Digital communication networks to be showcased at free Industry 4.0 seminar in Wrexham

Digital communication networks which are enabling major advances in manufacturing are to be showcased at a free seminar.

Industry 4.0 is set to transform the UK economy over the next few years and will be the focus of the event at Wrexham Glyndwr University on Tuesday 26 September.

The seminar will help delegates understand how digital communication networks are a key factor when developing Industry 4.0 solutions.

Central to the discussion will be the use and practical application of PROFIBUS, PROFINET and IO-Link in industry (pictured above). These three networks offer a complete solution for industrial automation in process and manufacturing plants.

As well as being introduced to the technologies, managers and engineers attending the event will be able to catch a glimpse of Wrexham Glyndwr University’s engineering labs, including an intelligent control panel which controls equipment and instrumentation using PROFIBUS. A Siemens PROFINET demonstration truck will also be on show.

James Robinson, Industrial Engineering programme leader, said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming PROFIBUS and PROFINET International to North Wales.

“Their technologies are leading the way in industrial communications globally, and asset managers, design engineers and maintenance engineers will all benefit from this seminar.

“Wrexham Glyndwr University has worked hard to develop its laboratories so students on our industrial engineering degree programmes have access to industry-standard equipment from Helmholz, Softing Industrial, Siemens, WAGO and Procentec. These will all be demonstrated on the day.

“Industry 4.0 is one of the largest drivers which will transform manufacturing over the coming years and the UK government has announced an increase in funding for the area of £4.7 billion by 2020-21.”

James will be joined at the event by fellow Wrexham Glyndwr University lecturer and cyber security expert Dr Paul Comerford, who will be giving a presentation on Cyber security for Industrial Ethernet.

System design and safety considerations through to fault-finding and maintenance with PROFIBUS, PROFINET and IO-Link in key application areas will all be considered.

These include mechanical handling and logistics, robotics, automotive engineering, electrical and electronics assembly, control systems and energy management, pulp & paper, chemical, utilities, pharmaceutical, packaging and printing.

The event runs from 8.45am to 4pm at the Catrin Finch Centre, Wrexham Glyndwr University.

Visitors will get the chance to win a free 20 minute flight in the university’s Merlin flight simulator and learn more about Wrexham Glyndwr University’s Industrial Engineering degree

Attendance at the free seminar is by registration in advance online at http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=ycu456cab&oeidk=a07ee3d8b0x9055ee15

For more information contact James Robinson on james.robinson@glyndwr.ac.uk