The Journal
from Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork™
The JOURNAL from Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork™ is a bimonthly magazine, published by Putman Media, Inc., designed to educate engineers about leading-edge industrial automation methods, trends and technologies.
How to Reduce Mechanical Resonance
August 27, 2019
Low-voltage AC drives with advanced analytics can help cut costs by detecting and mitigating mechanical resonance issues, so machines run more efficiently.
eBook Helps Food & Beverage Producers
August 26, 2019
The new 2019 Food & Beverage eBook helps you understand how to integrate and optimize smart machines and use data analytics to show you where you can improve processes.
Machines Run Longer with Drive-Based Analytics
August 26, 2019
AC drives using predictive diagnostics settings monitor drive and motor operating conditions to show you the true remaining life of the drive’s components.
Design Automation Systems for Linear Actuators
August 25, 2019
These factors and principles help electrical and mechanical engineers early in the development process to effectively implement linear motion solutions.
5 Reasons to Use AC Drives with Safety
August 21, 2019
Boost productivity, simplify systems and optimize performance by using AC drives that provide advanced safety over Ethernet.
You Don’t Need Another Brain Teaser
August 15, 2019
Converting a legacy platform to a modern DCS may look complex, but using these best practices provides opportunities for significant process improvements.
How an Oil & Gas Company Achieves 99% Uptime
August 14, 2019
A modern distributed control system helped an offshore exploration and production firm achieve its first deepwater-field extraction in just 36 months.
Boost Efficiency During Power System Upgrades
August 13, 2019
As oil and gas facilities deal with aging power-distribution systems, intelligent packaged power can provide insight-rich data for performance improvement.
eBook Helps Food & Beverage Producers
August 12, 2019
The new 2019 Food & Beverage eBook helps you understand how to integrate and optimize smart machines and use data analytics to show you where you can improve processes.
Is Your Connected Device Secure?
August 11, 2019
Some IIoT devices are still playing catch-up with security, but technology advances now help protect connected devices from sophisticated cyberthreats.
Why Smart Factories Need End-to-End Traceability
August 11, 2019
With a traceability infrastructure, you can gather insight-rich data that helps improve manufacturing processes, compliance and supply chain management.
5 Mistakes When Purging & Pressurizing Enclosures
August 10, 2019
The technique is simple if done properly, but users often implement it incorrectly if they don’t know the standards or system’s characteristic gas flow.
Get Ready for Automation Fair in Chicago
August 6, 2019
The 2019 event offers a feast of technology and information covering the latest control, power and IT/OT best practices for industrial automation.
Editor's Viewpoint: The Global Economy’s Lifeblood
August 5, 2019
Editor Theresa Houck describes her admiration for oil and gas industry professionals, and describes how The Journal’s 2019 Oil & Gas eBook helps those pros boost reliability and safety.
August 2019 Full Issue
August 4, 2019
Download the full PDF of the August 2019 print issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork.
3 Keys to Effective Industrial Network Security
July 13, 2019
Systems with multi-layer protection, built-in security, and technologies that combine safety and security are essential for connected operations.
Networks & Security eBook Protects Architectures
July 12, 2019
The new 2019 Networks & Security eBook from The Journal magazine is designed to help you maintain reliability and security for this vital asset.
What’s the Real Value of Cybersecurity?
July 12, 2019
Protecting your IT and OT networks before, during and after a cyberattack not only helps saves systems and equipment, but also reduces and prevents costly downtime.
Plant Managers! Do You Know About This Threat?
June 26, 2019
Cyberattacks from just one compromised device can open your entire enterprise to profound risk, so avoid acquiring surplus or repaired automation products.
Smart Batch Processing is at Your Fingertips
June 25, 2019
Pharmaceutical manufacturers can use IIoT devices for predictive and prescriptive analytics to optimize production and minimize process deviations.
VIDEO: Consultancy Platform Helps Workflow
June 24, 2019
EPLAN Software & Service, introduces the ground-breaking Panel-Building Automation Matrix (PAM), the first business consultancy platform in the engineering industry.
Manage Risk in Smart Manufacturing
June 23, 2019
Proper cyber hygiene, design, assessments and execution help you benefit from a Connected Enterprise without compromising productivity or profitability.
VIDEO: Cybersecurity Software Protects OT Networks
June 22, 2019
Claroty highlights its continuous threat-detection product that helps industrial users examine asset inventory, anomalous behaviors on the plant floor, and cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
R(EV)OLUTION
June 6, 2019
Battery makers need a long-term automation strategy now if they’re going to keep up with the unprecedented growth of the electric vehicle market.
