Machine building and Automation show

Now organized by Canon Communications, the Machine Building, Drives and Automation show, and MTEC, will take place on the 13th and 14th February at the NEC, Birmingham. Although returning once again to the NEC, Birmingham, this years Machine Building, Drives & Automation show, as well as MTEC, have been organized by Canon Communications. According to Canon, the Machine Building, Drives & Automation show promises to be the best showcase of industrial automation in the UK, and will focus on drives, motion control and compressed air technology. There will also be a number of education programs including an Industrial Networks for Automation program, and over 400 exhibitors.

MTEC, meanwhile, is aimed at those involved in all aspects of sensors, measurement and instrumentation. This will have over 100 exhibitors plus a schedule of free educational events and workshops.

Exhibitors

Among those exhibiting at Machine Building is Aerotech, which will be demonstrating its ‘Probot’ automated multi-axis pick and place system which combines direct drive and ballscew driven linear stages, tightly synchronized by a distributed network of Ensemble panel-mounted intelligent drives and communicating with an Allen Bradley PLC using an Ethernet/IP network. The complete seven-axis system includes a three-jaw gripper, the machine base with enclosure and full cable management.

The company will also be exhibiting a selection of linear and rotary positioning mechanics along with motion and machine controls – to demonstrate its capability as an engineered motion and mechatronics systems designer and manufacturer.

Misumi will be using the show to demonstrate its CAD downloads facility where users can configure parts down to 0.01mm. In addition, visitors will be able to see a selection of the company’s components range and pick up copies of the 2008 Factory Automation catalogue.

According to R.A.Rodriguez, Machine Building is an important event as it provides the opportunity to showcase its new range of drives and also to emphasize its competence in linear motion technology.

The company has recently been appointed as the UK representative for drive manufacturer Framo Morat whose range of systems includes the Compacta slip-on geared motor with built-in limit switches. In addition, the MINI is a range of compact linear actuators with acme screws that are sealed to IP65.

Alongside this, the company will be exhibiting its own range of linear components – such as linear guideways, ball bushings, bearing housings, shaft supports and shaft blocks.

Machine Building Systems will be using the show to introduce a number of new products, including the ‘Click’ fastener, part of the MB Building Kit System. This is fast and simple to use – simply place the fastener on the profile grooves and lock with a 1/4 turn. It is then secured in position by tightening a tensioning screw located on the side. The fastener allows rapid assembly and adjustment of angles and has a safety feature so, when loosened, it does not allow profiles to separate – they can slide relative a safety feature but cannot slide off unless a further deliberate action is taken. Visitors to the stand will see this demonstrated on a frame incorporating a wooden propeller blade from a WW1 aircraft.