Festo US Press Releases

Festo Launches Its Next Generation Remote I/O System

CPX-AP-I Remote I/O enables faster scan rates and higher performance of mixed valve terminals and I/O systems.

ISLANDIA, NY, October 16, 2019 — The new Festo remote I/O system CPX-AP-I, which improves the performance of mixed valve terminals and I/O systems, is compatible with most communication protocols, including EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, and EtherCAT. These rugged, compact, and lightweight modules can be mounted directly on machines in IP65/IP67 rated environments. CPX-AP-I recently received a 2019 Reddot award for product design.

CPX-AP-I enables valve terminals to be moved closer to pneumatic cylinders, which reduces pressurization time and increases the machine’s overall performance. Process data in and out of each bus module is as much as two kilobytes. Scan cycles for a mix of both valve terminals and I/O are below one millisecond and are expected to approach microseconds. Latency is virtually nonexistent.

Another important feature is that communication and voltage supply are via two separate connecting cables that are also galvanically isolated, eliminating the potential for stray currents. Two separate wires enable the creation of voltage zones that provide reliable control for a host of machine processes.

CPX-AP-I comes standard with a pre-integrated IO-Link® Master and IO-Link device tool for fast, effective application of IO-Link enabled devices. CPX-AP-I ensures that each application can be individually optimized. Cross-communication between modules enables applications requiring high speed and rapid control.

CPX-AP-I remote I/O has the capacity of up to 80 I/O modules, which can be a mix of digital I/O, analog I/O, I/O-Link, and valve terminals. Furthermore, the distances between modules is up to 49 feet (15 meters). CPX-AP-I has a theoretical upper limit of 500 I/O modules and 164 feet (50 meters) distance between modules.

“CPX-AP-I builds on the best features of the remote I/O technology available today and then goes farther by incorporating the latest Ethernet ASIC technology and productivity tools,” said Sandro Quintero, Product Manager – Electric Automation, Festo. “CPX-AP-I offers the best price and performance ratio of any system combining decentralized I/O with valve terminals.”

For more information on CPX-AP-I, call 800-993-3786 and/or visit https://www.festo.us.

About Festo Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

Coast Pneumatics carries the complete range of Festo products and incorporates Festo products in subassemblies and panels.

ISLANDIA, NY, October 9, 2019 — Festo announced today that Coast Pneumatics, based in Anaheim, California, now distributes the complete line of Festo pneumatic and electric automation components and systems. Coast Pneumatics is ISO 9001: 2015 certified for quality management systems. In addition, its panel division is UL 508A, UL 698A, and UL 1203 certified for safe panel building, which includes building for hazardous locations such as explosive or particle-igniting environments.

For almost 50 years, Coast Pneumatics has supplied products to and provided solutions for an extensive range of industries, such as but not limited to: Medical, Food and Beverage, Packaging, Water Purification and Treatment, Automotive, Theme Park, and Fuel Purification. The company’s value-added capabilities and services have won building projects for leading companies and brands such as four of the largest medical products and medical equipment manufacturers in the world. Value-added capabilities and services offered by Coast Pneumatics include assembly, machining, contract manufacturing, system integration, control panel engineering and fabrication, and more.

Coast Pneumatics is recognized for its heavy e-commerce presence and the support provided for customers online, over the phone, and in person. The company’s product specialists are extensively trained to identify the optimum solution for a wide array of applications.

“Everyone at Coast Pneumatics is excited to offer Festo products to our customers,” said Harry O. Ellis Jr., President and CEO of Coast Pneumatics. “The quality of products and the end-to-end solutions in both pneumatics and electrics are game changers. Our original equipment manufacturers that ship machines globally prefer to use Festo components on their machines because, with Festo, end users will have readily available replacement parts and the technical support they need, when they need it.”

“Coast Pneumatics has made impressive investments in its inside sales team, its team of electrical and mechanical engineers, and value-added services and capabilities,” said Mark Snyder, Channel Director Festo Corporation. “This new distribution agreement positions both companies for growth and ultimately for customers to have improved automation performance.”

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Photo Captions

Coast Pneumatics Festo integrated system

Interior of a Coast Pneumatics custom control panel with Festo inside.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

Festo in Guinness World Records 2020

Guinness World Records presents thousands of exciting records from all over the world each year. Included this year will be the BionicOpter from Festo.

The chapter “Robots” presents the most amazing records from the world of super robots and artificial intelligence. The BionicOpter, an ultra-light flying object based on the dragonfly, is named there as the world record winner for biggest flying robotic insect. “It is fascinating what we can learn from nature. Curiosity and joy in innovation drive us to keep trying new things. We are very pleased to be included in Guinness World Records – it’s a great validation”, says Karoline von Häfen, Head of Festo Corporate Bionic Projects.

Inspired by dragonfly flight

After bird flight had been deciphered with the SmartBird in 2011, the developers took on their next-biggest challenge in the Bionic Learning Network: modelling the dragonfly at a technical level. The BionicOpter is an ultralight flying object. Just like its model in nature, the BionicOpter can fly in all directions and execute the most complicated flight maneuvers. The BionicOpter’s ability to move each of its wings independently enables it to slow down and turn abruptly, to accelerate swiftly and even to fly backwards. This means that for the first time there is a model that can master all the flight conditions of a helicopter, plane and even a glider. Despite its complexity, the highly integrated system can be operated easily and intuitively via a smartphone.

The principles of ultra-lightweight construction are applied throughout the flying object. With a wingspan of 24.8 inches (63 cm) and a body length of 17.3 inches (44 cm), the model dragonfly weighs just 6.2 ounces (175 grams). The wings consist of a carbon-fiber frame and a thin foil covering. The intelligent kinematics correct any vibrations during flight and ensure flight stability. In order to stabilize the flying object, data on the position and the twisting of the wings is continuously recorded and evaluated in real time during the flight of the dragonfly.

Festo AG & Co. KG

Ruiter Straße 82

73734 Esslingen GERMANY

Phone +49 711 347-57479

Fax +49 711 34754-57479

Judith.Kathmann@festo.com www.festo.com

About Festo:

Festo AG is a global player and an independent family-owned company with headquarters in Esslingen am Neckar, Germany. The company supplies pneumatic and electrical automation technology to 300,000 customers of factory and process automation in over 35 industries. The products and services are available in 176 countries. With about 21,200 employees in over 250 branch offices in 61 countries worldwide, Festo achieved a turnover of around €3.2 billion in 2018. Each year around 8 % of this turnover is invested in research and development.

In this learning company, 1.5 % of turnover is invested in basic and further training. Yet training services are not only provided for Festo's own staff – Festo Didactic SE also supplies basic and further training programs in the field of automation technology for customers, students and trainees.

Further information:

Press text and photos are also available online at www.festo.com/press or mobile at http://m.festo.com/press.

For queries please contact:

Festo AG & Co. KG

Judith Kathmann, Corporate Communication – Technology Phone: +49 711 347-57479

E-Mail: Judith.Kathmann@festo.com

Festo in Social Media:

Facebook: www.festo.com/facebook Twitter: www.festo.com/twitter LinkedIn: www.festo.com/linkedin Xing: www.festo.com/xing YouTube: www.festo.com/youtube

At Pack Expo, Festo demonstrates how to bring packaging machines to market faster with less engineering cost.

ISLANDIA, NY, August 27, 2019 — Festo features innovations that shorten packaging machine development time and reduce engineering overhead at Pack Expo, September 23-25, Las Vegas Convention Center. (Festo Pack ExpoBooth # LS-6349)

Design a pick-and-place robot and control cabinet in minutes

Festo demonstrates a Cartesian robot and control cabinet that were designed in minutes utilizing the Handling Guide Online and Festo Motion Control Package online tools. These productivity tools slash the costs of engineering, assembling, and programming Cartesian robots – robots that can be used for pick and place, assembly, and general-handling applications.

With Handling Guide Online, engineers enter application parameters such as load and speed and the online tool designs the optimum two- or three-axes robot. The design process averages 20 minutes. At the completion of the session, the engineer receives a CAD file, bill of materials, and quote. Festo Cartesian robots are assigned a customer specific part number that facilitates reordering and global support. Robots are purchased as an all-in-one-box kit or as a ready-to-install subassembly.

The Festo Motion Control Package concurrently designs the control panel. Control panels arrive fully assembled. Personnel simply attach power and communication cables and begin the teaching process, which involves function blocks, not a specialized programming language. Robots can be in operation in a matter of hours after arrival.

Fast changeover

The VTEM Motion Terminal’s intelligent pneumatic valves change functionality based on downloadable apps. The Motion Terminal is ideal for products with short lifecycles, lines where multiple stock keeping units (SKUs) are manufactured, and small lot production. At Pack Expo, Festo shows the Motion Terminal changing functionality in a matter of seconds. Functionalities include:

• Pressure control with a fluidic muscle DMSP
• Presetting travel time with a DGC linear drive
• Flow control with flow sensors SFAH
• Caudal regulator with the DGC linear drive
• Pick and place with a DGSL mini slide
  

Fast, trouble-free assembly with these linear axes

The low-cost linear actuator ELGC and mini slide EGSC are designed for interoperability and assembly in a matter of seconds. Visitors to the Festo booth can try their hands at assembling ELGC and EGSC and see for themselves how quick and easy these components go together. Actuator and slide offer an optimal ratio between installation space and working space and do not require mounting plates.

Fast engineering with this innovative end-of-arm tool

The new DHEF adaptive shape gripper is an end-of-arm tool that offers maximum gripping flexibility with minimal engineering. The adaptive shape gripper automatically grasps mixed objects, multiple shapes, fragile items, and unaligned objects. The flexible silicone cap gently forms around objects, gripping it firmly. This gripper is ideal for collaborative robotics.

Other Festo Pack Expo highlights include:

• Grippers
• Vision systems
• A portfolio of IO-Link solutions
• Festo Stars of Automation for guaranteed 24-hour shipment of core products.
  

For more information about these and other systems at Festo, call 800-993-3786 and/or visit https://www.festo.us.

