Standard components

Engineering practice

Flexible, yet standardised

Just as PCBs have successfully managed to pack an increasing amount of power into a smaller space, developers of plug connectors are working to accommodate more power and a higher contact density into smaller, lighter plug connectors. The family owned British manufacturer Harwin PLC relies on Festo automation to safeguard the quality and flexibility of its production using equipment such as the servo press kit YJKP and the compact handling system YXMx.

Engineering practice

100 metres below ground

At CERN, the world’s largest particle physics laboratory, thousands of scientists are working hard to figure out the unsolved mysteries of physics. Their valuable scientific research is supported by the intelligent and flexible application of automation technology. The Festo valve terminal VTSA controls the analysis processes of the air in the experimentation cavern of the Compact Muon Solenoid detector (CMS).

Engineering practice

A stitch in time

Buttonholes are not only functional but also have a visual aspect. However, in textile manufacturing there is generally very little time to produce them. The new automatic eyelet buttonholer 581 from Dürkopp Adler delivers the necessary speed. Thanks to the compact Festo solenoid valves VUVG, it takes just under four seconds to create a buttonhole.

Engineering practice

Highly precise dispensing of casting resin

From car parking sensors through to smartphones and electric toothbrushes, sensitive electronic components need protection against undesirable substances. This is where special casting resins come in. The “mini-dis” desktop machine from bdtronic allows high-precision dispensing processes in a very small space – thanks, among other things, to the compact handling system YXMx from Festo.

Engineering practice

Big ensemble of cylinders

Even though automation technology has become highly sophisticated, there is always potential to make processes even better. A stacking system for blanks shows how even the smallest of innovations in pneumatic cylinders and valves can result in a major leap forward in safety and efficiency.