marketing Administrator“Since joining the PPMA Group I have integrated a full social media strategy into the marketing plan, implemented a smartphone app and helped organise the PPMA Group Industry Awards. I am

looking forward to seeing this all pay off next September!”

Seminar programme – call for papersWe are currently building the seminar programme for the PPMA Show 2014, themed ‘Industry Innovations’, and are inviting PPMA Group members to submit papers on the condition that any presentation is made jointly with a customer. If a brand-owner, leading manufacturer or retailer is able to make a presentation with you at the PPMA Show 2014 on a recent innovative installation, please contact programme organiser Kirsty Sharpe by 31 December 2013. E [email protected] T +44 (0)1920 821873


All change for Gulfood In response to increasing demand for space, Gulfood organisers have made the decision to split the

event into two separate shows from 2014. Taking place each February, Gulfood will focus on the retail, hospitality, trade and foodservice industries, while the new home for ingredients, logistics, processing and packaging equipment will now be Gulfood Manufacturing. Offering 30,000m2 of exhibition hall space and targeting a different buyer group, typically with large capital expenses and longer lead times, Gulfood Manufacturing will take place 9-11 November 2014 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. With the PPMA Group organising the 1,000m2 UK pavilion, including walk-on stand packages, there’s no better way to reach the dynamic markets of the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.

Please note that Gulfood will no longer accept exhibits that better fit the Gulfood Manufacturing profile. E [email protected] +44 (0)20 8773 5508www.gulfood.com

Opportunities abound at ProPak Asia

Following this year’s record-breaking event, ProPak Asia will return in 2014 for its 22nd

edition. Asia’s leading international trade event for the food, drink and pharmaceutical processing and packaging industries attracted almost 40,000 visitors from 65 countries; a 10% year on year increase. Next year’s event, taking place in Bangkok, Thailand on 11-14 June 2014, is expected to be even more successful.

“Not only has Thailand’s GDP increased 5.3% year-on-year for the first quarter of 2013 but the establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community in 2015 makes it the perfect hub to access the booming South East Asian markets,” says Marek Szandrowski, Director of Overseas Exhibition Services Ltd. “With the PPMA Group’s commitment to ProPak Asia intensifying and a greater allocation on the floorplan, we are confident that more UK companies will discover the opportunities this lucrative region offers.”

PPMA is organising the UK pavilion and will be offering walk-on stand packages (stand, carpet, furniture, lights and sockets). Up to £2,500 in UKTI funding is available to eligible exhibitors. E [email protected] +44 (0)20 8773 5508www.propakasia.com

UKTI funding of up to £2,500 is now available through the PPMA for both Upakovka/Upak Italia 2014 and Propak Vietnam 2014.

Taking place 28-31 January 2014 in Moscow, Upakovka/Upak Italia 2014 is the leading Russian trade fair for

packaging machinery, packaging production and packaging material, and attracted 20,000 visitors to this year’s event. Propak Vietnam 2014, Ho Chi Minh City, 4-6 March 2014, is co-locating with Plastics & Rubber Vietnam and is expected to build on this year’s 20% increase in size, reflecting Vietnam’s expanding food, drink and pharmaceutical industries.E [email protected] +44 (0)20 8773 5508www.upakovka-upakitalia.com www.propakvietnam.com

International News

UKTI funding available

Just one stand remains on the PPMA UK pavilion at interpack 2014 – to find out more contact E [email protected] T +44 (0)20 8773 5508 www.interpack.com

Stop press – One stand left at interpack 2014!

Breaking all previous records and attracting an international audience of over 17,000, the

decision to exhibit as part of the PPMA UK pavilion at ProPak China 2013 in July proved a successful one for members Winkworth Group, Harland Machine Systems, Jacob White Packaging, Meech International, Matcon and Russell Finex. “As China’s industrial capability matures, there’s ever growing demand for the top-end, specialist products and services offered by our members,” states Grant Jamieson, Managing Director of Winkworth Group and the PPMA’s International Director. “Companies based in China can no longer compete on price alone – they need the best and latest technology, which is why they seek out our members at the UK pavilion. You have to be ‘seen to be keen’ and a presence at ProPak China is the first and most important step to achieving this.”

The PPMA Group will be organising the PPMA UK pavilion at next year’s Propak China, 16-18 July 2014.E [email protected] +44 (0)20 8773 5508www.propakchina.com

China remains a beacon for UK business


International Services/Technical Seminars

Forthcoming Events EVENT / LoCATIoN DATE oVErVIEw FUNDING/PAVILIoN K 2013 16-23 October 2013 International trade fair for plastics and rubber, Dusseldorf, Germany with over 3,000 exhibitors in 19 exhibition halls www.k-tradefair.com

