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DC Motors - Why Are We Still Using Them?

DC Motors - Why Are We Still Using Them?

AC motors are common throughout industry - easily controlled by VFDs and without the maintenance that comes with DC brushes. So then, why are DC motors still used in certain applications?


Combating That Killer of Industrial Pneumatic Systems - Water

Combating That Killer of Industrial Pneumatic Systems - Water

Moisture inside industrial pneumatic systems is a major cause for concern, and if the air is not filtered or dried properly, it can lead to serious failures.


My First Experience Programming a Collaborative Robot

My First Experience Programming a Collaborative Robot

We've read about the capabilities of collaborative robots, but often, one question still remains - how do you program a cobot? Last week, I got a chance to get my hands on a cobot for the first time.


How to Best Use PLM in Automation

How to Best Use PLM in Automation

Product lifecycle management (PLM) and industrial automation are growing closer together. This article explores recent trends and application examples of this software in industry.


Investigation Into Popular WMS Software

Investigation Into Popular WMS Software

This article describes the features and advantages of several of the more popular warehouse management systems (WMS) on the market.


History of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

History of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

In this article, learn about the history of warehouse management systems (WMS) and what the future holds for these systems.


Robots as a Service Explained

Robots as a Service Explained

Robots as a service (RaaS) can open the door to automation for small to mid-sized companies that are looking to automate a process without a large upfront capital investment.


Info Byte: What’s the Reason Behind Relay Terminal Numbering?

Info Byte: What’s the Reason Behind Relay Terminal Numbering?

Any industrial electrician can instantly recognize a relay, but when it comes to wiring, why are the terminals numbered in such apparently random order?


Introduction to Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)

Introduction to Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)

Learn the definition of PLM and the stages of a product's lifecycle from initial concept design to final phaseout.


Lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) Devices for Industrial Safety

Lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) Devices for Industrial Safety

One of the most visible elements of industrial safety is the use of lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) devices, familiar to those with experience. But, if you are new to the workforce, a brief introduction may be helpful.


Types of Motor Starters and Application Considerations

Types of Motor Starters and Application Considerations

Motors drive all sorts of processes in a facility. Depending on the application, which motor starter is best suited for your needs?


SOLIDWORKS vs. AutoCAD for Mechatronics

SOLIDWORKS vs. AutoCAD for Mechatronics

Solidworks or AutoCAD? Which software is the right fit for you and your team? Take a dive into the fundamental components of both programs and the key differences between them.


Using LabVIEW for Motor and Motion Control

Using LabVIEW for Motor and Motion Control

Learn about the numerous libraries, toolkits, and interfaces to achieve motor and motion control using LabVIEW.


Common Servo Motor Feedback Devices

Common Servo Motor Feedback Devices

Learn about specific components used in feedback devices and some of the jargon you may encounter when working with servo motion systems.


Top Five Machine Safety Risks and Automated Solutions for the Shop Floor

Top Five Machine Safety Risks and Automated Solutions for the Shop Floor

Each machine on the factory floor comes with risk; learn common safety risks and corresponding automation solutions.


Selecting a Robotic Arm Solution for Industrial Robots

Selecting a Robotic Arm Solution for Industrial Robots

Start learning about robotic arm solution, kinematic chain and motion planning, in this first technical installment.


Comparing Electrical and Mechanical Motor Soft-start Methods

Comparing Electrical and Mechanical Motor Soft-start Methods

Learn about the different types of electrical and mechanical soft-start methods as well as devices to use for each method.


How are Robots Pushing Further Into Automotive Manufacturing?

How are Robots Pushing Further Into Automotive Manufacturing?

Learn about how various types of robots are currently being deployed in the automotive sector and some of the challenges they face on the factory floor.


What are Six-Axis Robots?

What are Six-Axis Robots?

For many manufacturing processes, Cartesian robots work well. However, there are times with a robot with more movement capabilities works better. Learn about six-axis robots, how they move, and popular applications.


A Look Into CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing)

A Look Into CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing)

This article introduces the concept of Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) and discusses some common uses for CAM for controls and automation specialists.