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With nine manufacturing facilities throughout Australia, Eilbeck Cranes has come a long way from its beginnings as a humble blacksmith shop more than 115 years ago. This fourth-generation diverse family business, employing some 400 people, is today Australia’s largest and most advanced crane manufacturer with ever-expanding exports extending to South America, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and New Zealand. Third-generation Tom Eilbeck and fourth-generation Charlie Eilbeck are both active in the company. In recent years Eilbeck Cranes has also expanded its heavy machining facilities investing two of the largest Okuma CNC machines in Australia to cater for its production and to expand its heavy engineering division with contract and custom work and heavy engineering projects. With the successful business extension and expansion of the heavy machining division into major contract general engineering Eilbeck Machining is now one of the most prominent players in Australian heavy engineering and CNC Machining with contracts in defence, mining, rail, oil & gas and heavy industry. The large Okuma CNC Double Column Model MCR-A5CII with OSP-P300MA control is used for this work with the smaller Okuma…

In a monumental leap towards a greener future, AgriFutures Australia proudly presents the outcomes of the Carbon Initiative Program, a two million dollar commitment fueling 15 pioneering research projects. The 15 projects have not only enriched current industry-specific endeavours towards a net-zero future but have also forged new frontiers in cross-industry carbon research. Venturing into unchartered territory has yielded remarkable revelations, including five hero insights across the 15 projects: Innovative Carbon Testing: The fusion of cutting-edge machine learning with satellite sensing technology is re-writing the rules of soil organic carbon testing. By driving down costs, these methods are racing to surpass the Australian Government’s ambitious target of three dollars per hectare. Reimagining Farm Irrigation: Exploration into emissions from Australian farm irrigation dams has stunned the scientific community, where traditionally there has been a lack of carbon footprint data. The discovery showcases nitrous oxide emission rates that defy conventional wisdom, sitting four times lower than the estimations by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Nature's Methane Solution: Unlocking the potential of native freshwater plants and seaweed species has unveiled…

Ariel Banco of Custom Plenum Creations began hand-producing automotive intake manifolds out of his garage in 2003. Fast forward seven years and Banco had evolved his business model and opened shop. He has since acquired three CNC machines and continues to produce intake manifolds for the Australian and international custom car market. As a small business, Ariel needed to simplify operations and increase efficiency. He required a modelling and CNC software that would allow him to easily model parts and manufacture them. Additionally, his CNC machines were 4-axis, but his parts had features that required machining on the fifth axis. Project goals Banco was looking for CAD/CAM software that was simple to design with and that he could make changes to quickly. He explains, “It’s what I need for a business like mine, it’s not a high production business, it’s a lot of different parts and low volume. I need to make changes quickly and the process needs to be as smooth as possible.” To gain 5-axis-like machining capability on his 4-axis machines, Ariel required a…

Sevaan Group’s four-day week trial period will run for three months, from 11th September until the 31st December. The Group is spreading the normal 38-hour, five-day work week over four days. Each day encompasses two shifts, morning and afternoon, consisting of 9.5 hours each. According to Sevaan Group’s CEO, David Green, the management-led initiative gained traction as a result of the positive outcomes attained by overseas companies that have already trialled the four-day week. “The evidence suggests that these firms are benefitting from improved productivity, reduced sick leave and unapproved absenteeism, and a general increase in their employees’ well-being.” “The improved well-being of staff is particularly of interest because it aligns so strongly with Sevaan’s culture. We are a very employee-focused organisation and our staff’s well-being is paramount. We have already introduced an EAP - LifeWorks - which provides staff with confidential, expert counselling across a broad range of issues, should they request it. We are hoping that a 4-day working week will further support our…

Cleaning up your workshop is the ultimate “rainy-day” job; however, with the La Niña about to end, some may be hurrying to fit an eleventh-hour workshop upgrade in before the El Niño hot, sunny weather is upon us, hopefully with increases in productive work. Investing in an improved workshop benching and storage solution may be a critical step to be taken towards an increase in productivity and ongoing prosperity, but, ‘how to approach this’ should be a question one asks. For most, prosperity does not simply fall into one’s lap, but is the process of sound investment, patient planning and attention to detail. When you take this approach, you will eventually reach a point where you need to address some key questions in your production zones: How do I cut-down on innocent time wasting in production; How do I customise an environment to suit the tasks we are performing How do I prevent mistakes in part picking and ID How do I protect my components from dust and UV light. At BAC Systems, an Australian manufacturer of an industrial workshop furniture range…

