Advancements in automation technology and the desire for smarter machines are resulting in a revolutionary leap forward. AI, IoT and sustainability goals are shaping industrial processes. To address the changing automation technology landscape, Murrelektronik has developed Vario-X.

In an age of growing connectivity, the choice between wired and wireless communication can be the deciding factor in the performance and efficiency of a system. Here, Ross Turnbull, Director of Business Development and Product Engineering at Swindon Silicon Systems, offers his advice on optimal sensor communication, no matter the environment.

Automation can help boost the food industry's traceability, efficiency and quality control. All these benefits can help companies reduce food waste and damaged products, as Adnan Khan, manager of food and beverage industries at Beckhoff UK, explains.

The last two years have seen a slowdown in investment by the global food and drink industry, particularly in terms of products containing added sugar. However, plant-based drinks and alternative proteins have continued to grow as a sector, says Antonio Guillermo Jara Ponce, systems sales manager at HRS Heat Exchangers.

Phil Brown, sales director at food safety specialist Fortress Technology explores the ongoing protein boom and how companies can ensure consumer health and hygiene is prioritised.

Fortress Technology explores why we have always needed weighing technology throughout food production history. From manual weight checks using balance scales to advanced automated checkweighing systems, European Sales Director Phil Brown delves into their origins, how the technology evolved and why these machines will continue to remain integral to trading standards, consumer rights, brand protection and quality control.

Tom Cash, director of automation parts supplier, Foxmere, explains how the latest innovations in conveyor maintenance can help engineers to reduce the cost of planned and unplanned downtime.

By leveraging real-time data analysis and predictive modelling, Advanced Process Control (APC) technologies enhance process stability, product quality and operational efficiency. Here Stephen Hayes, managing director of Beckhoff UK, explains how APC can significantly enhance operational performance, reduce variability and drive cost savings.

Choosing the right bearings and linear motion systems can make all the difference in harsh food and beverage environments, where machines and processes operate round-the-clock and where frequent washdowns occur. Preventing production downtime and extending the life of machines and equipment is the ultimate goal, says Tom Richmond, food and beverage sales engineer at Schaeffler UK.

Kieran Bennett, Industry Account Manager for food and beverage at Burkert, looks at the recent innovations in process control and the benefits they bring to the food and beverage industry generally, and the brewing process in particular.