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The article discusses the top industrial automation trends in 2019. These include the shortage of welders, combined with an increase in product demand and competitive pricing, which drives a rise of interest in robotic welding, improvement in welding power source and waveform technology which made machines easier to operate, and the capabilities of production monitoring systems which provide input on weld quality.

The computer network (IT hallowed ground) will be co-located with the operational sensors on the production machinery so that data can be collected and sent to the data warehouse as training data for machine learning purposes. PHOTO (COLOR): Factory automation plants utilize machine learning's ability to understand and build mathematical models. [Extracted from the article]

The article informs on the use of pneumatics technology in manufacturing machines. Topics discussed include types of pneumatic cylinders such as conventional cylinders and rodless cylinders; electropneumatic positioning systems; and impact of selection of pneumatic cylinders on the performance of the machinery.

The article discusses the guideline specifications for certified products of the Air Movement and Control Association (AMCA) International Inc. Topics mentioned include the AMCA Certified Ratings Program seal intended for agricultural and air-circulating fans, the seal for air performance of all axial impellers, and the air leakage seal for spiral ducts.

The article offers some tips on how to improve the efficiency of filters, regulators, and lubricators (FRLs). It recommends machine operators to use the appropriate size filter, level of filtration, and size of lubricators. It also suggests to consider prepackaged FRLs, consumption sensor, and other engineering tools.

Condition monitoring is the practice of using various sensors and data analysis to assess the operating state of machines and equipment. For example, temperature and vibration data can be collected using a temperature sensor and accelerometer, respectively, to gather data on an overhung fan bearing to assess its condition. Conversely, motor rebuilders could use condition monitoring data to determine if a motor or encoder has a defective bearing or the problem lies elsewhere. [Extracted from the article]

The article reports on the use of mobile seismic vibrators as a tool for oil and gas exploration. It highlights the key components of a mobile hydraulic control circuit for receiving seismic vibrations which include high-pressure accumulator, accelerometer, and servovalves. It also discusses the role of electronics in the performance and efficiency of vibrators.

The article highlights the challenges to boost the machines manufacturing productivity performance. It mentions the improvement in information technology to improve communication between maintenance and other departments, that leading to improved productivity output; and also highlights several options of maintenance software for metalcasting programs that can help to improve both the reliability and availability of production equipment.

The article reports on the specifications of high-performance air systems (HPAS). It offers information on how to boost the efficiency of HPAS including applying modern design approaches, using high-efficiency fans, and integrating right-sizing strategy. Also provided are details on the design guidelines of HPAS.

The article discusses concerns on process and system reliability for those who care about plant's product quality or machine performance. Topics discussed include features of the Leica Absolute Tracker AT960-SR which is a lower budget version of AT960 laser tracker of Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, one of the most common uses of three-dimensional (3D) and computed tomography (CT) scanning in industrial metrology, and technologies for evaluating physical conditions of products or systems.

The article focuses on the 800-ton press for molding large aerospace seals which is affected by severe stuttering. It states that the press close at normal speed for approximately two feet then slow to creeping speed for six to eight inches to close two-part mold. It mentions that it started stuttering on normal downward stroke and would start and stop several times.

The article offers information on how to solve the slow performance of hydraulic cylinders.

An interview with Nicole Lang, product manager for dry-tech bearings and linear systems at igus, is presented. When asked about how plastic and metal bearings compare in terms of cost and performance, Lang says there is no need for maintenance and constant re-lubrication with plastic bearings. Also discussed are applications that plastic bearings can handle and reason behind the reluctance of some engineers, designers and purchasing agents to use plastic bearings.