News

Belzona, the global designer and manufacturer of repair composite materials and industrial protective coatings, has announced a new partnership with Svensk Kompositteknik AB, based in Karlstad, Sweden. Svensk Kompositteknik AB will serve as Belzona’s sole Distributor for Sweden going forward.

Mikael Ringsåker, CEO and Niklas Blom, Business Manager outside the new Svensk Kompositteknik AB headquarters

Founded in 2023, Svensk Kompositteknik AB is built on the wealth of expertise of its founders, boasting a combined experience of over 200 years. The team, led by CEO Mikael Ringsåker, has been working with composite materials and epoxies in the region since the early 2000s, across a wide range of industries. Over the past decade, they have been working with Belzona products with a particular focus on the steel, pulp and paper, and chemical production industries.

Their extensive knowledge and years of experience working with Belzona has culminated in the official appointment of Svensk Kompositteknik AB as the authorized Distributor of Belzona’s range of protective coatings and repair composites in Sweden. This partnership shows how Belzona is expanding strategically in the Nordic Region, providing Swedish customers with enhanced accessibility to its innovative solutions.

In a joint statement, Mikael Ringsåker, CEO and Niklas Blom, Business Manager at Svensk Kompositteknik AB said: “We are delighted to to be entrusted with the management of Belzona’s strong brand in Sweden. Our organization is well prepared, and we are actively expanding our sales and installation network to ensure its continued success.”

Niklas Blom, Business Manager opening the door of their new Headquarters in Karlstad

Jeremie Maillard, Export Sales Director at Belzona said: "Belzona is very excited at the prospect of working with Kompositteknik AB to support industrial customers across Sweden. Their experience with composite materials and strong network of partners throughout the country will allow Belzona to strengthen its presence. Most importantly, end users in Sweden will be able to confidently rely on Belzona solutions to extend the life of their assets.”

To find out more about Belzona, please visit belzona.com

Hi-tech fabrics, functionality and fit are the hallmarks of this market-leading working clothes range.

For discerning professional tradesmen and women, trousers that deliver maximum functionality, comfort, protection and mobility are key factors in their brand choices.

That’s why the sustainable, street-smart, body-mapping features of Snickers Workwear Work Trousers make them the clothes of choice for those who want to work at their best.

https://www.snickersworkwear.com/list/product-guide/trousers-made-to-fit   

The AllroundWork trousers suit any kind of work in any trade. FlexiWork trousers deliver superior freedom of movement. While LiteWork trousers keep you cool, dry and ventilated.

Then there’s RuffWork trousers, reinforced and tough for the roughest work on site. ProtecWork protective wear for hazardous environments and certified High-Vis trousers when personal visibility on site is a priority.

work environments.

Snickers Workwear Trousers also deliver certified protection with the patented KneeGuard® system and CORDURA® reinforcement for greater flexibility, comfort and durability.  

All in all, this is what makes them the optimal choice for craftsmen and women who need to get every job done comfortably, efficiently and sustainably on site. 

Getting more information on the Snickers Workwear clothing range is easy. You can call the Helpline on 01484 854788; check out www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Regardless of whether the business is an automotive workshop, a small-to-medium sized manufacturing company or indeed any type of operation that simply needs dry and clean compressed air, the new G-TEC Air Compressor from FPS provides a complete compressed air workstation with ‘game-changing’ capabilities. This 6-in-1 offer comprises a high-performance compressor, refrigerated dryer, dual filtration, 270/500 litre air receiver, oil-water separator and controller, making the G-TEC Air Compressor the optimal and most convenient choice, for a whole host of applications.

Avoiding the need for many individual components that typically form part of a complex compressed air system, the G-TEC workstation features an integrated and modular design that saves space, reduces installation and improves efficiency. It delivers outstanding performance, producing a consistent supply of compressed air to power a wide range of pneumatic tools and machinery. With its high-efficiency motor and innovative design, this complete workstation also meets the growing demand for more sustainable and cost-effective compressed air solutions.