Festo Handling Guide Online

Design and order a custom Cartesian robot in 20 minutes with the Festo Handling Guide Online productivity tool.

Photos available upon request

Festo ELGC and EGSC

The ELGC electric actuator and EGSC mini slide enable quick, easy assembly and do not require extra mounting plates.

Festo Motion Control Package

Robot controller arrives fully assembled – simply attach power and communication cables and begin the teaching process.

Festo VTEM Motion Terminal

This intelligent pneumatic valve is designed for shorter product lifecycles and cost-effective modular manufacturing.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

Festo supplies pneumatics and electrics that meet FSMA standards for safe quality food processing and packaging.

ISLANDIA, NY, August 27, 2019 — Festo showcases at Pack Expo, September 23-25, Las Vegas Convention Center, pneumatic and electric products compliant with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) guidelines on safely processing, holding, and packaging food. (Festo Pack ExpoBooth # LS-6349) It is vital that compressed air intended for direct contact with food and used at the end of the packaging line is filtered as clean as possible. For this reason, air filtration efficiency of 99.999% is the first line of defense for maintaining food safety.

For ensuring that clean air is utilized on a machine, Festo offers pre-configured MS-Series compressed air preparation units. MS-Series units meet or exceed the Safe Quality Food (SQF) recommendation for 99.999% efficiency and a final filtration stage of 0.01 micron. Air quality of 1:4:2 or better can be achieved in accordance to the ISO 8573-1:2010 standard.

Clean design valve terminals and actuators

The MPA-C valve terminal is rated IP69K and can be mounted directly on a machine. The MPA-C is designed for harsh washdown environments and its rounded contour ensures cleanability.

Like the MPA-C, the stainless steel CRDSNU cylinder meets current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) for cleanability. There are no threads on the CRDSNU bearing cap to trap contaminants. Its self-adjusting end-position cushioning system does not contain contaminant susceptible adjusting screws. The actuator also utilizes NSF-H1 grease and FDA approved seals.

Festo features clean-design fittings and a range of FDA compliant tubing that resists hydrolysis, cracking, and wear in harsh washdown environments.

Many Festo electric actuators demonstrate how the company meets cGMPs outside of the food and splash zones. Electric actuators such as the ELGA feature easy clean wipe-down exteriors. Body profiles prevent build-up of dirt or debris. Units can be pressurized to help prevent ingress of particles.

For more information about these and other FSMA compliant systems at Festo, call 800-993-3786 and/or visit https://www.festo.us. And visit www.festo.com/foodsafety for downloadable materials on sanitary design.

Festo MPA-C valve terminal

MPA-C valve terminals are rated IP69K and can be mounted directly on a machine. These terminals are designed for cleanability.

Photos available upon request

Festo CRDSNU

The CRDSNU rigorously conforms to cGMP criteria for sanitary design. The actuator utilizes NSF-H1 grease and FDA approved seals.

Festo MS-Series

Air filtration is the first line of defense for maintaining a food safe environment. This unit also features a safety valve.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

These mini slides offer small footprint, high feed force, precision operation, and ease of installation.

ISLANDIA, NY, August 6, 2019 — Festo introduces the DGST pneumatic mini slide, one of the most compact pneumatic slides available. DGST slides are designed for precision handling, press fitting, pick and place, and electronic and light assembly applications.

The DGST slide and yoke plate are machined from a single piece of aluminum, which ensures low torsion and accurate alignment. Backlash free piston rod/yoke connection contributes to the slide’s precision and extended service life. Maintenance free twin piston drives and high force capacity recirculating ball bearing guides provide the DGST with twice the power of other slides – from 7.6 to 132.6 lbf (34 to 590 N) at 6 bar.

Cushioning and proximity sensors do not extend beyond the slide’s footprint, which contributes to the new line’s compactness. Three cushioning options are available. Two slides can be piggybacked in minutes simply by bolting the units together – adaptor plates are not needed. Locating port connections, end-position sensing, and precision end-position adjustment together on one side also contributes to ease of installation. Payloads for the seven different sizes of DGST range from 1.5 to 37.5 pounds (0.7 to 17 kilograms), and stroke length ranges from .4 to 8 inches (10 to 200 millimeters).

For more information, call 800-993-3786 and visit the Festo pneumatic drives landing page for an overview of the company’s offering.

Photo Caption Festo DGST mini slide.

About Festo Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

With Festo pneumatic and electric automation solutions playing a significant role, SunSource forecasts significant growth across its business segments.

ISLANDIA, NY, July 23, 2019 — Festo announced that SunSource, Addison, IL, has become its latest distribution partner. SunSource will introduce Festo components and value-added pneumatic and electric automation solutions to customers in its Southeast and Northwest U.S. sales regions.

SunSource is a value-added solutions distributor to the mobile hydraulic machinery, industrial manufacturing, fluid processing, and food processing industries. SunSource has 140 sales, engineering, and stocking locations across North America and has branches in Belgium and Singapore. Additionally, the company operates 34 facilities for repairing fluid power and electronic components and systems.

“Pneumatics is a big part of our business, and we aim to increase sales of automation,” said Jim Slone, Executive Vice President, SunSource. “We are always looking for supplier partners that are not only leaders today, but also making significant investments for the future through product development. It was clear to us that Festo is committed to product development and growing their business with distribution. Our initial emphasis will be the introduction of Festo solutions to our mobile hydraulic machinery and industrial manufacturing customers.”

“SunSource and Festo share the commitment of helping customers reduce engineering overhead and achieve faster time to market,” said Mark Snyder, Channel Director Festo Corporation. “SunSource solutions capabilities, utilizing Festo pneumatic and electric automation, are key to these efficiency and speed advantages.”

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Festo advances high-speed liquid-transfer systems with its new bulk-dispensing head. (Festo Booth #4021)

ISLANDIA, NY, (date) — Festo introduces a new low-weight, high-accuracy 96-channel bulk dispense head at the American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC) Expo, August 6-8, at the Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, Calif. Festo AACC Exhibit #4021

The new 96-channel bulk-dispense head offers an economically effective way to distribute bulk reagents into 96/384 well microplate formats at high throughput speeds. Dispense volumes can range from under 10ul to over 100ul, with an overall coefficient of variation (CV) under 5% in most cases. The system can be made compatible with various liquid handling robots or supplied as a standalone automated sample preparation system. Key features:

• Individual control for each column (8 wells) in the microplate
• Modular cassette design
• Low weight of only ~1 kg allows high dynamics in the handling system. Most bulk-dispense heads are heavier and require more costly motion units to handle the greater torque requirements.
• Available for disposable or fixed tip applications

With wipe-down surfaces and many features in a clean, compact configuration, the EHMD rotary gripper, demonstrated at AACC, offers solutions for preparing and analyzing samples, loading centrifuges, gripping, rotating, placing microwell plates, and opening and closing bottles and vials of different sizes. Combined with a Festo three axis gantry and a camera, the EHMD module can support applications requiring quality inspections, barcode reading, and printed labels.

Festo piezo valves VEAA and VEAB are designed for precision flow and pressure control and for use as directly controlled proportional valves. VEAA and VEAB are small, lightweight, precise, durable, and fast. Energy consumption is minimal, making them an attractive energy savings alternative to conventional solenoid valves. Since these valves maintain switching status without the supply of energy, they are practically non-self-heating. They also operate silently and are wear-resistant, facilitating long-term operation.

One of the world’s leading automation companies, Festo transfers advanced manufacturing technology, including those based on Industry 4.0, to laboratory medicine and biopharma equipment manufacturers and end users. Technology transfer enables faster time to market for devices and quick project startup. Globally available off-the-shelf components lower the cost of those devices. Global technical support ensures that devices achieve maximum utilization and throughput. And, Festo life sciences teams, including technologists at its LifeTech Technology Engineering Center in Billerica, Mass., develop solutions specifically for the laboratory device and biopharma industries. Festo automation solutions cover:

• Dispensing and pipetting
• Identification and evaluation
• Centrifuging
• Incubation and shaking
• Aspirating and dispensing
• Storage

For more information on Festo LifeTech solutions, email lab.automation.us@festo.com and visit the Festo LifeTech webpages. The Festo general information number is 800-993-3786.

The new Festo 96-channel bulk dispense head offers modular cassette design and individual control for each column (8 wells) in the microplate.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

Festo Website Completely Redesigned

The new website enables access to products, tools, and orders more efficiently.

ISLANDIA, NY, May 22, 2019 Festo unveiled today its first complete website redesign in more than 10 years – www.festo.us. The company’s 30,000 products and accompanying engineering tools are now accessible more easily, quickly, and efficiently than ever before. A responsive design seamlessly adapts webpages to the customer’s device – phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop.

“Festo is world-renowned for its innovative, cost-effective, and reliable automation solutions, and we’ve rebuilt our website to live up to those same standards,” said Michael Zakrzewski, Vice President of Market Management – North America. “With the new website, we are taking the opportunity to strengthen and modernize how we represent our products and solutions to improve the level of online experience for our customers.”

Product selection streamlined

Key enablers of faster product selection include an “every click counts” design strategy that reduces the number of clicks to navigate the site and the “easy product selection” design that allows users to quickly narrow down a product portfolio based on the features and associated accessories that are most important for the application. Filter functionality allows the customer to quickly pinpoint product, price, availability, and shipping. There is easy access to “how-to” materials such as tutorials, videos, CAD models, and technical documentation. Advanced search capabilities, category pages, and streamlined product detail pages round out the ease of use functionality.

Easy ordering

Ordering from Festo has never been easier. The new site allows customers to track availability, net prices, and shipping dates in real time. Shopping carts can be saved, shared, and will accept part and project quotations. Customized personal accounts maintain the customer’s order history, repeat orders, and specified delivery requirements. There are more payment options to choose from, including credit card, PayPal, and invoicing.

