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The important role of software engineering in industry

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The last decade or so has seen a sharp increase in the demands placed on industrial control systems. This is due in part to the higher levels of automation needed to make products efficiently; but industry is also having to fulfil ever greater and more diverse customer requests.

These increases in demands have led to what seems an exponential rise in the complexity of programs used by industrial control systems — a trend that seems certain to continue well into the future. The overall value of a control system has moved away from its hardware, and is now heavily weighted towards its software, which contains the intellectual property (IP) of the overall system.

Software development therefore needs to be carefully controlled to prevent programs becoming unwieldly, difficult to maintain and highly time‑consuming to fault‑find. If not kept in check, program management will become ever more expensive and burdensome for industry.

Fortunately, more attention is being paid to the software engineering practices used by industry. This will become ever more important as companies seek to digitise their operations. It will also help avoid cost blow‑outs for software projects.

The value added by PLCopen

Industry has long recognised the trend towards ever-greater complexity and the ramifications it has for programming. PLCopen is one organisation specifically established to help in this process. Its stated aim is to enhance the quality of industrial software and thereby improve the overall efficiency of industry.

Being vendor neutral, PLCopen seeks to collaborate with as many vendors as possible, across a wide range of industries. It creates vendor working groups with the goal of creating standards for industry. The process is long, with many requests for comments (RFCs) received from vendors, but the final product shows the benefit of such collective input.

In the early days, PLCopen promoted the use of the IEC 61131‑3 PLC programming standard. Since then, it has more recently branched out into producing standards for other aspects of industrial control such as motion, safety, communications (mainly OPC UA) and data exchange. It also provides training and certification services for vendors to publicise their level of compliance to these standards.

The use of such standards has undoubtedly increased the quality of software used in industry; it has also helped programmers become more efficient in their automation projects.

The traditional model for program development

For many years, industrial programmers have had to purchase a development package for their controllers and install it onto their local computer. This computer was usually located close to the controller so that a physical connection could be made to it.

Creating programs in this way almost always restricted program development to a single user, working on a solitary computer. It also meant the programmer was solely responsible for procuring and maintaining the computer hardware, as well as generating backups of the program. They were responsible for installing updates (to both the operating system and development package) and for ensuring the integrity of the system by protecting against malware.

Much effort was required of this one programmer — in areas they were not necessarily expert in. Nevertheless, this model has worked reasonably well over many years and continues to be used today. But apart from the extra demands placed on the programmer, the one aspect that’s becoming increasingly important is the ability to support multiple programmers on the same project. Due to the growing complexity of programs and the sheer amount of code that needs to be written and tested, projects are increasingly drawing on expertise from different areas, necessitating collaboration from numerous programmers.

The future of software engineering for industry

It’s become clear that to successfully navigate the larger, more complex programs required of modern applications, the programming practices used by industry will need to be modernised.

To improve programming efficiency, industry should really adopt more of the methodology and techniques commonly used in mainstream IT. For example, Visual Studio is a popular development environment used by IT: it is very adept at handling large programs and supports some very useful facilities that make programming manageable and easy to fault‑find.

The first PLCs were designed to replace hard‑wired relay circuits, and thus only supported the ladder diagram programming language. While it is still the preferred language for solving Boolean logic type problems, its overuse will cause a phenomenon called ‘code bloat’, where PLC programs are far longer and more complicated than they need to be. However, the use of structured text language will prevent programs from becoming overly convoluted, particularly when an application requires heavy mathematical calculations.

Object‑oriented programming (OOP) is another example of a programming paradigm that’s been available for decades to the IT community but is still not supported by most industrial vendors. This is despite OOP’s inclusion into the third edition of the IEC 61131‑3 programming standard in 2013.

The way OOP organises programs around objects with data and code is radically different from the logic and functions approach of traditional industrial programming. Certain applications lend themselves very well to OOP and its use greatly simplifies programming. Moreover, without OOP, these applications would become far less efficient and more difficult to manage.

Cloud‑based software engineering — the next frontier

One of the more recent innovations in software engineering has been the adoption of cloud‑based services. The cloud, with its virtually unlimited storage capacity, very scalable infrastructure and large array of facilities, has become highly attractive to businesses. It’s also being used extensively by IT departments.

Automation suppliers have similarly been integrating the cloud into industry and using it in areas like IoT for ‘big data’ collection. Using existing internet infrastructure, the cloud can similarly add value to industrial programming environments and can add features that would otherwise be very difficult to implement.

So what exactly is cloud‑based engineering and how can it be applied? More importantly, how can it help us improve what we do?

What is cloud‑based engineering?

With cloud-based engineering, the whole development suite — together with all its tools — resides not on a local computer but in the cloud. The entire programming environment is called a ‘virtual machine’ because, while it exists in cyberspace, as far as the programmer is concerned it runs as if it’s installed on the developer’s local machine.

Every controller is given its own instance of a virtual machine image in the cloud. Programmers need only login to a portal via a standard web browser on a local device to access it; no special software needs to be loaded. The physical industrial controller on the factory floor is also tunnelled to the cloud via a secure transport channel and linked to the virtual machine to enable program deployment.

