Expo Technologies is excited to announce the latest addition to our range of purge & pressurization systems – the SmartPurge Z.

While Purge & Pressurization is one of the simplest approved protection methods for electrical enclosures in hazardous areas, many purge systems are complicated to specify, and even more complex to install and commission.

The SmartPurge Z has been designed to be one of the simplest systems while offering all the capabilities electrical panel builders and OEMs are looking for.

One unit

Many purge systems comprise multiple elements, typically the control system, vent valve, and inlet valve. The SmartPurge Z has combined all of these elements into one unit, avoiding potential errors in specifying, and allowing for simple, fast installation.

One input

With the SmartPurge Z there is no complex set-up process, with flow curves and multiple parameter inputs. There is only one thing to set – the purge time – and that only takes a few seconds.

One size

The purge flow rate of the SmartPurge Z has been optimised to suit the most frequently used enclosure sizes. For ATEX/IECEx certified applications, requiring 5 air changes, the system can purge enclosures up to 2.1m³ in volume in 30 minutes or less. Purge times up to 99 minutes can be selected, allowing it to purge even larger enclosures.

No further adjustment

After the purge is complete, a key capability of the SmartPurge Z is to automatically adjust the leakage compensation flow rate to maintain a constant enclosure pressure. This eliminates time-consuming manual set-up, as well as reducing the consumption of purge gas.

Contact Expo Technologies

Expo Technologies has redefined Purge and Pressurization through the development of the SmartPurge Z. Visit our website to find out more.

www.expoworldwide.com

There are many schemes that check the competence of ‘Ex’ equipment installers and inspectors (such as CompEx) but those schemes ‘assume’ that the equipment certificates are correct. In the UK and EU however, a lot of equipment can be ‘self-certified’ by the manufacturer. This includes all Zone 2 equipment, Zone 1 non-electrical equipment and even equipment for Zone 0 if the manufacturer declares that the device is a simple apparatus. In addition to this, there is equipment which is put on the market as an ‘assembly’ using certified equipment but often introducing new (often non-electrical) ignition sources.

So how does the end user know these ‘self-certified’ items of equipment are safe?

As an end user, you are taking the final responsibility for the equipment you use, it is vital that you have sufficient diligence in accepting certification that has no accreditation or independence. ‘Ex’ matters, if something goes wrong the result can be catastrophic, so you should accept nothing at ‘face value’.

Specify 3^rd party certication (and check it is legitimate)

Although the manufacturer does not legally always need to obtain 3^rd party certication, the buyer can make it a condition of purchase. This is the safest and simplest as method as the buyer can be assured of the independence and competence of the Certification Body (assuming the body is accredited for ‘Ex’, schemes like ‘IECEx’ who have global recognition and Certification Bodies status can be checked on line.)

Caveat Emptor (Let the Buyer Beware)

Remember, anyone can produce a certificate and many manufacturers and non-accredited bodies and counterfeiters issue certificates that look very much like officially Notified Body or IECEx Body Certification. Only accept certification from reputable bodies who’s certification can be verified (that can be done by the end user online with IECEx).

Be an ‘intelligent’ customer.

No certification should be taken at face value, so you should always have the competence to check the certificate you are being presented with ‘before’ purchase, for example:

• Are the certificates to the correct Standards and are all necessary standards included. For example, a fan may be certified to generic standards when it should be certified to the standard specifically for Ex fans.
• Are the certificates to the ‘current’ level and at least to the 60079 series standards (as required by the installation standard, 60079-14).
• Is the manufacturer an ‘Ex’ specialist and have you audited or reviewed them as a body with the ‘competence’ to self-certify (for example, do they have a test facility, do their staff have the relevant competence and independence).

