Mechanical Engineer Presents Down Under

STEM Day (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) was celebrated on 8 November with consulting engineering and infrastructure advisory firm Zutari shining the spotlight on Ayesha Jacobs who is a mechanical and mechatronic engineer in Zutari’s Power Generation team. Ayesha has an abiding care and concern for the well-being of people and our planet, hence her […]

Robotics Team Wins World Title

In an inspiring demonstration of innovation and teamwork, Texpand, a South African youth robotics team, recently made history by winning the 2024 FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) World Championships. Over 200 teams from across the globe were vying for the coveted title. The South African team’s success was assisted in part by high-tech polymer components donated […]

Understanding Advanced Engineering Concepts

Yaskawa SA has long recognised the potential of young technicians. Through development programmes, mentorship, and training, the company ensures that its workers are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the sector. And this investment in youth is paying off, as demonstrated by the success stories of individuals like Mpho Maseko and […]

Machine Learning in Robotics

Machine Learning in Robotics The integration of machine learning (ML) into robotics has the potential to revolutionise many industries, and in particular, the manufacturing sector. Productivity, efficiency, precision, and flexibility are of the essence in this industry and its incorporation into production processes is increasing at a rapid pace. Yaskawa South Africa, among others, is […]

Cable Protection for Longer Runs

Polymer energy chain manufacturer, igus, has introduced a new lighter weight e-chain for cable management/protection applications with large unsupported lengths and high fill weights, previously the domain of larger, more expensive energy chains. The manufacturer’s “L” Lean variant has been specially designed for users who find the industry standard E4Q too large. From the seventh […]

Robotic Tasks Made Easy

A new low-cost modular robotics kit from motion plastics manufacturer, igus, makes automation extremely easy and affordable for manufacturing companies in South Africa. Cost-effective automation is the best possible solution for gripping, turning, pivoting and placing items and returning them to their initial position, especially in the case of simple pick-and-place tasks performed over a […]

Bridge between Sensors and Controllers

Available from RS South Africa, IO-Link is a standardised communication protocol used in the automation and industrial sectors. It acts as a bridge between sensors and controllers, enabling seamless communication and control of various sensors and actuators. While IO-Link is versatile and supports various devices, RS PRO IO-Link sensors have emerged as a game-changer for […]

Robotic Precision and Speed

John Mostert, Sales Manager at Yaskawa Southern Africa says that their Yaskawa’s Motoman GP20 robot is more than just a machine.

Microwave Sensor Options for Mill Installations

ABB has updated its KPM KC7 microwave consistency transmitter portfolio with a larger flow-through sensor to fit process pipes with a diameter of up to 16”, giving more customers the choice to measure the total consistency of mixed pulps with a flow-through sensor. The company has also launched a redesigned insertion type with an improved […]

Manufacturing Sector’s Readiness for Industry 4.0

The fortunes of our members and readers are closely allied to the manufacturing sector. A recent report from PwC provides some insights.  The manufacturing sector is South Africa’s fourth largest sector and a key driver of economic growth. However, industrialisation challenges in recent decades and the relatively slow adoption of new technologies have hampered the […]