Food Processing & 26-28 November 2013 Organised by an international consortium and aimed at Packaging Exposyum manufacturers of machinery, plants and processes, Nairobi, Kenya as well as the food and food processing industries www.fppe-ke.com Upakovka/ 28-31 January 2014 The leading Russian trade fair for packaging machinery, UKTI funding Upak Italia 2014 packaging production and packaging material available Moscow, russia www.upakovka-upakitalia.com ProPak Vietnam 4-6 March 2014 International trade event for Vietnam’s expanding food, UKTI funding 2014 drink and pharmaceutical industries, now in its ninth year available Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam www.propakchina.com Empack 2014 2-3 April 2014 The leading packaging show in the Netherlands, UKTI funding Brabanthallen, bringing the latest developments in packaging materials, proposed ’s-Hertogenbosch, converters, machines and technology, coding and labelling Netherlands www.easyfairs.com/empack-nl interpack 2014 8-14 May 2014 The leading international trade fair for the packaging Only one stand Dusseldorf, Germany sector and related processing industries remaining on www.interpack.com PPMA UK pavilion Fispal Tecnologia 3-6 June 2014 Latin America’s largest international trade fair for packaging, 2014 processing and logistics for the food and drink industry Sao Paolo, Brazil www.informagroup.com.br ProPak Asia 2014 11-14 June 2014 Asia’s definitive event for international manufacturers UKTI funding Bangkok, Thailand and suppliers of machinery, technology and materials, proposed attracting 40,000 visitors from 65 countries www.propakasia.com

Expo Pack Mexico 17-20 June 2014 The leading packaging and processing technology 2014 event for Mexico and Central America Mexico City, Mexico www.expopack.com.mx/2013/en/ ProPak China 2014 16-18 July 2014 China’s premier trade exhibition for packaging and UKTI funding Shanghai, China processing technologies, now in its 18th year proposed www.propakchina.com Vision 2014 4-6 November 2014 The world’s leading machine vision trade fair, Stuttgart, Germany now taking place every two years www.messe-stuttgart.de/en/vision/ Emballage 17-20 November 2014 The 41st international packaging exhibition, Paris Nord Villepinte, attracting over 20,000 visitors France www.emballageweb.com Pack Expo 2-5 November 2014 North America’s premier industry event, co-locating UKTI funding International 2014 with Pharma Expo and drawing 48,000 visitors proposed Chicago, USA http://exhibitorsales.packexpo.com/2014es/public/enter.aspx Gulfood 9-11 November 2014 The world’s biggest annual food and hospitality Manufacturing 2014 show, targeting the Middle East, Africa and South Asia Dubai, UAE www.gulfood.com

For a full list of international events go to www.ppma.co.uk/show/exhibitions.htm

PPMA Technical Seminar Programme 2013-14A programme of events for those who want to keep up-to-date with the latest Directive/regulation changes and sector specific developments. Project managers, machine designers, engineers and H&S professionals from machine suppliers and machine users should consider attending these events.

• Machinery risk Assessment 30 January, Manchester Airport Marriott Hotel

To book or find out more on these events contact E [email protected] T +44 (0)20 8773 8111 www.ppma.co.uk/educ/info.htm

• Functional Safety 10 October, Northampton Marriott Hotel

• Machine Guarding 24 October, Carlton Hotel, Dublin

• Hr for non-Hr Managers 14 November, Northampton Marriott Hotel

• Functional Safety 12 December, Carlton Hotel, Dublin


Technical Services

Standards Update

Standards Update

Generic machinery standards• EN ISO 14119 Safety of machinery – Interlocking devices associated with guards –

Principles for design and selection. Under approval with CEN, due October 2013.

• EN ISO 13856-3 Safety of machinery – Pressure-sensitive protective devices – Part 3: General principles for design and testing of pressure-sensitive bumpers, plates, wires and similar devices. Approved by CEN, awaiting country implementation.

Packaging Machines• EN 415-1 Safety of packaging machines – Part 1: Terminology and classification of packaging

machines and associated equipment. Under approval with CEN, due February 2014.

• EN 415-10 Safety of packaging machines – Part 10: General Requirements. Under approval with CEN, due December 2013.

• BS EN 415-6 Safety of packaging machines – Part 6: Pallet wrapping machines. Published July 2013.

Plastics/Rubber• EN 1417 2 Roll mills.

Drafting by CEN, due February 2015.• EN 16474 Plastics and rubber machines – Tyre curing presses – Safety requirements.

Under approval with CEN, due September 2013.• EN 289 Plastics and rubber machines – Compression moulding machines and transfer moulding machines – Safety requirements.

Under approval with CEN, due May 2015.

CEN is the European Committee for Standardisation and produces most of the European standards, with the exceptions of electrotechnology and telecommunication standards.

Despite conflicting advice from the European Commission’s ‘Guide to Application of the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC’, machine builders must ensure that their products conform to the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive (LVD), also known as Directive 2006/95/EC, even though no declaration to this effect needs to be made.

Compliance with the EN 60204 series of standards is key to meeting the LVD requirements, in particular standard EN 60204-1, which is wide ranging and covers not only the equipment itself but also any technical documentation and verification/testing. Machine builders should be aware, however, that this may not be the only relevant electrical standard: section 1.5.1 of the Essential Health and Safety Requirements of the Machinery Directive states that ‘specifications for electrical equipment are also given in many standards for specific categories of machinery’, making it the responsibility of machine builders to determine which of those product standards apply to

Dealing with the Low Voltage Directive

For technical advice contact PPMA’s technical partner TÜV SÜD Product Service E [email protected] T +44 (0)8700 111375www.tuv-sud.co.uk

By TÜV SÜD Product Service

the machines they are building, and to ensure that their equipment meets the appropriate requirements.

Ensuring compliance therefore requires considerable specialist expertise as remedial work is always more costly than getting the design right from the start. The following are just six examples of 45 previously encountered problems, which now appear on a checklist used by TÜV SÜD inspectors:

• Isolator easily overridden on enclosure door; • High and low voltage wiring in the same conduit; • Earth strap missing from enclosure door;• Fluid handling equipment in same enclosure as electrical equipment; • Multiple connections to a single termination point; • Isolators failing to meet EN 60947-3 requirements.