One advantage of using the cloud in this way is that it provides true platform independence. Programmers aren’t restricted to just desktop computers: they can use tablets, mobile phones or any other internet‑enabled device. The internet affords complete location independence, meaning programmers and controllers can be anywhere in the world. This alleviates the need for programmers to be physically present onsite.

The advantages of cloud‑based software engineering

Perhaps the most significant advantage of cloud‑based engineering is the lifting of the burden on the programmer having to provide the computing resources. With the cloud, it’s the vendor who’s responsible for supplying all the computing hardware and software, as well as its maintenance and the installation of updates. File handling is also performed by the cloud provider; programmers do not need to be concerned with backups or malware.

Another advantage is the elimination of having separate software versions for different firmware editions. In the cloud, every firmware revision is supported, and each will have their own virtual machine. In this way, programming software always matches the controller’s hardware and firmware revision.

Version control (ie, the handling of different revisions of the same program) can be handled in the cloud by seamlessly integrating established systems such as Git. Git is arguably the most used versioning system and its branching and merging facilities are ideal for collaborative work between multiple programmers.

Security concerns

Cloud‑based engineering undoubtedly improves the productivity of the programming team. It does this by streamlining their work and allowing them to concentrate on their core task of programming, rather than peripheral issues such as file management.

However, security remains a significant concern for some users, who need to be highly protective of their IP, as it’s what gives them their market advantage. For this reason, some web‑based services are hosted locally, rather than in the cloud, where the location of the data is often unknown. While some cloud providers counter this by specifically guaranteeing the final location of the data by country, a hybrid cloud system remains a viable alternative. This is where the cloud is used for general data and services, and a locally‑hosted cloud stores the sensitive elements.

Cloud engineering offerings

Cloud‑based computing is essentially a software-as-a-service (SaaS) offering. Despite the advantages of SaaS, take up in the industrial space has heretofore been slow — the main reason being the lack of support from industrial vendors. This placed the onus of creating virtual machines in the cloud and connections to the hardware onto the programmer. These tasks are difficult to implement without expert knowledge.

To help overcome this roadblock, hardware vendors are starting to rent out cloud‑based engineering services to their programmers. They have created web‑based portals for users to login to, dashboards into virtual machines, and connection handles for real controller hardware. The portal can also provide tutorial support and guidance documentation.

Setting up a new cloud instance only takes a few minutes, with many of the functions automated. In future, vendors will be able to extract operational data through the same channels and can add value to their offerings by including integrated analytics, predictive maintenance and much more.

While still embryonic, offerings for cloud‑based services are starting to appear, albeit slowly. And with the integration of AI into programming, it seems certain the cloud will be increasingly used in industrial software engineering.

*Harry Mulder is the Principal Automation Engineer at Beckhoff Automation. He has been involved in industrial automation for over 30 years and is fascinated by how new innovations keep affecting the direction of the industry. He really enjoys the practical element of his job, where he has a chance to get his hands dirty!

Image credit: iStock.com/Jacob Wackerhausen

Pepperl+Fuchs R305 retroreflective area sensor with IO-Link

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The Pepperl+Fuchs R305 retroreflective area sensor with IO-Link is designed for precise and reliable object detection, regardless of shape, size or material. Unlike point-shaped detection systems, the R305 features a 60 mm light bandwidth and can detect object edges as small as 2 mm, aiming to ensure a single, accurate detection even with non-uniform or transparent materials.

The sensor offers flexible configuration with individually switchable beams and two measuring modes, allowing users to tailor detection performance for high-resolution or long-range applications. Integrated height measurement enables sorting, classification and monitoring tasks that contribute to quality control and process efficiency.

The addition of an IO-Link interface opens up further possibilities for custom parameterisation and integration into digital systems, making predictive maintenance and process optimisation easier. Installation is quick and intuitive with Easy Alignment Mode, which visually guides alignment using LED indicators.

In tight spaces, a side-looker version with a 90-degree offset mount offers additional flexibility. Once in operation, the R305 automatically adapts to changing environmental conditions using intelligent signal compensation, maintaining stable performance even in dusty or dirty settings.

For more information, click here.

Pepperl+Fuchs 6000 Series purge pressurisation system

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Pepperl+Fuchs has expanded the capabilities of its 6000 Series purge and pressurisation system with a high-current output option, providing greater flexibility for hazardous-area applications that require higher electrical loads. By enabling direct switching of enclosure power within the system, the enhanced electronic processing control unit (EPCU) helps reduce the need for additional Ex-rated switching hardware, simplifying system design and lowering installation costs.

The upgraded EPCU features two enclosure contacts rated up to 12 A per contact, allowing a broader range of applications to be supported directly by the purge and pressurisation system. This is particularly beneficial for high-load equipment such as gas analyser systems, heated enclosures, and other applications where traditional solutions often require separate contactors or circuit breakers. By integrating the switching function into the control unit, the 6000 Series reduces wiring complexity, minimises panel space requirements and supports more compact enclosure designs.

