Using a plug-and-play approach, manufacturers can introduce modularity to their packaging automation and benefit from this flexibility. Here, Mark Richards, regional manager at Beckhoff UK, explores how modularity can help manufacturers streamline their packaging processes.

In the food and beverage industry, where hygiene, consistency and uninterrupted production are fundamental, Satron's PASVE mounting and service valve has become a quietly indispensable tool.

Murrelektronik has connectivity solutions for food zone (1) as well as to the spray zone (2) and the non-food or dry zone (3).

OMRON Electronic Components has introduced an advanced safety-camera module, pre-trained to detect factory operators wearing cleanroom protective clothing, delivering a convenient, pluggable solution for machine builders and system integrators.

Titan Enterprises highlights six practical steps to minimise the engineering challenges associated with integrating sensor technology into existing systems.

Food safety audits continue to uncover a strikingly consistent set of non-conformities year after year. Ann-Kathrin Kuehle, Industry Insights Manager, Mettler-Toledo Product Inspection explores how manufacturers can close these gaps.

Norstat continues to develop its line-up of vacuum and pressure sensors with the PICO-02, an adaptable sensor that incorporates a rotatable display and keypad.

Sensor specialist Baumer says it offers the best choice of IO-Link sensor products enabling you to achieve unmatched speed, accuracy and usability in your manufacturing application.

The food and beverage industry has been slower to adopt automation than some other areas of manufacturing. Short-term supplier contracts and a reliance on cheap labour have proved obstacles to investment for some food producers, limiting their ability to grow their production capabilities. Fortunately, automation systems incorporating robotics from leading suppliers such as FANUC are now becoming a common sight in many food factories around the UK.