SA Instrumentation and Control has been around for 21 years, and there has been great excitement at Technews as we have been looking back to where we came from and where we are heading. I have been with Technews for around seven of those 21 years, and it has been a wonderful experience to work with such a dedicated group of professionals - and having the privilege of getting to see some fascinating developments.
Digital paper
I see that Siemens has also entered the realm of 'digital paper'. The first time I recall hearing about this technology, the excitement was all about something known as E-Ink. The concept is a display device that is as thin as paper, uses very little power and offers the same contrast advantages as printed paper - with the big plus of being able to be written to electronically. It is fascinating to hear how full-colour, hi-resolution live graphics could one day grace the newspapers and magazines. The technology has some way to go until we see any volumes of this magical paper. It would probably be a long time before it can compare with what can be done with the latest LCD techniques. No doubt we will be seeing some industrial applications for this technology too. Search the web for 'digital paper' and you will find more on this subject.
Pinto's new book
Jim Pinto, known for his commentary on industrial technology and technology trends, has recently produced another of his books. Some may recall the review included in a past issue of SA Instrumentation and Control. We shall be including a review of Jim's latest book 'Pinto's Points' in a future issue. If you do not already subscribe to Jim Pinto's regular eNews, I suggest you visit www.jimpinto.com. It is great stuff for those wanting to keep up to date with the latest happenings on the big names in the industry. At times somewhat irreverent, his commentary is as entertaining as it is informative.
This month's highlights
This month we continue with Maurice McDowell's article on the future of nuclear power ('Nuclear power is here to stay - Part 2'). Interesting to see that SA with its pebble bed research is a leader in advancing nuclear power technology to a state that is more modular, scaleable and safer than techniques used by most others. These developments are bound to offer opportunities for local I&C companies that are on the ball. For those audiophiles among us, Denver Technical Products is looking at building a limited run of vintage valve amplifiers. See 'Valve amp nostalgia'.
Reinstatement opportunity for ECSA registration
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In 2023 the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) announced a special opportunity for engineers in South Africa to reinstate their registration status if it had been cancelled. This exclusive offer is available until the end of August 2024.
Read more...Modular training workstation for Bosch Rexroth Bosch Rexroth Africa
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To enhance its training services and address the shortage of hydraulic and pneumatic skills across the continent, Bosch Rexroth Africa’s training department has unveiled a state-of-the-art modular training workstation.
Read more...Pepperl+Fuchs Channel Partner Conference Pepperl+Fuchs
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Pepperl+Fuchs recently hosted its Channel Partner Conference. Under the theme ‘Together, Breaking Ground in Africa’, the conference served as both a celebration of partnerships and a strategic forum focused on future growth.
Read more...Bühler celebrates expansion, innovation and sustainability
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Bühler has marked another milestone in its dedication to regional support with the expansion of its Cape Town Service Centre. Hosting its annual customer day, the company showcased the facility’s new offerings and highlighted its commitment to service excellence, local innovation, and sustainability.
Read more...From the editor's desk: First break it, then fix it Technews Publishing (SA Instrumentation & Control)
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Welcome to another year with SA Instrumentation & Control. May it be a happy and healthy one where you can rise to the challenges ahead and still enjoy all the good things we have in this country.
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Read more...SEW-EURODRIVE’s new service and repair centre SEW-EURODRIVE
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As part of its strategy to ‘close the loop’ in its service offering, SEW-EURODRIVE has broken ground on a new 17 000 m2 Service and Repair Centre. The establishment of the state-of-the-art facility plugs the gap for expert repair services for gearboxes in Africa.
Read more...EtherCAT Technology Group holds its annual Plug Fest
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The 2024 EtherCAT Plug Fest of the EtherCAT Technology Group offered participants a valuable opportunity to test the interoperability of their 9 EtherCAT MainDevices and 10 EtherCAT SubDevices. Using the knowledge gained, they will be able to improve compatibility and optimise their products for use in the field.
Read more...Leading the way in industrial automation and digital transformation Iritron
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As a pioneering engineering, integration, and manufacturing firm, Iritron has built a reputation as a trusted partner in critical industries such as mining, energy and manufacturing. By embedding innovation and expertise into its four foundational pillars, the company continues to deliver tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern industry.
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