G-TEC workstations from FPS are available with a range of 7.5 to 22kW with pressure from 8 to13 bar. The high-efficiency screw compressors ensure optimal productivity and reliability. Importantly, the workstation comes with a 270 or 500 litre receiver and an integrated dryer and filters. The result? Clean, dry air for quality-assured pneumatic operations that lead to reduced downtime and maintenance costs and Indeed, reduced corrosion within pipes that also means fewer product rejects, and fewer costly air leaks, delivering yet more savings.

Another integral component of the G-TEC Air Compressor workstation is the condensate oil-water separator, supplied as standard by FPS to reduce environmental pollution. Furthermore, the intuitive built-in control panel makes using the G-TEC workstation easy to use for operators of all skill levels.

Among the business that can take advantage are automotive workshops. From tyre centres to body repair shops, the task of paint spraying and when using general garage equipment can benefit from the fixed and variable-speed models of G-TEC Air Compressor line-up. As a particular point of note, noise output is exceptionally low.

Further applications include pneumatic tools on production/assembly lines, woodworking tools such as sanders and staplers, and plasma/laser cutting. In all cases the outcome is the same: high-quality, professional compressed air delivery with economy and sustainability in mind. When operating variable-speed models, the remarkable energy-saving capabilities of the G-TEC Air Compressor workstation render it an environmentally responsible choice that also reduces operational costs by as much as 30%.

With its fully integrated components, the compact design of the G-TEC Air Compressor makes it ideal for any customer where space is at a premium. This, when combined with straightforward installation and maintenance, allows the G-TEC workstation user the benefit of a hassle-free and highly cost-effective solution for businesses of all sizes.

“Users of the G-TEC Air Compressor can achieve the perfect balance between power and efficiency, ensuring that your compressed air needs are met without excessive energy wastage,” states Moiz Palaci, Director of FPS Air Compressors. “At FPS, we are committed to providing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of customers. Our G-TEC Air Compressor is no exception, boasting a range of features that make it the ideal choice whenever low noise, energy efficiency, convenience and reliability are primary demands.”

Purchase, lease and rental options are available.

For detailed information on the G-TEC range of air compressors please visit:

www.fps-compressors.co.uk/gtec.html

5.5-inch smartphone with advanced features has been developed for mission critical and industrial communication

Lauda-Koenigshofen, October 05, 2023 - RugGear®, a leading designer and manufacturer of rugged mobile devices for professional mission critical and industrial use introduces a new LTE smartphone: The RG880 supports companies and public safety organisations in their digitalisation process and can be operated worldwide on all networks. The smartphone is equipped with the PTT/MCPTT-optimised Snapdragon^® 680 4G Mobile Platform from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and supports 3GPP Release 12. The Android™ 13 rugged device is slim and handy in design and has been completely adapted to the needs of users: A large PTT button on the side, an SOS button for lone worker use (via third-party LWP app) and a switch button for individual or group PTT calls, as well as other freely assignable buttons, make everyday work easier. A clear 5.5-inch screen, a new, innovative speaker design and a fingerprint sensor complete the feature package. Target industries include public safety, industrial production, energy, site construction and transport. 

Powerful features and forward-looking design
The powerful Snapdragon 680 4G Mobile Platform supports optimised transmission of voice, video and data information - important for safety-critical applications.

RugGear's R&D team has created high audio quality from the 103db speaker through a special, innovative design (the speakers are positioned across the full width of the device and sloped downwards for good audio distribution). Even when the device is worn in use with the screen facing the body, very good audio transmission is possible in noisy environments.

With the 50 MP main camera, users can capture high-resolution images and videos in real time, which is particularly needed in the maintenance sector and for surveillance tasks. As a support, an additional flash offers better quality for night shots.