Making Electric Vehicles in the Age of IIoT
June 5, 2019
Learn how smart manufacturing strategies can help you produce high-quality electric vehicles quickly, affordably and with minimal risk.
6 Key Factors for Cellular Wireless Remote Access
June 4, 2019
The always-on nature of cellular wireless communications and cloud-based networking provides real-time connectivity and boosts control-system efficiency.
Grober Nutrition Boosts Efficiency with Modern DCS
June 3, 2019
Company simplifies, optimizes animal feed production using controller-based batch and sequencing at its new milk replacer production facility.
New eBook Helps Process Manufacturers
June 3, 2019
Educational Oil & Gas eBook helps you prepare for new gas safety standards; develop safer, more efficient chemical operations; optimize well pads and digital oilfields; and more.
Webinar: Digital Twins for Modeled Machine Design
June 3, 2019
This short webinar explains how digital twins — dynamic models of machine performance — help you accurately, safely and cost-effectively size motors, gearboxes and other machine components.
How Smart Cameras are Changing Manufacturing
June 1, 2019
Some applications are better suited to one type of machine vision system versus another. Here’s how to evaluate systems and cameras to achieve your goals.
VIDEO: Planetary Gearbox Offers High Precision
June 1, 2019
Apex Dynamics, Inc., demonstrates its new AF series, a carbon steel, planetary gear box with high precision, quiet operation, and ≤1arcmin in a single-stage applications.
Smart Manufacturing Advances Electric Vehicles
May 31, 2019
Editor Theresa Houck explains how demand for electric vehicles is growing at an unprecedented rate, and automakers need a Connected Enterprise to keep up with demand and grow their business.
June 2019 Full Issue
May 30, 2019
Download the full PDF of the June 2019 print issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork.
Is Your Machine Safety ‘On’ or ‘Off?’
May 28, 2019
Learn 5 steps that can help you mitigate risk, protect workers and stay in compliance with safety regulations.
Use Predictive Analytics to Avoid Downtime
May 28, 2019
Predictive models allow users to reduce maintenance costs and minimized unplanned downtime in high-power variable-frequency drive applications.
VIDEO: Magnetic Kit Encoders are Easy to Install
May 27, 2019
Patrick Maxwell, POSITAL FRABA Inc., demonstrates the new kit encoder, a rugged, accurate rotary position measurement sensor ideal for servo-motor manufacturers.
Download the Motors & Electrical Systems eBook
May 26, 2019
Learn how to get more out of VFDs; control multiple motors with just 1 VFD; convert to soft starters economically; create smarter electrical control systems; and optimize linear actuators.
VIDEO: Position Sensor Uses Smart Diagnostics
May 25, 2019
MTS Systems Corp., Sensors Division, shows its powerful, Industry 4.0-ready magnetostrictive linear position sensing technology, with high resistance to vibration and high temperatures.
VIDEO: Smart Devices from Rockwell Automation
May 22, 2019
See how Rockwell Automation smart devices enable users’ Connected Enterprise by providing seamless integration and raw data to help enhance productivity.
Information is Power
April 7, 2019
Manufacturing execution systems help firms get better production visibility and plant-ERP connectivity to optimize the workforce, equipment and materials.
Cargill Achieves Sustainable Process Optimization
April 6, 2019
Agricultural firm boosts efficiencies, throughput and yield with global rollout of control loop performance-monitoring and advanced diagnostics solution.
How a Steel Producer Improved Yield by 3%
April 6, 2019
Railway track accessories company improved uptime and processes by using manufacturing intelligence software to eliminate manual data handling.
Search Your Industrial Plant Like Google
April 6, 2019
Explore volumes of production data with easy, search-engine-like abilities to monitor and improve operations in ways you haven’t even thought of yet.
Download the 2019 Oil & Gas eBook
April 5, 2019
New report offers unique perspective on how industrial process automation professionals can improve equipment performance and safety.
The Journal Celebrates 25 Years
April 4, 2019
Publication continues its mission, sharing the top industrial automation trends and best practices to help you maximize plant efficiency, profitability and productivity.
Prepare to get Savvy at TechED
April 4, 2019
Week-long event shares the latest technologies, applications and best practices and solutions for attendees to use in their own operations.
VIDEO: Spectrum Controls Expands Offerings
April 4, 2019
Spectrum Controls has announced four new or expanded offerings for its family of analog cards, InView displays, Webport solution and Universal Industrial Gateway.
Why Metals Matter to Me
April 3, 2019
Editor Theresa Houck describes her personal experience with welding, and how it relates to how an MES helps firms get better production management.