The high-current option is fully integrated into the 6000 Series platform, a fully automatic Type X/Ex pxb purge and pressurisation system designed for use in Class I, Class II, Division 1 and Zone 1/Zone 21 hazardous areas. Combining controller, pneumatics, electrical I/O and user interface within a single enclosure, the system automatically energises enclosure power once safe operating conditions have been achieved. Compatible with existing 6000 Series infrastructure, including EPV-6000 vents, the high-current variants retain the platform’s established functionality and global certifications while expanding application possibilities for demanding hazardous-area environments.

For more information, click here.

AMS announces 2026 Beamex User Group meeting

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Following a two-year break, AMS Instrumentation & Calibration has announced the 2026 Beamex User Group event to be held on the beautiful Sunshine Coast at Marcoola Beach, Queensland, 17–18 November 2026. The event returns after a high level of support expressed by the Beamex customer base in Australia.

The meeting will be held over two days and is free to attend. With a number of recent and pending product releases, the User Group will allow attendees to familiarise themselves with the latest Beamex product range and discuss strategies to improve management of their calibration workloads. AMS is excited to have this opportunity to work with customers to build upon their existing Beamex user experience.

The program is being finalised and a number of speciality presenters from Beamex will assist in running the program. Other presenters will include Mike Farkas from AMS with further guest speakers to be confirmed in the near future.

Specialty presenters

Mike Farkas, Calibration/Flow Product Manager, AMS-IC
Antti Koivisto, Senior Vice President of Sales, Beamex OY
Antti Mäkynen, Product Manager, Beamex OY
Roberto Guaranha, Regional Sales Director, Beamex OY
Jari Kiili, Area Sales Manager, Beamex OY

The deadline for registrations is 16 October 2026.

What: 2026 Beamex User Group
When: 17–18 November 2026
Where: Ramada Marcoola Beach
923 David Low Way, Marcoola Beach, Qld, 4564
Beach Front Ball Room

Ramada Marcoola is offering a 15% accommodation discount when using registration code AMS-IC2026.

A high-speed, real-time optical data connection for industrial applications

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Modern industrial facilities require machines, sensors and control systems to communicate with one another fast and reliably. Traditional wired connections are often inflexible, and wireless solutions are susceptible to interference. Li-Fi Grathus, developed by the Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems IPMS, is designed to address this challenge. The technology uses light for data transmission (Li-Fi), providing a wireless connection that does not rely on radio waves. With data rates of 1 Gb/s or more and a range of up to 10 m, the system is suitable for many industrial applications. A key advantage is its extremely short and predictable (deterministic) latency of less than 100 ns, about 10,000 times lower than 5G and Wi-Fi. This allows for truly real-time data transmission, which is crucial for robotics and precise machine control.

Using light signals instead of radio waves gives Li-Fi Grathus a key advantage: immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is common in industrial environments. The system also supports full-duplex communication, transmitting and receiving simultaneously, which ensures uninterrupted data flow and prevents any time loss. It can be seamlessly integrated into existing systems and networks without major modifications and supports common industrial standards, such as Profinet, EtherCAT, EtherCAT G, SERCOS III and Time Sensitive Networking (TSN). In addition to Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet, it supports USB 3.0/3.1 and user-specific interfaces. An additional side channel with 1 Mb/s supports management, diagnostics and safety signals.

In addition to performance, ease of use is crucial in practical industrial settings. Li-Fi Grathus is designed to offer easy installation: unlike complex optical systems such as free-space setups, which require time-consuming alignment, or costly solutions like beam steering or adaptive optics, Li-Fi Grathus can be installed and operated flexibly without any adjustments. A patented multi-path lens allows higher transmission power and simple manual alignment.

Its thermally stable, compact, plug-and-play design with metal housing protects the technology in everyday industrial use, and eye safety is ensured through the use of Class 1 laser technology.

With its reliable, real-time communication between control, sensor and actuator systems, Li-Fi Grathus is designed for applications that require fast, wireless data transmission. Typical use cases include industrial automation, robotics, motion control, large rotating machinery, logistics systems and high-bandwidth channels for uploading and downloading sensor data in automated guided vehicles (AGVs), as well as backhaul and backbone connections for Wi-Fi and cellular access points.

Wireless connectivity offers significant advantages, especially in flexible production environments, where machines are frequently reconfigured without compromising deterministic performance. It also ensures reliable operation in metallic environments, which are challenging for traditional radio technologies and can lead to failures.

“Li-Fi Grathus builds on more than 15 years of Li-Fi expertise at Fraunhofer IPMS,” said Dr René Kirrbach, Group Leader for Li-Fi at Fraunhofer IPMS. “Our latest development provides fast, secure, real-time optical wireless communication for industrial applications and is compatible with numerous industrial Ethernet standards. Its robust design makes it ideal for demanding industrial environments.”

Li-Fi Grathus is available as an evaluation kit; a ‘ready-to-use’ set that enables the easy replacement of a wired 1 Gbps Ethernet connection with an optical link via plug-and-play, while also allowing testing of the technology’s basic functions in practice. The kit includes two Grathus modules, two Ethernet cables, a power supply and a user manual.