There are suitable training courses to help become be an ‘intelligent customer’ or a ‘competent manufacturer’ for explosion safety. These courses can help with the design and certification (self certication or 3^rd party certication) and will ultimately save time and money as well as make ‘safer’ product and installations. For example, courses run by ExVeritas include:

• 'Ex' Electrical Equipment Design and Certification: How to select a design with appropriate protection concepts, prepare certication drawings, test samples and quality systems (QAN/QAR/FUS).
• Advanced Intrinsic Safety Circuit Design: A five-day workshop-based training covering the most advanced intrinsic safety design techniques.
• Ex Assemblies and Non-Electrical Equipment: How to design ‘Ex’ assemblies and non-electrical equipment for ATEX, UKCA and IECEx Certification (from simple pump skids to diesel engine generators)

ExVeritas are a UK Government Appointed Body for UKCA ‘Ex’, an ATEX Notified Body and an IECEx Certification Body and Test Laboratory, we are also a MET Partner Laboratory for North American Certification. Our training is delivered by Senior Certification Body Engineers who are industry experts, you will learn from our vast experience in this field. www.exveritas.com

Links for courses that address the competence issues discussed in this article:

Ex Certification Process for ATEX and IECEx is explained here (exveritas.com)

Advanced Intrinsic Safety Circuit Design from an ATEX/UKCA and IECEx Body (exveritas.com)

ATEX and IECEx Ex h Non-Electrical Equipment and Assemblies training for Designers (exveritas.com)

Birmingham-based Armac Martin, a pioneer in design-led luxury brass hardware and accessories, relies heavily on compressed air for its CNC machining requirements. However, the company’s existing system was constantly operating at full capacity, leading to unnecessary energy expenditure. By collaborating with FPS Compressors and its preferred local distributor Compressed Air Systems UK - Birmingham, Armac Martin adopted a new system capable of variable compressed air supply. The project led to an impressive 46% reduction in energy consumption compared with the company’s previous compressor.

Founded in 1929 as a local brass foundry, Armac Martin is today a fourth-generation family business with a global reputation for exceptional design and craftsmanship. Compressed air is critical to the successful operation of the company’s modern CNC machining centres. At the same time, like all manufacturers, Armac Martin is driving to make its operations more sustainable. The company has a strategy to achieve net zero by 2041, making the significant energy drain of its compressed air system a cause of major concern.

Collaborating with FPS Compressors and Compressed Air Systems UK - Birmingham, Armac Martin opted for a new system capable of variable compressed air supply, identified through data logging and energy audit exercises. Monitoring of the system took place using state-of-the-art instruments over several weeks. FPS Compressors and Compressed Air Systems UK - Birmingham explained both the data and the recommend solution to Armac Martin’s management team. Notably, the transition to the new compressed air system, which features a NOBEL 18.508 DVF PM variable-speed screw air compressor from FPS at its core, was seamless and without downtime. Comprehensive training ensured proficiency in operation.

With the NOBEL 18.508 DV FPM, compressed air aligns to system requirements by regulating the speed of the electric IE4 permanent magnet motor, which can range from 15-100% of the maximum speed. Notably, the direct-drive system means zero energy losses, whereas standard drive belts may incur losses of 4-11% as the energy transfers from the motor to the compressor. Excellent and precise pressure control extends from 6 to 13 bar, while accurate and optimised cooling of the compressor arrives courtesy of efficient, powerful and quiet radial fans.

By partnering with industry experts and embracing innovative technologies, Armac Martin is seeing a remarkable 46% reduction in compressor energy consumption, translating to an impressive £23,637 in annual savings. The return-on-investment [ROI] for this sustainable initiative was achieved in just 14 months.

“The use of compressed air represents a large chunk of electricity costs at machine shops such as Armac Martin, just like it does at any manufacturing plant, food production facility or packaging plant,” says Nick Poole, Managing Director at FPS Air Compressors. “To make gains, users of compressed air must get smart about specifying the optimal technology, notably the compressor. Armac Martin is a great example of what this strategy can deliver. While the company’s previous compressed air system ran constantly at full capacity, the new solution reduces power requirements by only meeting actual demand. The result? Significant improvements in energy efficiency without any compromise in manufacturing performance.”

For additional information on this case study please visit:
www.fps-compressors.co.uk/fps-case-study-armac-martin.html

Further information is available from:

FPS Air Compressors Ltd, Unit 5, Tower Estate, Warpsgrove Lane, Chalgrove Oxfordshire OX44 7XZ

Telephone: 01865 892 620                                          e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

www.fps-compressors.co.uk

RealWear, the pioneer of smart glasses for frontline workers, has announced that HARDI International A/S, an international leader of agricultural crop protection equipment has deployed RealWear Navigator® 520 smart glasses and the Innomize after sales concept in order to offer its customers real-time remote technical support for its highly advanced machinery. 

