“The convergence of IT and OT [operations technology] is a lot about opportunity, and … luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity,” said Cliff Whitehead, Rockwell Automation Technology Business Development Manager. Because of the increased demand on industrial production and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT, also called smart manufacturing), industrial firms are starting to recognize the value of converging the plant floor with higher-level IT infrastructure. However, this convergence is highlighting a skills gap between the control engineer and the IT professional. “With IIoT, the evidence is in,” 

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Motor & Generator Section will host a second series of free webinars in December related to the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) motor regulation, which will take effect on June 1, 2016. DOE recently amended Section 431 of the federal energy code covering the efficiency of electric motors. The NEMA Motor & Generator Section created a presentation detailing how coverage of electric motors will change in the new regulation. 

Q: Under the minor servicing exception, when is it okay to not lockout a machine? A: When performing routine operations on production equipment, plant floor personnel often find shutting down a machine to be a laborious, time-consuming task, especially when …

Intralox SeamFree belting is specially designed to help processors reduce sanitation times, water usage, and manual labor needs. The absence of bricklayed seams across the width of the belt, combined with its non-porous, nonabsorbent plastic material, serve to decrease contamination risks and promote top-of-the-line food safety.

The Connected Enterprise is helping companies across the globe achieve faster time to market, optimize their assets, and lower their total cost of ownership. This year at Automation Fair, Rockwell Automation has dedicated a track of technical sessions to The Connected Enterprise and its business benefits. Take at look at these Connected Enterprise sessions and view the full Automation Fair session schedule to see what training opportunities fit your needs.

Heard Around the Warehouse is a monthly compilation of news from CBT partners and key headlines from the manufacturing industry. See something we missed? Let us know!

Manufacturing Awards Winners Named

Enterprise connectivity represents a massive opportunity for progressive machine builders and their customers. By connecting control systems and making information available and actionable, you give your customers the scope to make unprecedented operational improvements. But having a complex, interconnected system carries risk, with cyber criminals and competitors looking to turn access to their advantage, which could be terminal for your customers and your business. Protecting your intellectual property is more important than ever. Check out this infographic to learn why. 

Area manufacturing professionals have the opportunity to expand their knowledge and network with industry peers at two manufacturing conferences next week. AME 2015 International Conference will be held from October 19-23 in Cincinnati, and AMTS 2015 will be held from October 21-22 in Vandailia.