Image: Li-Fi Grathus from Fraunhofer IPMS. ©Fraunhofer IPMS. Credit: Sebastian Lassak

Redesigning for decarbonisation: the shift towards electrified hydraulic power

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Australia’s industrial sector is under increasing pressure to reduce emissions while maintaining productivity and reliability. Rising energy costs, tighter decarbonisation policies and growing demand for sustainable operations are driving companies to rethink how equipment and power systems are designed and operated. Across the mining, oil and gas, manufacturing and infrastructure sectors, electrification and energy-efficient system design are emerging as practical pathways towards decarbonisation.

For many industrial sites, particularly in remote and off-grid environments, diesel-powered systems have traditionally been the only viable option. However, advances in electrified drive technology, battery storage and smarter hydraulic system engineering are now creating opportunities to complement existing diesel infrastructure, helping industrial operators reduce fuel consumption, maintenance requirements and carbon emissions while maintaining reliability.

One area gaining attention is the electrification of hydraulic power systems. Conventional diesel-driven hydraulic power units (HPUs) are widely used across heavy industries, but they often operate inefficiently, particularly in intermittent-duty applications where engines remain running while demand fluctuates. This leads to unnecessary fuel burn, increased servicing requirements and higher operating costs.

Through system engineering and redesign, these systems can be optimised using a combination of electric drive technologies, hybrid architectures and energy-efficient solutions that improve overall efficiency while supporting decarbonisation objectives. HYDAC Australia has been working with customers to develop electrified hydraulic systems using advanced drive technologies such as ENGIRO motors and integrated system solutions designed for industrial applications.

A recent project delivered for an oil and gas customer in Queensland demonstrated the benefits of this approach. The customer operated diesel-driven hydraulic equipment in a remote mining area with limited infrastructure and no access to grid power. The hydraulic system was required intermittently to erect and operate machinery critical to site operations.

HYDAC engineered and integrated an electrified hydraulic solution using an ENGIRO efficiency drive with interior permanent magnet (IPM) technology to complement the existing site infrastructure. The system reduced reliance on diesel operation while maintaining the reliability and flexibility required for remote industrial applications.

The result was a more reliable and efficient hydraulic system with reduced servicing requirements, lower fuel costs and reduced emissions. In remote applications where maintenance access can be difficult and expensive, reducing engine servicing intervals also delivered significant operational benefits.

Battery energy storage is also emerging as a practical solution for reducing reliance on standby diesel generators. Across many remote industrial and mining sites, generators are commonly left in standby mode to ensure sufficient backup power is available to start critical equipment and applications when required. While effective, this approach often results in unnecessary fuel consumption and ongoing engine maintenance, even during periods of low demand.

Battery-based backup systems can provide a complementary or hybrid solution alongside existing diesel infrastructure. By integrating battery storage with existing generator infrastructure, sites can reduce generator runtime, lower fuel consumption and minimise emissions while still maintaining the reliability and backup capability required for critical operations. In some applications, battery systems can also improve system responsiveness and energy efficiency by supplying instant power during startup or peak demand events.

As industries continue progressing towards lower-emission operations, the focus is shifting towards smarter system integration, where existing infrastructure can be enhanced through more energy-efficient technologies and hybrid solutions. Smarter system engineering, energy-efficient drive technologies and integrated electrified solutions are becoming essential tools for improving productivity while supporting long-term sustainability goals.

For Australian industry, decarbonisation is no longer only about meeting policy requirements, it is increasingly becoming an operational and commercial advantage. Companies that invest in higher-efficiency systems today are positioning themselves to reduce operating costs, improve reliability and prepare for the future energy landscape.

Image credit: iStock.com/Shutthiphong Chandaeng

Chinese humanoid robot manufacturer opens mass production plant

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Chinese robotics manufacturer EngineAI Robotics has announced the launch of its EngineAI Intelligent Manufacturing (Honghualing, Shenzhen) Base, alongside the rollout of the first batch of its flagship T800 full-size humanoid robots. The company says it aiming for a 10,000-unit scalable delivery capability.

Spanning around 12,000 m², the Shenzhen Base features an integrated, closed-loop manufacturing process that covers everything from incoming material inspection and component assembly testing to final assembly, end-of-line testing, mass shipment, and after-sales maintenance. The company says a new humanoid robot can roll off the production line every 15 minutes.

The company says the T800 robot is designed for high-dynamic and heavy-duty operational environments.

“From our first test machine in 2024, to the small-scale production of hundreds of PM01 units in 2025, and now to the qualitative leap toward a 10,000-unit delivery capability, we are entering a new phase of industrialisation and commercialisation,” said Zhao Tongyang, Founder and CEO of EngineAI. “By building a manufacturing system centred on quality, efficiency, and intelligent production, we have accelerated our journey from pilot production to mass manufacturing and from zero to scale.”

Founded in October 2023, EngineAI says it has achieved full-stack in-house development across core robotic components, motion control algorithms and embodied AI technologies. Its product portfolio spans multiple application scenarios, including the SA01, designed to make advanced robotics more accessible; the SE01, which demonstrated one of the world's earliest human-like walking capabilities; the PM01, which achieved the world's first humanoid robot front flip; and the T800, designed for high-dynamic and heavy-duty operational environments.

