The School of Electrical Engineering at the University of Johannesburg recently opened its doors for the 31st Southern African Universities Power Engineering Conference (SAUPEC). This prestigious conference focuses on power engineering, a crucial field that deals with the design, development and maintenance of power systems and equipment. It plays a vital role in ensuring the reliable and efficient generation, transmission and distribution of electricity.
Festo Didactic, a global leader in technical education, sponsored this conference as part of its dedication to the advancements of teaching. The leading company is proud to contribute to a prominent platform that brings together experts in the field to share knowledge and advance the power engineering industry. During this conference, Festo exhibited its Cyber-Physical Factory, a cutting-edge system that utilises Industry 4.0 technologies. Attendees also had the opportunity to interact with Festo’s technical experts and learn more about this training system’s technology.
Cyber-Physical Factory
The Cyber-Physical Factory that was on display is a modular learning system for training in Industry 4.0. It authentically replicates the stations of a real production system, integrating relevant mechatronic and automation technologies. With its training flexibility and expandability, the CP Factory represents numerous aspects of the Industry 4.0 value chain, including the integration of manufacturing divisions into digital production and automated and manual assembly, to mention a few.
With the electricity shortage at its peak in South Africa, one of the key benefits that the CP Factory offers is its ability to measure the total energy system and the subsystems. The advanced system and subsystems allow the highest energy optimisation to be achieved. This, therefore, results in energy savings for the factory’s owner and reduces the factory’s energy input.
Festo learning systems are equipped with innovative industrial technologies so that the knowledge required for digital production can be imparted, while simultaneously developing skills through hands-on trial and error. Due to its superior technology, Festo has become the performance leader in its industry. This success is attributed to its continuous innovations and problem-solving competence in various aspects of automation, as well as its unique and wide range of technical training and education programmes.
Solving common automation challenges with Festo’s servo drive and servo motor solutions Festo South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
Automation projects face challenges that include limited installation space, the need for precise and repeatable linear motion, rising cycle-speed demands, and seamless integration with existing control architectures. Festo’s servo portfolio directly addresses these issues with compact, modular drive and motor solutions designed for specific applications.
Read more...Experience ICRA 2026 right here in Gqeberha, South Africa
News
The IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA) is the largest robotics, automation, artificial intelligence, and manufacturing conference in the world. You can experience the premier keynote and plenary presentations in Gqeberha.
Read more...Elevating artisanal skills is key to revitalising South Africa’s economy ACTOM Electrical Machines
News
We need to challenge the stigma attached to artisanal and technical careers, and we also need a mindset shift supported by the schooling system so that young people understand future career pathways, choose subjects accordingly, and recognise that artisanal and technical skills carry equal value in a modern economy.
Read more...From the editor's desk: A little bit of magic Technews Publishing (SA Instrumentation & Control)
News
Whatever your view is of America today, the Artemis II mission showed the world that it can still deliver moments of wonder. For a few days, the chaotic headlines gave way to something more. Who could ...
Read more...Woman of Stature Awards South Africa
News
In a powerful recognition of excellence in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Thabisile Phumo won the Woman in Mining and Engineering award at the 2026 Woman of Stature Awards South Africa.
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.