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.
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.
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.
Virtual Commissioning Leaps Into Automation
June 6, 2018
VC creates easier, more powerful methods for model-based design by using a digital twin — a virtual representation of a corresponding physical product — and helps cut delays and costs.
White Paper: Electric Actuators and TCO
June 6, 2018
This free white paper explains factors to examine when determining whether electric actuators or pneumatic cylinders offer the best overall solution for plant optimization.
Yes, You Can Optimize Food Safety and Productivity
June 6, 2018
Smart manufacturing helps food and beverage producers get better quality data from production to help slash costs, boost throughput and identify issues before reaching consumers.
Risk Assessments and 2018 NFPA 70E Changes
June 5, 2018
We examine additions to the risk assessment procedure and how the Hierarchy of Risk Control pyramid can help employers and workers improve electrical safety by mitigating risk.
OEM Helps Reduce Waste Disposal Costs
June 4, 2018
Harmony Enterprises’ scalable PLC-controlled compactor cuts waste handling labor, hauling and recycling costs by 40 to 70%.
Editor's Viewpoint: It’s a Dance
June 3, 2018
In her June 2018 Editor’s Viewpoint, Theresa Houck says OEMs are doing some fancy footwork using cloud-based, smart machine analytics to help end users.
June 2018 Full Issue
June 2, 2018
Download the full PDF of the June 2018 issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork.
2018 Motors & Motion Control eBook Now Available
May 22, 2018
Whether performed through pumps, motors or linear actuators, motion control is essential for efficient industrial operations. The free “2018 Motors & Motion Control eBook” is now available.
Control Multiple Motors with 1 VFD
May 22, 2018
Consider design to see if you can simplify controls and reduce costs by using just one variable-frequency drive to control numerous motors.
Electrical Safety Requirements for Using DMMs
May 22, 2018
Learn about how to audit digital multimeter safety practices to help satisfy NFPA 70E requirements and comply with OSHA’s definition of qualified persons.
VIDEO: SCR Power Controller Converts AC Power
May 22, 2018
Advanced Energy, shows SCR power controller and optical temperature pyrometer; both have IIoT capabilities and Add-On Profiles for seamless integration into equipment and processes.
Benefits of Soft Starters on Resistive Loads
May 21, 2018
Two types of control, zero cross (SCR) and phase angle, can be used to cycle solid-state contactors on and off.
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VIDEO: Electrical Tester Measures Without Contact
May 19, 2018
Fluke Corp. shows the new T6 electrical testers, with FieldSense technology for AC voltage, current and frequency measurement without making electrical contact to live voltage.
Priceless Diamonds of Data
April 10, 2018
In this technology update, learn about the data-driven approach that lets workers explore production data and create new analytics in real time without the need for data professionals.
Smart CIP System Improves Performance & Reporting
April 10, 2018
Using a standardized control system platform, OEM’s modular clean-in-place system helps meet industry and regulatory demands while boosting efficiency and deployment.
Will the Absence-of-Voltage Test Become Outdated?
April 10, 2018
Thanks to updates to UL and NFPA 70E standards, there’s no limit to the advancements possible for absence-of-voltage systems.
Biopharma: Get the Most out of Your EBRs
April 9, 2018
Integrating electronic batch records with a manufacturing execution system can help you get to market faster, cut costs and improve compliance.
How to Develop a Data-Integration Plan
April 9, 2018
Proper planning and strategy will determine the quality of your production intelligence and the success of your smart-manufacturing goals.
Integrate Fire and Gas Safety with Process Control
April 9, 2018
Integrated safety and control systems provide critical functions such as warning and mitigating a possible hazard that could threaten workers or operations
VIDEO: Simplify Deployment of Industrial Networks
April 9, 2018
Learn more about Panduit’s network building blocks and physical infrastructure, VeriSafe for arc flash and electrical safety, and the SynapSense wireless sensing solution.
Confused About Temp Control in Thermal Processes?
April 8, 2018
Here are the basics of eletromechanical contactors, solid-state relays and SCR power controllers.
Electric Actuator and Pneumatic Cylinder TCO
April 8, 2018
When determining motor control total cost of ownership, consider utility costs, maintenance costs and product yield for the service life of each.
VIDEO: Planetary Gearbox
April 8, 2018
Apex Dynamics shows the new AP and AH series, a carbon steel planetary gearbox with less than 1 arcminute backlash in a single stage and a double stage, and up to 14,000 Nm torque.
April 2018 Full Issue
April 7, 2018
Download the full PDF of the April 2018 issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork.
It’s Awesome to See a Breakthrough as It Happens
April 7, 2018
Executive Editor Theresa Houck describes a software breakthrough: Project Scio, which lets workers see production data and create new analytics on the fly.
Navigate the Road to Smart Manufacturing
March 7, 2018
When planning a smart manufacturing strategy, focusing on four key areas can help drive a more successful IoT implementation.