Image credit: EngineAI Robotics

A guide to a cost-effective SIS

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Talk to process engineers and a common frustration quickly emerges around implementing Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS): many plants need certified safety coverage or a logic solver for just a handful of loops, such as an overpressure interlock, pump shutdown or high-temperature trip. Yet the available options are often mismatched to the need. On one end is a basic alarm device for a single function or loop that falls just short of requirements; on the other, you have a full safety PLC that meets the requirements but comes at a cost far beyond what the application justifies. This in-between space, commonly referred to as the ‘safety gap’, is where much of the real-world SIS work resides, and it has remained underserved for years.

The challenge with defaulting to a safety PLC

Specifying a safety PLC for a small SIF (Safety Instrumented Function) is technically defensible under IEC 61511. No one’s going to argue that it is incapable, but in practice, it often creates headaches that outlast the original project. Oftentimes, you are buying more equipment than you need. With these larger, more complex safety logic solvers, you are locked into licensed programming software and complex architectures, where even minor logic changes often require waiting on a certified specialist. This leaves many plants with safety systems that are costly to commission, difficult to modify, and more complex than the application truly demands.

A better fit: multi-loop logic solvers

When point and loop counts are smaller, or when safety loops are not centralised, users should consider installing a logic solver that handles more than one loop but has some of the advanced functionality of the larger safety PLCs. The Moore Industries SLA Multifunctional Safety Logic Solver and Alarm sits squarely in the safety gap. It is exida certified to IEC 61508:2010 with systematic integrity to SIL 3, random integrity to SIL 2, but packaged more like a field instrument than a control system. With up to six analog inputs, 16 internal alarms, and eight physical alarm outputs, simple and complex alarming strategies can be implemented with easy-to-use dropdown menus, radio buttons and check boxes. Even complex alarm voting architectures like 1oo2, 2oo3 and 3oo5 are simple to employ.

Integration with existing control and monitoring systems is straightforward as the SLA supports Modbus/TCP and Modbus RTU industrial protocols. An embedded read-only web server also allows all inputs, outputs, internal variables and various other parameters to be read with a simple web browser.

Configuration without complexity

Setting up an SLA-based safety function is secure, straightforward and hassle-free. No custom or licensed software is required with the SLA, as it is programmed with any FDT-compliant host, such as PACTware. Along with configuration and setup, the SLA’s DTM also includes full monitoring and simulation capabilities that allow users to test alarming and safety functions before installation or commissioning. For more advanced safety functions, the SLA’s powerful but easy-to-use equation/expression editor enables the creation of monitoring, alarming and control schemes that involve simple to complex equations using timers, running min/max functions, prebuilt analog and discrete logic functions, and more.

For a larger image click here.

This means process engineers can more easily own the safety function from commissioning through future modifications, removing a common bottleneck on sites where certified safety PLC specialists are sometimes in short supply.

Getting the size right

The push for functional safety compliance has produced better outcomes across process industries, but it has also driven some unnecessary spending. For small SIS applications, a right-sized solution can often deliver the same certified protection at a fraction of the cost and engineering overhead. The Moore Industries SLA isn’t intended to replace a safety PLC where one is truly required. But for the many applications that fall into the safety gap, it delivers what the market has long lacked: a certified, practical, field-ready solution that keeps you compliant without forcing unnecessary complexity or cost.

Top image credit: iStock.com/Francisco Javier Ortiz Marzo

NSW launches Local Jobs First Commission legislation

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The NSW Government has recently announced that local workers and businesses will be prioritised for government tenders, under its Local Jobs First Commission legislation.

The reform puts three priorities at the centre of every government purchase: locally produced goods and services, local jobs and skills, and support for local small and medium-sized businesses.

The government says the Bill has been developed following consultation with unions, businesses and industry groups, which showed strong, broad-based support for reform. During the consultation period, more than half of respondents were small and medium businesses, reflecting the demand for a more level playing field.

The Bill delivers on those priorities by:

A Local Procurement Policy will prioritise local workers and businesses with a 30% tender weighting for local jobs and skills, local content, and small and medium business participation, and will embed training requirements for apprentices and workers learning new skills on major government projects, helping to re-build the state’s skills base.
A Local Jobs First Advisory Board will inform policy that will boost local supplier competitiveness, and Local Procurement Plans will be required for major contracts to lock in commitments to local jobs and local content.
A Local Jobs First Commissioner will champion and monitor local content, local jobs and skills and small and medium business participation across government procurement.

The Bill will also enable a supplier debarment scheme to remove suppliers found to have committed serious misconduct from the government supply chain. The debarment scheme responds directly to the Independent Commission Against Corruption’s Operation Hector report. It will protect honest businesses and ensure public money is spent responsibly and with integrity.

“This Bill delivers on an important election commitment, putting local businesses, local workers and local communities at the centre of how government spends its valuable procurement dollars,” said Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement Courtney Houssos. “We are backing local industry, supporting small businesses, strengthening local supply chains and building workforce capability.

“This is a significant reform, made even more important in a time of global economic uncertainty.”