Another highlight of the new industrial smartphone is the powerful, replaceable 4500 mAh battery, which guarantees a long runtime. The RG880 can also be used in multi-shift operation, as the device can be quickly and easily fitted with a replacement battery. The entire unit remains drop-proof and water-resistant even when the cover is open. The battery supports QC3.0 (18W fast charging) and adopts DRX software power-saving technique (DRX: PTT calls when screen-off, saves power and is convenient).

Extensive security features and worldwide network coverage
Through the side fingerprint sensor, the device can be unlocked quickly and securely, which is particularly useful when emergency personnel are wearing face protection and facial recognition control is not possible.

The PTT/MCPTT button on the side and the talk group switch allow easy selection between individual and group calls within the range of mobile networks and WLAN. Users can connect a headset or RSM via the secure 13-pin interface or use an RSM via Bluetooth. Additional accessories include a belt clip, desk charger, multi desk charger and a car holder for safe field travel.

The RG880 is compatible with global carrier cellular standards, allowing it to be used in international, multi-country teams. It supports eMBMS, saving significant network resources and is GCF-certified.

Multifunctional satellite positioning technology (the RG880 supports GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou and A-GPS) allows positions to be determined quickly and with high precision in the event of immediate emergency response.

Like the entire RugGear range, the RG880 has passed military tests (IP68, MIL-STD-810H, with 1.5 m drop protection and 1.2 m water resistance), making it suitable for use in harsh working environments with heavy rain or snow, extreme temperature fluctuations and humidity.

The RG880 will be available shortly.

For more information and technical details, click here.
Press images for download are available here.

TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS

• Snapdragon^® 680 4G Mobile Platform, 2.4 GHz QCI:1-9，65，66，67， 69，70, supports MCPTT, 3GPP Rel.12
• 5.5-inch HD+ Display (720 x 1440 pixels), 18:9, sunlight readable, use with wet hands/gloves
• Dimension/weight: 161 x 75 x 15.8 mm, 267 g
• 50 MP rear camera PDAF, 8 MP front camera FF, support flash
• Innovative sound design, amplified 2 W loudspeaker 103 dB, MIC noise reduction
• Li-ion 4500 mAh battery, removable, QC 3.0 support
• Wi-Fi®: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/e/k/r/v; Wi-Fi 6 ready (2.4 GHz - 5 GHz)
• Android^TM 13, GMS
• 128 GB ROM, 6 GB RAM
• Large, programmable side key (e.g. for PoC / PTT), side fingerprint sensor, SOS key for LWP, PTT switch button, freely assignable additional buttons
• GPS / A-GPS / Glonass / Galileo / Beidou
• 13-pin interface for secure connection of PTT headset and PTT-RSM
• Extensive frequency bands:

GSM: 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
WCDMA: B1/2/4/5/8
TDD-LTE: B34/38/39/40/41(full)
FDD-LTE: B1/2/3/4/5/7/8/12/13/14/17/20/28/66

For more information on RugGear®, please click here:
RugGear® on the net: www.ruggear.com
RugGear® on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ruggearglobal/
RugGear® on YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/youtube-ruggear

• Regulator warns of risks and need for health checks
• HSE inspections to target use of specialist machines
• Director of inspected firm says “don’t feel intimidated”

Businesses are being warned to make sure their staff are safe when working with metalworking fluids or coolants.

It’s a highly technical, specialist field applying precision engineering – but can also cause harm to the lungs and skin.

Past inspections by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have uncovered poor performance around control of metalworking fluids in businesses that use computer numerical control (CNC) machines.  

Exposure to metalworking fluids – also referred to as ‘white water’ - can cause harm to lungs and skin through inhalation or direct contact with unprotected skin; particularly the hands, forearms and face.

Breathing in the mist generated by machining can lead to lung diseases such as occupational asthma and occupational hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

Manufacturing businesses should implement control measures and carry out health surveillance checks with occupational health professionals.

More about the campaign, and tips on how to keep workers safe, can be found here.