HARDI exports its offerings to farmers in over 100 countries. With a workforce of approximately 600 employees across the globe, its subsidiaries and production units span most continents. The company manufactures highly-advanced agricultural machinery and, given the harsh environments in which they operate, maintenance outside of scheduled servicing is required occasionally. While HARDI relies on its global sales network to successfully address technical issues for farmers in the field, there are instances where unforeseen challenges arise that require the expertise of a technical service professional from HARDI. Previously, they would have to physically travel to the location and resolve the issue.

That process incurred substantial costs and time and posed a significant hurdle if the customer was based far away from the service centre. Prior to the RealWear deployment, to resolve certain technical issues this would involve physically dispatching HARDI service technicians to address reported issues. The journey typically began with the farmer contacting their local dealership, where the machine was purchased. The dealership would then attempt to provide remote support or send a service technician to the farmer. If the on-site technician couldn't resolve the issue, HARDI would need to be involved. This could lead to technicians being dispatched from Denmark, where HARDI is headquartered, to locations as distant as Japan or South Africa. Taking into account the geographical distances, the entire process from reporting the issue to reaching a resolution could result in significant downtime for the farmer. Uptime is critical in the weather-dependent agriculture industry, where a successful yield is closely tied to favourable weather conditions. Farmers depend on specific windows of opportunity for tasks such as spraying, so any machinery problems must be resolved promptly, limiting downtime as much as possible.

As a result, HARDI looked at various smart glasses to create a new workflow process, one in which it could resolve issues remotely where possible. Working with RealWear Gold Partner, Innomize, HARDI selected the RealWear Navigator 520 based on its ergonomic, rugged design and features like noise reduction which provides the ability to operate seamlessly amid the background clamour of heavy machinery. 

Now, when assistance is required, on-site technicians wearing a RealWear Navigator 520 can connect remotely with a HARDI expert to view what the technician is seeing in real-time through video streaming. This enables experts to guide the on-site technician visually to solve the problem which is identified faster, extra intervention costs and time are avoided, and downtime is reduced. This new way of working has minimised travel expenses and the environmental impact associated with it, while optimising the efficiency of HARDI’s service technicians, especially during peak seasons. 

The cost-saving impact of adopting RealWear smart glasses has been noteworthy. Traditionally, dispatching a technician for on-site assistance incurred a hefty expense of approximately 5,000 euros per trip, dependent on location. However, with the implementation of RealWear smart glasses, issues can be resolved within approximately one and a half hours per case on average. 

“We have deployed several RealWear devices to date in our initial phase of our global rollout”, commented Mads Ulrik Petersen, Aftermarket Manager at HARDI. “While we have used smart glasses internally in our technical service operations since 2021, we are now transitioning into a more commercial phase. HARDI now offers this solution to farmers and dealers allowing them to purchase the technology and receive faster technical support.”

The RealWear Navigator 520s being used by HARDI feature Remote Eye from Wideum, a remote video assistance software used in smart glasses. It enables both the technician and the expert to communicate hands-free. The software also incorporates an AI translator for efficient multilingual communication. Users can speak in their native language, and the system translates the conversation into another language in real-time. This unique feature has proven to be a game-changer, especially for HARDI’s global operations, facilitating effective communication and removing language barriers. 

“HARDI’s deployment of RealWear smart glasses sets a benchmark for the agricultural industry and showcases the technology’s potential impact on businesses operating in diverse and international settings. Overcoming language barriers is a pivotal aspect, especially when dealing with customers across multiple territories. It's a challenge that, when tackled effectively, can significantly enhance global operations,” added Helle Rosenberg, Business Development Specialist at Innomize.

Looking to the future, Petersen added: “Investing in our large and intricate machines is a significant commitment for farmers, given the substantial financial outlay. These machines are packed to the brim with electronics, and any disruption to these components can render the entire machine inoperable. As part of our strategy, we are planning to integrate RealWear smart glasses into every sale of certain models in our assortment.”

The CHEMUK 2024 EXPO will return on 15th & 16th May at the NEC in Birmingham. Running as part of the trade show, event organiser, UK Industry Events, has announced the launch of the new Process & Chemical Engineering Show Zone.

The Process & Chemical Engineering Show Zone will be the UK’s only event that brings process engineers from the Chemical, Food & Beverage, Pharma, Oil & Gas, and Water & Wastewater industries together to experience the very latest innovation that is shaping and inspiring the process industries under one giant roof.