“Small and medium businesses should have better access to government contracts. This bill is a positive step toward lifting local procurement ambition by prioritising local businesses via better tender weightings and targets,” said Business NSW CEO Daniel Hunter. “It is critical that we make it easier for local suppliers, particularly SMEs, to participate and compete. That means cutting red tape, reducing the time and cost of bidding, and focusing on the real barriers our members consistently raise.”

Image credit: iStock.com/syahrir maulana

What if your machines could talk? Now they can: meet MYZEL by Pilz

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Production managers and safety professionals can no longer rely on disparate systems or manual documentation; they need integrated, data‑driven visibility over all machines, workflows and personnel.

Pilz, the global expert in machinery safety and security, responds to this challenge with its latest innovation: the MYZEL Lifecycle Platform, a powerful Software‑as‑a‑Service (SaaS) solution designed to unify machinery and personnel management into one secure, intelligent digital environment.

Imagine a digital environment where every machine, every component, every document and every employee qualification is connected, traceable and instantly available. That is the vision behind MYZEL.

With the introduction of MYZEL, Pilz expands its portfolio of products and engineering services into the digital realm. This first release focuses on enabling machine operators, manufacturers and safety professionals to centrally manage machines, documents, and employee qualifications — while ensuring ongoing compliance with legal and safety requirements.

A modular offer to match every user’s needs

At the core of the platform is myCore, the foundation of MYZEL. This is where users digitally map their facilities — including machines, components, and personnel — and securely store essential artefacts such as:

operating manuals
certificates and declarations
maintenance logs
training and qualification records
inspection and validation documents.

All information becomes instantly available via the integrated Asset Management system, offering clarity, traceability and full oversight — anytime, anywhere.

To complement myCore, Pilz offers three optional and flexible workflows. Users can subscribe monthly, selecting only what they need.

1. mySafeDesign — for safe machine design

A structured workflow supporting:

risk assessments
validations
documentation for new machines or modifications to existing ones.

mySafeDesign is ideal for machine builders, integrators, and operators needing compliant design processes.

2. mySafeOperation — for safe machine operation

This workflow guides users through:

preventive maintenance
mandatory inspections
operational safety checks.

It ensures ongoing compliance with legal regulations throughout daily machine use.

3. myAccessControl — for industrial access management

Designed to help organisations:
manage individual access rights
ensure employees are authorised for specific machinery
verify qualifications and permissions before use.

This reduces human error and enhances both safety and security.

The true power of MYZEL lies in its ability to turn operational complexity into effortless clarity. Its customisable dashboard delivers an immediate, real‑time overview of everything that matters:

Expiring certificates
Upcoming maintenance tasks
Compliance gaps
Employee qualifications
The overall safety status of each machine.

By making this information instantly accessible, MYZEL shifts organisations from reactive problem‑solving to proactive lifecycle management, reducing downtime, minimising errors and reinforcing both safety and security at every step.

This clarity is backed by uncompromising protection. Recognising the sensitivity of machinery and personnel data, MYZEL is built on stringent security foundations. The platform is hosted on EU servers and certified to ISO/IEC 27017 for cloud security and ISO/IEC 27018 for personal data protection, giving users complete confidence that their most critical lifecycle information is stored securely and in full compliance with international standards.

And while MYZEL delivers powerful capabilities today, it is also designed for tomorrow. With ongoing enhancements and new functionalities already planned, the platform will continue to evolve alongside the demands of modern industry.

For more information, visit MYZEL Lifecycle Platform - Pilz AU or email sales@pilz.com.au.

LAPP ETHERLINE FD P Cat6 Flex cable for drag chains

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

LAPP Australia’s ETHERLINE FD P Cat6 Flex (Dragchain) cable is engineered for reliable high-speed data transmission in dynamic industrial applications.

Designed specifically for drag chain and moving machinery environments, the Cat6 cable combines high flexibility with industrial-grade durability to support demanding automation systems. The cable is suitable for EtherCAT and EtherNet/IP applications, for 10/100/1000 Mbps industrial Ethernet applications in manufacturing, machinery, robotics, and plant engineering environments.

Its robust PUR outer sheath provides strong resistance to oils, hydraulic fluids, abrasion and harsh climatic conditions, while the overall screening helps protect against electromagnetic interference (EMI) commonly found in industrial settings. The cable is also rated for a minimum of one million bending cycles in drag chain applications, supporting long service life and reduced maintenance requirements.

Flame-retardant construction and halogen-free materials further enhance suitability for industrial installations where safety and reliability are critical. The compact and flexible design also assists installers working within tight machine layouts and continuously moving applications.

For more information: https://lappaustralia.com.au/en/cat6-flex-dragchain.

Camfil HemiPleat pleated filters

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Camfil’s pleated filters take advantage of the company’s HemiPleat technology to keep pleats evenly spaced and fully open using synthetic beads. This ensures the entire filter surface is exposed to airflow, delivering full media utilisation and higher filtration efficiency.

The open pleat structure improves airflow and reduces pressure drop across the filter, both at the start and throughout its life. Lower resistance means reduced energy demand from fans and less compressed air needed for cleaning, helping cut operating costs.