Protect Pharmaceutical Firms from Cyber Threats
March 6, 2018
Digitization and connectivity can transform pharma operations, but first require a robust industrial-security strategy to safeguard intellectual property, product quality and more.
Should You Switch to Smart Sensors?
March 6, 2018
The latest smart sensors communicate detailed data and diagnostics, allowing machines to operate more effectively and operators to work more efficiently.
Free Webinar: Industrial Cybersecurity 101
March 5, 2018
You’ll learn where to start and what to do first when considering the imperative to secure your industrial networks, endpoints and control systems.
VIDEO: Communication Interface Converts Protocols
March 5, 2018
Molex shows its industrial communication protocol interface that allows CompactLogix and ControlLogix devices to translate to various networking protocols such as PROFIBUS and Modbus.
VIDEO: Infrastructure Aids Critical Applications
March 5, 2018
Frank Hill from Stratus Technologies discusses the company’s modern information infrastructure, which includes server virtualization, thin clients and fault-tolerant computing.
Optimize How You Install AC Drives
February 27, 2018
Consider these environmental and safety factors to help you improve safety and cut downtime and costs.
How to Round Up Your Pumping Application
February 26, 2018
Quick and proper detection methods help prevent flow and surge issues, pump cavitation and clogged inlet and outlets for pump control.
Motor Speed: Tortoise or the Hare?
February 26, 2018
Not every motor application needs to run at full speed, like a rabbit racing a turtle. Moving slowly might be what’s needed to get the job done.
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VIDEO: Circuit Disconnect Tool Helps Eliminate Arc
February 25, 2018
Hubbell highlights its IEC-rated pin-and-sleeve connector with integrated motor and branch circuit disconnect mechanism that eliminates potential for an electric arc.
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VIDEO: Machine Vision Recorder Has IP67 Enclosure
February 25, 2018
In this video, IMPERX, Inc., highlights updates to the company’s machine vision EtherNet/IP video recorder used to track machinery and process throughput.
VIDEO: Lifeline 5 Cable-Pull Switch
February 15, 2018
The Allen-Brady® Guardmaster Lifeline 5 cable-pull switch diagnostic capability allows you to address potential issues before they lead to unplanned downtime.
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VIDEO: Spectrum Adds Webport Unlimited VPN Service
February 13, 2018
Also, the new WebPort universal industrial gateway connects and configures multiple devices simultaneously.
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Shine a Light on Compliance
February 3, 2018
See how smart manufacturing and connected devices provide greater visibility into safety system performance and plant productivity.
How Auto Supplier Reduced Scrap by 50%
February 2, 2018
Plasan Carbon Composites used manufacturing intelligence software to cut high scrap rates and increase production volume by 6% on its new pressure presses.
2017 Automation Fair Event In Review
February 1, 2018
Attendees learned about the latest industrial automation solutions, trends and smart manufacturing developments, while also helping support Hurricane Harvey relief efforts.
Checkweighing to Meet Compliance, Quality Goals
February 1, 2018
These in-motion devices can provide real-time production data to help meet regulatory requirements while reducing waste and improving productivity.
F.R. Drake Meets Sausage Makers’ Needs
February 1, 2018
OEM designs automated packaging machine with integrated robotic control to achieve flexible, random indexing for handling natural casing products.
Protect Yourself from Voltage Spikes
February 1, 2018
Using proper test tools and understanding a location’s impact and measurement categories can help increase safety from transient overvoltage hazards.
Don’t Be Left in the Dark
January 31, 2018
In the February 2018 Editor’s Viewpoint, Managing Editor Amanda Joshi explains how connectivity can better help manufacturers see what’s happening in their plants and improve safety.
VIDEO: Electrical, Control Panel Design Software
January 30, 2018
EPLAN Software & Service showcases it software platform dedicated to improving the electrical and control panel design process.
VIDEO: Secure Connectivity Solutions
January 30, 2018
See new products from HMS Industrial Networks: the eWON Flexy 205, the e-Catcher mobile app, and the Anybus Wireless Bolt industrialized WiFi access point.
February 2018 Full Issue of The Journal
January 21, 2018
Download the full PDF of the February 2018 issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork.
VIDEO: Holistic Serialization Solution
January 16, 2018
This video shows the complete serialization solution that enables manufacturers to comply with new regulations for tracking and tracing prescription drugs.
VIDEO: Pneumatic Valve Terminal with IIoT
January 15, 2018
Frank Latino, Festo Corp., demonstrates its VTEM digital pneumatic valve terminal with IIoT capabilities and an integrated pressure sensor for strong, proportional pneumatic control.
VIDEO: VFD Cables Help Prevent Motor Failure
January 15, 2018
Steve Wetzel from Southwire Co., demonstrates its variable-frequency drive (VFD) cables that solve problems such as motor failure and issues with PLCs and controls.
Is There a Standard for Smart Manufacturing?