April 2019 Full Issue of The Journal
April 2, 2019
Download the full PDF of the April 2019 print issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork
The Basics of Digital Twins
March 26, 2019
Every digital twin is different, so you can achieve improved efficiency by understanding how they work and appropriate applications.
Where to Start with Industrial Analytics
March 25, 2019
Use these tips to learn how to create useful information and drive real results in your operations.
Webinar: How Digital Twins Aid Machine Design
March 24, 2019
Digital twins help designers create safer, more cost-effective machines. In this short webinar, see how they can help you accurately size motors, gearboxes and other machine components.
VIDEO: Electronics Built into Transmitter’s Cable
March 19, 2019
Endress+Hauser shows its extended Liquiline transmitter family with the new CM82 compact transmitter that has electronics built into the cable, for Endress+Hauser Memosens sensors.
VIDEO: Router Communicates Regardless of Protocol
March 18, 2019
HMS Networks demonstrates its eWON Flexy, the first industrial modular M2M router and data gateway for OEMs, system integrators. It allows universal communication regardless of protocol.
Video: Optimizing Remanufacturing Services
March 13, 2019
In this facility walk-through, learn how the Rockwell Automation remanufacturing process extends equipment life and gets your Allen-Bradley® product back to you functioning like new.
Video: VFD Cables Help Prevent Motor Failure
March 12, 2019
Southwire Co. describes its line of VFD cables, which run from the drive to the motor to supply power and solves problems such as motor failure and issues with PLCs.
Video: Flame/Gas Safety System Globally Certified
March 11, 2019
In this video, Det-Tronics shows the Eagle Quantum Premier (EQP) control flame and gas safety controller with DLR outputs, a SIL-2 capable, fault-tolerant, addressable system.
Today’s Smart Devices Teach Us Lessons
March 3, 2019
Smart machines now can be connected from contactors and sensors to a plant’s CMMS and to the engineers, technicians, operators and managers.
EPCs Can Reduce Risk in E-house Design
March 2, 2019
An intelligent packaged power system can help you deliver smarter e-houses at a lower cost with benefits for your customers.
Cloud Solution Lets Panel Builders Produce Faster
March 1, 2019
EPLAN Software & Service shows its engineering and design workflow software that helps panel builders slash manufacturing time by publishing user data to the cloud.
Webinar: Smart Motor Control for Smarter Machines
February 28, 2019
This webinar on Smart Devices discusses how you can use an integrated, data-driven approach to improve productivity avoid motor failures.
Transformers are Designed for Hazardous Locations
February 26, 2019
Hammond Power Solutions shows its Sentinel Series of transformers with an IR window and a surge protective device that complements the transformer’s ability to attenuate voltage spikes.
The Smart Food Revolution
February 7, 2019
For food and beverage companies wondering about smart machines, ask your OEM about these three factors to find out if smart machines can help you.
Brewery Increases Capacity by 50% in 2 Weeks
February 5, 2019
Process automation system upgrade and integrated software help craft beer maker meet growing consumer demand, improve quality and avoid high capital costs.
February 2019 Full Issue
February 5, 2019
The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork
How OEMs Use Smart-Machine Services to Help Users
February 5, 2019
Machine and equipment builders can use remote monitoring, consumables and other scalable services to remain competitive and help customers prosper.
2018 Automation Fair Taps into IIoT
February 4, 2019
Annual event showcased to attendees from around the world the ongoing adaption of the Industrial Internet of Things and convergence of IT and operations technology.
Are You Ready for the New Gas Safety Standards?
February 4, 2019
These proposed changes to IEC standards for hazardous gas detection expected to take effect in 2020 will impact process manufacturers.
How to Increase Industrial Control Panel SCCR
February 4, 2019
Using control-panel components designed to perform in the worst-case scenario will help keep people and equipment safe should an incident occur.
Mondeléz Rolls Out its Integrated Digital Factory
February 4, 2019
Mondeléz's Bob Pegher describes how the company has begun to roll out a standardized data-enablement methodology across its global fleet of production facilities.
VIDEO: Edge Computing Solution Helps Operators, IT
February 4, 2019
In this video, Stratus Technologies introduces ztC Edge, an industrial computing platform that helps understaffed manufacturers boost operator efficiency, reduce IT burden and cut downtime.
9 Industrial Automation Trends You Must Understand
February 2, 2019
Free report shows how the shift to smart manufacturing is affecting manufacturers of all sizes.
Excellence Abounds in Our Industry
February 2, 2019
Executive Editor Theresa Houck invites you to submit nominations for the 2019 Influential Women in Manufacturing (IWIM) awards.