HemiPleat also enhances dust release during pulse cleaning. Filters capture more contaminants and release them more effectively, preventing clogging and extending service life. Testing shows these filters hold more dust before cleaning is required, reducing maintenance and downtime.

When combined with other Camfil systems like the Gold Series X Flo, HemiPleat is designed to deliver optimal media use, high cleaning efficiency and longer-lasting performance. The result is cleaner air, improved reliability, and lower total cost of ownership.

For more information: www.camfil.com.

Advantech ICR-1745 industrial 5G gateway

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The Advantech ICR-1745 is an industrial connectivity gateway designed to connect IP devices and serial buses directly to 5G NR networks. Built for low-latency communication and reliable wireless performance, the ICR-1745 supports industrial M2M and IoT applications requiring real-time data transmission, including environmental monitoring and surveillance.

Leveraging 5G NR technology, the ICR-1745 is designed for fast and responsive data exchange for industrial applications where low latency and high availability are critical.

The ICR-1745 combines essential industrial interfaces in a compact form factor, including five Gigabit Ethernet ports, RS232 and RS485 serial connectivity, and digital I/O (one DI, one DO). Secure communication is supported through VPN tunnels using multiple protocols. Built-in diagnostics provide continuous monitoring of wired and wireless connections, automatic recovery after connection loss and a hardware watchdog for reliable autonomous operation.

Part of the ICR-1700 series, the gateway uses a system-on-module architecture with ICR-OS integrated directly on the cellular module. This approach supports open Linux-based user applications developed in scripts or C/C++. Selected RouterApps can also be deployed to extend firmware functionality using Advantech’s application library.

For large-scale deployments, the ICR-1745 is supported by WebAccess/DMP for device provisioning, monitoring, firmware management and centralised VPN administration.

For more information, click here.

Industrial Devices electric linear actuators

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

In heavy industrial environments, electric linear actuators from Industrial Devices can play a pivotal role in applications requiring robust performance and precision.

In material handling systems, Industrial Devices’ actuators, including the SLZ90P, SLZ90S, SLZ90W, IDM8, IDMA3, PMZ10 and Lambda, can contribute by providing the forceful movement and precision control required for efficient and controlled movement of heavy loads.

In heavy automated machinery such as robotic systems and conveyor systems, electric linear actuators play a crucial role. The robust performance of electric actuators can ensure the reliability and efficiency of automated processes. Designed for continuous operational duty cycles, Industrial Devices’ electric linear actuators can support uninterrupted operation in automated systems.

For more information: https://actuatorselectric.com/industries/heavy-industry/.

EA warns skills shortages remain profession’s biggest challenge

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Engineers Australia has warned that skills shortages and workforce gaps remain a significant challenge following a recent online industry poll of more than 450 industry professionals.

Skills shortages and workforce gaps emerged as the leading concern (44.4%) ahead of workforce burnout and workload (30.3%), funding pressures (20.2%) and project complexity (5.1%).

Engineers Australia Chief Engineer Katherine Richards said the results reflect growing concern across the profession about whether Australia will have the engineering capability needed to meet future demand.

“These results point to a profession that understands the scale of the challenge ahead,” she said. “Our population is growing rapidly. Communities are expanding. Infrastructure demand is increasing. We are building and upgrading the systems Australians rely on every day, from transport and housing to energy, water and digital connectivity. That future cannot be delivered without enough engineers.

“At the same time, a significant proportion of the engineering workforce is approaching retirement age, while participation in STEM subjects, particularly advanced mathematics, continues to decline in many parts of the country.”

Engineering demand is expected to grow by around 20% over the next decade while approximately 70,000 engineers are projected to retire.

Richards said workforce capability must remain a national priority if Australia is to deliver the infrastructure and systems future communities will rely on.

“Engineering underpins almost every aspect of modern life, from transport and housing to water, energy, communications and defence,” she said. “The challenge is not simply replacing workers leaving the profession: it is ensuring we have enough engineers with the right skills to meet increasing demand in a more complex and technology-driven environment.”

To meet future demand and maintain sovereign capability, Engineers Australia is calling for a coordinated national approach to workforce planning, including stronger collaboration between government, industry and universities, expanded industry-linked training pathways, and sustained investment in research and engineering infrastructure.

Image credit: iStock.com/JK1991

Pilz PITgatebox IOLS safety gate control

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Pilz has expanded its IO-Link Safety range with the PITgatebox IOLS. Designed to work seamlessly with the IO-Link Safety Master, the control unit transmits real-time diagnostic data — such as gate status and operating conditions — directly to the plant controller. This enables faster fault detection, reduced downtime and improved machine availability.

Built on the open, standardised IO-Link Safety protocol, the PITgatebox IOLS simplifies both commissioning and maintenance. Its point-to-point connection reduces wiring complexity, while standardised configuration minimises set-up time and effort.

The device can operate as a standalone unit or integrate with Pilz safety switches like PSENmlock, PSENslock 2 and PSENcode, supporting applications with or without guard locking. This flexibility allows users to create a fully modular safety gate solution tailored to their needs.

