PRESSESERVICE

The market for autonomous machines and vehicles is developing dynamically. With the AUTONOMY KIT, RAFI offers a scalable system solution for industrial applications. RAFI is thus positioning itself as an enabler in the field of autonomy and supports machine manufacturers in the structured further development of existing systems into partially or fully autonomous platforms.

Many manufacturers have products that are powerful but not autonomous. This is exactly where RAFI comes in. Existing machines and systems are specifically autonomized. Individual automation competencies, for example in specific control or charging processes, can be expanded into a holistic autonomous integral system. Even finished, previously non-autonomous products can be converted into an autonomous process by integrating suitable hardware and software solutions.

A central focus is on industrialization and support. RAFI combines production technologies, in-depth production know-how and software expertise to create an integrated solution approach. The aim is to develop robust solutions based on existing concepts that are suitable for series production.

RAFI’s expertise in the area of autonomy includes hardware development, software architecture and system integration as well as the industrialization of series solutions. RAFI covers the entire value chain from electronics production to assembly and testing technologies to synthetic material and metal processing. This makes it possible to implement all process steps from development to industrial series production in close coordination with the customer.

Trade fair information:
RAFI will present the AUTONOMY KIT and other innovations from March 24 to 26, 2026, at XPONENTIAL in Düsseldorf in Hall 1/A43.

LOSYCO will showcase innovative rail-based intra-logistics and production logistics at the LogiMAT trade fair in Stuttgart, Germany, March 24 to 26, 2026, at booth #7-F09. The manufacturer designs and implements complete transport and handling solutions from a single source and will be presenting new developments extending its LOXrail system. LOXrail tracks, which are available in two sizes, are designed for payloads up to 60 tons and more. The system enables economic and energy-saving transport on customer-specific trolleys in a wide range of production processes, from the manufacture of tools and agricultural machinery to wind turbine building and modular house pre-fabrication. Even loads weighing several tons can be transported manually and alternatively powered via batteries.

LOSYCO will furthermore present a new fully automated transport solution as next innovation stage for rail-based production logistics: the LOXrail smartCURVE system combines the load-bearing capacity of intra-logistics rails with the advanced levels of automation of current AGV technology, creating a cutting-edge smart-factory heavy-duty transport solution. The autonomous transport system, which LOSYCO has successfully deployed in an automotive production plant, consists of self-propelled transport trolleys, latency-free, fail-safe Wi-Fi communication, sensor-based position detection and inductive charging technology. The trolleys navigate the manufacturing site with sensors, transport material or assemblies between work stations, find their exact positions and independently charge their batteries.

In addition, the German systems provider LOSYCO will exhibit floor-level crossing systems, AllRounder steering platforms as well as material feeding and warehouse logistics solutions. The team is looking forward to engaging contacts and professional exchange at the trade fair.

SAB Bröckskes will premiere newly developed high-performance data cables for railway technology at the IT-Trans trade fair in Karlsruhe, Germany, 3–5 March 2026, at booth #1-G60. The three new SABIX R flex Data IQ cables extend the manufacturer’s range of permanently flexible rail cables according to EN 45545-2. The cable design combines high transmission performance for modern infotainment, display and communication systems with a comprehensive safety concept. Depending on type, the cables support DVI Dual-Link, HDMI, DVI, DisplayPort and USB 3.0 / USB 3.2 Gen 1×1. The series fulfils the fire protection requirements R15 (EL1A) and R16 (EL1B) according to EN 45545-2 for hazard levels HL1 and HL2 and flame resistance according to UN/ECE R118 for international use. In the event of a fire, smoke development, emission of toxic gases and consequential damage to electrical components are reduced due to cables’ safety features, i.e., halogen-free design, low corrosivity, low toxicity, attested smoke density. SABIX R flex Data IQ cables are flame retardant and self-extinguishing according to IEC 60332-1-2, bundle fire tested according to IEC 60332-3-25 and oil and fuel resistant according to EN 50264-1. The cables, which are made of RoHS-compliant, PFAS-free materials, are approved for temperature ranges from -50 °C/-40 °C to 90 °C (DIN VDE) or 75 °C (UL/CSA). The minimum bending radius is 4 x d in fixed installations and 12 x d for flexible applications. The high flexibility facilitates installation in confined spaces, supports the standardization of modern interfaces and thus contributes to efficient development and maintenance processes.

From 10 to 12 March 2026, RAFI will showcase its product and solution expertise at embedded world in Nuremberg, covering everything from PCBs through to complete system integration and device assembly, all from a single source. At its trade fair appearance in Hall 3, Booth 330, the HMI specialist will focus on the four thematic areas of E2MS production, robotics, command-and-control devices, and Safety Touch operation.

