The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) and Plug and Play will together establish the Advanced Manufacturing and Physical AI Centre of Excellence - an internationally recognised, high-impact initiative set to bring Plug and Play's global network of 550+ corporate partners and 100,000+ startups into direct connection with the Midlands' advanced manufacturing base, which employs more than 40,000 people across automotive, rail, aerospace, and motorsport.

Industry commentators agree that UK manufacturers will need to increase their investment in robotics if they are to keep up with international competition. At MachineBuilding.South you can find out how, with numerous exhibits from robotics, control, automation and safety specialists.

Kollmorgen has expanded its Essentials portfolio with the launch of an 8-axis variant of its PCMM2G programmable motion controller. The development coincides with the release of a new high-voltage servo drive with support for 240–480 VAC up to 4 kW. The products are distributed in the UK by INMOCO and the expansion of the Essentials portfolio is designed to support a broader range of applications and motion control requirements.

New technology naturally attracts attention in the automation sector, and sensor innovation continues to drive improvements in machine performance, efficiency and reliability. Swiss sensor manufacturer Contrinex has remained at the forefront of sensing technology for more than 50 years. However, as Mark Weymouth of UK representative PLUS Automation points out, achieving the best automation solution is not always about selecting the newest technology. In many cases, significant performance gains and cost savings can be achieved by choosing the most appropriate sensor technology for the application.

TDK Corporation announces the expansion of the TDK-Lambda D1SE series of cost-effective DIN-rail mount power supplies with 12, 48, and 72 V output models.

Schneider Electric has introduced a new 3-Phase Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCBO) device with Overcurrent Protection, the latest addition to its Acti9 range.

Powder product packaging machine manufacturer Arodo has reduced waste, optimised processes and capitalised on time efficiencies by introducing lubricated Lubrinox fasteners supplied from Fabory, unlocking product quality and efficiency benefits.

Accu, the Huddersfield-based precision engineering components supplier, has announced its return to exhibit at STEMFest Yorkshire and Humber, in a bid to inspire young people with the wide range of career opportunities in engineering.