Combining pushbuttons, key switches and E-STOP functions in a single configurable unit, the PITgatebox IOLS enhances usability while supporting maximum safety.

For more information, click here.

Treotham Treoflex TA35 flexible rubber cable

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The Treoflex TA35 is a premium, flexible rubber cable designed for industrial and outdoor use. Built with fine-stranded Class 5 copper conductors, it is designed to ensure high flexibility and reliable power transmission. Its EPR (ethylene propylene rubber) insulation and durable chloroprene rubber sheath provide high resistance to heat, moisture, abrasion and oils.

With a working voltage rating of 0.6/1 kV and a temperature range of –40 to +90°C, (fixed) and –20 to +90°C (moved), it is suitable for demanding applications, including construction equipment, portable tools and industrial machinery. Available in multiple sizes and multiple core configurations, the Treoflex TA35 offers durability, safety and performance.

For more information, click here.

Camfil TurboPulse self-cleaning air filter

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

The Camfil TurboPulse is a self-cleaning air filter designed for gas turbines and turbomachinery. Featuring innovations including a unique square shape, aerodynamic cage and vanes, and SureGrip gasket, it is engineered to deliver longer filter life, greater strength and easy installation.

Its non-discharging synthetic media and HemiPleat open pleat technology aim to provide enhanced pulsing performance with consistently low and stable pressure drop throughout the filter life. Rated EPA T10, the TurboPulse GTC10 offers a high level of engine protection while supporting improved fuel efficiency and lower CO₂ emissions per MWh.

TurboPulse is suitable for environments with heavy dust where frequent pulsing is necessary and is designed to perform better in high humidity conditions such as tropical and coastal areas. It has been designed to maintain a low and stable pressure drop even during severe sandstorms.

Its aerodynamic shape and TurboVane technology help achieve low initial and operational pressure drop, resulting in lower lifecycle costs. In humid environments, the tapered shape supports better drainage, while the plastic construction is corrosion-free.

Suitable for harsh environments, the filter effectively removes hydrocarbons and salt and can be installed into existing systems with minimal modification.

For more information: www.camfil.com.

MGA Thermal announces major industrial thermal storage project

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

MGA Thermal has announced it has commenced a front-end engineering and design (FEED) study for a 195 MWh electro-thermal energy storage (ETES) project for Tronox, a global chemicals and mining company. The country’s largest industrial-scale thermal storage project is being developed by Australian company Knode and co-funded by a $2.9 million agreement with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).

The project will commence construction in 2027 with support GHD. It will reach commercial operation by 2028 where it will deliver approximately 20 tonnes per hour of renewable steam to Tronox’s Kwinana facility under a heat-as-a-service agreement. The project’s initial rollout will allow Tronox to avoid 38,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per annum, with the potential to eliminate fossil fuel usage if deployed at scale.

The FEED study marks a significant milestone for the company’s flagship project, building on the pre-feasibility completed by MGA Thermal and Knode in August last year. The project reinforces MGA Thermal’s industry momentum following its $17 million capital raise finalised in March 2026. This raise, alongside a separate $3.25 million funding grant secured from ARENA for five separate FEED studies, will power the company’s active industrial projects pipeline.

“This project is the first of several we are actively developing, and it demonstrates that MGA Thermal’s technology is ready to scale across industrial and manufacturing sectors,” said Mark Croudace, CEO of MGA Thermal.

MGA Thermal’s ETES technology stores low-cost renewable electricity in proprietary MGA Blocks — modular, energy-dense blocks engineered to store energy as latent heat. The stored energy is recovered to produce process steam on demand, enabling industrial facilities to operate continuously on renewable energy without fossil fuel backup.

“Progressing to the FEED stage is incredibly important, not just for our project with MGA Thermal, but for the fact that it demonstrates a viable way to electrify heavy industry. Keeping industries like mineral processing, refining and materials manufacturing in Western Australia is going to be highly dependent on being able to decarbonise economically,” said Chris Nelson, CEO of Knode.

Image credit: MGA Thermal

MicroView Mini online hygrometer

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +1000

Designed for real-time trace moisture analysis, the MicroView Mini Online Hygrometer from MCM Moisture Control & Measurement is designed to deliver high-resolution moisture measurement for demanding industrial gas applications. Built around MCM’s silicon oxide sensor technology and the company’s Push Purge sensor heating feature, the analysers provide rapid response, high stability and highly repeatable performance across moisture ranges from parts per million (ppmV) down to parts per billion (ppbV).

Compact, lightweight and easy to integrate, the analyser is suitable for continuous online moisture monitoring across a wide range of industrial applications. Ready to install straight out of the box, it requires no complex set-up, commissioning or operational procedures, and is fully self-managing during routine use. Automatic diagnostics and self-test functions help maintain measurement integrity while minimising maintenance and operator intervention.

An advantage of MCM analysers is their low cost of ownership, requiring no complex sample conditioning or tightly controlled flow and pressure regulation, which simplifies installation and improves operational efficiency. Multi-point calibration is available, with ISO17025 calibration optional for applications requiring enhanced traceability and compliance.

For more information, visit MicroView Hygrometers.