January 5, 2018
Learn why you shouldn’t wait for smart manufacturing standards to develop before implementing the Industrial Internet of Things into your operations.
Keep Safety-Related Risks at Bay
January 4, 2018
Know the safety hierarchy, and what to do (and not to do) when it comes to documenting product design changes, to minimize any product liability issues.
4 Key Areas to Improve Risk Management Efforts
January 3, 2018
Reduce the likelihood of hazards in automotive operations by focusing on the areas where those risks originate: safety, quality, obsolescence and security.
VIDEO: Certified Safety Valves
January 3, 2018
ROSS Controls highlights three new safety valves at Automation Fair 2017: The M35 Series, The Rse Series and the CrossCheck CC4 Series.
VIDEO: New Motor Offerings from LinMot
January 3, 2018
LinMot USA demonstrates three new products: the PR02 linear rotary motor, the P10-54 motor, and the E1250 and C1250 modular, single-axis servo drives.
Cyberthreats Affect More Than Your Network
December 11, 2017
By integrating safety and security programs, you can assess, manage and mitigate the safety implications of cyber security risks in a Connected Enterprise.
Industrial Cybersecurity is Key to Availability
December 10, 2017
Don’t believe there’s a real cyberthreat to your network? Data shows otherwise. Better controls and security practices can help prevent operations disruptions.
Is Your Cybersecurity Strategy Enough?
December 10, 2017
The best defense is a good offense with a prevention and response plan to protect industrial control systems from ever-increasing cyberattacks.
Power Producers Step Up Cybersecurity
December 10, 2017
Power providers seek a tailored approach that combines physical, electronic and procedural safeguards to meet facility and cybersecurity needs.
Redundant Fiber-Optic Network Helps Plant
December 10, 2017
Aging wastewater treatment plant slashes costs and downtime by adopting cutting-edge automation that gathers real-time data and reduces maintenance.
VIDEO: Safety Valves are Certified
December 9, 2017
See ROSS Controls’ three new safety valves for pneumatic safety functions, certified for Cat 4, PL e applications.
Columbia Machine Delivers Versatility
December 8, 2017
OEM’s floor-level palletizer reduces complexity with a standardized, conventional design while achieving robotic-like precision to address packaging and changeover challenges.
Security & Safety: Two Peas in a Pod
December 8, 2017
In her December 2017 Editor’s Viewpoint, Theresa Houck explains how industrial network and physical security is intertwined with worker and asset safety.
December 2017 Full Issue
December 7, 2017
Download the full PDF of the December 2017 issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork.
Making Compliant Machines for North America
November 27, 2017
Learn about relevant electrical codes and standards as well as project documentation OEMs and panel builders need to understand.
Beat the Heat When Mounting AC Drives
November 26, 2017
Giving careful thought to thermal management when deciding where and how to mount VFDs can help protect the VFD and reduce unexpected downtime.
How to Troubleshoot Common Power Quality Problems
November 26, 2017
Learn how to identify their root causes to mitigate them and operate with better energy efficiency and profitability.
Free Ebook: Integrated Power & Automation
November 25, 2017
See how Rockwell Automation solutions use modern digital technology to optimize ROI and unify process control and electrical distribution systems.
Webinar: Basics of Safer Electrical Maintenance
November 25, 2017
In this free, on-demand tutorial, you’ll reference NFPA 70E and NFPA 70B documents for electrical safety standards and recommended practices for electrical equipment maintenance.
Which Temperature Control Device Should You Use?
November 25, 2017
In this free white paper, get in-depth information comparing electromechanical contactors and solid-state relays to SCR power controllers operating in a similar on-off manner.
Digitized Risk Management: Gain Safety, Security
November 6, 2017
Learn how adopting the Industrial Internet of Things into your operation can help to increase security measures and improve safety and performance.
How Jack Daniel’s Reduced Downtime
November 6, 2017
Famous distiller revamped its industrial network with no interruption to production to achieve a scalable and more standardized, reliable and secure system.
How to Improve Your IIoT Deployments
November 6, 2017
Learn key strategies that can help maximize successful, scalable networked deployments, including how to manage data and achieve holistic security.
When To Use Smart Sensors in Your Operation
November 6, 2017
Smart sensors communicate data that help machines operate more effectively, but not all sensors on the plant floor need to be smart.
Get the Right Fit
October 11, 2017
Modern batch technology that fits the process, instead of the other way around, can help manufacturers improve production, product changes, turnovers and yields.
Come to Automation Fair 2017 in Houston
October 10, 2017
The 2017 Automation Fair event will go on as planned in Houston, bringing you the latest trends and information on industrial automation.
Convert Hydraulic Cylinders to Electric Actuators
October 9, 2017
These methods for force requirements and velocities will help you move from hydraulic to electric actuation for high-force linear motion.
How Position Sensors Are Used in Hazardous Areas
October 9, 2017
Motion control devices in equipment operating in rugged environments need to withstand flammable or explosive conditions and help mitigate worker risk.