To stay abreast of industry trends, we, the editors, read countless articles and editorials written by experts from across verticals. We're always learning more about the people, technologies, and events that are making waves in the manufacturing space, and we want to share this information with you. In this brief, we’ll cite our sources and highlight columns and features that can help improve uptime at your plant.
Automation
How train derailments affect manufacturers & how automation can help [Smart Industry]
The recent rash of train derailments has left many uncertain about the safety and efficiency of rail freight. Like many aspects of the U.S. supply chain, however, train shipping is beginning to embrace digitalization, a decision that could have far-reaching implications. In this article, learn how rail disruptions will affect supply chains and how new technologies can help prevent derailments.
Management
Steps To Meet Environmental, Social and Governance Reporting Challenges [Chemical Processing]
Companies across the industry are publicly showing their enthusiasm for environmental, social and governance (ESG) programs, but few have the reporting necessary to provide the data and transparency that both investors and cutomers are looking for. This article shines a light on the potential pitfalls of ESG reporting and shares four steps to generating holistic and effective reports.
The Sustainability Ship Has Sailed. Latecomers, Grab a Raft and Hope for the Best [Industry Week]
Sustainability is the new normal. Companies that want to gain a competitive advantage over rival organizations will need to adopt a sustainability mindset that permeates every part of the business. Those who are slow to act or opt for performative “greenwashing” will be left behind. This article offers advice on how to make sustainability a core competency of your business.
Predictive Maintenance
The future is now for predictive valve maintenance [Processing]
We all know that having a healthy predictive maintenance (PdM) program in place is key to keeping your plant up and running, but implementing this initiative is easier said than done. Capturing the right information is only the first step if you want to resolve problems and avoid unplanned failures at your facility. This article outlines how to make data-driven decisions to guide your PdM program, specifically in the automated valve industry.
Technology
Let’s Get Cooking – With Robots! [New Equipment Digest]
Automation and robotics are filling workforce gaps across multiple industries including manufacturing and retail. For the first time, however, robots are entering the kitchen and are poised to change the food services sector forever. RoboEatz, a Canadian startup, has developed an Autonomous Robotic Kitchen (ARK), in which robots can prepare multiple hot and cold meals without sacrificing quality. Only one question remains. How do I get one of these culinary robots for my kitchen?