Keeping physical assets in proper working order is essential to any organisation. Today, most maintenance is still performed either according to a set calendar schedule or according to that most ancient of operating procedures: “if it breaks, fix it”. But in a modern, data-intensive industrial environment we can do much better, and take plant performance to the next level with condition-based maintenance (CBM).

Compressed air systems can consume significant quantities of electricity, accounting for around 10% of Australia's power usage. An optimised electricity supply is an essential component of an efficient, cost-effective compressed air system installation.

In manufacturing plant networks, what is frequently overlooked is the lowest level of automation, where sensors, simple binary actuator and safety inputs reside. At this level the number of wire leads that must be routed, stripped and terminated is staggering.

As end users discover the benefits of fieldbus with their process automation systems, many are beginning to wonder why they haven't been able to enjoy similar benefits with their safety instrumented systems (SIS)

In Part 1 of our story last month, we looked at the desirable features of a non-petroleum-based hydraulic fluid. This month we continue by looking at the advantages and disadvantages of hydraulic fluids based on vegetable oils

Clean coal technology company, Linc Energy has recently installed three Boge SL481 screw compressors at a coal tenement site in Queensland

Hydro Tasmania plays a significant part in keeping the state clean. As Australia’s leading renewable energy business, it contributes 50% of the country’s electricity from renewable energy sources. Hydro Tasmania generates approximately 10,000 gigawatt hours (GWh) of electricity annually through 28 power stations, numerous lakes and over 50 large dams.

Spills of standard, petroleum-based hydraulic fluids are known to kill marine life and contaminate soil. Environmentally safe hydraulic fluids are formulated to avoid these undesirable results

Driverless trains, ore drills and even trucks are set to change the way mining in remote areas is done

Compressed air can be one of the most important utilities for industry; however, it can also be one of the largest consumers of energy

Davey Water Products has expanded its in-house project skills for major commercial pumping installations

A recent upgrade to the Dampier to Bunbury Natural Gas Pipeline (DBNGP) in Western Australia provides increased gas flow to local energy providers and features several turnkey air compressor packages

In 2006, mining giant BHP Billiton published its annual sustainability report that featured case studies on women and their high-profile roles within the company

The accurate measurement and control of viscosity is absolutely critical in many processes as it determines the product's characteristics and quality and can optimise input material costs

Compressed air is often the highest energy cost for many businesses. Unfortunately, this resource is often seen as unlimited. It is therefore important that this valuable energy source be utilised efficiently, in all processes, at all times