Festo offers subassemblies and components in these areas:

• Pneumatic actuators Servo-pneumatics
• Electromechanical drives Motors and controllers
• Grippers Handling systems
• Vacuum technology Valves
• Valve manifolds Motion Terminal
• Sensors Image processing systems
• Compressed air preparation Air supply components
• Electric cables and connectors Control technology
• Software Process automation
• Ready to install solutions Function specific systems

The company serves the following industry segments:

• Automotive Electronics
• Electromobility Assembly and test
• Semiconductor and electronics Solar and flat panel
• Food processing and packaging Biopharma and cosmetics
• Chemical Water technology
• Medical technology Laboratory automation
• Process automation Textile
• Machine tool Woodworking
• Printing, paper, and converting Metal extraction and mining-process engineering

For more information on Festo solutions, call 800-993-3786 and visit the new Festo website at www.festo.us.

Photo Caption

New Festo homepage

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

During SLAS 2019, February 4-6 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C., Synchron, with its automation partner Festo, describes for the first time the recent technology breakthrough leading to ultra-high throughput DNA extraction – up to 38,400 extractions per 24 hours. A key section of the new extraction machine, the Synchron DNA Cruiser, along with 3D animation, are the centerpieces of the Festo SLAS Exhibit #1007. Festo also introduces at the show a new telescoping slide for transporting samples to storage and demonstrates automation solutions for pre-analytic sample handling and precise microliter plate dispensing. On February 5, from 12:30-1:15 in Room 143C, Business Development Leaders Niels Kruize, Synchron, and Wolfgang Trautwein, Festo, explain the breakthrough that led to the development of ultra-high throughput DNA extraction and the building of the DNA Cruiser. The first machine in the series is installed and engaged in agrigenomics research.

The current model for DNA extraction involves handling samples in parallel. Synchron with Festo envisioned DNA extraction in series, rather than parallel, and saw the potential for extraction rates many times higher than previously possible. The DNA Cruiser relies on automated liquid handling stations for each sequential step to achieve the volume required for ultra-high throughput extraction. The serial method also lends itself to other lab automation processes such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and sample preparation. The DNA Cruiser is built to Industry 4.0 concepts of modularity. Synchron can cost effectively scale the extraction devices for specified volumes from low to high. Modules feature a small footprint to conserve valuable laboratory floorspace. Festo partners with life technology and biopharmaceutical equipment manufacturers and end users to provide system and sub-assembly process automation solutions. These partnerships enable customers to focus resources on their intellectual property while Festo supplies the automation utilized in:

• Identification and evaluation
• Dispensing and pipetting
• Centrifuging
• Incubation and shaking
• Aspirating and dispensing
• Storage

Late last year Festo opened its first engineering center in the United States devoted to the life sciences. The new center in Billerica, Mass., pioneers the development of high speed, high accuracy fluid handling automation based on pneumatic principles. Center personnel also work with individual customers on automated motion and fluid handling solutions that help bring their laboratory device to market faster and at less cost. See the Synchron DNA Cruiser display at the Festo Booth #1007. Write to Synchron at info@synchronlab.com. To learn more about Festo sample handling, dispensing, and storage automation solutions, visit the company’s laboratory automation webpage. For more on the services of the Festo Life Tech Technical Engineering Center in Billerica, email lab.automation.us@festo.com. The Festo general information number is 800-993-3786.

About Synchron

Synchron develops custom-made laboratory automation solutions and specializes in automated liquid handling. Within its branch of industry, Synchron is renowned as a progressive and innovative company. www.synchronlab.com

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

OEMs and processors benefit from having a single source manufacturer of pneumatic valves, actuators, and air-prep systems that meet FSMA standards for food safety.

ISLANDIA, NY, February 6, 2019 — At the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE), February 12-14 in Atlanta, Festo displays pneumatic valves, cylinders, and air-preparation systems that meet Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) good manufacturing practices for safely handling, manufacturing, and packing food. Festo also demonstrates the world’s first intelligent pneumatic system – the Motion Terminal. (Booth # B3654)

Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) benefit from global support of more than 2,000 standard items in its product catalog, many of which are rated hygienic and suitable for harsh washdown environments. Festo field sales engineers help OEMs select the right products for food-safe processing and packaging machines and consult on subassemblies and panel building opportunities for bringing those machines to market faster and at less cost.

For poultry, red meat, pork, and seafood processors, Festo field sales engineers consult to ensure the proper products are utilized for the application. Utilization of a core group of components lowers inventory requirements, improves machine operation through the latest technology, and ensures compliance to FSMA standards.

Featured components at the Festo booth include the MPA-C valve terminal. This valve terminal is rated IP69K and can be mounted directly on a machine – no cabinet required. Festo demonstrates the MPA-C in operation while continuously immersed in water. The stainless steel CRDSNU cylinder offers efficient cleaning – fast, easy, and thorough. With no cushioning adjustment required, this round pneumatic cylinder reduces installation time. The CRDSNU cylinder’s FDA compliant NSF-H1 lubricating grease and dry-run wiper seals make it ideal for hygienic production in aggressive environments.

For ensuring that clean air is utilized on a machine, Festo offers pre-configured MS-Series compressed air preparation units. Filtration is available for 99.9999% efficiency and air qualities of 1:4:2 or better can be achieved in accordance to the ISO 8573-1:2010 standard. Clean-design fittings and a range of tubing types – rated for hygienic operations and harsh environments – are also standard products in the Festo catalog.

As an Industry 4.0 solution, a single Motion Terminal, is capable of replacing 50 different components through the download of various combinations of apps. Festo developed the Motion Terminal to seamlessly integrate computational algorithms and physical components. This new cyber-physical system enables scalability and cloud-based predictive analytics.

Festo invites OEMs and processors at IPPE 2019 to stop by its Booth # B3654 for demonstrations and consultations on hygienic and washdown pneumatic products for faster time to market and improved operations.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

ISLANDIA, N.Y., November 14, 2018 — At Automation Fair 2018, November 14-15, Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia, Festo introduces new solutions that advance Rockwell Automation’s data-driven manufacturing and processing initiatives. (Festo Automation Fair Booth #411)

“The future of optimum overall equipment effectiveness and energy efficiency will rely on a collaborative maintenance environment and on intelligent devices that deliver real-time cloud-based analytics,” said Frank Latino, Festo Product Manager for Ethernet/IP. “At Automation Fair, Festo introduces three of its latest enablers for Rockwell Automation intelligent device initiatives.”

CPX-FB36

The Festo CPX-FB36 is the first Rockwell Automation third-party device that provides FactoryTalk Analytics for Devices (Shelby) with valve terminal health and diagnostic details. When combined with the MSE6-E2M intelligent energy efficiency module, Shelby creates a dashboard providing the pneumatic response of a system with up to a six-month look-back. The CPX-FB36 diagnostic data is also accessible by FactoryTalk TeamONE mobile app users via the Action Deck.

VTEM digital pneumatic valve terminal

The CPX-FB36 brings the revolutionary Festo VTEM digital pneumatic valve terminal into the Rockwell Automation Connected Enterprise. Each VTEM intelligent valve changes functionality based on downloadable apps from Festo. These flexible valves can potentially replace up to 50 pneumatic components.

At Automation Fair, Festo introduces two new downloadable apps:

• Soft Stop: enables the fast acceleration of a linear actuator without the use of shock absorbers

• Model-based pressure control: ensures precise control of a pneumatic actuator without having to incorporate additional sensors

Festo provides add-on instructions for making it easy to integrate the VTEM into the Rockwell Automation architecture.

CPX-IoT Gateway

Festo previews its soon to be released CPX-IoT Gateway. CPX-IoT gives customers preconfigured dashboards for Festo devices, including all CPX valve terminals and the MSE6-E2M intelligent energy efficiency module. Festo dashboards are designed to enhance energy savings and to improve overall equipment effectiveness. User programming is not required. Festo demonstrates a real-time E2M dashboard from a module located in a manufacturing plant 4,000 miles from Philadelphia.

EPLAN

Festo AppWorld (www.festo.com/appworld) now has a SaaS solution for EPLAN. Simply enter a configuration of any Encompass Referenced valve terminal and the service creates an error free EPLAN project in minutes. Ideal for system integrators and solution partners, this service can save a day of work and facilitate a digital-twin development. See the Festo presentation at the EPLAN Automation Fair Booth #1349.

Festo also highlights its process automation solutions and provides a display of its laboratory fluid handling solutions for the Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute exhibit at Automation Fair.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Power/mation’s customers in Minnesota and the Dakotas are introduced first to Festo pneumatic automation solutions.

ISLANDIA, NY, November 6, 2018 — Festo announced that Power/mation, St. Paul, Minnesota, has become its newest distribution partner. Power/mation, a value-added solutions provider with deep roots in the power transmission industry, has warehouses and sales offices in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North and South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

Power/mation will introduce the Festo product offering to its customers in Minnesota and the Dakotas as an extension to its current product portfolio.

“We surveyed our customers and sales personnel asking what areas of automation technology they most wanted us to add to our portfolio of solutions,” said Robert Stern, Vice President of Business Development, Power/mation. “A majority said pneumatics. We evaluated the market leaders and came away knowing we wanted to partner with Festo.” Stern said that the evaluation team considered such factors as annual research and development budget, the quality and breadth of product lines, the level of experience within the vendor’s sales force, number of markets served, and product delivery logistics.

“Power/mation has more than 80 highly experienced technical sales and solutions development specialists,” said Mark Snyder, Channel Director Festo Corporation. “This level of commitment to value-added services is impressive. Power/mation’s distribution infrastructure in the upper Midwest supports our strategic growth goals.”

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

ISLANDIA, NY, November 6, 2018 — Festo announced that Heitek Automation, Phoenix, Arizona, will now be distributing the full line of Festo pneumatic and electric automation components and systems in Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico.

Since its founding in 2000, Heitek Automation partners with suppliers that are leaders in a product segment and have a record of superior product fulfillment and customer technical support. Heitek’s business strategy is focused on four key areas of automation services – solution development and consulting, whether in component delivery logistics or value-added system creation; design to meet specifications; assured fulfillment; and delivering technical support, training, and on-site resources as needed. For Festo products, Heitek will also provide customers with pneumatic panel building solutions. Heitek’s customer base includes original equipment manufacturers, process and manufacturing operations, and system integrators.