As an experienced partner for Electronic Engineering and Manufacturing Services (E²MS), RAFI supports its customers throughout the development and production of electronics, from the initial concept to series production. With its new Autonomy Kit, the manufacturer has developed a scalable platform technology for automating machines for the agricultural industry, logistics, and construction. The synergy of modular hardware and smart software supports machine manufacturers in transforming mechanical systems into semi-autonomous or fully autonomous solutions.

A third area of focus is the broad range of command and control devices, from micro-switches and the diverse RAFIX and RAMO push-button series to encoders and joysticks. A highlight is the key switches of the RAFIX 22 FS+ series, which combine flat construction with aesthetic design and can be customized as required.

For use in safety-critical applications, RAFI makes specially secured joystick variants built on its JOYSCAPE platform. The manufacturer has also developed Safety Touch, a new technology platform for the series-ready manufacture of touchscreen systems at Performance Level d.

With the P53 series, PiL Sensoren GmbH offers robust ultrasonic sensors for applications with stringent hygienic requirements. The fully encapsulated stainless-steel housing (1.4404) features a gap-free design and a polished surface finish (< 0.8 µm), meeting the requirements of EHEDG and FDA. Thanks to protection class IP69 and ECOLAB certification, the sensors are resistant to acidic and alkaline cleaning agents and can be cleaned efficiently using CIP (Cleaning in Place) processes. The P53 sensors operate without contact and accurately detect solid, liquid, and pasty media. Their fully encapsulated stainless-steel housing provides reliable protection against steam, dust, and moisture, making the series particularly suitable for use in harsh industrial environments. Available with housing diameters of Ø18 mm and Ø30 mm, the series covers measuring ranges from 150 to 1500 mm and is designed for ambient temperatures of up to 70 °C. Analog or switching outputs, along with integrated temperature compensation, make these sensors ideal for a wide range of applications, including filling and packaging systems, coagulators, and pharmaceutical production lines.

Menzel Elektromotoren now also performs load tests on motors in a vertical installation position. The family business has expanded its in-house test field to include a right-angle gearbox with various flange options for vertical motors of different sizes. This enables thorough testing of vertical motors for pumps, compressors and other industrial applications under realistic load conditions. Menzel tests motors and generators from its own production and also offers its state-of-the-art test facilities for manufacturer-independent external tests. The plant in Hennigsdorf near Berlin has two large test stands. Indoor cranes with a hook height of 7.52 meters shift large drive units up to 80 tons. The range of services includes all common routine, type and system tests in accordance with international standards for test voltages from 3 to 13.8 kV. Machines up to 1800 kW and 2300 kVA can be load tested. In addition, Menzel offers a heat run test with the equivalent load method according to IEC60034-29 for higher electrical performances. The test field engineers and certified technicians carry out all measurements and inspections according to EN 60034, with full documentation. The team also has extensive expertise in testing requirements of international acceptance organizations.

Detailed information about Menzel’s testing services and facilities: https://www.menzel-motors.com/motor-test-field/

The compact TTPCardMAX thermal transfer printer fulfills all labeling needs for electrical installations – a clever label printing solution from the Conta-Label range of Conta-Clip, one of the leading manufacturers of electrical connection technology. The versatile printer provides outstanding print quality with high resolution. With 12 new card types especially for Conta-Clip terminal blocks added to the existing catalog of markers, the printing system meets all requirements for marking in the electrical sector.

The efficient printer employs proven thermal transfer technology to quickly and reliably create sharp and durable markings on labels and signs made of various materials, such as PVC, vinyl, polyester, ABS and polycarbonate. TTPCardMAX thus ensures long-lasting marking of terminal blocks, cables and wires, input and output devices, external control panels, switching modules and many other components. The ContaPrintMAX printing software, which is tailored to the marker cards, with templates for all materials, enables simple and intuitive operation. The printer has a manual feed and an automatic one for high-speed processing of up to 5,500 markers per hour.

Low-maintenance, trouble-proof and easy to operate, the system requires little attention. The print and feed sections are easily accessible for exchanging the color ribbon cartridge. A special cassette for automatically cleaning the materials to be printed increases the print quality. The ContaPrintMAX software for Windows operating systems allows users to edit and print the required markings for single, multiple or series labels with ease. The software enables simple and fast preparation of print data and has been specially developed for professional cable and wire labeling for machines, systems and control cabinets.

Product page: https://conta-clip.com/en/product-finder/details/ttpcardmax/no-33000-0/

The new PPVK push-in potential distribution terminals from Conta-Clip are the right solution to avoid incorrect wiring for the power supply in control cabinets – especially with large numbers of cables. They enable structured and clear power distribution in AC and DC control circuits. Thanks to the compact design of the terminals and the reduced wiring effort, users can establish the energy supply for equipment installed in control cabinets easily, efficiently and with a small footprint.

