At the last technology evening, Gary Bantich from EOH Process Automation Solutions, presented on the role of instrumentation in the maintenance philosophies and practices of organisations to date and going forward. Traditional thinking has confined instrumentation to the control arena; but current instrumentation can play a significant role in the further development of predictive maintenance methodologies by adding a system or process diagnostic element.
Gary Friend (left) thanks Gary Bantich after the presentation.
The use of instrumentation in medical illness diagnosis, and the resultant systematic analysis thereof, were used to illustrate how the adoption of evolving technologies and automation systems can provide insight and guidance on the enhancement of predictive maintenance practices.
A synopsis of the evolution of maintenance methodologies gave an insight into current practices and their shortcomings with respect to electrical and electronic components and systems within the industrial environment. Examples from the aircraft industry were shared to highlight the gaps in the maintenance methodologies currently being used to develop preventative and predictive maintenance practices. The presentation generated debate that challenged the following paradox that exists in industry: We never have resources (time, money, people) to do proactive problem-solving and to prevent the problem from happening, but we always have resources to fix the problem reactively.
The incorporation of instrumentation and allied technologies can help significantly in resolving this paradox. This will require a drive and willingness within organisations to challenge the current status quo in terms of the role of instrumentation and the use thereof.
The SAIMC would like to thank Gary for his informative presentation, which was well attended and received.
International robotics conference streams live to Africa
SAIMC
The SAIMC hosted five live-stream viewing events across South Africa for the IEEE International Conference of Robotics and Automation in Vienna, bringing global robotics research and technology directly to local industry and academia.
Read more...From the office of the CEO: Introduction to GRIP SAIMC
SAIMC
Industry has long been concerned about graduates who have no understanding of the modern equipment they will face in industry. This has triggered an investigation into the possibility of creating a facility whereby graduates register with the SAIMC and rotate through all the vendors to obtain experience on modern equipment.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Durban Branch hosted a technology meeting featuring a presentation by Abacus Automation on the practical role of AI in industrial automation, drawing considerable interest from attendees.
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg branch SAIMC
SAIMC
Instrotech recently hosted a technical presentation on load cell technology and applications at the SAIMC Johannesburg Technology Evening, presented by Trevor Salzwedel. The session covered load cell fundamentals, selection and installation, mechanical considerations and calibration methods.
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg Golf Day SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Johannesburg Golf Day on 22 May 2026 brought together 16 four-balls for a day of golf, networking and fundraising, with generous support from sponsors across the instrumentation and control sector.
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The Johannesburg Branch had the privilege of being hosted by Phoenix Contact for our technology event in May. Shamil Surbun, BU manager for Automation, presented a CPD-accredited session on ‘From Sensor to Cloud: How SPE and APL Are Transforming Industrial Connectivity’.
Read more...From the office of the CEO: Power Hour goes national SAIMC
SAIMC
South Africa’s automation, control, mechatronics and computer engineering community is changing fast, and the SAIMC is changing with it. I am excited to announce a new national initiative that will reshape how we deliver technical knowledge, strengthen branch identity and bring our community together like never before.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version