Australian Manufacturing Week (AMW2024) is run by the Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL), with the NSW Government as the Major Sponsor. This huge event will occupy more than 6,560 square metres of exhibition space at the Sydney ICC at Darling Harbour. More than 215 organisations have already taken stands to showcase the latest manufacturing technologies, processes, and support services. Don’t miss out! REGISTER NOW:   There will be seven Zones on the show floor of Australian Manufacturing Week, each showcasing its areas of expertise.  These include: Austech Machine Tools, sponsored by finlease; Additive Manufacturing Zone; Australian Manufacturers Zone; Manufacturing Solutions Zone, sponsored by The Execution Factor; Robotics & Automation Zone; Weld and Air Solutions Zone; and the Plastic Technology Zone.   MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS ZONE The Manufacturing Solutions Zone offers optimised solutions to the most common challenges experienced by manufacturers. From materials handling and warehousing to integrated manufacturing and safety solutions. The manufacturing industry would not be able to function effectively without a diverse array of ancillary technologies and support services. The Manufacturing Solutions Zone is…

Air, though seemingly harmless, can carry contaminants that pose significant risks to the integrity of food and beverage products. Traditional ‘lubricated’ air compressors, which inject oil into the compression chamber, have been a standard in many manufacturing facilities. However, these units present a considerable risk in environments where the strictest hygiene standards must be maintained. Oil and its byproducts have the potential to compromise the purity of food and beverage products. Even trace oil contamination can lead to spoilage, off-flavours, or worse, endanger the health of consumers. To address these risks, the industry should incorporate oil-free air compressors as a crucial element of their production process. The advantages of oil-free air compressors. Elimination of Contaminants: Oil-free compressors function without compressed air becoming in contact with any lubricating oil, eliminating the risk of potentially harmful substances into the compressed air supply, resulting in a final product of superior quality. Stringent regulatory compliance: Using oil-free air compressors in the food and beverage industry signifies a dedication to meeting strict regulatory standards. This reassures both regulatory bodies and consumers of the facility's…

The Victorian State Treasurer Tim Pallas has announced Medsalv is finalising site selection for the manufacturing and R&D facility, which will introduce new sustainable remanufacturing capabilities to the Australian healthcare ecosystem. The company’s product recycling portfolio includes patient transfer mattresses, deep vein thrombosis prevention sleeves, blood pressure cuffs and tourniquets. Medsalv addresses the growing demand for eco-friendly healthcare solutions to reduce reliance on overseas products, resulting in a more robust supply chain and positive environmental outcomes. The new Victorian headquarters will enable Medsalv to collect single-use medical devices from hospitals in Australia and remanufacture them for safe use in a process that involves cleaning, testing, inspecting, packaging and relabelling products to prevent them from going into landfill. “Medsalv is here to make doing good easy for busy people in hospitals,” Medsalv founder and CEO Oliver Hunt said, “and we’re thrilled to do this locally for Australia, starting with this key facility in Victoria.” Around 50 jobs will be created over five years, including opportunities for disadvantaged groups. By…

Australian-made steel will be used in the construction of Australia’s conventionally-armed nuclear-powered submarines built at Osborne Naval Shipyard, South Australia, subject to a comprehensive qualification process. The Australian Submarine Agency has entered into a contract with Australian steel manufacturer, Bisalloy Steels, for the qualification of Australian steel for use on Australia’s future SSN-AUKUS submarines. “The qualification of Australian steel is an important step in the Australian Government’s strategy for acquiring state-of-the-art conventionally armed nuclear-powered submarines,” said Australia’s Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Pat Conroy MP. “The strength and quality of Australian steel will keep Australian submariners safe in the SSN-AUKUS nuclear-powered submarines for decades to come, just as it does today on our Collins Class submarines. Crucially, this contract will support jobs in an industry which is not only of strategic importance but also a source of innovation and employment, and part of the Australian fabric.” “The $15m contract will put Australian products at the forefront of our submarine construction,” added Minister Conroy. The comprehensive qualification process, involving more than 4,500 tests, is expected to be completed in the first half…

