SA Instrumentation and Control has been around for 21 years, and there has been great excitement at Technews as we have been looking back to where we came from and where we are heading. I have been with Technews for around seven of those 21 years, and it has been a wonderful experience to work with such a dedicated group of professionals - and having the privilege of getting to see some fascinating developments.
Digital paper
I see that Siemens has also entered the realm of 'digital paper'. The first time I recall hearing about this technology, the excitement was all about something known as E-Ink. The concept is a display device that is as thin as paper, uses very little power and offers the same contrast advantages as printed paper - with the big plus of being able to be written to electronically. It is fascinating to hear how full-colour, hi-resolution live graphics could one day grace the newspapers and magazines. The technology has some way to go until we see any volumes of this magical paper. It would probably be a long time before it can compare with what can be done with the latest LCD techniques. No doubt we will be seeing some industrial applications for this technology too. Search the web for 'digital paper' and you will find more on this subject.
Pinto's new book
Jim Pinto, known for his commentary on industrial technology and technology trends, has recently produced another of his books. Some may recall the review included in a past issue of SA Instrumentation and Control. We shall be including a review of Jim's latest book 'Pinto's Points' in a future issue. If you do not already subscribe to Jim Pinto's regular eNews, I suggest you visit www.jimpinto.com. It is great stuff for those wanting to keep up to date with the latest happenings on the big names in the industry. At times somewhat irreverent, his commentary is as entertaining as it is informative.
This month's highlights
This month we continue with Maurice McDowell's article on the future of nuclear power ('Nuclear power is here to stay - Part 2'). Interesting to see that SA with its pebble bed research is a leader in advancing nuclear power technology to a state that is more modular, scaleable and safer than techniques used by most others. These developments are bound to offer opportunities for local I&C companies that are on the ball. For those audiophiles among us, Denver Technical Products is looking at building a limited run of vintage valve amplifiers. See 'Valve amp nostalgia'.
New Würth Elektronik location in South Africa
News
A new Würth Elektronik branch has opened in Brackenfell, Western Cape. The location operates under the name Wurth Electronics South Africa and will serve local customers, as well as being responsible for markets in Botswana, Mauritius, Namibia, Tanzania and Zambia.
Read more...John Thompson and BECS partner to deliver biomass energy solutions
News
John Thompson, a division of ACTOM and South Africa’s leading provider of industrial energy solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Berkeley Energy Corporate Solutions, a specialist developer and supplier of biomass energy projects. Together, the companies aim to accelerate the deployment of reliable, renewable steam solutions to industrial customers across Africa.
Read more...Academy pumps out the next generation of experts
News
KSB Pumps and Valves has invested in a specialised training centre designed to equip internal and branch staff and certified partners with in-depth knowledge of KSB products and systems.
Read more...Celebrating the power of diversity in the engineering sector
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The engineering sector has historically been a male-dominated field, and to a large extent it still is. However, this is changing, and the shift is gaining significant momentum as more women begin to take up leadership roles, spearheading innovation and driving inclusive growth.
Read more...From the Editor's desk: What happened to the metaverse? Technews Publishing (SA Instrumentation & Control)
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One of the most interesting technical crashes in recent years is the metaverse. As recently as 2022, it was white hot, with massive hype led by Meta. Even Bill Gates was saying that in two to three years ...
Read more...Nidec adopts Siemens Teamcenter for electric motor development Siemens South Africa
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Siemens Digital Industries Software has announced that Nidec Corporation, a Japanese manufacturer and distributor of electric motors, has adopted Teamcenter X software from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software to achieve innovative motor development and supply to set new industry standards, including automotive.
Read more...Yaskawa Southern Africa and Sol-Tech advance industrial robotics training Yaskawa Southern Africa
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Yaskawa Southern Africa has announced a strategic collaboration with Sol-Tech, a private vocational training institution based in Pretoria, to strengthen technical education in industrial robotics and support the development of future-focused talent for South Africa’s evolving manufacturing sector.
Read more...Building skills and sharing knowledge for growth in Africa SEW-EURODRIVE
News
As a leading provider of drive and automation solutions across the continent, SEW-EURODRIVE recognises that local insight and on-the-ground capability are critical to delivering effective sustainable results. The company continues to invest in people development and technical training within its network of African subsidiaries and partners, supporting the long-term growth of its customers and the broader industrial ecosystem.
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.
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