SANTA CLARA, Calif., August 2, 2018 — Festo, one of the world’s leading manufacturing and processing automation suppliers, has opened its first North American Festo Experience Center in the heart of Silicon Valley. With the ever-increasing linkages between making things and controlling processes through cloud computing and Big Data, the company said Silicon Valley was the optimum site for its newest experience center.

The 5,000 square-foot Festo Experience Center, Santa Clara, features a demonstration hall where augmented reality devices allow visitors to virtually experience manufacturing and processing systems utilized in such industries as semiconductors and electronics, solar and flat panel, assembly and test, medical technology, laboratory automation, food & packaging and process automation. Rotating exhibits showcase active and static displays of the latest automated manufacturing and processing solutions. Plans call for demonstrations of:

• Modular and reconfigurable systems conforming to the concepts of Industry 4.0 – the fourth industrial revolution
• Cyber-physical devices that change functionality based on downloadable apps
• Predictive analytics relying on smart-sensors, Big Data concepts, and connectivity to the cloud to alert teams to system failures before failures occur
• Cloud-based dashboards and data analytics facilitating optimum overall equipment/process effectiveness
• Solutions for optimum energy efficiency in manufacturing and processing
• Frictionless transport through high temperature superconductors
• Online productivity tools for bringing products and systems to market faster and with less engineering overhead.

The Experience Center also features a laboratory for focused customer solutions and training and meeting areas.

“From the market penetration perspective, the Festo Experience Center, Santa Clara, will bring our people closer to existing customers in the semiconductor, life sciences, and other industries and open the door to developing new strategic relationships,” said Richard J. Huss, President of Festo US. “From a solutions development perspective, Festo teams will be enriched by being in the heart of one of the most dynamic innovation incubators in the world. All of this energy will be put toward helping customers make things and control processes better, faster, and with greater flexibly by linking automation technology with Big Data and cloud computing.”

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. Other Festo Experience Centers are in Delft, The Netherlands; Bangalore, India; and Shanghai, China.

In North America for more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Reconfigurable and modular Industry 4.0 systems like the Festo Motion Terminal support today’s shorter product lifecycle and small-lot-size production.

The Festo Semicon West 2018 exhibit, July 10-12 at the Moscone Center, San Francisco, features the new Motion Terminal.

The Festo Semicon West 2018 exhibit, July 10-12 at the Moscone Center, San Francisco, features the new Motion Terminal, an Industry 4.0 system capable of replacing 50 different components through the download of various combinations of cloud-based apps. Three in-booth systems demonstrate fast reconfigurability, which supports shorter product lifecycles and small-lot-size production. (Festo Semicon West Booth #1311)

Festo developed the Motion Terminal to seamlessly integrate computational algorithms and physical components. This new cyber-physical system enables the Industry 4.0 advantages of adaptability, scalability, resiliency, safety, security, usability, and cloud-based predictive analytics. Along with the Motion Terminal Festo exhibits supporting technology, including IO-Link enabled smart sensors, electric cylinders and drives, compact pneumatic valves and valve manifolds, a host of gripper styles, and the modular CPX control platform. Another key enabler of the Motion Terminal is the new Festo CPX-IoT gateway for preconfigured customizable dashboards.

Greater engineering productivity

In addition to the Motion Terminal, Festo emphasizes at Semicon West its expanded engineering productivity and custom solutions ecosystem. For example, The Handling Guide Online, is an online software tool that enables OEMs and end users, armed with basic parameter information such as load and speed, to design Cartesian robots in about 20 minutes. CAD files downloaded following the session allow design work on machine to continue while Festo assembles the robot or prepares completely kitted units. Average delivery time is about eight weeks.

The new Festo Stars of Automation Program will also be featured. Stars of Automation guarantees 24-hour shipment of core Festo products on a global basis, lowering downtime and reducing overhead. A Stars of Automation app streamlines ordering and offers many other logistic and purchasing benefits.

Additional Festo solutions demonstrated by Powermatic Associates

Powermatic Associates, Semicon West Booth #2422, expands the range of Festo components on display at Moscone Center. In addition to pneumatic and electromechanical product lines, Powermatic personnel are featuring its engineering and turn-key solutions capabilities.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

ISLANDIA, NY, June 26, 2018 — Festo introduces in North America the latest biomimicry innovations from its Bionic Learning Network, the ongoing research project to further engineering, manufacturing, and materials science based on the study of natural systems.

The Festo 2018 bionic menagerie features a transforming spider that rolls or creeps, a robotic fish that autonomously maneuvers through acrylic water-filled tubing, and a semi-autonomous flying bat-like robot with more than a seven-foot (2.28-meter) wing span and the ability to self-improve its flight path.

The BionicWheelBot – the bionic version of the flic-flac spider

The biological model for the BionicWheelBot is the flic-flac spider (Cebrennus rechenbergi), which lives in the Erg Chebbi desert on the edge of the Sahara. Just like the flic-flac, the BionicWheelBot propels itself with a tripod gait, using six of its eight legs to walk. To start rolling, the BionicWheelBot bends three legs on each side of its body to form a wheel. The two lower-middle legs that are folded up during walking are then extended, push the rolled-up spider off the ground, and continuously propel it forward. Thanks to its integrated inertial sensor, the robot always knows what position it is in and when it must push off again. It rolls faster than it walks and can roll up a five percent incline.

The BionicFinWave navigates autonomously through a system of water-filled tubes

For the BionicFinWave, the bionics team was inspired by the undulating fin movements executed by marine animals such as the polyclad or the cuttlefish. With this form of propulsion, the underwater robot maneuvers itself autonomously through a system of water-filled acrylic tubing. Swimming autonomous robots like the BionicFinWave could possibly be developed for tasks such as inspection, measurement, and data acquisition in the water, wastewater, and other process industries. The knowledge gained in this project could also be used for methods in the manufacturing of soft robotics components.

Undulation forces from longitudinal fins allows the BionicFinWave to maneuver itself forward or backward. The fin drive unit is particularly suitable for slow, precise motion and causes less turbulence in the water than a conventional screw propulsion drive. While it moves through the tube system, the robot can communicate with the outside world via radio and transmit data, such as temperature and pressure sensor readings, to a mobile device.

The two lateral fins are molded entirely from silicone. The two fins can move independently of each other and by this means simultaneously generate different wave patterns and swim in a curve. The BionicFinWave moves upwards or downwards by bending its body in the desired direction. The crankshafts together with the joints and piston rod are made from plastic as integral components in a 3D printing process. The remaining body elements of the BionicFinWave, which weighs only 15 ounces (430 grams), are also 3D-printed; this enables the complex geometry to be realized. Pressure and ultrasound sensors constantly register the BionicFinWave’s distance to the walls and its depth in the water, which prevents collisions with the tube system. This autonomous and safe navigation required the development of compact, efficient, and waterproof or water-resistant components that can be coordinated and regulated by means of appropriate software.

BionicFlyingFox – ideal flight path determined with machine learning

To emulate the flying fox, among the world’s largest bats, the wing kinematics of the BionicFlyingFox are divided into primaries and secondaries with all the joints in the same plane. To enable the BionicFlyingFox to move semi-autonomously within a defined space, the robot communicates with a motion tracking system. The motion tracking system plans the flight paths and issues the required control commands. Starting and landing are performed by the human operator; an autopilot takes over during flight. Pre-programmed flight routes stored on a computer specify the path taken by the 20.5-ounce (580-gram) BionicFlyingFox as it performs its maneuvers. The wing movements required to effectively implement the intended movement sequences are calculated by its on-board electronics. The BionicFlyingFox optimizes its behavior during flight and follows the specified courses more precisely with each circuit.

The innovative membrane covering the skeleton was specially developed by the bionics team for the BionicFlyingFox. It consists of two airtight foils and a woven elastane fabric, which are welded together at approximately 45,000 points. The fabric’s honeycomb structure prevents small cracks in the flying membrane from increasing in size. The BionicFlyingFox can thus continue flying even if the fabric sustains minor damage. Due to its elasticity, the flying membrane stays almost crease free even when the wings are retracted. Since the foil is not only elastic, but also airtight and lightweight, it could potentially be used in other flying objects or for clothing design and in the field of architecture.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

ISLANDIA, NY, April 27, 2018 — Festo introduces at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), NRG Park, Houston, April 30 - May 3, a pneumatically based Fingerboard-latching system for drill-rig tubulars that safely indicates the exact locked or open position of each latch. This system operates reliably in harsh water- or land-based drilling environments and eliminates hard to maintain wire harnesses and electronic sensors on Fingerboards.

• Festo presents live demonstrations and shows video of this new system at its exhibit in the German Pavilion at OTC 2018. A white paper will be available for show attendees.
  

A Festo application team developed this drilling industry solution utilizing the Industry 4.0-based VTEM Motion Terminal. The VTEM Motion Terminal is the world’s first digital pneumatic system. Downloadable apps create an almost unlimited number of functions for the motion terminal. A single motion terminal can replace 50 different hardware components based on its combination of apps.

The VTEM Motion Terminal with Fingerboard-latch app measures the position of each latch from closed to 100 percent open by analyzing cylinder air pressure and flow. The system can display measurements graphically via human machine interface (HMI) or communicate to a supervisory controller. Each VTEM smart valve in this application replaces two ordinary pneumatic valves for a 50 percent savings in the number of values utilized.

The Fingerboard solution also features cylinder seals enhanced for extended life in the specific environment where the rig will be located and a long-wearing corrosion-resistant coating that covers the exterior of each cylinder. Festo helps to lower time to market for OEMs by pre-assembling control cabinets. Festo offers the new globally based Stars of Automation program that guarantees 24-hour shipment of core products to help maintain high uptime on the rig.