Electromagnetic Fields DirectiveOn 29 June 2013, the European Commission published Directive 2013/35/EU on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to the risks arising from physical agents (electromagnetic fields). Member States have until 1 July 2016 to transpose the Directive into their respective national legislation. The EU will publish guidance in early 2016 and the Health and Safety Executive is also working with UK stakeholders to produce UK guidance.


SAPS

Strategic Alliance Partners (SAPs)PPMA’s appointed Strategic Alliance Partners (SAPs) provide the membership with key business services at favourable rates, including asset finance, employment and corporate law, foreign exchanges, insurance, parts sourcing, change management, training, recruitment and media monitoring. Review the SAPs at www.ppma.co.uk/private/logon.asp and start saving £s!

Could workplace injuries cost your company dearly?

With over a third of injuries at work caused by lifting, pushing or physically moving loads, it is essential

that suitable procedures be put in place to prevent manual handling injuries. As outlined in the Manual Handling Operations Regulations, employers are obliged to take reasonable steps to avoid the need for hazardous manual activities, and to assess and reduce the risk of injury when the task cannot be avoided.

“Employees must assess each task and follow all systems in place to protect their own and their colleagues’ safety,” advises Gary Sullivan, Chartered Health and Safety Practitioner for Citation. “It is also worth remembering that manual handling injuries are not always the result of heavy manual labour – poor posture and excessive repetition can also be factors.” According to Gary, failure to prevent such injuries could cost an organisation dearly: “Injured parties may pursue compensation claims, resulting in higher insurance premiums. Companies should also consider the cost of additional salaries for staff employed to cover for any injured employees.”

Detailed and regularly reviewed risk assessments, the implementation of necessary control measures to keep employees informed and trained to work safely, and statutory employee consultation are important steps in identifying hazards. A simple manual handling module is available through Citation’s online service, available at a discounted rate for PPMA Group members. T +44 (0)845 844 1111www.citation.co.uk

Shouldering your recruitment burdenWallace Hind Selection’s Packaging Machinery division offers a complete and comprehensive recruitment service to PPMA Group

members, at a discounted rate. Over the last 17 years the company has placed people in sales, marketing, service, technical and operations, including at board level, and prides itself on its understanding of the business sectors relevant to the membership.

“We have used Wallace Hind exclusively for the past 15 years, recruiting staff across all disciplines and levels, and I am delighted that they are partnered with the PPMA Group,” states

Fixed fee and tailored cover save members £££s

Sutton Winson’s dedicated insurance policy specifically for PPMA Group members has proved popular since its launch earlier this year,

with Ilapak Ltd, Nissei ASB Ltd, Fortress Technology, Sollas UK Ltd and Busch GVT taking advantage of this exclusive offer, alongside 40% of the PPMA Group board of directors.

Providing bespoke insurance and risk management solutions to the membership since 2005, Sutton Winson has identified business-critical areas often overlooked by other insurers, such as health and safety, business continuity planning and machinery transportation, prompting them to design a dedicated policy with a range of specific benefits, including: cover for machinery on trial at customer premises; free building and machinery valuation; and cover for research and development costs and product recall.

“Sutton Winson responded very quickly to our enquiry,” comments PPMA Chairman Richard Little, Director of Jenton International. “They explained details in policy wording and cover options that had not been given to us before and supplied a cheaper quote, with considerably wider cover. They have delivered genuine benefits to us and I am happy to recommend them to other PPMA Group members.”E [email protected] +44 (0)844 921 0141 www.suttonwinson.com

Alan Yates, Chairman of Endoline Machinery Ltd and Vice Chairman of the PPMA Group. Ian Turner, Director and General Manager of Advanced Labelling Systems Ltd, adds: “Our first candidate was so perfectly matched we employed him immediately. We’ll definitely use Wallace Hind for our future recruitment needs.”E [email protected] T+44 (0)1604 758857www.wallacehind.com

Publishing/Industry News

ISPE UK Annual Awards Dinner21 November 2013, Stratford-upon-AvonThe 2013 International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE) UK Affiliate annual conference, table top exhibition and awards dinner http://bit.ly/17pqrV5

IET’s Vision and Imaging Network16-17 December 2013, Kingston University, LondonThe fifth international conference on imaging for crime detection and prevention http://bit.ly/13hzSzb

PPMA Show 201430 September-2 October 2014, NEC BirminghamThe complete production line event www.ppmashow.co.uk See p6 for full international diary or go to www.ppma.co.uk/events.asp

Member benefitsTechnical Advice – TÜV SÜD Product Service www.tuvps.co.uk

International Services - E [email protected] www.ppma.co.uk/Info/intsvcs-home.htm

Save £s with PPMA Strategic Alliance Partners (SAPs) on key business serviceswww.ppma.co.uk/private/logon.asp

Join today! – For a PPMA Group membership pack contact E [email protected] www.ppma.co.uk/about/join.htm

Forthcoming FeaturesJan/Feb issue – DairyCopy deadline: 25 November

Mar/Apr issue – DrinksCopy deadline: 25 February

Send your editorial contributions to [email protected] sales/advertising enquiries contact [email protected] www.machineryupdate.co.uk


Machinery Directory 2013/14 out nowThe most authoritative and comprehensive machinery guide for the UK’s processing and packaging industry. To order your copy contact [email protected]

Strategy reviewFollowing the recent membership survey, the Association is undertaking a detailed strategy review to ensure that we continue to meet and exceed the needs of our members. A comprehensive strategy report was being finalised as we went to press – full details will be published in our next issue.