The new focused event zone will present hundreds of specialist process engineering suppliers to attending process professionals that are involved directly in the design, development, management, and maintenance of operations in the processing of liquid, solid, powder, and gas-based process engineering industries.

Managing Director of UK Industry Events, Ian Stone, explained the decision to introduce the focused show zone, ‘The Process & Chemical Engineering Show Zone’ will give attendees the ability to survey the wealth of new technology and products that are available but also to be able to share that knowledge across the various vertical industries that are the application areas for process engineering.’

Speaker Programme

Running as part of the show will be the Process & Chemical Engineering speaker programme. Highlights from this year’s show will include a series of 90-minute Mini Conferences, including:

• ‘Scale-Up’ challenges, towards Sustainable Production - IChemE Mini Conference
• Bioprocess Scale up: From Bench Top to Commercialisation- IBioIC Mini Conference
• Process Intensification Symposium: Unlocking the Potential of Process Intensification for Net Zero - Hosted by Process Intensification (PI) Group - Newcastle University Mini Conference
• Technologies that will disrupt chemical manufacturing - Hosted by Innovate UK & Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) Mini Conference

In addition, the speaker programme will present several expert presentations and keynotes, including:

• IChemE Presidential Address
• Supporting your journey to Net-Zero - Innovate UK KTN on behalf of Dept for Energy Security and Net Zero/ DESNZ
• Is it just yet another fieldbus? Ethernet conquers instrumentation in process industry – ABB
• Process Intensification of Batch Chemistry Production - Thermal Fluid Systems
• New technologies from the Solvents Industry on the road to net zero – Solvents Industry Association

Industry Support:

The Process & Chemical Engineering Show is partnered with the major trade bodies and industry associations supporting the process engineering sector including, the IChemE - The Institute for Chemical Engineers, BVAA - British Valve & Actuator Association, BPMA - British Pump Manufacturers Association, UKGSA - UK Gaskets & Sealants Association, Process Intensification Network, NEPIC, and Chemicals Northwest, amongst others.

Dates for the Diary

CHEMUK 2024 takes place on Wed 15^th & Thu 16^th May 2024

Venue: Hall 1, NEC - National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, B40 1NT

Wednesday 15^th May: 9.30am – 5.00pm

Thursday 16^th May: 9.30am – 4.00pm

Register for your FREE entry badge at www.chemicalukexpo.com

A Mobile Pump?

If the first picture that pops into your head is that of a diesel-powered, generator-type unit, then fine; there will always be a need – but aside from diesel not striking the right environmental chords, what if your mobile pump has to meet

the demands of ATEX?

Chalwyn valves and Spark Arrestors certainly do their job to meet Health & Safety requirements, but they do not, for example, control surface temperatures in the T4 range of 135°C. Such are the rigorous and sometimes complicated demands of ATEX that it is not uncommon for pump users to position control panels away from the ATEX area in order to comply with the regulation. Not the end of the world, but hardly what you’d call convenient.

For an increasing number in industry though, that first picture of a mobile pump is beginning to change instead to that of one with an electric-drive.

“I think there’s still some lack of awareness that ATEX-approved electric-drive mobile pumps are available”, said David Brown, Managing Director of Borger.

“There must be”, he added, “because I’m quite shocked to see non-ATEX units still in use at some petrochemical sites”.

 ‘Electric-driven mobile pumps leave costly diesel units lagging way behind’

Borger sells mobile pumps that are diesel as well as electric, so Brown is keen to stress that he’s not on an anti-diesel crusade. Where needs must, especially for emergency use where no power supply is available, there are no end of Borger pumps in operation, including, for example, in the Republic of Ireland, where they are used to combat flooding. However, believes Brown, where mains power is available, electric-driven mobile pumps – lighter, far less cumbersome and so much better for the environment – leave costly (storage, transportation, labour) diesel units lagging way behind,

“Diesel usually has to be bought in bulk too”, continued Brown, “and there’s the time involved of having to keep topping up a diesel mobile pump - plus the fact that such a large amount of fuel is used. But in a potentially explosive environment, an ATEX-approved mobile pump is a must. Just recently for a petrochemical company, we built a customized ATEX-compliant mobile pump for transfer operations and removal of residues from storage tanks in an Ex zone 2 of their refinery”.

