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Were you at IMTS this year? If so, you were likely as impressed as we were.

We explored every corner of the show, from north to south, east to west.

Featuring everything from manufacturing equipment to innovative products and software, IMTS is one of the largest trade shows in Chicago, and we weren't going to miss it.

As a company that’s been in the automation industry for 40 years, IMTS is a jackpot of information and networking opportunities for us!

We checked in with our vendors and got up close looks at the products we sell out in the field. Aside from the learning experience, here are some updates.

Schmersal

I met with Jonathon Hall, from Schmersal inside sales, and asked him to point me in the direction of what’s new and exciting with the company.

He was super helpful introducing the newly released DHS door handle system for AZM40 solenoid interlocks.

The AZM40 is designed to safely lock doors in the event of a power failure. When a DHS door handle system is combined with the interlock, you’ll get a clear indication of whether the machine is in operation or if it’s safe to open the safety door.

Learn more here!

Next Up…

Lutze! I spent a lot of time talking with Lutze Marketing Manager, Sari Gregson, and let me tell you...she really knows her stuff!

One of their highlighted products at the show was the LOCC-Box electric circuit breaker. The Lutze LOCC-Box system is a modular solution for controlling capacitive loads.

It can safely start heavy loads, detect overcurrents, and isolate faulty circuits. The system stores fault data for safety and diagnostic purposes.

Learn more here!

After we talked about their new products, we got some great advice on how we can help you select VFD cable when you buy a drive online. We have a new project in the works, stay tuned!

Final Stop

Did you know that Euchner has a second generation of their versatile MGB series? Euchner Director of Business Development, Tom Mickley, went over all the details with me.

Their newly released MGB2 secures doors and fences during hazardous movements and can be customized to specific needs.  The MGB2 modular can handle up to six different controls and indicators.

The system collects information from the modules and sends it to the installation’s control system.

Learn more here!

I've been in the industrial automation industry for more than 20 years; this was my 7th visit to IMTS during my career.

Every IMTS I attend, I can't wait to see where products fit into so many applications. I spotted a WEG motor on an industrial parts washer and cleaning system.

I almost missed it because it was a different color than the ones we're used to seeing. I was drawn into one of our customers' booths, and upon closer inspection, I found a Schmersal light curtain.

It's easy to look at an online catalog or take a field trip around our warehouse to see all the parts we have in stock, but it's not the same as seeing them out in the field.

To have the visual of where stack lights, pushbuttons, emergency stops, motors, sensors... I can go through all of our product categories, and see how they work together in the industrial world.