Machinists and metalworking fluid - Work Right to keep Britain safe

HSE inspector Fiona McGarry, said: “Lung problems and irritated skin don’t have to be associated with working with metalworking fluid if you take the right precautions.

“It is really important that control measures and fluid quality checks are in place to keep workers healthy. Health checks are essential to identify signs of ill-health early.”

To support the campaign, HSE will carry out inspections to look at how employers are ensuring workers are protected from exposure to fluid or mist generated by CNC machines across Great Britain.

Britain’s workplace regulator plans to carry out unannounced inspections between now and March 2024.

One business to have received such a visit was Nottingham-based engineering firm CNTL Ltd, earlier this year. Dane Rawson, the firm’s director, was apprehensive at first but soon saw the inspector was there to help.

He said: “I’m new to this side of the business, I haven’t dealt with a health and safety inspection before. At first, I was cautious, but it didn’t take long for the inspector to make us feel comfortable. She wasn’t trying to catch us out.” 

The inspection showed the company had safe working practices in some areas, but it was asked to install local exhaust ventilation (LEV) on its CNC machines. 

Dane and the team have noticed the difference: “We have several high-tech machines that constantly use pressurised coolant – it’s bound to create a mist.

“It was something we were aware of and had explored the option of installing LEVs, however as a result of HSE’s visit we wanted to follow their advice and action this sooner.

“We’ve noticed now that the smell of coolant is no longer there and air quality is much improved. It’s definitely a cleaner and safer environment to work in. The staff feel like we’ve done the right thing for them and know their wellbeing is a priority of ours.” 

To reduce exposure, you need control measures in place. Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) should be fitted on CNC machines to carry away any harmful metalworking fluid mist, which is difficult to see in normal lighting.

Fluid quality should be regularly checked focusing on concentration, pH, bacteria and contaminants. Fluid systems can become highly contaminated with harmful bacteria.

Where there is exposure to fluid or mist, it is a legal requirement to carry out health surveillance even when preventative controls are in place. You will need to involve an occupational health professional and workers should be encouraged to report any health symptoms that occur.

Regular fluid checks are a part of CNTL’s weekly routine. They outsource to a company that carries out weekly coolant and dipslide checks.

The HSE inspection has had a positive impact on Dane, making him more interested in creating an environment that protects his team’s health as well as safety. He recently attended a trade fair in Germany, partly to understand the approach on the continent.

Dane’s message to any company that will be inspected is simple: “Don’t feel intimidated. They are only there to benefit you, your company and your staff.”

Light, simple, abundant. That’s hydrogen (H₂). Because hydrogen doesn’t create carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions when burned, it holds the promise of becoming essential for global energy transformation, pollution remediation, and decarbonising the planet. 

In fact, H₂ production, distribution, and usage is skyrocketing, having been fueled, in part, by environmental legislation and worldwide demand for clean energy.  

H₂ is extremely attractive as a fuel source because of its ability to be both environmentally friendly and sustainable. However, before the adoption of hydrogen becomes even more widespread, there’s work to be done; namely, H₂ must be produced, distributed, and used safely. 

Despite hydrogen’s potential to become a widespread clean-energy source, there are very real safety issues to contend with. Therein lies the challenge and the paradox. 

On one hand, hydrogen’s unique chemical properties make it an exciting fuel alternative. On the other hand, those same properties are what hold the potential for these dangers: 

• Hydrogen has a propensity to leak. 
• It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it undetectable by human senses.  
• Hydrogen has an invisible, high-temperature flame with low thermal radiation. 
• It is fast detonating and more explosive than natural gas. 

 Leak Monitoring and Detection 

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, all fuels—including hydrogen—pose some degree of danger. While hydrogen’s non-toxic nature and ability to dissipate quickly when released are just a few of the reasons hydrogen may be safer to handle than other fuels, there’s still a need for safe use. 

