A state–of–the–art product portfolio and an efficient and reliable production are basic requirements for success on the highly competitive process component market. Sometimes, nevertheless, off–the–shelf solutions are not enough – The trend is to develop complex and customised systems for the customer, from simple machinery to complex turnkey solutions...

There is currently a lot of talk about mega-trends, such as globalisation. Our look at the trends will not centre on these headline issues. Read here what is on the mind of the process industry at this year’s ACHEMA.

State-of-the-art automation systems can revitalize old equipment if they are deployed purposefully and with sound judgment. Read how to rejuvenate your equipment, ranging from simple control system migration to the introduction of digitalization and artificial intelligence.

Chemical giant BASF announced plans to build a new butadiene extraction plant at its production site in Antwerp, Belgium. With a planned annual production capacity of 155,000 metric tons, the plant would be bigger than the company's existing butadiene extraction at Ludwigshafen, Germany.

In line with the country’s Industry 4.0 ambitions, the government-run company has partnered with IBM to introduce the blockchain technology across its oil and gas production value chain. Increased operational efficiency, improved reliability of production data and greater transparency in transactions are some of the benefits of this contemporary technology.

Metso announced the delivery of the first valves with 3D printed parts from its Helsinki plant. The valves include 3D printed metal components that allow the valves to perform in a particularly demanding application where they need to withstand numerous fast open-close cycles without maintenance.

The large-scale facility is expected to start operations in 2020 and will produce liquid nitrogen, oxygen as well as argon for local customers in the region.

With an aim to support the automotive players in the region and move towards cleaner mobility, the company will be establishing a new plant by the end of 2019 to expand its capacity.

Under her new role, Wuttke will be responsible for developing and executing end-to-end digital strategy which is expected to be a core area for the firm’s success in the near future.

The trend toward linking up the production and control levels in a network is now making itself felt in low-voltage switchboards in the process industry. The critical point in this field is that the communication-capable switching devices are able to provide direct and secure exchange of data. The OPC UA protocol helps to make the data of the loads and the motors accessible via the switchboard.