“We’ve had considerable feedback from companies in the drilling industry that unlatched tubulars such as drill pipes and casings are an ongoing safety challenge,” said Craig Correia, Director, Process Industries, North America, for Festo. “When you try to solve this safety challenge by installing electronic sensors and associated wiring 75 feet or more above the deck, they must be robust enough to handle extreme temperature swings, impervious to highly corrosive environments, and explosion-proof. All are difficult requirements for a reliable and serviceable electronic-based system. The Festo pneumatic solution eliminates electronics on the Fingerboard by moving the intelligence to a decentralized cabinet and provides for superior position monitoring. It’s a new solution that I hope OTC attendees will stop by to see in action.”

For more information, call Festo at 800-993-3786 and visit the Festo website www.festo.us. Be sure to stop by the Festo Booth in the German Pavilion at OTC.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.
Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

A single cyber-physical pneumatic terminal replaces 50 different hardware components

Downloadable apps give breweries the power to quickly adapt to market opportunities

Festo introduces the VTEM Motion Terminal – the world’s first cyber-physical pneumatic automation platform – to attendees of BrewExpo America, May 1-3, at Music City Center in Nashville. (Festo BrewExpo America Booth #1924)

The VTEM’s first-of-its-kind intelligent valves change functionality based on various combinations of downloadable applications. A single intelligent valve can replace 50 different components.

“The VTEM is more than a new type of valve,” said Shane Loer, Industry Segment Specialist for Food and Packaging, Festo. “The technology is an enabler of greater competitiveness through faster implementation of new beers, the ability to predict and correct component failure or pneumatic leaks before they cause major issues, and more control over processes for brewers and packaging line managers. OEMs and system integrators gain faster time to market for their products and services.”

Motion apps seamlessly integrate computational algorithms with intelligent valves

At the Festo booth, a VTEM clean-in-place demonstration shows how altering valve functions via applications provides the ability to change a process without having to replace the hardware. For example, the cloud-based downloadable apps enable the intelligent valves within the VTEM valve terminal to replicate traditional valve functions, including 2/2, 3/2, 4/2 or 4/3 way as well as proportional technology and servo-pneumatic functions.

Festo also showcases at BrewExpo its newly extended lines of pinch and butterfly valves. Available models of these automated brewhouse and packaging line workhorses feature FDA compliance for clean operation, NSF 61 certification for drinking water, and ISO 5211 certification for a standard interface that allows customers to mix and match valves with the quarter turn actuators of their choice. A Festo VZQA pinch valve has been incorporated into an automated hand sanitizer for a demonstration of liquid control.

Festo features its Stars of Automation program that guarantees 24-hour shipment of core products. Fast, guaranteed shipment lowers overhead as fewer replacement parts must be carried in inventory. This program also simplifies and speeds up ordering and rationalizes components, reducing time to market for OEMs.

Don’t miss the VTEM Motion Terminal demonstration and many other innovations at BrewExpo 2018 – Festo Booth #1924.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

The Festo exhibit also features components for automating dispensing and conveying in clean or harsh environments.
Festo introduces at the International Powder & Bulk Solids Exhibition its new control solution.

Festo introduces at the International Powder & Bulk Solids Conference and Exhibition, Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont, Illinois, April 24-26, its new control solution for infinitely variable flow rate and fill level based on the DFPI linear pneumatic actuator. The company also showcases its range of process valve solutions for clean or harsh environments where powders and bulk solids are dispensed from hoppers and conveyed to downstream processes. (Festo Booth # 2939)

The Festo DFPI linear pneumatic actuator with integrated displacement encoder controls flaps, guide plates, and louver dampers in flow-rate applications. This DFPI is also applied to variable fill-level systems. A demonstration at the Festo booth reveals the new control system’s failsafe functionality where, in the event of power or pressure failure, operations personnel manually advance the drive unit to a freely selectable safety position. This pneumatic solution offers simple maintenance and higher forces than an electrical actuator. Shipped fully assembled and tested these linear drives are equipped with positioners and valves. Festo also supplies ready-to-install customized control cabinets that reduce engineering and assembly overhead for OEMs and end users.

Additional products featured at the Festo booth include:

• A hazardous environment air preparation system with safety valve
• VOFC and VOFD solenoid valves for hazardous and safety applications.
• A clean design with high corrosion and acid resistant CRDSNU pneumatic actuator
• Self-adjusting pneumatic cylinders for faster installation and more reliable operation

As a single source powders and bulk-solids automation supplier, Festo offers plug and play components, including a modular control platform; HMI; valve terminals; valve assemblies for butterfly, pinch, and ball valves; electric and pneumatic linear and rotational actuators; integrated motors/drives; sensors; and I/O.

Booth personnel will inform attendees about the new Stars of Automation program that guarantees shipment of core products within 24 hours. Global guaranteed fast shipment means fewer replacement components must be carried in inventory, which lowers overhead. Stars of Automation simplifies and speeds up ordering for OEMs and end users and, in effect, reducing time to market for new automated systems.

“Show attendees who know Festo as a pneumatics company will be excited to see that we offer a total process automation solution – everything from an integrated control platform for both pneumatics and electrics down to I/O,” said Craig Correia, Director, Process Industries, North America, for Festo. For more information on powders and bulk solids solutions call call Festo at 800-993-3786 and visit the Festo website www.festo.us. Be sure to stop by the Festo Booth #2939.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

Festo Also Announces Leadership Transition, Welcoming Dr. Nikolas Gebhard

Through Successful Partnership with City of Mason, Global Leading Automation Technology Provider

(MASON, OHIO, April 9, 2018) – The City of Mason and Festo, a German-based global corporation specializing in advanced automation technology for more than 40 industries, today announced the company will expand its existing state-of-the-art Regional Service and Manufacturing Center in Mason by approximately 350,000 square feet, nearly tripling the company’s capacity in logistics, production and industrial training solutions offered through its Festo Didactic Learning Center, which serves manufacturing companies and colleges throughout the Tristate. Construction will be conducted in two phases and is expected to be completed by 2024. The company also plans to add 350 jobs in the fields of engineering, mechatronics, purchasing and material management, as well as production and logistics operations, over the next five years.

Festo, which maintains United States and North American regional headquarters in New York, first announced its move to Mason in 2013, opening doors in 2015 to a $50 million, 150,000 square-foot facility located along the I-71 Innovation Corridor. Festo’s leadership team credits the strong foundation established with city, regional and state officials, as well as the opportunities the regional ecosystem provides in terms of talent, connectivity and innovation in Industry 4.0/Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), as the impetus to locate and expand here. This new investment is a next step in maximizing the 47-acre campus acquired by Festo to meet growing demands in the North American market.

“Strong market growth in the U.S. and other North American countries requires us to expand our capacity in logistics and production to ensure product and service excellence for our customers,” said Oliver Ring, Festo’s global senior vice president of supply chain and logistics. “We are pleased and proud to announce this substantial expansion here in Mason, where our team feels welcome and at home. We look forward to a long future of collaboration and success with our customers and partners.”
“As we continue to grow in the U.S. and North America, this strategic investment in production, logistics and supply chain excellence will enable us to better supply our customers long term,” said Carlos Miranda, chief executive officer of Festo, North America.

“Digitalization trends around Industry 4.0 (IIoT) are driving fast-paced changes in the automation industry,” said Rich Huss, president and chief executive officer, Festo U.S. “To keep up with and meet our customers’ high expectations, this investment will allow us to increase local production and strengthen our regional supply chain long term.”

“While this may seem like a traditional economic development announcement on the surface, this investment represents far more,” said City of Mason Mayor Victor Kidd. “Our four-year friendship with Festo runs deep. Through its incredible generosity to our community and schools, Festo has redefined what it means to be a partner, helping to inspire curiosity in STEM education in our youngest residents.”

The City of Mason, REDI Cincinnati and JobsOhio are collaborating to create an incentive package for Festo. The expansion is contingent upon the approval of those incentives at the local level and from JobsOhio, which will be made public after review from the appropriate approval bodies.

“Festo’s expansion is an example of how talent, collaboration and commitment to innovation can help a global advanced manufacturing leader thrive in Ohio,” said JobsOhio Director for Advanced Manufacturing Glenn Richardson. “Festo has been a fantastic partner in Mason, investing in cutting-edge technology, creative training solutions and hundreds of new jobs for Ohioans.”

“Festo has a passion for transforming the way people work with their innovative technology solutions,” said Kimm Coyner, vice president of business development and project management at REDI Cincinnati. “Their increased investment in our region helps advance our leadership in IIoT. We are proud of our partnership, which has focused on strengthening our talent, including sponsorship of the City of Mason’s Innovation Week.”

Local Leadership at Festo Transitioning

Festo also will mark a leadership transition at its Mason campus. Yannick Schilly, the chief operating officer and vice president of product supply for North America who successfully relocated and established Festo’s Regional Service and Manufacturing Center in Mason, will step down. Dr. Nikolas Gebhardwas announced as Schilly's successor earlier today during the company's Town Hall Meeting. Gebhard has served since 2012 in various positions at Festo in engineering and with the supply chain division. Schilly will stay on through June to ensure a smooth transition.

“After four successful years, I have decided to establish my own business venture here,” said Schilly. “Mason has become the perfect home to my Festo family, as well as my own family.”

“Having worked in Italy and Germany, I am excited about this investment and my new professional and personal challenge here in the U.S.,” said Gebhard. “After several months of close collaboration with the local Festo team in Mason, I now look forward to taking the Mason campus to the next level and to fostering the wonderful partnerships Festo has forged here. My family and I look forward to joining this community, which has already embraced our Festo family.”

Festo and City of Mason Provide Model for Strong Public-Private-Partnership

Under Schilly’s leadership, Festo has worked closely with the City of Mason to foster a strong public-private-partnership that supports community education and talent development; inspires students of all ages to take an interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields; and brings economic benefits to the technology ecosystem already present in the city and region. Festo served as a founding partner in launching the City of Mason Innovation Week in 2015 with its Bionic Learning Network, which illustrates how principles from nature provide inspiration and creative solutions to technical and industrial applications. Last year, Festo showcased its Mobile Mechatronics Lab, featuring the latest advancements in energy-efficient automation technology.