Industry NewsFunding available

The PPMA Group is pleased to announce a new co-operation with the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS). MAS can provide

up to 50% funding (from £300 to £3000) for consultancy projects to increase a company’s competitive edge, as well as free on-site reviews. The members’ section of the PPMA website (www.ppma.co.uk) now includes a regular MAS bulletin, the only report that collates the results, views and opinions of manufacturing SMEs across England. www.mymas.org

Talent retention taken to new levelsOver 3,500 engineers, students and apprentices have signed up to an industry scheme designed to match

engineering talent with new job opportunities. The national web-based Talent Retention Solution brings together specialists whose jobs may be at risk, or people who want to work in engineering, with companies that are looking to recruit skilled staff. The scheme has now grown to include over 600 organisations including Rolls-Royce, Airbus, Jaguar Land Rover and BAE Systems, as well as numerous SMEs. www.talentretention.biz

European food packaging machinery market continues growthAccording to a market study, revenues from sales of packaging machinery in European countries reached nearly €10bn in 2012, driven by a need for automation and efficiency. http://bit.ly/1aSh16y

Government proposes funding reform for apprenticeshipsEmployers could be funded directly to purchase the apprenticeship training they want as part of proposals to put businesses in the driving seat. Business Secretary Vince Cable announced that the government is consulting on the following three funding reforms, with results expected later this autumn:

• Direct Payment Model – businesses register apprentices and report claims for government funding through a new online system; government funding is then paid directly into their bank account

• PAYE Payment Model – businesses register apprentices through a new online system; they then recover government funding through their PAYE return

• Provider Payment Model – government funding continues to be paid to training providers, but they can only draw it down when they have received the employer’s financial contribution towards training.

http://bit.ly/11doeUg

Member Benefits

PPMA Group Associations: Processing and Packaging Equipment www.ppma.co.uk Robotics www.bara.org.uk Vision www.ukiva.org Polymers www.pmmda.org.uk

Communicate with the PPMA Group Associations

Publishing

Processing and Packaging Machinery Directory• Free company profile• Annual industry bible

for suppliers and buyers• 1300 index headings• Annual circulation

4000+ end users

Machinery Update magazine• Only bi-monthly UK

machinery publication • 9,500 printed and 13,200

electronic copies sent to end users

• Verified circulation data under three years old

• Members receive free editorial

Association newsletter• Members’ magazine

including association news

• Association specific newsletters for PPMA, BARA, UKIVA & PMMDA

websites www.ppma.co.uk www.bara.org.uk www.ukiva.org www.pmmda.org.uk• Direct links to member sites • Association activity, breaking industry news,

member PRs• Machinery and service finder• 42,000+ visitors a month• Agent and distributor finder• Secure members area• Technical documents and statistics • Highly search engine optimised• Google rankings well above UK average• Drives traffic to

member sites• Fast email

enquiry service• Free job

vacancy section• International

exhibition diary

Strategic Alliance Partners (SAPs) Partnerships with service providers offering preferential rates• Low cost commercial

insurance • H&S and employment

law • Recruitment • Training • Litigation service• Technical advice• Driver training and legal

compliance• Energy and utilities

International Services Overseas exhibitionsPPMA Group pavilion stands make exhibiting easy at:• Gulfood Manufacturing (Dubai)• ProPak Vietnam• ProPak China• interpack (Germany)

Established China office Offices in Shanghai helping members:• Establish a base in China• Set up joint ventures with

Chinese companies• Source low cost components• Identify UK agency agreements

Exhibitions PPMA Show • Preferential exhibitor space rates -

often saving more than the annual PPMA membership fee!

• UK’s largest machinery exhibition• Exhibiting members receive opt-in

visitor data• 8,000+ visitors

Membership Services Machinery finder service• Web-based search facility with 1200+

classifications Consultancy• Preferential rates for employment law,

health & safety, technical, tax, R+D credits, insurance etc.

• Free PR advice for membersFree office facilities • Free meeting rooms and associated office

services at PPMA HQ in SurreyNetworking events • Annual industry awards, golf day and regular

free to attend President’s lunches throughout the UK

• Approved Accredited Trade Organisation (ATO) and close relations with UKTI

• Alliances with other leading trade associations

Technical Services Technical consultancy• Access to technical experts and machinery finder service Technical and regulatory seminars/training• Comprehensive training seminars• Free technical telephone support Health and safety• Guidance on installations and working practiceSetting of industry standards and technical updatesStatistics and market intelligence• Stats and data are compiled and available to membersSector sub groups e.g. system integratorsEngagement between academia and industry

T +44 (0)208 773 8111 www.ppma.co.uk

Your link to all the right platforms


News



www.ppma.co.uk Issue 23 Autumn 2013

PPMA Group Industry Awards – has your company got what it takes to win?

