SMC Corporation to showcase NextGen solutions at AUSPACK 2022

SMC Corporation Australia New Zealand (ANZ) will be exhibiting at AUSPACK 2022 with the theme ‘Smart Steps to Flexible Manufacturing with NextGen Automation’.

“Right now, every new product and product modification developed by SMC is designed with size (and compactness), smart technologies and efficiency in mind. These factors bode well for next-generation automation,” explained Craig Sheppard, Sales and Marketing Director at SMC.

As the demand for IIoT solutions and robotics continues to surge, SMC has developed an array of advanced components that can be easily integrated on the factory floor. “Whether it’s a new system or an existing one, SMC can meet the demand for various robotic applications. From end effectors for collaborative robots (cobots) which include magnetic, electric, vacuum and pneumatic grippers, right through to wireless fieldbus systems (EX600-W) to ensure an easier and safer installation.”

What’s on show?

1. On the move:

SMC’s Energy Saving van is equipped with the latest components to measure air usage together with the software displays and integration that makes the big picture around energy saving come to life. The ‘minifactory’ simulates the compressed air distribution systems of an industrial plant allowing multiple configurations. It will offer visitors the ability to do some functions and visualise data on the dashboard. It has been designed to simulate the operation of both fixed and variable speed compressors and displays a range of products including valves, cylinders, electro-pneumatic regulators, pressure/flow sensors which provide multiple digital and analog IOs for advanced control. “Visitors can set pressures, simulate different air demand, remote control valves and study the effects of these actions on a dashboard,” Sheppard said.

2. Cobots, cobots, cobots:

With robotics on everyone’s mind, SMC will be showcasing cobots from a variety of prominent brands, each equipped with SMC end effectors. “These displays will showcase how SMC’s range of tool changers and end effectors can be used in pick and place, machine tending, material handling, packaging, palletising and many other applications. The auto hand changing system (AHC) can be quickly linked and interchanged with various gripping solutions, from pneumatic and magnetic grippers to foam vacuum cups,” Sheppard added.

3. Electric cylinder display:

“Thanks to their flexibility, ease of use and precision, electric cylinders are in high demand,” Sheppard said. “SMC will be showcasing its LEY series of electric cylinders in action. These cylinders are available in a range of sizes from small and lightweight to the heavy industrial types.

4. Food and beverage industry compliant manifold:

The new JSY5000-H valve manifold from SMC is purpose-designed for use in food and beverage manufacturing plants, as well as breweries.

“Featuring a clean design to cope with regular washdowns, the IP69K-compliant valve differentiates itself in the marketplace with its high flow rate, low power consumption and IO-Link point-to-point communication capability, bringing a new level of control to production,” Sheppard said.

5. Vacuum solutions:

A range of vacuum cups will be on show. SMC will offer visitors a demonstration of what to keep in mind when selecting vacuum systems. Visitors will be able to test different cup materials and shapes and visualise changes in flow and pressure values.

6. Seminars:

In 2021, after several years of working on the project, SMC helped Fletcher International Exports realise huge energy savings. In his upcoming talk at AUSPACK 2022, Bill Blyth, head of SMC’s Energy Saving Conservation Group, will share more information on an energy-saving strategy and how it could translate for others. In addition, as a proud member of Open IIoT, Jozef Ceh, Digital Transformation and Industry 4.0 Manager for SMC, will explore ‘quick wins’ to help get users out of the starting blocks for an Industry 4.0 implementation journey.

“After several uncertain years, our team is excited to showcase our latest technologies and to meet in person with visitors to the show. As you can see, there will be a good variety of solutions on show and we look forward to discussing these with visitors,” Sheppard concluded.

AUSPACK 2022 takes place from 17–20 May 2022 in Melbourne and will see more than 350 exhibitors and expects 7000 visitors in attendance. To find out more, visit www.auspack.com.au.