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.
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.
Rockwell Automation, PTC Bring Next Step in IIoT
October 14, 2018
Strategic partnership provides integrated IIoT platform that gives users manufacturing analytics that matter to them and drive results.
3 Steps to Strong Cybersecurity
October 13, 2018
Benefitting from smart manufacturing requires a security strategy to help secure your infrastructure, protect assets and maintain network availability.
Data Mixed Just Right
October 4, 2018
See how modern batch systems can use The Connected Enterprise to deliver secure, data-driven control for flexible, optimized production performance.
Automation Fair Puts Future in Your Hands
October 3, 2018
See for yourself the digital technologies, converged networks and other smart technologies driving industrial automation trends.
Report: 9 Top Industrial Automation Trends in 2018
October 2, 2018
New eBook shows how the shift to smart manufacturing is affecting manufacturers, and highlights supporting technologies displayed at the 2018 Automation Fair® event.
4 Ways to Optimize Electric Actuator Performance
October 1, 2018
Use these tips to help get the most efficiency and reliability from your electric rod-style actuators in high-speed or high-accuracy applications.
How to Get a Connected Chemical Plant
September 30, 2018
Use of smarter, integrated technologies can help monitor and boost asset performance, enhance flexibility, reduce risk and improve maintenance.
Control System Drives New Polymer Plant
September 29, 2018
Learn how Mitsubishi Chemical sped up its polymer production site deployment for automotive airbags and used remote access to reduce start-up challenges.
NEC Code Changes That Affect SCCRs
September 28, 2018
Learn about some of the most significant new and updated 2017 NEC and how they impact you regarding available Short-Circuit Current Ratings.
2018 Digital Manufacturing eBook Now Available
August 26, 2018
Digital manufacturing is here and growing. This free resource dives into the nitty gritty of how smart manufacturing affects you.
Get More from VFDs with Predictive Maintenance
August 25, 2018
Variable-frequency drives run integral production operations, and predictive maintenance can help avoid unplanned downtime and unneeded replacements.
Learn About Temp Control in Thermal Processes
August 25, 2018
New white paper explains electromechanical contactors, solid-state relays and SCR power controllers.
Convert Traditional Starters to Soft Starters
August 24, 2018
Soft starters help boost efficiency, reduce motor wear and tear, and cut preventive maintenance costs.
When Did You Last Think About Your MCCs?
August 22, 2018
Motor control centers are the unsung heroes of almost every manufacturing facility, yet often don’t enough attention. What is the cost of their failure?
As Time Advances, So Will Your Operations
August 15, 2018
Take a look into the future to see how current control, analytics and safety technologies will reshape industries in the coming decades.
Automation Fair Event Returns to Philadelphia
August 14, 2018
The 2018 event boasts the latest information in control, power and IT/OT technologies and trends for industrial automation that are driving innovation.
Control Upgrade Helps Optimize Well Pad
August 14, 2018
Well-manager solution integrating a modern control system and HMI enhances flexibility, production visibility and safety in large oil and gas operation.
Reimagine Your Motion System
August 14, 2018
Smart motion control speeds up changeovers and boosts productivity with a flexible approach instead of conventional, complex mechanical systems.
Connected Enterprises Embrace Serialization
August 13, 2018
Integrating serialization and traceability systems with the enterprise helps manufacturers minimize risk while boosting effectiveness and productivity.
Security for Industrial Remote Access
August 13, 2018
How can you help keep your remote equipment network remains secure? These tips about protecting your infrastructure can help.
Ways to Merge Legacy Equipment with IIoT
August 12, 2018
You can implement Internet-based connectivity on older equipment to get smart manufacturing’s benefits of increased visibility, uptime and profitability.
What are Data Diodes?
August 12, 2018
Learn how and why these one-way devices are increasingly being used to help protect industrial networks against common cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
Editor's Viewpoint: One Question I Despise
August 11, 2018
In her August 2018 Editor’s Viewpoint, Theresa Houck says it’s easier to predict the future of industrial automation than to tell a job interviewer where you see yourself in five years.
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Improve Cybersecurity with Network Segmentation
July 2, 2018
An open and unsegmented network is a gift to cyber attackers. By using network segmentation, you can restrict their access and limit potential damage.
How to Design a Network Infrastructure
July 1, 2018
Industrial network switches range from unmanaged, to lightly managed, and even fully managed switching solutions. This guide helps determine the best choice for your application.
Oil and Gas Operation Gains New Visibility
July 1, 2018
Crude oil refinery reduces downtime and improves diagnostics and network security with control system upgrades and integrated asset management software.
10 Worker Safety and Productivity Tips
June 26, 2018
These insights can help you deal with challenges of finding skilled workers, globalization, automating, and safety and security worries.
Is It OK to Bypass a Machine Safety Function?
June 25, 2018
Find out why overriding a safety function still can allow a safe workplace and standards compliance — and why you need to assess how it might happen.
Design Your Safety System for Better Uptime
June 24, 2018
Familiarity with LOTO standards can yield significant cost savings.
Is Your Safety System’s Life Cycle Healthy?
June 24, 2018
Right-sizing your solution helps prevent the extra costs of over protection and the risks that come from too little protection.
More Data Than Meets the Eye
June 6, 2018
Smart machines can give OEMs new asset visibility to help reduce end-user downtime, meet performance guarantees and improve machine designs.
OEMs Aim for Speed and Agility
June 6, 2018
CPG and food packaging equipment makers are helping end users meet needs for personalization, ever-changing consumer expectations, food safety and more.