Engineering Projects & Industry News

How to ensure reliable motor operation with variable frequency drives A variable frequency drive (VFD) is the industry’s standard technique for controlling the speed and torques of induction motors. To ensure reliable operation of motors with VFDs, the user must consider various measures and best practices. By Cole Casteel, PE, and Taha Mohammed, PE January 17, 2025 Learning Objectives Understand the fundamental components and operations of induction motors and VFDs. Recognize the key factors for selecting motors and VFDs. Grasp important factors for VFD and motor installation.   Variable frequency drive insights VFDs are gaining widespread popularity for driving motors in industrial and commercial facilities due to their efficiency. It’s important that the motor characteristics and application are coordinated with the driven equipment during the motor and VFD selections. Monitoring the temperature can help identify VFD problems before they do too much damage. ...

Finding balance in high-output manufacturing with low energy As manufacturers face rising global demands for efficiency and environmental responsibility, they encounter a dual challenge: how to boost output while minimizing energy consumption. By Jayme Leonard January 24, 2025   Learning Objectives Understand the role of energy efficiency in manufacturing. Identify key areas of energy consumption in manufacturing facilities, with a focus on air compression systems and recognize the environmental and financial impacts of reducing energy use. Explore advanced technologies for sustainable manufacturing. Analyze how automation, data analytics and IoT-enabled smart factories contribute to energy efficiency and sustainable productivity within manufacturing settings. Examine regulatory and financial incentives for energy efficiency. Discuss government regulations, incentives and common barriers to implementing energy-efficient practices and understand how these influence sustain...

How to look at energy efficiency through nontraditional demand-side management Industries are shifting to DSM, using strategies like smart energy storage systems and solar installations for improved energy efficiency By Dr. Michael Wrinch February 2, 2024 Learning Objectives Explore the integration of smart meters, communication networks and data management systems for comprehensive energy monitoring. Gain an understanding of the challenges associated with nontraditional demand-side management (DSM). Develop a new perspective on stranded assets, such as parking lots and rooftops. Demand-side management (DSM) insights This article explores examples of nontraditional demand-side management (DSM) techniques, comparing them to traditional methods and highlighting the associated risks and benefits. There are four key areas in which the energy market has changed, giving the consumer more power over the use of electricity.   In recent times, with the rise of artifici...

Five manufacturing trends to accelerate sustainability progress More than ever, manufacturing companies are forced to consider the impact of their carbon footprint. Five trends for companies to improve their sustainability efforts are highlighted. By Dave Duncan June 25, 2024 Learning Objectives: Learn how Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) compliance will set new expectations for manufacturing companies to become more sustainable. Understand how manufacturers can use modular design and product circularity to decarbonize product offerings. Learn how digital transformation helps support manufacturers in capitalizing on sustainability and profitability. Sustainability insights: The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) will significantly impact manufacturers operating in the EU, pushing over 50,000 companies to comply with stringent emissions and reporting standards starting in 2024. Advanced digital technologies like AI, IoT, and PLM are c...