Brown explained how in order to be able to use the pump everywhere on the rough refinery premises, the mobile unit (including the drive) is mounted on a base-frame equipped with fork-lift openings and crane lifting eyes. A telescopic loader or a crane transports the pump to its respective application site. The fluids are often polluted with organic solids, so a filter system is in place to separate them out. Without hardly any pulsation, tri-lobe screw rotors pump the medium, with only the lobe tips of the rotors needing replacement in case of wear. 

“The unit is operated from a fully ATEX-compliant control cabinet on the actual mobile unit”, says Brown. “This makes everything so much more convenient for the operator. If defined pressures or temperatures are exceeded, the pump switches off automatically. And in order to protect against uncontrolled pressure surges, the mobile pump is equipped with a Variocap and a bypass with rupture disks. Knowing that everything is ATEX-compliant provides great peace of mind”.

Borger has also recently supplied mobile pumps for a mineral oil company’s refinery. The entire pump unit, including the pump itself, the drive and the control technology had to be manufactured in ATEX-compliant design. For flexible use on the premises, the mineral oil company need to convey changing media and use the mobile pumps for "pigging" the pipelines – on the basis that the highest degree of safety would be met for the potentially explosive atmospheres.

‘Moved through narrow aisles for transfer operations’

‘Mobile’ is self-explanatory of course, so there is no end to the number of uses of a mobile pump. A world away from the strict ATEX requirements at refineries, mobile pumps from Borger are also in use at……….. French vineyards. Custom-built, the stainless-steel pumps are moved through narrow aisles for transfer operations, with the wine producers able to set the required flow rate very easily via the control unit. Screw rotors convey the wine with low pulsation so that it does not foam up – whilst temperature sensors in the pump’s cover and pressure sensors in the suction and pressure lines ensure the highest level of safety and quality. The pump can be operated via the Borger control unit or the supplied remote control.

David Brown concluded: “Diesel-powered mobile pumps will always have an important role to play. But from refineries with their strict ATEX requirements - to vineyards – and for all types of applications, electric-driven, plug-in-and-play mobile pumps offer big advantages. For being lighter, far more cost-effective, safer and so much better on the environment, they are an attractive investment – and a very good hire option too”.

Börger UK Limited
East Wing - Old School
Watling St. Gailey
Staffordshire
United Kingdom, ST19 5PR

01902  79 89 77

Maintaining a safety shower is crucial for ensuring its optimal performance and effectiveness during emergency situations. Here are several reasons why maintaining a safety shower is essential:

1. Reliable Emergency Response:

Regular maintenance ensures that the safety shower is in proper working condition and ready to be used when needed. By conducting routine inspections and maintenance activities such as testing water flow, checking water temperature, and inspecting valves, any potential issues can be identified and addressed promptly, ensuring that the safety shower will function reliably during an emergency.

Regular inspection and testing also ensures the area around the safety shower is always checked and clear from obstructions.

2. Employee Safety:

The primary purpose of a safety shower is to provide immediate decontamination in case of exposure to hazardous substances. Regular maintenance helps ensure that the safety shower is fully operational and ready should it be needed.

3. Compliance with Regulations:

Safety showers are often subject to regulatory requirements and standards that specify their maintenance and inspection. By adhering to these regulations, companies demonstrate their commitment to compliance and workplace safety. Regular maintenance helps ensure that the safety shower meets the required standards and ensures the company is meeting its legal requirement.

4. Extended Lifespan:

A safety shower should have a lifespan of approximately 15-20 years.  Proper maintenance and care can significantly extend the lifespan of a safety shower. By promptly addressing any issues, replacing worn-out components, and conducting regular cleaning, you can prevent major breakdowns and costly repairs.

Regular maintenance helps keep the safety shower in optimal condition, reducing the need for premature replacements.

Maintaining a safety shower is essential for its reliable performance, employee safety, regulatory compliance, and overall operational readiness. Regular maintenance and inspections help identify and address any issues promptly, ensuring that the safety shower is always ready for use during emergencies.