Ambassador Observes WITTENSTEIN’s Apprenticeships
February 1, 2019
Rare emissary visit is part of the U.S. government’s efforts to support manufacturers’ programs advancing workforce development.
Steps to Optimize Your Machine Safety Systems
January 16, 2019
Safety-system design, standard and technology changes now allow OEMs and end users to boost efficiencies and compliance and be more profitable.
Tips for Developing a Safer Chemical Operation
January 15, 2019
A proactive, standards-based approach that addresses a plant’s process safety throughout its life cycle can help reduce both risk and costs.
VIDEO: Predictive Maintenance System Uses IIoT
January 15, 2019
Grace Engineered Products shows its predictive maintenance system of smart devices that combine low-power wireless smart-sensor technology with advanced data analytics.
Polarization Cameras Advance Product Inspection
January 14, 2019
Production-line vision systems now can use cameras with polarized image sensors that remove glare from objects for more efficient product analysis.
VIDEO: IP69K Linear Motor is Liquid Cooled
January 13, 2019
In this video from 2018 PACK EXPO International, LinMot USA demonstrates three new features for its linear servo drives and guides.
Survey: Manufacturers Use Safety to Boost Profits
January 12, 2019
EHS, operations and engineering functions are collaborating to improve all aspects of safety, and thus efficiency and profits.
Security & Safety Work in Concert
December 6, 2018
Increasingly, network security breaches are creating safety risks for connected, smart manufacturing, so safety and security must be managed together.
Cybersecurity: A Process, Not a Project
December 5, 2018
Protect production, workers and intellectual property by maintaining cybersecurity with these best practices.
Polarization Cameras Advance Product Inspection
December 5, 2018
Production-line vision systems now can use cameras with polarized image sensors that remove glare from objects for more efficient product analysis.
Cyber Safety & Security: A Shared Responsibility
December 4, 2018
The emergence of physical and digital convergence requires an innovative fusion of once disparate disciplines: cybersecurity and physical safety.
Modern DCS Helps Convert Wastewater to Safe Water
December 4, 2018
Pollution control agency improves control over process and data, helps water treatment facility save millions and supply recycled water for crops.
VIDEO: IP69K Linear Motor has Liquid Cooling
December 4, 2018
In this video from 2018 PACK EXPO International, LinMot USA demonstrates three new features for its linear servo drives and guides.
What is Edge Computing, and Why Should You Care?
December 4, 2018
Not all smart devices must use the cloud. See how edge performs hosting, storage, computing and analysis and pushes aggregate data to a centralized plant.
14 Years and I’m Still Fascinated
December 3, 2018
In her December 2018 Editor’s Viewpoint, Theresa Houck says she’s still excited about our industry’s evolving technology after 14 years, and is sharing an Industry Trends Report.
Blind Spots in the Industrial Revolution of Things
December 3, 2018
When modernizing your network cybersecurity infrastructure and virtualized digital assets with processes and technology, don’t ignore the people factor.
Machine Vision Explained
December 3, 2018
Vision systems are used for manufacturing line inspection and non-inspection tasks, so here’s what you need to know about what’s right for your operation.
December 2018 Full Issue
December 2, 2018
Download the full PDF of the December 2018 print issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork.
How to Create Smarter Electrical Control Systems
November 26, 2018
System integrators can bring intelligent packaged power that integrate better with smart manufacturing operations than traditional electrical control.
Optimize Your Electrical Control System Upgrade
November 25, 2018
Unifying your electrical and process control systems into one digital infrastructure can provide greater plantwide visibility and boost productivity.
Poor Power Quality Costs You Time and Money
November 24, 2018
Ongoing testing and monitoring using tools to measure waste caused by harmonics and unbalance can determine waste and prevent work stoppages.
Designing a Panel? Contactors Can Help Cut Costs
November 23, 2018
Three features are engineered into modern contactors to optimize your budget through an improved coil, smaller size and expanded certification.
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Is Your Machine Built for Thin Clients?
November 5, 2018
More manufacturers are adopting a simpler centralized information management paradigm based on thin client technology and expect machines to conform.
The New Norm for Operational Security
November 5, 2018
As technology and connectivity advance, industrial control system engineers face new security issues.
Safely Use Mobile Devices in Hazardous Areas
November 4, 2018
Understanding ignition sources and levels of device protection are crucial to reducing risk.
Insights from TÜV-Certified Machine Safety Experts
October 15, 2018
Safety professionals with respected accreditations answer questions about functional safety and productivity, operational excellence and worker morale.
Improve Energy Management in Food & Bev Production
October 14, 2018
In four steps, manufacturers can use data and control to create an effective energy-management strategy: monitor, analyze, control and sustain gains.