The distribution terminals with extensive marking options combine several advantages. Conductors can be inserted without tools and with low mating resistance. There are cross-connection options for feed-in terminals and potential distribution terminals on both sides, allowing the permissible total current to be optimally distributed in both distribution directions; this supports a uniform current load and reduces local overloads. A built-in, insulated pusher is used to disconnect conductors. Depending on the application, users can choose between alternating or block grouping.

The 6-mm² feed-in terminals are dimensioned for a rated current of 41 A and the 1.5-mm² distribution terminals for a rated current of 16 A. All insulating materials used in the series are free of pollutants and also comply with flammability class “V-0 self-extinguishing” according to UL 94. Pre-assembled potential distribution blocks including matching accessories are also available to help reduce the number of variants as well as warehousing and procurement costs. Even after commissioning, the PPVK potential distribution blocks can be expanded in modular fashion. Additional distribution terminals can be flexibly retrofitted via the second cross-connection channel and integrated into the existing potential distribution.

Advantage PPVK
• Tool-free push-in wire connection
• Low mating resistance
• Built-in insulated pusher for disconnecting the wire
• Cross-connection option in both directions doubles the total current
• Test pick-off at any potential
• Extensive marking options

Features
• Push-in connection system
• Feed-in terminals 6 mm², rated current 41 A
• Distribution terminals 1.5 mm², rated current 16 A
• Pluggable cross-connection system PQI
• Material: PA 6.6 UL 94 V-0

Conta-Clip continuously expands its KES cable entry range and places a particular emphasis on products for the food industry made of certified, hygienic material. The latest addition, the round FDA KES-R-FDA M variants in characteristic blue enable quick and space-saving feed-through of up to 68 conductors into control cabinets or machine housings.

The cable entries, which consist of a robust polyamide frame with injected elastomer, have integrated locking hooks for easy installation. They are first locked into housing openings from the outside and then fixed from the inside with lock nuts. After piercing the outer membrane at a marked insertion point, users simply push cables, wires or hoses through. Tapered TPE sleeves at the back of the cable entry ensure tight sealing according to protection class IP66.

The elastomer of the new KES-R-FDA M variant is FDA-compliant and meets the hygiene requirements of food approvals 1935/2004/EC and (EU) 10/2011. Featuring smooth surfaces and rounded corners, the products are suitable for use in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Conta-Clip currently offers the FDA-compliant cable entries KES-R-FDA M in 15 round variants for different numbers of conductors with different diameters.

Menzel Great Britain has completed its biggest project to date, providing 10 seven-ton electric motors to the UK water utility company Thames Water, which serves 16 million customers across London and the Thames Valley. This strategic motor replacement is crucial to extend the lifespan of a key water treatment plant by 10 years and secure the water supply to the Greater London area. Menzel won the contract for its economic, well-thought-out concept.

The high-lift pump station at the Coppermills Water Treatment Works had experienced repeated failures, mainly due to the age of the existing equipment. As Thames Water is planning to build a new station in about 10 years, the utility company put out a tender for an economic drive solution to ensure reliable operation of the existing pumps in the interim. Other OEMs suggested costly variable-frequency drives (VFDs), which would have required major building reconstruction to accommodate control systems and transformers. Menzel proposed slip ring motors that are compatible with the existing installation and use the electric infrastructure and starting equipment already in place.

The state-of-the-art motors are superior to the original motors with nearly 5 % increased efficiency, greater ease of maintenance and an expected lifespan of at least 25 years. The motor engineers worked closely with the project team of Thames Water’s contractor MWH Treatment. Their design also takes account of anticipated future extreme outdoor summer temperatures. The project came in under budget and was completed on schedule. Compared to the proposed VFDs, Menzel’s concept saved Thames Water hundreds of thousands of pounds, took much less time and is more environmentally friendly.

The German manufacturer Menzel Elektromotoren has great expertise in building and customizing large-scale slip ring motors. These particular 10 slip ring motors utilized the existing pump pedestals, ensuring minimal site work and disruption. Menzel even tailored the terminal boxes to match the existing installation to make the cabling as easy and cost-efficient as possible.

Menzel’s modular motor families accommodate various mounting types, cooling types and accessories. The 10 new motors have a shaft height of 500 mm and are designed for vertical mounting on the pumps. Six of the motors feature the cooling type IC 81W (air-to-water heat exchanger) and four IC 611 (air-to-air heat exchanger). They provide IP55 ingress protection, operate at 3300 V and, between the different models, provide outputs of 746 kW or 343 kW and rated torques of 12075 Nm or 5551 Nm.

This project earned Menzel a place in the finals for the 2025 AEMT Awards of the Association of Electrical and Mechanical Trades.

More information:
https://www.menzel-motors.com/reference/ten-3300-kv-replacement-motors/