Stand space selling fast at the PPMA Show 2014

Following an oustanding Total show in June of this year, momentum for the PPMA Show 2014 (30 Sept-2 Oct 2014, NEC Birmingham) is gaining fast – with just under a year to go until the event takes place, more than 150 exhibitors have already secured over 4,300m2 of floor space! Focusing on innovation, and delivering more features, speakers and product launches, show organisers are increasing marketing activities to target a wider cross-section of visitors than ever before, maximising the current optimism within the UK machinery supply sector to highlight the best the industry has to offer. “The PPMA Show 2014 is coming back in-house for the first time in 12 years, organised by the industry for the industry,” comments David Harrison, PPMA Group Exhibitions Manager. “Innovation will be a big theme at the event, as we know this is what visitors want to see – I would encourage exhibitors to announce any show launches prior to the event, to help us demonstrate the best innovations and developments our thriving industry has to offer.”

The success of this year’s Total Processing and Packaging Exhibition, which saw over 8,000 visitors descend on the NEC Birmingham in June, has prompted many members to book early for the PPMA Show 2014, as David Harrison explains: “With exhibitors describing Total as their ‘best show ever’ and reports of record sales as a direct result of the event, it’s clear that today’s visitors mean business. Olympus Automation took orders in the region of £1m at Total, and Partners in Packaging, Ilapak and Quasar Automation secured a significant contract on the very first day. As a result, there’s now

a real buzz around the PPMA Show 2014 – we’re working hard to attract a greater audience to what is gearing up to be the greatest UK machinery show of the year.”


The PPMA Show 2014 will also incorporate the PPMA Group Industry Awards, for which the deadline for entries has been announced as 4 April 2014. Open to both members and non-members and taking place on 30 September 2014, the Awards cover 12 categories, including ‘Most Innovative Processing or Packaging Machine’ and ‘Processing and Packaging Machinery Manufacturer of the Year’, and generate many marketing and press opportunities, heightened brand awareness and increased sales for the winners. To see your company rewarded at this glittering

gala event, download an application form from www.ppma.co.uk

2014

Categories:• Most Innovative Processing or Packaging Machine• Most Innovative Ancillary Equipment• Processing and Packaging Machinery Manufacturer of the Year• Most Innovative Machine Vision Project of the Year• Most Innovative Automation System of the Year• Polymer Equipment Manufacturer or Distributor of the Year• Exporter of the Year• Exceptional Sales or Company Growth Award• Partnership of the Year• Apprentice of the Year• Customer Service Award• Outstanding Achievement


www.pmma.co.ukIssue 23 PPMA News2

Earlier this year, the PPMA sent out a survey to the membership in a bid to find out how we can best meet, and exceed, your needs. The results from all four associations were discussed at our recent Strategy Day, held on 8 August 2013, and have been used to formulate a new PPMA Group strategy, ensuring that we continue to deliver what you, the members, want. Many thanks to everyone who took the time to complete the survey; look out for full details of our comprehensive strategy report in our next issue.

Survey results highlight members’ needs

Representing the best the food and beverage sector has to offer, Food Processing’s Appetite for Engineering (A4E) event returned on 25 September 2013 at

Chesford Grange Hotel, Kenilworth, sponsored by Festo. Delegates enjoyed presentations from Nestlé, Britvic, Heineken, Dairy Crest and Coca-Cola Enterprises, as well as a keynote speech from the government-appointed Grocery Code Adjudicator, Christine Tacon.

The best of the best!

L-R: Chris Shaw, Editor of Food Processing magazine; James Chrismas, Marketing Manager for Loma Systems; comedian Hardeep Singh Kohli; Tony Bryant, UK Sales Manager for Loma Systems; and Peter Whitfield, Host of the Food Processing Awards

The highlight, however, was the evening’s Food Processing Awards, an outstanding event that formed the culmination of the A4E conference. PPMA Group members were well represented on the awards shortlist but congratulations must go to the following companies, who excelled in their fields: • Pacepacker Services – Winner: Technological

Development Award. Runner-up: Robotics and Automation Award

• Olympus Automation – Winner: Packaging Solutions Award Runner-up: Technological Development Award

• Industrial Washing Machines – Winner: Hygiene Innovations Award. Runner-up: Energy Management Award

• Mitsubish Electric with Quasar Automation and Scorpion Vision – Winner: Robotics and Automation Award

• Loma Systems – Runner-up: Company of the Year Award• LinkX Systems – Runner-up: Packaging Solutions Award “I am genuinely stunned at the number of votes we received for this year’s awards,” exclaims Chris Shaw, Editor of Food Processing magazine. “All the finalists were fine examples of how well the food and beverage sector performs under pressure and this year’s entries prompted an unprecedented number of online votes, showing the high regard that the food industry has for the nominees. In particular, the votes for the Company of the Year Award were the tightest in many years. Throughout the voting process it was a two horse race all the way – the runner-up can hold its head high, as it still achieved an astonishingly high number of votes.”www.fponthenet.net

The detailed import/export stats for Q2 2013 and final data for 2012 (including balance of trade 2009-2012) are now available in the members’ area at www.ppma.co.uk

Import/export stats now in!