For more information on service and maintenance, please contact Aqua Safety Showers on +44(0)1942 318096 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

With the increasing interconnection of systems, devices, and sensors in the Internet of Things (IoT), the need for mobile solutions is growing. More and more manufacturers are recognizing the potential and benefits of mobile computing and communication technologies. Android has emerged as the preferred and most advanced operating system for the IoT of the future. Companies that guarantee their customers maximum security and up-to-date devices with first-class support can be certified by Google for its Android Enterprise Partner Program. With the acquisition of the Silver Partnership in 2023, Pepperl+Fuchs is among the very few companies worldwide that have acquired Google's highest certification: not only for the company, but also for its consultants and products.

As part of the Android Enterprise Partner Program (AEPP), Google partners with companies that optimize their solutions for the management, deployment, and support of Android devices in business environments at a high level. Validated partners receive access to Google resources, tools, and support to better integrate and support Android devices in the enterprise. The program includes various certifications and categories corresponding to the specialization and solutions offered by each partner. These include, for example, mobile device management providers, hardware manufacturers, software developers, and system integrators.

Three Pillars of Certification

The certification for the Android Enterprise Partner Program comprises three pillars that build on each other. The employees of a company, the company itself and its products are certified. For the individual certifications, the global sales teams and application engineers must complete a predefined training program and confirm the respective certificates with an examination. This certificate consists of three levels: Associate, Expert and Professional. Employees who achieve the certification can call themselves Android Enterprise Associate, Expert or Professional. The training courses cover the entire range of Android-related topics, including mobile device management and security.

Silver Award

Companies may get certified only if the expertise of their employees qualifies them to do so. In order to achieve Silver Partner status, companies seeking certification must have a certain percentage of employee certifications in the various expert groups in each active market. Pepperl+Fuchs has achieved this on a global scale and has been a Silver Partner of the Android Enterprise Partner Program since 2023. This means that the pioneer and technology leader in industrial sensor technology and explosion protection fulfills Android's increased requirements in terms of business, products, service, and performance, allowing customers to benefit from numerous advantages.

"We are pleased to welcome Pepperl+Fuchs as a Silver Partner in the Android Enterprise Partner Program," says Ken Schutt, Director of Android Enterprise Partnerships. "By joining the Silver Partner Program, Pepperl+Fuchs demonstrates its commitment to its customers and guarantees that they will receive world-class customer service, support and solutions to help them grow their business."

Third Pillar: Hardware

The third pillar of the certification program relates to the Silver Partner's Android products. The certification of products is part of the Android Enterprise Recommended program. Google verifies the hardware and software of the robust mobile devices based on defined requirements and parameters, e. g. suitability for use in an industrial environment, guaranteed 90-day security updates for at least five years after the start of sales, and further commitments by the manufacturer to at least one OS upgrade, in order to guarantee Google's professional users a comprehensive service package.

The intrinsically safe smartphone Smart-Ex® 03 from Pepperl+Fuchs, as well as other product series such as Tab-Ex® 03 and Tab-Ex® 04 Pro, has received Android Enterprise Recommended certification and forms the basis for future-oriented digital application scenarios in potentially explosive atmospheres. In the 6-inch Android smartphone, Pepperl+Fuchs combines its global, customer-oriented support with the expertise of its subsidiaries ECOM Instruments as a pioneer in intrinsically safe mobile devices and Aava Mobile as an expert in industrial tablets and wireless technologies. The smartphone with Android 13 operating system meets the latest technical standards such as 5G/5G SA, WiFi 6 and eSIM and is therefore ideally equipped for flexible use in public and private networks of mobile network providers or companies worldwide.

With the successful certification, Pepperl+Fuchs is listed in the Android Enterprise Solutions Directory as a "Device Manufacturer". All validated companies can be found there, categorized as "Devices, EMM, Device Manufacturer and Mobility Consulting Service".

Huge Work and Time Savings

Android tools facilitate the secure, professional use of mobile devices in an industrial environment. Customers can request the required configuration of the basic device from the device manufacturer, who will pre-load the devices in production and then provide the appropriate pre-configuration to the customer. The mobile devices can be integrated into the IT infrastructure manually via Android Zero Touch or a QR code. This way, all new devices are integrated into the customer's MDM system with their IMEI and can then be managed and updated over the air.

The profiles that are uploaded to the mobile device are largely drag-and-drop. The advantage of certification is that the manufacturer can individually respond to customers' wishes and requirements. They do not have to adapt the mobile devices themselves in their IT department. Pepperl+Fuchs discusses the requirements, scope, and type of installation and usage rights with the IT department. The customer can issue the devices directly to the employees for immediate use. This makes work much easier and saves a lot of time. Another advantage is the comprehensive after-sales support.