About Festo

Festo is a leading worldwide supplier of intelligent automation solutions including pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components and controls for process control and factory automation. Festo’s products and services are available in 176 countries. With approximately 20,000 employees in more than 250 branch offices in 61 countries worldwide, Festo’s sales exceeded $3.5 billion last year. Actual figures for 2017 will be released in late April. Each year, Festo invests approximately 8 percent of its revenue in research and development. For more information, visit www.festo.com.

About Festo Didactic

Festo Didactic is the world-leading equipment and solution provider for technical education. The company designs and implements learning laboratories, educational equipment and programs that train people to perform in highly dynamic and complex industrial environments. Festo Didactic’s Learning Center in Mason, Ohio, serves manufacturing companies and colleges in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana, offering a wide range of industrial solutions training and qualifications related to Industry 4.0 (IIoT). The company worked together with Sinclair Community College to create an accredited two-year Mechatronics Apprenticeship Program to help employers develop skills that are missing in the workforce today by combining theoretical education, hands-on training and on-the-job training. For more information, visit www.festo-didactic.com.

About the City of Mason

Mason, Ohio, is an established hub for innovation and includes a business portfolio of advanced manufacturing, healthcare and technology companies. In the last two years, Mason has recruited more than $615 million in new investment and brought more than 3,100 jobs to the city. As the largest city in Warren County and part of the Greater Cincinnati region, Mason’s economic development mission is focused on attracting and supporting the growth of top companies and creating jobs in these sectors, while also leveraging partnerships to attract foreign direct investment. Mason is nationally recognized for its low cost of living, award-winning schools and its intentional culture of wellness. For more information about the City of Mason, visit imaginemason.org or whymason.com.

About JobsOhio

JobsOhio is a private, nonprofit corporation designed to drive job creation and new capital investment in Ohio through business attraction, retention and expansion efforts. JobsOhio works with six regional partners across Ohio: Appalachian Partnership for Economic Growth, Columbus 2020, Dayton Development Coalition, REDI Cincinnati, Regional Growth Partnership and Team NEO. Learn more at www.jobs-ohio.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

About REDI Cincinnati

The Regional Economic Development Initiative (REDI) Cincinnati is one of JobsOhio's six regional economic development partners in the JobsOhio Network. REDI Cincinnati is the first point of contact for businesses interested in growing in or relocating to Greater Cincinnati, a three-state, 15-county region with 2.2 million residents and 120,000 businesses, including nine Fortune 500 companies. In 2017, Greater Cincinnati ranked sixth in the U.S. for new/expanded facilities among metros with one million or more residents.

The digital-pneumatic VTEM Motion Terminal lowers OEM supply chain costs and helps OEMs bring new machines and products to market faster. (Festo Tissue World Miami 2018 Booth # C-360)

Festo introduces to the paper converting industry at Tissue World Miami 2018, March 21-23, the VTEM Motion Terminal.

Festo introduces to the paper converting industry at Tissue World Miami 2018, Miami Beach Convention Center, March 21-23, the VTEM Motion Terminal, the world’s first cyber-physical pneumatic-motion control system and several other new products. (Festo Tissue World Miami 2018 Booth # C-360)

The VTEM’s first-of-its-kind intelligent valves change functionality based on various combinations of downloadable motion applications. A single intelligent valve can replace 50 different components. The VTEM platform is modular and reconfigurable – thereby meeting two important criteria for systems based on Industry 4.0 and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).

The capabilities of the VTEM Motion Terminal enable:

• Faster time to market for machine builders
• Fewer components to be sourced and maintained
• Faster installation and setup
• Greater machine flexibility
• Better energy efficiency
• Higher machine utilization
• Reuse and reconfiguration as conditions evolve

Motion apps seamlessly integrate computational algorithms with intelligent valves

Thanks to downloadable motion apps, one intelligent valve within the VTEM valve terminal can replicate traditional valve functions, including 2/2, 3/2, 4/2 or 4/3 way as well as proportional technology and servo-pneumatic functions. Flexible intelligent valves can also implement preset travel time, reduce costs by operating actuators with minimum pressure, and detect leaks for faster fault detection and less downtime.

Since changing parameters in this cyber-physical system doesn’t require a change in hardware, adaptation costs are kept within tight margins, even when changes are made after installation. The VTEM is offered in either four-valve or eight-valve platforms.

Ten motion apps are in the initial release with an additional 40 planned. Each app makes parameterization of a function faster and easier than current setup times. The apps in the first release provide the following functionalities:

• Directional control simulating the functions of the most utilized valves
• Proportional directional control valve
• Soft stop
• Proportional pressure regulation
• Model-based proportional pressure regulation
• Eco drive
• Selectable pressure level
• Leakage diagnostics
• Supply and exhaust air flow control
• Presetting travel time

“The VTEM is more than a one-to-one substitution of physical for cyber-based control,” said Mark Schuster, Festo Industry Segment Manager, Printing, Paper, and Converting. “The VTEM Motion Terminal’s capabilities cost effectively move pneumatics in the paper converting industry into areas such as servo pneumatics and servo electrics as well as Industry 4.0 and IIoT.” The VTEM is a Rockwell Automation Encompass referenced product.

Additional Festo 2018 Tissue World introductions

Festo presents to the paper converting industry the EMCA, a compact, affordable integrated positioning drive optimized for automated format setting on paper converting machines and conveyor systems. These positioning drives operate within most communication architectures, including EtherNet IP. The EMCA is available for fast shipping, lowering inventory requirements, and features quick and easy commissioning as well as world class Festo quality construction and global support.

The CTEU-EP universal interface module from Festo makes EtherNet/IP and Profinet connectivity low cost and plug and play for IO-Link devices and Festo valve terminals. For maximum flexibility, OEMs can cost effectively integrate IO-Link devices such as pressure and flow sensors, RFID readers, light stacks, and valve terminals. With a splitter, two-valve terminals can be served. The CTEU-EP is Open Device Vendors Association (ODVA) conformant and is a Rockwell Automation Encompass referenced product.

Festo showcases at Tissue World its comprehensive air preparation systems for lower energy usage and fewer operational issues over the life of the system. Additionally, booth personnel will detail for show attendees the operating advantages of the new MSE6-E2M intelligent service unit that automatically detects leaks and also shuts off the air supply to a machine when in standby mode, both of which contribute to lower energy consumption.

Festo features its expanded line of intelligent process automation valve terminals and the company’s Stars of Automation program that guarantees 24-hour shipment of core products. Guaranteed fast shipment across the globe from regionally based distribution centers lowers overhead as fewer replacement components must be carried in inventory. This program also simplifies and speeds up ordering and rationalizes components, reducing time to market for OEMs.

Don’t miss the VTEM display and these other innovations at Tissue World Miami 2018 – Festo Booth # C-360.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

ISLANDIA, NY, March 14, 2018 — Festo introduces the Festo Motion Control Package (FMCP), a control system for coordinated motion of up to six axes for pick and place and other high speed, precision Cartesian robotic applications. This prewired and ready-to-install control solution provides the kinematics for H-portal, T-portal, 2D, and 3D Festo standard gantry systems. OEMs quickly configure Cartesian motion applications using function blocks – with no specialized programming knowledge required. FMCP is compatible with all leading control architectures for fast, seamless integration. Manufacturing in America Booth #103.

An end-to-end productivity solution for Cartesian robots. This solution builds on the Festo Handling Guide Online gantry configuration tool.

In 2016, Festo developed the Handling Guide Online configuration tool for designing Cartesian robots. This productivity tool significantly reduced engineering overhead for OEMs. Equipped with basic application information such as load, cycle time, load voltage, and workspace size, a design engineer utilizes the Handling Guide Online tool to specify a single axis, 2D, or 3D Cartesian robot and receives a CAD drawing of the robot in about 20 minutes. Quotes arrive on average within 48 hours. OEMs have the option of ordering a gantry fully assembled or as disassembled modules.

Festo now takes Handling Guide Online several steps further by offering the robotic controller, including the cabinet, components, and wiring, as an enhanced solution. The control cabinet arrives fully wired and ready to be installed. The OEM simply adds power, Ethernet connection, IO, and wiring to the gantry motors. OEMs utilize a function block to fill in key motion parameters. No specialized or manufacturer specific programming knowledge is required. Basic motion can be taught through a webserver or IOS/Android app.

The FMCP is also offers an ideal solution for end-of-arm-tooling. By including an IO-Link connection, the FMCP can control eight external digital inputs and eight digital outputs within the standard function block. This unique solution saves time, money, and space.

In summary, the FMCP provides:

• A complete robotic solution: A single part number that includes motion controller and accessories thus saving time and labor
• A prewired cabinet: The cabinet is UL508A approved with Category 4 Safe Torque Off (STO/SS1 type C). Signals are prewired to each motor controller with all signals routed through the bottom of the cabinet via heavy duty connectors. This design delivers a clean look and reliable performance.
• Pre-configured motor controllers: Each axis comes with the axis configurations, motor parameters, IP address, and more. Pre-configuration leads to fast and easy integration with the OEM’s machine.
• Powerful robotic control: FMCP is capable of multi-axis control, interpolated motion, and fieldbus integration with standardized function blocks. This saves significant programming effort. The controller can act as the single connection to higher-level systems, significantly lowering the number of IP addresses in the IT infrastructure.

OEMs are encouraged to test drive the Handling Guide Online to discover the productivity benefits and ease of use for themselves. For more information about the new Festo Motion Control Package, call 800-993-3786 and/or visit https://www.festo.us for the company’s world leading motion solutions.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

At booth 637, four lab equipment suppliers feature "Festo Inside."

At SLAS, we will show superconductor technology for frictionless sample handling, including contactless transfer through cleanrooms.

Festo demonstrates at SLAS 2018, February 3-7 at the San Diego Convention Center, the company’s latest solutions for bringing automated laboratory equipment to market faster and at less cost. Also at the Festo booth, instrument manufacturers with Festo control and kinematic systems inside showcase their latest screening, analysis, and testing innovations. (Festo SLAS Booth #637)

“Scientists partner with Festo for the development of their instrument’s mechatronics – that combination of mechanical, electrical, computer, systems, and control engineering that makes scientific vision a reality,” said Steve Fitterer, Life Sciences Industry Segment Manager, Festo. “Festo is a sought-after partner of productivity for shortening instrument development time while lowering engineering overhead.”

