Plant Equipment Feature Library

Operations Engineer's library catalogues editorial features going back five years.

Access to all archive material is free to all, including non-members of IPlantE (the Institution of Operations Engineers) or BES (Bureau of Engineer Surveyors), under the umbrella of SOE (Society of Operations Engineers). However, to discover the many benefits of becoming an SOE member, please click here.

31/08/2020 Hose re-ending: the fallacies behind ‘saving a bit of money’

Fluid power hose re-ending is a dangerous business. Not only does it fly in the face of industry standards, but it can also prove highly destructive… and even lethal if the remade joint fails. Add a lack of warranty and supplier liability ... » Read More

05/08/2019 Cushioned approach

The latest pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders feature improved cushioning systems for higher speeds with reduced stress and vibration. But what is involved in the technology, how does it work, and what maintenance implications are there? » Read More

09/12/2014 Breath of fresh fluid

What bothers engineers concerned with pneumatics can be very different to those working solely with hydraulics. » Read More

05/10/2012 Keep things fluid

Innovation is continuing apace in the worlds of fluid power. Steed Webzell examines some of the developments most likely to be in demand » Read More

06/10/2011 Full flow fluid power

As hydraulic and pneumatic systems continue to evolve, Steed Webzell weighs up the latest innovations benefiting static and mobile plant operations » Read More

09/12/2010 Filter facts

Pneumatic systems need to operate reliably, even in extreme conditions. John Hill examines the requirements, in terms of components, filters and maintenance » Read More

06/10/2010 Mersen mould station automation improves quality and yield

Thermal insulation supplier Mersen's site at Eurocentral, Scotland, is now running a new wet moulding station and effluent treatment plant that now automates a manual manufacturing process. » Read More

06/10/2010 Hoses and pumps

Although hydraulics and pneumatics are very mature branches of engineering, Dr Tom Shelley finds useful developments involving specialist hoses and air pumps » Read More

10/08/2010 Cut your carbon

Modern electromechanical technology can help plant engineers to reduce the environmental impact of their operations, says Phil Burge » Read More

01/10/2009 Process control

PID has been the mainstay of process control for more than 60 years, but technology and the ever-expanding role of plant engineers merit a new, closer look, advises Brian Tinham » Read More

01/08/2009 May the force be with you

Would hydraulics and pneumatics feature in a futuristic Star Wars setting? Either way, innovations are ensuring that more of the force is with you, as Dr Tom Shelley explains » Read More

01/04/2007 Engineers under pressure

Operations engineers have never been so challenged as they are now. Look at the plethora of new tools, technologies and equipment flooding into industry generally. Look at the heightened requirements of competitiveness and efficiency, ... » Read More

01/02/2006 Safety and savings

Compressed air continues to offer many advantages in process industry applications, especially in hazardous areas, but often continues to be used inefficiently. Help - much of it free - is readily available to help reduce energy costs and ... » Read More

04/04/2005 SED Preview - The great outdoors

If you want to see construction plant and machinery demonstrated in as near as possible realistic working conditions, as opposed to simply static displays, Site Equipment Demonstration (SED) is the show for you. It has the largest assembly ... » Read More