Many Parts for a Great Whole

"Behind the Google certification for people, companies and products is a holistic, coherent concept in which the individual processes interlock like pieces of a puzzle and one fits into the other," says Jörg Hartleb, Head of Product Management at ECOM – A Pepperl+Fuchs Brand. "By certifying the hardware and the company to the highest standards in conjunction with professional staff training, we offer our customers first-class support and service during the initial installation of the mobile devices, as well as during use."

Pepperl+Fuchs has a total of over 60 sales employees in the APAC, EMEA, North and South America regions who have reached Google Associate level. Differences can be seen in everyday life. This is where Pepperl+Fuchs scores with its global expertise. With its own well-staffed support and service network, the company meets all the requirements of a Trusted Advisor.

Web: www.pepperl-fuchs.com

The global focus on hydrogen as a clean, versatile, and sustainable energy carrier continues to intensify. The Biden-Harris Administration's announcement of a $750 million investment across 52 projects to support America's growing clean hydrogen economy, as highlighted in a recent article published by the U.S. Department of Energy, underscores the momentum behind hydrogen as a critical component of the nation's energy transition.

Against this backdrop, the upcoming World Hydrogen North America Congress is poised to convene in Houston from May 21 to May 23, 2024, to discuss the latest advancements, challenges, and opportunities within the hydrogen industry. The timing of this event aligns with recent significant developments in the hydrogen sector.

Lucy Rankin, Program Director at World Hydrogen Leaders, commented “This announcement is a major milestone, and represents a significant opportunity to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen as a clean energy solution. We're eager to delve into this topic further in Houston. As these ambitious plans move toward implementation, the industry is still encountering real challenges that must be addressed. From evolving regulations to supply chain constraints, it’s clear this transition will not come without growing pains. That’s why events like World Hydrogen North America are so valuable right now. By bringing together key players across the hydrogen value chain, we can align on solutions to current obstacles, forge new partnerships, and ultimately accelerate the energy transition.”

World Hydrogen North America promises to bring together over 1,200 key stakeholders, thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to explore the pivotal role of hydrogen in shaping North America's energy landscape.

Organized by World Hydrogen Leaders, the conference will feature engaging discussions, insightful presentations, and networking opportunities tailored to foster collaboration and innovation.

The conference agenda covers a diverse range of topics with over 50 hours of content and 6 content-led streams, with program highlights including:

• Hydrogen Derivatives - With hydrogen gaining steam, exciting derivatives like ammonia, LOHC, and methanol are emerging as solutions for decarbonizing aviation, shipping, agriculture, and beyond. Deep-dive into the vast potential of these clean fuels to transform supply chains by displacing fossil incumbents.
• Hydrogen End Use – Customer focus is key to hydrogen success. This year’s end-use track directly serves major industries eyeing adoption – from steel to transport to chemicals. Drill into the priorities and pain points of these key buyers to gain insights to inform your hydrogen strategy.
• Hydrogen Hubs - Six months after their high-profile launch, how are the hydrogen hubs advancing? Check in with key players across all hubs to get inside reports on progress made, obstacles encountered, and strategies evolved.
• Masterclasses – Explore critical topics in depth, including the IRA, safety, derivatives, electrolyzers, and much more. With laser focus and expert guidance, gain specific knowledge to boost confidence and maximize on-the-job impact.
• Dedicated Roundtable Discussions – Go beyond thought leadership to real-world problem-solving in intimate roundtables for stakeholders to tackle obstacles and identify solutions directly with their peers. Whether exploring technical hurdles, policy needs, or marketplace dynamics, our roundtables foster action-oriented dialogue and tangible strategies.

Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights from industry leaders, participate in interactive sessions, and forge meaningful connections with peers and potential collaborators. Additionally, the event will showcase cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions through an exhibition featuring leading companies and organizations in the hydrogen value chain.

Explore the full agenda, speaker lineup, exhibition floorplan and much more in the event brochure, which can be downloaded here.

This is the #1 hydrogen industry event to learn, network, and help shape the future of clean hydrogen in North America and beyond.

Register your place to join World Hydrogen North America event today, with early bird discounts available until April 26^th. For more information and to secure your spot, visit https://bit.ly/WHNA24PR