This unique program aimed to empower women by providing them with an opportunity to explore the world of trades. Participants were engaged in formal training, provided with individualised coaching and support and equipped with tools to help them thrive in a career in a male-dominated industry. In collaboration with the Local Jobs Program (North East Melbourne), SYC, and Melbourne Polytechnic, Empowered Women in Trades facilitated this innovative initiative that combined accredited welding units in OXY, MIG, and ARC welding with a focus on positive psychology and human skills training. Throughout the course, eight enthusiastic women donned protective gear and immersed in comprehensive lessons on the PERMA concept by Martin Seligman as a part of the framework for applied positive psychology and effective communication. Expert instructors, Tony, Sam and Dave, provided hands-on training and guidance in the workshops, ensuring each participant gained practical knowledge and expertise in welding techniques. The course covered a variety of welding techniques, including: •           the MMAW process, identification, and technology, •           uses, advantages, and limitations of MIG and Oxy Welding. •           Emphasis was placed on safe operations and…

In today's increasingly eco-conscious world, businesses are taking significant steps to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a sustainable future. Ozroll, a leading provider of high-quality external shading solutions, has embraced this ethos by revolutionising its Elipso aluminium louvres and plantation shutters with a switch to LocAl® Green lower carbon aluminium supplied by Capral. "By switching to LocAl Green lower carbon aluminium, Ozroll is not only prioritising environmental stewardship, but they are also setting a new benchmark for sustainable manufacturing practices," said Peter Bulka, Capral’s Industrial Manager for Southeast Queensland. This strategic move aligns with Ozroll's commitment to minimising carbon emissions and fostering a greener planet. "Energy efficiency and sustainability are a big part of what we do,” added Jack McDonald, General Manager of Ozroll Queensland. “The products we offer to the market, including our louvres and plantation shutters, can deliver real efficiency benefits within the built environment.” McDonald explained that sustainability is an essential philosophy within the company. With growing demand from clients to deliver more sustainable solutions,…

As Industry 4.0 gains momentum, an increasing number of businesses are looking for ways to create and capture value through the computerisation and networking of their manufacturing and maintenance processes. Firms considering the introduction of a computerised system are generally driven by the promise of increased efficiency, quality and cost savings. One area that is often overlooked however is safety, even though increased safety also has a significant impact across all areas of the business. Research and industry experience has found that organisations that prioritise safety experience a return on investment that extends beyond purely financial returns, with benefits including: Improved risk management, by making it easier to comply with regulations, laws, and standards; Increased productivity, by automating critical processes; Enhanced reputation. A reputation for safety is extremely important, particularly for industries that are involved in, or produce products for high-risk industries. It is often a critical factor in winning contracts and tenders. Safety is also often narrowly defined and examined separately from quality. However, safety is both an attribute and an objective of…

Run by the Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL), and with the NSW Government as Major Sponsor, AMW2024 will occupy more than 6,560 square metres of exhibition space at the Sydney ICC at Darling Harbour, with more than 215 organisations taking stands to showcase the latest manufacturing technologies, processes, and support services. Don’t miss out! REGISTER NOW:   There will be seven Zones on the show floor of Australian Manufacturing Week, each with its own distinct specialisations. These include: Austech Machine Tools, sponsored by finlease; Additive Manufacturing Zone; Australian Manufacturers Pavilion; Manufacturing Solutions Zone, sponsored by The Execution Factor; Robotics & Automation Zone; Weld and Air Solutions Zone; and the Plastic Technology Zone.   AUSTRALIAN MANUFACTURERS PAVILION The Australian Manufacturers Pavilion showcases the capabilities of Australia’s precision engineering and advanced manufacturing industry. The Australian Manufacturers Pavilion is one of seven focussed Zones on the floor of AMW2024. The Australian Manufacturers Pavilion is where AMW2024 celebrates the very best in Australian manufacturing, providing a showcase for some of this country’s…