Mettler-Toledo Safeline Metal Detection has launched enhanced software for its Profile metal detection systems. As well as boosting detection sensitivity in wet and dry foods, the new software simplifies product changeovers, allowing manufacturers to examine a range of products on a single frequency setting.www.mt.com/metaldetection

Metal detector simplifies product changeovers

Flexicon has extended its range of flameproof, hazardous area EXD barrier glands to provide stainless steel fittings for applications that require additional corrosion resistance. Suiting conduit diameters from 20-63mm, the barrier glands can withstand operating temperatures of -60oC to 85oC and are available with metric and NPT thread options.www.flexicon.co.uk

Flexicon expands equipment range for hazardous areas

tna has appointed Ekaterina Krakovskaya as Regional Sales Manager for Russia, CIS countries (the former Soviet states) and the

Baltic states, to support and expand the region’s customer base. “We have a comprehensive product range for the Russian food manufacturing market and are confident that Ekaterina will play a pivotal role in supporting our Russian customers to realise their packaging goals,” says Tim Moulsdale, tna General Manager (Europe).www.tnasolutions.com

tna appoints Russian sales specialist


Automated Packaging Systems’ new mail order fulfilment system, OneStep, is changing the way pick-and-pack and dispatch zones are structured. Part of the Autobag range, it is available in vertical and horizontal configuration and can be integrated into a fully automated packing line. “The AB 255 Horizontal OneStep makes it possible for a single packer to increase output ten-fold, without the need for substantial capital investment and system restructuring,” explains Automated Packaging Systems’ Martin Richards.www.autobag.co.uk

OneStep set to revolutionise mail order systems

Exclusively available in the UK from Advanced Dynamics Ltd, two new machines from Pack Leader are set to transform the future of accurate bottle labelling. The PL-521 Horizontal Wrap Around labelling machine is ideal for slim, non-freestanding cylindrical containers such as vials or lipsticks, while the SL-301 Shrink Sleever (pictured) shrinks full or partial tamper evident sleeves at up to 300 bottles a minute, making it suitable for products such as soft drinks or jams. www.advanceddynamics.co.uk

Advanced Dynamics launches new labelling solutions

High street bakery chain Greggs has recently installed an auto cartoner from T. Freemantle Ltd, helping to meet demand for its frozen, ready-to-bake pie, pasty and sausage roll range. Capable of speeds of up to 150 units per minute, the machine replaced an existing Freemantle semi auto cartoner and incorporates the company’s unique slimline autoloader and inline transfer. T. Freemantle has also been awarded a contract with Packers Strategy Group for a fully automatic cartoner for selection pack cartoning. www.tfreemantle.com

T. Freemantle on a roll with Greggs

Communicate with the PPMA Group Associations


Olympus Automation has launched its PDX™ range, aimed at delivering savings and efficiencies in the UK food industry. The PDX™ Reactor dramatically reduces cooking/processing time whilst improving quality and has already enabled Greencore to double its sauce output. The PDX™ 3D Scan provides 3D factory walk-throughs, reducing the time usually taken to create 3D factory layouts by a factor of twelve, while the PDX™ Autocoding system removes the risk of product recalls, providing an accurate, real-time, measurement of production performance in a single solution. www.olympus-automation.co.uk

Olympus Automation targets food industry

Newcastle University student George Burnie is joining Winkworth Group for a year as part of the company’s graduate development programme. “The programme is now in its third year,” explains Grant Jamieson, Managing Director. “The students gain valuable experience and an income, and we benefit from their talent – it’s a true fair trade and one we aim to continue for many years.”www.mixer.co.uk

Winkworth student scheme enters third year

Endoline Machinery has appointed two new staff members, employing Gavin Hughes as Engineering Manager and Giedrius Bevirsis as International Business Executive. The company is also promoting its affordable automation options, which include a leasing facility from as little as £35 per day. In addition, Endoline has launched the 248 (pictured), a fully automatic case erector. Designed specifically for shelf ready packaging, the high speed, servo driven machine incorporates a gluing system to seal the bottom of each case as it is formed, eliminating the need for tape. Meanwhile, its compact footprint enables it to be installed as an upgrade in space-constrained packing halls, as well as in state of the art new production sites.www.endoline.co.uk

Endoline continues to expand its offering

Packaging line engineering specialists Gebo and Cermex have merged, marking the return of the Gebo brand. Combining Gebo’s five decades of experience with Cermex’s expertise in overwrapping and end-of-line equipment, this new group aspires to be ‘first in line’ in the packaging industry. www.gebocermex.com

Gebo Cermex, a new name in packaging line engineering

News



www.pmmda.org.uk Issue 23 Autumn 2013

Bigger and better in 2014Promising over 400 exhibitors and more than 10,000 visitors, interplas 2014 (30 Sept-2 Oct 2014, NEC Birmingham) looks set to be the biggest event to hit the UK plastics industry in years. Taking place every three years, interplas is the UK’s largest plastics industry exhibition and the only event to cover all of the manufacturing processes, technologies and services within the plastics industry. Offering an increased visitor marketing

PMMDA members triumph at the PIAs

programme, a bigger exhibition and an enhanced conference programme, stand space is disappearing fast, with PMMDA members Boy, Sepro Robotique, Sumitomo (SHI) Demag, Negri Bossi, Wittmann Battenfeld, Premier Moulding Machinery, Renmar, Boston Matthews, AB Systems and Motan Colortronic all confirmed as exhibitors.

PPMA Show 2014Following a phenomenal Total show in June of this year, momentum for the PPMA Show 2014 is also gaining fast. With

over 300 exhibitors expected, the show has already secured more than 4,300m2 of floor space and 150 exhibitors, 12 months prior to the event! The PPMA Show 2014 will co-locate with interplas, delivering greater numbers of visitors for both shows.

