Smart technologies, from software-defined machines to digital integration, allow manufacturers to easily maintain machines and predict critical failures and faults before they cause downtime. By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor The packaging industry operates in a world where ultra-high-speed machinery reigns, manufacturers accept razor-thin margins, and versatility is required as products change frequently. From high-speed form-fill-seal machines […]
Cylinders
AutomationDirect adds guided cylinders and pneumatic silencers
AutomationDirect has added Metal Work 12 mm dual guide rod cylinders to its guided actuator lineup for packaging, material handling and industrial automation applications. Available with stroke lengths from 10 mm to 250 mm, the double-acting cylinders include dual guide rods for stability, a magnetic piston for position sensing and integrated sensor slots for switch […]
AI-powered pneumatic cylinder monitoring cuts machine downtime
Festo’s AI-enabled monitoring and predictive maintenance system AX Motion Insights Pneumatic is a cost-effective, easy-to-use solution for preventing unscheduled machine downtime by monitoring pneumatic cylinders for wear and anomalies. This AI-based industrial app ensures operations are more reliable, efficient, and ultimately more profitable. The system uses AI to detect anomalies in the behavior of pneumatic […]
A designer’s guide to pneumatic cylinders
Pneumatic cylinders are highly varied in their construction and execution, making them difficult to select when you don’t understand your requirements. I won’t pretend that application isn’t the most important deciding factor, but the same can be said of any fluid power actuator. This guide provides all the information you need to select the pneumatic […]
How does moisture affect pneumatic systems and how do we mitigate it?
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor Desiccant, membrane, deliquescent, centrifugal and refrigerated air dryers are all technologies used to dry our compressed air systems. They are installed in various locations throughout the plant, although downstream of the compressor is the most critical location. Compressing air collects the volume of moisture found in a cubic foot of […]
Non-repairable and dual guide rod pneumatic cylinders
AutomationDirect has added Metal Work ISO 6432 non-repairable pneumatic air cylinders, providing a solution for metric applications where an inexpensive actuator is desired. These cylinders are a great choice for machinery with limited installation space, and the self-lubricating bronze bushings provide many years of maintenance-free operation. They are interchangeable with other common brands of ISO […]
Keeping it clean in food & beverage with pneumatics technologies
Pneumatics technologies offer the clean designs and reliable operation required in food and beverage processing. By: Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor The food & beverage industry is unique in many ways, not the least of which is the obvious observation that it’s the only industry providing us with the nourishment for life. Unless you’re living off […]
Emerson to present Floor to Cloud transformation solutions at Hannover Messe
Emerson will demonstrate how it is transforming the future of factory automation through its proven Floor to Cloud approach and comprehensive portfolio at Hannover Messe in Hannover, Germany, on March 31 to April 4. Visitors to the Emerson booth in Hall 11, Booth C30, will learn how companies of any size can apply a Floor […]
Which pneumatic technology is best for linear motion applications?
In linear motion applications, pneumatics, servo pneumatics, and controlled pneumatics each deliver unique motion and force capabilities. Contributed by By Frank Langro, Director of Product Market Management, Pneumatic Automation, Festo Pneumatic linear actuators are fundamental for automation because of their low cost, ease of installation and operation, high yet compliant force, speed, compactness, safety in hazardous areas, […]
Precise and localized pneumatics complement advanced motion controls in packaging machines
Packaging machine manufacturer Coesia and its sister companies rely on system integration for efficient, precise and fast operations. With a focus on streamlined systems that reduce pouch or carton handoffs and offer the ability to move non-standard sized materials, Coesia companies R.A. Jones and MGS turn to modern motion control systems married with precision pneumatics […]