Specifically, hydrogen has a wide range of flammable concentrations in the air and lower ignition energy than gasoline or natural gas, which means it can ignite more easily. Consequently, adequate ventilation and leak detection are important elements in the design of safe hydrogen systems. Because hydrogen burns with a nearly invisible flame, special flame detectors are required.¹

Consistent monitoring, therefore, is imperative for hydrogen producers, distributors, and users. The question is, how?  

Although the need for monitoring and detecting hydrogen leaks is a relatively new challenge, here’s the good news …  

Here at MSA, we’ve been at the forefront of hydrogen gas and flame detection solutions. As one of the world’s largest and most experienced global suppliers of gas and flame detection equipment, MSA has pioneered the detection of combustible gases like hydrogen, methane, and propane.  

In fact, our in-house Research and Development team develops, tests, and manufactures its own fully certified portfolio of products and safety solutions—including the very latest hydrogen gas and flame detection technologies.  

Click here to learn about international standards, technologies and MSA’s solutions gas detection safety challenges.

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) is a pivotal UK regulation overseeing the management, storage and disposal of dangerous substances. In sectors like engineering and manufacturing where chemicals and hazardous materials are frequently used, adhering to COSHH isn't just a legal requirement but crucial for safe and efficient operations.

This piece looks into COSHH, shedding light on its critical role in the engineering and manufacturing industries, and how abiding by these rules influences the safety and prosperity of businesses in these sectors.

Duties of employers

COSHH rules aim to protect both individuals and the environment from potential dangers posed by hazardous substances. These rules set clear standards for risk evaluation, the introduction of control strategies and the provision of adequate training and emergency preparedness. Following these regulations isn't just about legal compliance but also embodies responsible business conduct.

Employers are tasked with executing detailed risk evaluations to pinpoint potential dangers, introducing suitable control strategies to lessen risks, offering extensive training to their workforce and setting up solid emergency protocols.

Why adhering to COSHH matters

The possible risks and repercussions of neglecting COSHH are grave, spanning from health threats to workers due to exposure to harmful agents, to legal sanctions and even potential harm to machinery and the environment. Given the complex nature of engineering and manufacturing operations, which often involve substances that can be disastrous if mismanaged, COSHH compliance becomes an essential facet of operational soundness.

COSHH in the engineering and manufacturing sectors demands a pragmatic and systematic strategy. This encompasses correct storage - COSHH cabinets - accurate labelling, proper disposal techniques for dangerous substances, routine checks and updates of control methods, and continuous staff training.

By adhering to these regulations, businesses ensure the implementation of adequate safety protocols. For instance, in a factory utilising toxic chemicals, abiding by COSHH directives guarantees the installation of effective ventilation, safety gear and correct handling procedures. This not only reduces accident risks but also creates a safer workspace for the workforce.

COSHH adherence also holds weight in shaping a company's image. Firms recognised for their dedication to safety regulations, COSHH included, may draw and retain more clients and employees. In sectors like car manufacturing, meeting safety benchmarks often becomes a pivotal criterion in clinching deals with top brands, highlighting how COSHH compliance can boost a firm's market position.

Environmental conservation is another domain where COSHH plays a pivotal role. The disposal and containment methods outlined by COSHH prevent hazardous agents from polluting the environment. A case in point is a chemical engineering firm that adopted a COSHH-aligned waste management system, thereby curtailing environmental pollution risks.

While introducing COSHH in engineering and manufacturing can be challenging, given the intricacies of risk evaluations for diverse substances, the necessity for specialised training and the costs tied to compliance, these hurdles can be navigated with meticulous planning, expert collaboration and a dedication to ongoing enhancement and industry best practices.

Upholding COSHH compliance in operations

Grasping and abiding by COSHH is indispensable for the engineering and manufacturing sectors. It's a linchpin of ethical business operations, protecting workers, the environment and the enterprise itself. Whether you're an employer, a supervisor, or a worker in these fields, a profound understanding of COSHH is paramount. It guarantees not just legal adherence but also the thriving and sustainable functioning of the enterprise.