To book your interplas 2014 stand contact E [email protected] To book your PPMA Show 2014 stand contact E [email protected]

Winners of the 2013 Plastics Industry Awards (PIAs) were announced on 27 September at the London Hilton on Park Lane, in front of an audience of 800 guests comprising supplier companies, OEM manufacturers, plastics processors, consultants, trainees and designers.

Arburg won the Supplier Partnership – Prime Machinery category for the second year

in a row for its work with Harwin, while fellow PMMDA member Summit Systems triumphed in the Supplier Partnership – Ancillary Machinery category for its work with Stewart Group.

“Despite tough economic conditions we continue to see companies investing in training and technology, expanding their businesses and demonstrating the true expertise and creativity of the UK’s plastics industry,” comments Steve Crowhurst, Events Director at Crain Communications, which organises the PIAs. “It was such a pleasure to be able to celebrate the 13th plastics industry awards with so many worthy winners.”www.plasticsawards.com

The PPMA Show 2014 will also incorporate the PPMA Group Industry Awards, for which the deadline for entries has been announced as 4 April 2014. Open to both members and non-members and taking place on 30 September 2014, the Awards cover 12 categories, including ‘Polymer Equipment Manufacturer or Distributor of the Year’, and generate many marketing and press opportunities, heightened brand awareness and increased sales for

the winners. To see your company rewarded at this glittering gala event, download an application form from www.ppma.co.uk.

PPMA Group Industry Awards 2014 – deadline announced

2013 2014

Motan and Herbold celebrate 15-year partnershipMotan Colortronic is celebrating its 15th successful year in partnership with Herbold Meckesheim GmbH. Since 1998, Motan has supplied several million pounds’ worth of Herbold equipment to the UK and Irish markets, including pulverisers, washing plants, sink swim tanks, pipe and profile granulators, plus complete recycling plants. www.motan-colortronic.co.uk

Follow us Twitter@PMMDA and on Facebook



Survey results highlight members’ needs Earlier this year, the PMMDA sent out a survey to the membership in a bid to find out how the Association can best meet, and exceed, your needs. The results will form part of our ongoing strategy review, to ensure that we are delivering what you, the members, want. Many thanks to everyone who took the time to complete the survey; early analysis has outlined a number of positives, as well as some areas of improvement.

Members scored the following areas as important elements to PMMDA membership:

• An independent association• Exhibitions and events• Market statistics• Networking opportunities

The results of the survey have provided the committee with a clear message as to the future direction the PMMDA should take. It is clear from the survey that trade associations do have a key role to play in the future success of our industry. Please look out for full details of our comprehensive strategy report in our next issue.

TH Plastics becomes Campetella’s exclusive UK distributorTH Plastics is to exclusively distribute the Campetella Group’s products in the UK. Italian supplier of advanced automation and robotics systems, Campetella boasts over 100 years of innovation. Lee Thomas, Managing Director for TH Plastics, comments: “We had a great response at the recent pdm exhibition to our new Campetella offering, with many new and existing customers excited about what the systems can do to help their businesses.”www.thplastics.co.uk

The import/export balance of trade for PMMDA members from 2009-2012, and for Q2 2013, is now available in the members’ area at www.ppma.co.uk

Import/export stats now in!

The new W818 robot from Wittmann is helping Devon based Peco Model Railways to increase its productivity. Moulding lengths of Streamline model railway track, the robot picks, places and releases the products and sprue, and is also programmed to stack each length of track into an arrangement of boxes, ready for further assembly within the factory. The Wittmann automated cell works off a two-shot mould, deployed on a 10 second cycle time, and includes the option to recycle polymer as regrind. www.wittmann-group.co.uk

Wittmann keeps model railway on track

The K Show, international trade fair for plastics and rubber (16-23 October 2013, Düsseldorf), will see the launch of four new offerings from Sumitomo (SHI) Demag, including the Systec SP (Speed Performance) 280. With a clamping force of 2,800kN, the Systec SP is designed for injection moulded packaging,

boasting fast cycling speeds and low running costs which make it ideal for budget conscious, high volume plastic manufacturers. Application areas are vast and include mass production of latches, lids, buckets and stacking boxes, to name a few. www.sumitomo-shi-demag.eu/

Sumitomo shows the way at K

L-R:Paul Dummer of Wittman and Ben Arnold of Peco Model Railways

L-R: Elia Campetella, TH Plastics’ Lee Thomas, Carlo Campetella and Marco Marconi (Campetella)

News



www.ukiva.org Issue 23 Autumn 2013

PPMA Show 2014 gaining momentum

Following a phenomenal Total show in June of this year, momentum for the PPMA Show 2014 (30 Sept-2 Oct 2014, NEC Birmingham) is gaining fast, with 150 exhibitors securing over 4,300m2 of floor space 12 months prior to the event! With a focus on innovation, and delivering more features, speakers and product launches than ever before, show organisers are targeting a wide cross-section of visitors, maximising the current optimism within UK manufacturing to highlight

The PPMA Show 2014 will also incorporate the PPMA Group Industry Awards, for which the deadline for entries has been announced as 4 April 2014. Open to both members and non-members and taking place on 30 September 2014, the Awards cover 12 categories, including ‘Most Innovative Machine Vision Project of the Year’, and generate many marketing and press opportunities, heightened brand awareness and increased sales for the winners. To see your company rewarded at this glittering gala event, download an application form from www.ppma.co.uk

Manufacturing sector boost for vision

2014

the best the industry has to offer. “The PPMA Show 2014 is coming back in-house for the first time in 12 years, organised by the industry for the industry,” comments David Harrison, PPMA Group Exhibitions Manager. “With exhibitors describing Total as their ‘best show ever’ and reports of record sales as a direct result of the event, it’s clear that today’s visitors mean business – the PPMA Show 2014 will be one event you can’t afford to miss.”