Festo demos

For the first time at SLAS, Festo features the Supraloop: a combination of three different sample transport systems, one of which utilizes superconducting technology for frictionless motion and contactless transfer of samples in cleanrooms. The Supraloop also features the Multi-Carrier-System MCS® for charting individual transport profiles for samples.

The Festo pre-analytics demo features automatic handling of sample tubes and microplates. The handler’s integrated controller and kinematic systems enable a host of sequential handling and dispensing functions in a compact space. The desktop kit demo illustrates how Festo reduces costs through compact preassembled and tested modular motion solutions. And, the liquid dosing demo moves a dispenser through X, Y, and Z axes as droplets are sequentially aspirated into a group of microwell plates.

Leading suppliers feature Festo inside

At the Festo booth, PerkinElmer showcases its Janus G3 Automated Workstation. Festo and PerkinElmer collaborated on the instrument’s capper/decapper and automated vial transfer system. Singer Instruments showcases its PIXL precision microbial colony picking instrument, which features a Festo gantry motion system. The PhyNexus AutoPlasmid MMG utilizes Festo kinematics to deliver fully automated maxi, mega, and giga plasmid prep. And, the Biosero solution on display provides automated decapping and recapping efficiency for labs handling hundreds of samples per day. Each company will have representatives stationed at the Festo booth.

For more information on Festo’s laboratory automation solutions, call Festo at 800-993-3786 and visit the Laboratory Automation industry page on the Festo website www.festo.com/us. And be sure to stop by the Festo SLAS 2018 Booth #637.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.

The VTEM’s first-of-its-kind digital valves change functionality based on various combinations of downloadable apps.

The VTEM’s digital valves change functionality conform to the National Science Foundation’s definition of a cyber-physical system.

Digital valves are key to understanding the power of the revolutionary FestoVTEM digital pneumatic valve terminal showcased for the first time at Automation Fair 2017, November 15-16, George R. Brown Convention Center, Houston. Downloadable applications control valve functionality so that one valve can potentially replace up to 50 different pneumatic components. The VTEM, which begins shipping to customers in December, has just been approved as a Rockwell Automation Encompass™ referenced product. (Festo Booth # 1307)

At Automation Fair, Festo will be one of the first Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork™ companies to prototype third party device integration with the mobile device collaborative app FactoryTalk TeamONE and with FactoryTalk Analytics for Devices that provides health and diagnostic analytics directly from industrial devices over EtherNet/IP.

*Cyber-physical systems are engineered systems that are built from, and depend upon, the seamless integration of computational algorithms and physical components.

The active pick-and-place demo at the Festo booth, which features the VTEM digital pneumatic valve terminal, other Festo pneumatic systems, and the two FactoryTalk applications, shows how the combination optimizes overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and saves energy.

“The future belongs to Industry 4.0/IIoT solutions that deliver analytics and collaborative maintenance involving not only the PLC and electric drives, but also pneumatics, vision, weigh scales, and all the other functional devices in a process,” said Frank Latino, Festo Product Manager for Ethernet/IP. “Every Automation Fair attendee interested in the efficiency of direct-from-device data to improve OEE, conserve energy, and achieve lowest total cost of ownership should stop by the Festo booth for this unique demonstration.”

Motion apps seamlessly integrate computational algorithms with digital valves

Thanks to downloadable motion apps, one digitally controlled valve within the VTEM digital pneumatic valve terminal can replicate traditional valve functions, including 2/2, 3/2, 4/2 or 4/3 way as well as proportional technology and servo-pneumatic functions. But that is not all. One flexible valve can also include apps that preset travel time, reduce costs by operating actuators with minimum pressure, and detect leaks for faster fault detection and less downtime. Since changing parameters in this cyber-physical system doesn’t necessarily require a change in hardware, adaptation costs are kept within tight margins, even when changes are made after installation. The VTEM is offered in either four-valve or eight-valve platforms.

Other Festo Products on Display

Festo also features at Automation Fair the MSE6-E2M intelligent service unit that automatically shuts off the air supply to a machine when in standby mode, thus reducing energy consumption. E2M, which is included in the active FactoryTalk demo, performs typical monitoring functions, making system pressure and flow information available in real time which enables faster response to compressed air leaks. Two common themed areas of Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things (IIoT) are condition monitoring and energy efficiency; the Festo E2M addresses both. The Encompass referenced E2M module is suitable for new machines and as an easy retrofit to existing machines.

Festo wraps up its Automation Fair pneumatics showcase with the company’s new expanded line of process automation valves, process automation training through Didactic, IO-Link solutions, a range of valve terminals, and CTEU low-cost Ethernet/IP nodes.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

The Festo VTEM Motion Terminal’s app controlled platform represents a technical breakthrough for the future of manufacturing.

An Overview of the Importance of Cyber-Physical Systems to Competitiveness

Festo showcases at Assembly 2017, October 24-26, in Rosemont, Ill., the inner workings of its VTEM Motion Terminal, a revolutionary cyber-physical system (CPS). Ten downloadable apps are available with each unique combination of apps changing the motion functionality and giving OEMs and end users a new flexible motion control platform. Another 40 apps are planned. (Festo Assembly 2017 Booth # 931)

The VTEM Motion Terminal conforms to the National Science Foundation’s definition of CPS as engineered systems that are built from, and depend upon, the seamless integration of computational algorithms and physical components. The foundation envisions, “Advances in CPS will enable capability, adaptability, scalability, resiliency, safety, security, and usability that will far exceed the simple embedded systems of today. CPS technology will transform the way people interact with engineered systems – just as the Internet has transformed the way people interact with information. New smart CPS will drive innovation and competition in sectors such as agriculture, energy, transportation, building design and automation, healthcare, and manufacturing.”

Motion apps seamlessly integrate computational algorithms with digital valves

Thanks to motion apps, one digitally controlled VTEM valve within the motion terminal can replicate traditional valve functions, including 2/2, 3/2, 4/2 or 4/3-way as well as proportional technology and servo-pneumatic functions. But that is not all. One flexible valve can also include apps that preset travel time, reduce costs by operating actuators with minimum pressure, and detect leaks for faster fault detection and less downtime. Since changing parameters in a CPS such as the Festo Motion Terminal doesn’t necessarily require change the hardware, adaptation costs are kept within tight margins, even when changes are made after installation. VTEM Motion Terminals are sold in either four-valve or eight-valve platforms. Product shipments will commence December 2017.

Easier engineering with standardized platform concepts

With a single valve slice potentially providing the functionality of up to 50 individual components, a CPS like the Festo Motion Terminal opens the door to standardized platform concepts for systems and system modules. Standardization considerably reduces hardware costs all along the supply chain as the number of different components that must be defined and stocked as spare parts by the machine builder or end user is lower. For example, valve variety is reduced to one and pressure sensor and flow control valves are integrated. By focusing on a flexible CPS platform right from the start, even the planning stage, with the search for suitable products and suppliers, can be shortened.

Getting up and running quickly

Design is one of the biggest costs in machine and system building, accounting for approximately 25 to 30 percent of total cost. A CPS such as the Festo Motion Terminal enables significant time gains and savings compared with a conventional valve terminal platform. In some cases, the time saved compared with designing and parameterizing a modular valve terminal and additional individual components is up to 70 percent. While a solution with modular valve terminals requires several individual steps, a solution with CPS moves the organization to its goal faster. The adaptations are implemented digitally on the product itself, so there is no need to reconfigure the valve terminal, download and create the CAD model, or adapt the hole pattern and assembly drawing, including a parts list. Designers will find the creation of electrical circuit diagrams, the documentation including spare and wearing parts lists, and the approval process speeded up.

Lower costs for data management, logistics, and warehousing

With many fewer components, CPS minimizes the process steps required for logistics and warehousing and reduces the cost of data management and maintenance. The Festo Motion Terminal integrates new functions simply by purchasing the relevant motion app licenses.

Greater reliability and reduced effort due to standardization

Reducing system complexity is becoming more and more important given that human error is increasingly being identified as the cause of system failures. Solutions with intelligent function integration and fewer interfaces are therefore ideal for achieving maximum efficiency. This reduces assembly work as well as possible errors and any queries that may arise. Having just one standardized component optimizes process
sequences for a wide range of functions.

Easier replication of pneumatic systems

Coordinating individual process steps, such as setting the travel speeds of cylinders, is often a time-intensive process in conventional mechatronic systems. CPS solutions generally do not involve complex manual setting processes for components that may sometimes be hard to reach, and they are also self-regulating and self-optimizing in terms of energy consumption. These are clear benefits for machine builders. The travel speed of each individual cylinder can be defined with just a few clicks via the app's parameter records; this also rules out tampering. The app saves between three and four minutes of setting time per flow control valve. Looking at the annual production of a series machine builder, the cumulative time savings can be substantial. Another big advantage is that all system configurations are completely identical.

Configuration and parameterization of complex solutions

Parameterization should be as fast as possible. Up until now, if a design engineer wanted to precisely and quickly control the pressure to compensate for a pressure drop caused by friction in the compressed air line, he or she needed to determine the parameters empirically, i.e. a higher setpoint value and the time that the pressure stays at this value before it drops back down again to the target value. Using the sensor intelligence and software modules in cyber-physical systems these tasks are unnecessary. The Festo Motion Terminal has a model-based proportional pressure regulation app for this process. The app can also actively and autonomously respond to changing parameters, such as fluctuations in input pressure.

Combining maximum productivity with energy efficiency

CPS make system operation productive, energy efficient, and cost-effective. Reconfiguration and adjustments are carried out using software. Diagnostics and intelligent apps prevent stoppages, production errors, and contribute to a fast return on investment.

Shorter setup times and adjustment at the touch of a button

Format changeovers usually involve changing components such as grippers. This in turn involves adapting pressures or flow rates and travel speeds or entire functions. The Festo Motion Terminal eliminates many manual procedures – and sources of error. Reconfiguration and adjustments are done via the app or automatically via the PLC, which means that the performance and/or processes of all machines during format changes or in series machines can be improved at the touch of a button.

