Supply Chain - Articles, Stories & Interviews

Talking PACK EXPO Las Vegas with Encoder Products Company (EPC)

We’re featuring live demos of our newest encoders, including the LP1 Accu-LaserPro™ — a slip-free, high-accuracy laser encoder designed for packaging lines. Visitors will see how EPC encoders reduce downtime, simplify integration, and deliver long-lasting performance.

Driving Supply Chain Innovation Through AI and Process Optimization

AI and data analytics are game changers for the manufacturing industry’s demand and shop floor agility. My team is currently developing an AI model that identifies irregular demand patterns and updates itself.

PACK EXPO 2025 Product Preview

PACK EXPO 2025 takes place September 29th - October 1st in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Exhibit hall floor will be loaded with new products and services. Here is a preview of some things to look forward to at this years event.

How to Improve Manufacturing Supply Chain Traceability

Customers expect to scan a code and view origin, maker and handling details. Food and beverage buyers seek farm or fishery details and handling steps, while industrial buyers want batch numbers, test results and service history. This clarity builds trust.

Talking PACK EXPO Las Vegas with NORD DRIVESYSTEMS

We’re bringing the full package. Our booth will showcase complete drive solutions, including gear units, motors, and VFDs, all designed for high-volume, high-throughput environments. A highlight will be the launch of a new hygienic, caustic washdown solution.

Transportation & Logistics Company Cuts Costs and Improves Asset Tracking with HiveMQ

As the shipping and logistics company scaled and especially during their peak season between Black Friday and Christmas, the number of devices, connections, and topics being created overwhelmed the broker, causing a lot of headaches.

How to Identify Which Tasks to Automate in Your Manufacturing Business Processes?

In this blog, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to pinpoint the best automation opportunities in your manufacturing business—based on ROI, effort, risk, and operational value.

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Supply Chain - Featured Stories

Unlock Hidden Cash: How Manufacturers Can Maximize R&D Tax Credits Under the One Big Beautiful Bill

Thanks to the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB), manufacturers now have greater access to these credits. Many still leave substantial dollars on the table because they are not aware of their eligibility or fail to grasp the qualification and filing requirements.

10 Steps to Evaluating and Buying Supply Chain Planning and Optimization Software

Investing in SCP&O technology isn’t just a choice; it’s a strategic necessity for those looking to stay competitive. The process involves more than just choosing a product—it’s about finding a long-term partner for success.

Ready to Optimize? Why VFDs Are a Game-Changer for Manufacturing Efficiency

To support the upcoming generation of rapid development and technological growth, antiquated motors and related components must be phased out. To facilitate this change, stakeholders should plan to adopt new workflows and technical knowledge.

Supply Chain - News Headlines

Pfannenberg USA Introduces Next-Generation BESS Chillers: VLV and DMC Series Redefine Battery Thermal Management

Compact, energy efficient chillers deliver reliability and flexibility for battery energy storage systems

CODI Manufacturing's Gantry Palletizers Deliver High Performance at a Low Cost

The new Flex Stack series outperforms cobot palletizers in every way.

New Honda Resource Circularity Center Repurposes End-of-Life Equipment into Tomorrow's Resources

-Honda Resource Circularity Center in Ohio gives new life to retired equipment, electronics and vehicle service parts -Circular economy business model brings the recycling and repurposing of operational tools and production equipment in-house, helping reduce landfill waste -Honda aims to advance product resource circularity by transforming end-of-life products into raw materials for reuse across its supply chain

Supply Chain - Featured Product

T.J. Davies' Retention Knobs
T.J. Davies' Retention Knobs

T.J. Davies' Retention Knobs

Our retention knobs are manufactured above international standards or to machine builder specifications. Retention knobs are manufactured utilizing AMS-6274/AISI-8620 alloy steel drawn in the United States. Threads are single-pointed on our lathes while manufacturing all other retention knob features to ensure high concentricity. Our process ensures that our threads are balanced (lead in/lead out at 180 degrees.) Each retention knob is carburized (hardened) to 58-62HRC, and case depth is .020-.030. Core hardness 40HRC. Each retention knob is coated utilizing a hot black oxide coating to military specifications. Our retention knobs are 100% covered in black oxide to prevent rust. All retention knob surfaces (not just mating surfaces) have a precision finish of 32 RMA micro or better: ISO grade 6N. Each retention knob is magnetic particle tested and tested at 2.5 times the pulling force of the drawbar. Certifications are maintained for each step in the manufacturing process for traceability.

Supply Chain - Featured Company

PI USA (Physik Instrumente)

PI is a privately held company that designs and manufactures world-class precision motion and automation systems including air bearings, hexapods and piezo drives at locations in North America, Europe, and Asia. The company was founded 5 decades ago and today employs more than 1700 people worldwide. PI's customers are leaders in high-tech industries and research institutes in fields such as photonics, life-sciences, semiconductors and aerospace.