The recent quarterly survey from the Confederation of British Industry revealed that British manufacturing is at its highest level for two years, with 12 out of 16 manufacturing sub-sectors reporting an upturn. A brief survey of UKIVA members confirms this is also the case for the vision industry, with many member companies reporting encouraging sales activities. “We have experienced growth across the board, both in component as well as vision system sales,” reveals Paul Wilson from Scorpion Vision. “The two key areas for us are aerospace and the food industry. Both sectors are placing orders for 3D vision systems, which we see as evidence that the upturn is also technology led.”

Alun Reece of Loop Technology adds: “For us, the aerospace and automotive industries appear to be very strong, predominantly in the areas featuring carbon composite inspection and robot guidance technology.” Rob Pounder from Olmec-UK has noticed a rise in machine vision in challenging high speed applications (those

beyond the scope of smart cameras) and those which require integration with automation hardware: “The pharmaceutical/healthcare industries are still showing a strong uptake of machine vision, although enquiries are coming in from an expanding range of industries.”

UKIVA Chairman Mark Williamson, of Stemmer Imaging, believes this is an upturn of global proportions: “We are experiencing greater interest from most of the OEMs that use our vision components and systems. As many of our customers sell globally, this is a good indication that increased industrial confidence is not confined to the UK. Orders are up over 30% compared to the same period last year.” www.cbi.org.uk www.scorpionvision.co.ukwww.looptechnology.com www.olmec-uk.comwww.stemmer-imaging.co.uk

From overseeing a student vision project to supplying and integrating cameras on a jet-powered car, Stemmer Imaging’s recent projects have demonstrated that the company can address vision problems at any level. The Bloodhound SSC is a jet- and rocket-powered car being developed for an attempt to set a new world land speed record, and Stemmer is working to produce and record video data for both engineering and broadcast purposes. Alongside this, the company has been guiding local sixth-formers on a vision project to develop a system for tracking a football’s trajectory during a penalty kick, as part of the Engineering Education Scheme.www.stemmer-imaging.co.uk

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Vision statistics will provide crucial industry benchmark

By Mark Williamson, UKIVA Chairman

“Although a number of surveys are conducted periodically about the state of the machine vision market in different regions, there is no reliable data that relates to the UK vision market alone. In order to address this situation, and to offer UKIVA members yet another benefit of membership, the Association plans to produce statistics on the sale of vision components and systems in the UK. A quarterly survey will be carried out with UKIVA members to collect and collate data on the number of units sold in the following categories: smart cameras/sensors; code readers; compact vision systems; PC-based vision systems; machine vision cameras; 3D systems; and systems deployed to end-users.

“A PPMA representative will collate the sales data in strict confidence and subject to a signed non-disclosure agreement, so no individual member will have access to another company’s sales figures, including UKIVA committee members and Chairman. Once collated into total figures, this data will be made available to the participating companies only, but we will be able to publish trends in sales to the community at large. This activity has been carried out successfully for some time within BARA and has proved an invaluable benchmark for participating member companies; I would therefore urge all UKIVA members to take part.”



As the only dedicated imaging exhibition in the UK, Photonex (16-17 October 2013, Ricoh Arena, Coventry) attracts visitors interested in imaging and photonics from a diverse range of sectors. UKIVA will be

running a series of free educational seminars at the event, featuring imaging specialists from Alrad Imaging, Multipix Imaging, Scorpion Vision and Stemmer Imaging, on topics including: imaging outside of visible wavelengths; the new USB3 Vision Standard; and the use of hyperspectral imaging techniques. www.photonex.org

UKIVA educational seminars at Photonex 2013

Stemmer Imaging displays its versatility

The IP67 rated Smart Cameras from Multipix are set to revolutionise inspection for the pharmaceutical and food/beverage industries. Combining versatile hardware with Datalogic’s award-winning Impact Software Suite, the A30 and T4x series feature high quality CCD imagers and exceptionally fast DSP processors, all sealed in an industrial hardened IP67 enclosure. www.multipix.com

Multipix set to revolutionise inspection

The UKIVA has revised its membership categories to better reflect the changing face of the UK industrial vision industry. The new categories are: Vision Technology Providers; Vision Systems Integrators & Consultants; and Providers of Solutions that Utilise Machine Vision, with the Academic membership continuing as before. A new document highlighting the benefits of UKIVA membership is available to download: www.ukiva.org/join.html

New membership categories announced

Matrox launches industrial imaging computer Matrox Imaging has launched Matrox 4Sight GPm, an industrial imaging computer, purpose-built for machine vision on the factory floor. Its fanless design reduces maintenance costs and downtime, while the system is equipped with four Gigabit Ethernet and four SuperSpeed USB ports for connecting to the full range of available GigE Vision® and USB3 Vision® cameras. www.matroximaging.com

Image: Siemens NX

Documents

Automating Manufacturing Programme