Integrated knowledge protection with apps

Function configuration via apps will stop unauthorized parties from analyzing and identifying future functionalities and system designs.

Condition monitoring

In terms of their basic structure, CPS are mechatronic systems. In addition, they also have integrated smart sensors and greater software intelligence. One important application for CPS is to determine external conditions – for example compressed air leakage – without the need for additional sensors, and then sharing this information with other systems.

At Assembly 2017, Festo will also display a full complement of pneumatic and electric motion solutions for the assembly, including safety valves, grippers, actuators, drives, controllers, and IO-Link enabled devices. Don’t miss the Festo Booth at Assembly 2017 # 931. Visit a new section on the Festo website devoted to digital pneumatics.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

Festo will close its Appleton, WI, center and move custom assembly and kitting services to a larger facility in Mason, Ohio.

Festo, a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation, will close its Appleton, WI, center and move custom assembly and kitting services to a larger facility in Mason, Ohio. The move places custom services within a few miles of the parts and logistics resources of the Festo North American Regional Service Center. The new Customer Solutions Center will provide customized products to the company’s North American customers.

The new 15,000-square-foot Customer Solutions facility will be located at 4028 Binion Way in Mason, about five miles from the parts and distribution resources of the Regional Service Center at 7777 Columbia Road also in Mason. The new facility will consist of present employees and new hires and is expected to open in September. The Mason Customer Solutions Center will be the newest of the company’s five North American custom solutions locations and will support customers with customized multi-axis systems and components, assembly and kitting services, and pre-assembled control cabinets. Fast turnaround and delivery of customized products, one of the company’s competitive advantages, will be augmented by proximity to the regional distribution center.

In 2016, Festo moved its distribution and assembly operations from Hauppauge, New York, to a new 230,000-square-foot Regional Service Center in Mason, Ohio, to create a more centrally located distribution hub. The regional center serves customers in the United States, Canada, and Mexico and is comprised of logistics, production, purchasing, and engineering. Festo employs to date almost 180 employees in Mason and targets 250 employees by end of 2018.

For more information, contact us at www.festo.us or by calling 800-993-3786.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

Festo, one of the world’s premier automation companies, and Allied Electronics, a leading distributor of industrial automation products with North American headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas, inaugurated today a national distribution agreement covering Festo actuators, fittings, solenoids, valves, and filters.

“Festo is recognized for its engineering, product quality, and support,” said Frank Cantwell, Vice President of Product and Supplier Management at Allied Electronics. “With the new Festo North American Regional Service Center in Mason, Ohio, Festo gains forward product deployment. This helps lower distributor inventory requirements and makes a North American distributor like Allied more productive, competitive, and responsive to its customers. I am proud to say today we are distributing Festo products.”

“Every Allied Electronics local branch, and they have 43, has an outstanding relationship with its customers and knows the needs of its local market,” said Mark Snyder, Channel Director, Festo. “Once Allied sales people experience the satisfaction their customers have with Festo products, sales will steadily climb. The new national distribution agreement is a win for customers, Allied Electronics, and Festo.”

For more information on obtaining Festo actuators, fittings, solenoids, valves, and filters visit www.alliedelec.com or call the local Allied Electronics office at 800.433.5700. For more information on Festo, visit www.festo.us.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.

About Allied Electronics

Allied Electronics is a high-service level, authorized distributor of industrial automation, interconnect, cabling, and electromechanical products with sales offices serving the Americas. With more than 3.5 million parts online, engineers and purchasers often look to Allied for a broad range of product solutions from more than 300 world-class suppliers. Allied Electronics is a trading brand of Electrocomponents plc (LSE:ECM), the global distributor for engineers headquartered in Oxford, England.

Connect with Allied: Facebook,Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, www.thinkallied.com

The Festo exhibit at ProFood Tech, April 4-6, McCormick Place, Chicago, features products and systems for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and end users that enable safe and efficient production of foods and beverages. (Festo ProFood Tech Booth # 1611)

New Festo process automation products such as angle seat valves, hygienic ball valves, and control panels are foundational to clean- and sterilization-in place (CIP/SIP) systems and other processes where corrosion resistance and material construction to withstand harsh environments are paramount. Festo features new VZBE ball valves, VZXA angle seat valves, VZQA pinch valves, DFPD quarter-turn actuators, VSNC NAMUR pilot valves, and the SRBC family of open/close sensor boxes. For proportional flow applications, Festo offers the feature-rich, yet cost effective, CMSX digital positioner. The company is currently engineering advanced diagnostics into the valves to support Industry 4.0 and the Industrial Internet of Things functionality for greater flexibility and higher overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).

To streamline the design process, customers, end users, OEMs, and engineering companies simply provide the Festo Customer Solutions group or Festo distributors with the requirements of the process, and Festo will size the automated valves and valve terminals. Festo can provide fully assembled and tested valve terminals and automated valve assemblies for plug-and-play installation or parts ready for assembly all in one box with a unique customer part number. Festo supports customer specific parts everywhere in the world for greater peace of mind for OEMs and end users.

Clean valve terminals and actuators

Festo highlights a broad range of wash down compatible automation products at ProFood Tech. The MPA-C valve manifold uses a redundant sealing system combined with corrosion resistant polymers to offer an IP69k solution. The MPA-C manifold can be mounted on the machine, eliminating the costs of a cabinet and improving the pneumatic performance by eliminating lengthy tubing runs. The MPA-C uses FDA approved materials and NSF-H1 grease, making it an ideal solution in food and beverage processing in wash down environments.

Festo also features at ProFood Tech corrosion resistant pneumatic actuators such as CRDSNU, which in addition to stainless steel construction offers the option of dry running seals. Dry running seals ensure the cylinder continues to perform even when intensive cleanings wash away internal lubrication.

Clean, energy efficient pneumatic systems

The MS family of air preparation units ensure clean air is used in operations processing foods and beverages. The MS family offers a host of other modular functions, including emergency air evacuation. The new MSE6-E2M intelligent service module for the MS family automatically shuts off the air supply to a machine when in standby mode, thus reducing energy consumption. E2M performs typical monitoring functions, making system pressure and flow information available in real time, which enables faster response to compressed air leaks. E2M is compatible with Ethernet/IP and PROFINET communication protocols. Festo features the OVEM vacuum generator with integrated air savings functionality for more sustainable operations.

“Festo invests heavily in clean, efficient systems for the food and beverage industry,” said Frank Langro, Director of Marketing and Product Management. “The Festo ProFood Tech booth provides an excellent opportunity for OEMs and end users to begin working with Festo application engineers on a quality solution for their food and beverage processes.”

Be sure to stop by the Festo ProFood Tech booth #1611 and explore the Festo Food and Beverage Industry landing page for more information on Festo solutions, including white papers, videos, and more. Customers may also call 800-993-3786 and visit www.festo.com/us for the full scope of Festo automation solutions.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

Festo to a newer state-of-the-art facility at 1377 Motor Parkway in Hauppauge.

Festo, a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation, will move its corporate office from 395 Moreland Road, Hauppauge, NY, to a newer state-of-the-art facility at 1377 Motor Parkway in Hauppauge.

The targeted move-in date is July/August 2017. The new office will be approximately 53,000 square feet in size and is in Suffolk County’s “Golden Triangle” with easy access to the Long Island Expressway, Veterans Memorial Highway, and Motor Parkway. Festo North America has been headquartered on Long Island for more than 40 years.

This new location will serve as center of operations for the Festo North American executive management team, as well as marketing, finance, technology, human resources, and other corporate functions. All employees from the current Moreland Road location will relocate to its new location on Motor Parkway.

In 2016, Festo moved its distribution and assembly operations from Hauppauge to a new 230,000 square foot Regional Service Center in Mason, Ohio. The regional center serves customers in the United States, Canada, and Mexico and is comprised of logistics, production, purchasing, and engineering.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

For more information, contact us at www.festo.us or by calling 800-993-3786.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube

Festo continues to expand product stocking capabilities and application expertise closer to customers with its new Regional Service Center in Mason, Ohio, and by adding quality distributors such as BG

Festo Names BG Technologies a New Distributor

Festo today named BG Technologies in Austin to distribute sensors and power supply products in Texas. Festo is one of the world’s leading suppliers of pneumatic and electric motion actuation components and subassemblies.

Founded in 2002, BG Technologies is a small woman-owned industrial electronic distributor with a staff that offers over 130 years of combined industrial electronic experience.

“As a true family business, some of our employees are family members and all have worked closely enough that we feel like family,” said Linda Gibson, President. “This has come to include our customers, vendors, and partners. With products from high quality suppliers such as Festo, BG Technologies gives each customer our best service and support, just as we would for our family.”

For more information on Festo, call 800-993-3786 and visit http://www.festo.us. BG Technologies can be reached at 512-336-2299 and http://www.bg-technologies.com/.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.

Festo continues to expand product stocking capabilities and application expertise by adding quality distributors such as AWC

Festo today named AWC to distribute process automation products in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas. Festo is one of the world’s leading suppliers of pneumatic and electric motion actuation components and subassemblies.

AWC offers customers a team of more than 400 engineers, technical support and service specialists across 30 local customer care centers, located mainly in the southern U.S.

“AWC’s motto ‘Winning Together’ is our commitment to proactively provide the right information, products and assistance to our customers,” said Bob Wenyon, President and CEO. “Working together with our trusted technology partners, such as Festo, enables us to keep that promise.”

For more information on Festo, call 800-993-3786 and visit http://www.festo.us. AWC can be reached at 800-364-0292 and http://www.awc-inc.com.

About Festo

Festo is a leading manufacturer of pneumatic and electromechanical systems, components, and controls for process and industrial automation. For more than 40 years, Festo Corporation has continuously elevated the state of manufacturing with innovations and optimized motion control solutions that deliver higher performing, more profitable automated manufacturing and processing equipment.

Connect with Festo: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.