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Deja vu? Us too. Swiger had previously been acquired by Wabtec IPS (Integrated Power Services), the Greenville, S.C.-based and ever-growing network of service centers, has acquired the assets of Swiger Coil Systems from Wabtec Corporation. Based in Cleveland, Ohio, Swiger has long specialized in manufacturing a wide range of electric coils for electric motors, generators, and alternators, as well as contract manufacturing and remanufacturing of traction motors. Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed. The acquisition "brings to IPS an extensive capability to manufacture a wide range of specialty coils for transportation, industrial, and power generation markets," per an April 12 IPS press release sent to EA. Swiger was founded in 1975 and has a long history of manufacturing and repairing electromechanical equipment and parts.  Swiger’s electrical coil manufacturing offering includes armature coils, stator coils, field coils, edge wound coils, solenoid coils, special transformer coils, and high-energy coils.  These coils are sold as components and parts to original equipment manufacturers and into the electric motor repair services aftermarket.  Swiger also provides contract manufacturing and remanufacturing capabilities to companies that manufacture electric motors, generators, alternators, and reactor/controller assemblies for people transit, freight locomotive, and mining transportation propulsion systems. In acquiring Swiger, IPS will add its Cleveland location to its nine-location traction motor repair network, with the capability of servicing customers from the largest network of locations available across North America, supported by a deep technical knowledge base.  IPS currently repairs traction motors in the following locations spanning North America: Indiana, Pennsylvania; Rock Hill, South Carolina; Lake City, Florida; Denver, Colorado; Birmingham, Alabama; Seattle, Washington; Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; Edmonton, Alberta; and Fort McMurray, Canada. “The addition of Swiger Coil Systems brings highly complementary and diverse manufacturing capabilities to IPS,” said John Zuleger, IPS President and CEO. “This acquisition enables IPS to invest in Swiger’s coil manufacturing capabilities to continue supplying existing customers and our owned operations with state-of-the-art solutions. Swiger’s 200,000-square-foot Cleveland facility also brings to IPS a Center of Excellence for equipment and parts manufacturing for IPS’s traction motor repair service network, increasing our service network to ten traction motors service locations to better serve customers in passenger transit, locomotive transportation, and mining markets across North America.”

IMTS' cutting and tooling section promises to bring innovations to shops A cutting tool becomes more than just a cutting tool when it unlocks transformative potential, and the Tooling & Workholding Sector at IMTS 2024 – The International Manufacturing Technology Show offers an entire building of new potential. Held at McCormick Place in Chicago from Sept. 9-14, IMTS is a major industry event in manufacturing technology. This year, showrunners say demonstrations at the show will "emphasize automated systems that integrate multiple functions, enabling users to increase precision and boost productivity with existing staff," per an April 17 IMTS press release e-mailed to Electrical Apparatus. Highlights of the Tooling & Workholding Sector at IMTS 2024 include fully automatic systems for fitting, measuring, shrink-clamping, and cooling tools, enabling users to achieve high throughput, precision, and tool availability. “If a tool or workholding product or process can be digitized, you can count on exhibitors showcasing an innovative new solution at IMTS 2024,” says Peter R. Eelman, chief experience officer, AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, which owns and produces IMTS. “High-technology cutting tools deliver a proven productivity payback, while advanced workholding combines accuracy and repeatability while increasing unattended run time. The Tooling & Workholding Sector will offer new ways of working more efficiently for shops of every size.”

Microsoft reportedly gearing up for massive data center investments As many of us are painfully aware, data has become the all-consuming 'next frontier' of business and investment, and this translates to physical projects being constructed on the ground as great, sprawling data centers. One major tech company may have just shown its hand in terms of data center planning--but it's a pretty darn good hand. A recently leaked document and presentation funneled through news outlet Business Insider reportedly shows that tech giant Microsoft has obtained "more than 500MW of additional data center space since July 2023." This means the company now has more than 5GW of IT capacity available, according to the paper, which would indicate Microsoft is ramping up its investment in data centers, including potential projects involving AI and chips. Microsoft is looking to accelerate the growth of its data center footprint, according to Business Insider, which also claimed it plans to "double the amount of new data center capacity it builds in the first half of the 2024 fiscal year, adding 1GW of server power over the next six months." "For the first half of 2025, its target will be 1.5GW of new data center capacity," Business Insider reported.

DOE releases latest workforce report on energy sector The DOE has released its latest workforce report and data on jobs in the energy sector. Based on surveys of tens of thousands of U.S. energy sector employers, the U.S. Energy and Employment Report (USEER) is a comprehensive summary of national and state-level energy jobs, reporting by industry, technology, and region with data on unionization rates, demographics, and employer perspectives on growth and hiring. The USEER began in 2016 to better track and understand employment within key energy sectors that have been difficult to follow using other publicly available data sources. The study combines surveys of businesses with public labor data to produce estimates of employment and workforce characteristics. As the private sector continues to announce major investments in American-made energy, the 2023 USEER shows that the energy workforce added almost 300,000 jobs from 2021 to 2022 (+3.8% growth), outpacing the growth rate of the overall U.S. workforce, which grew by 3.1%. Clean energy jobs increased in every state and grew 3.9% nationally. With stated federal goals of an electrical grid "run on 100% carbon-free sources by 2035 and a net zero economy by 2050," energy jobs are expected to see continued growth in every pocket of America.

Funding programs open for energy jobs Gulf of Mexico states The online proposal submission window is now open for a regional program designed to create jobs for the 'energy transition'. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s Gulf Research Program (GRP) says it "aims to contribute to the development of a diverse workforce and to increase the scientific literacy of the Gulf citizens who will become the skilled leaders and professionals of tomorrow," adding that "this funding opportunity will enable project participants to acquire skills, knowledge, and credentials to enter careers as part of the future energy workforce. This workforce will support the industries and organizations leading the way in introducing net-zero technologies into the economy." Specifically, the GRP is seeking proposals for sustainable, data-driven, industry-engaged projects that will provide education and training opportunities to students ages 16-25 and ready participants to become part of the future energy workforce. This funding opportunity is open to applicants from educational institutions, non-profit organizations, state and local governments, and tribal entities working in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico states (Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida). The applicants should demonstrate how they will partner with local employers and industry associations to use data and evidence to identify skill gaps and labor market needs, design relevant curricula and credentials, and provide education, training, job placement, and/or retention services to participants that will enable those participants to acquire the skills and credentials necessary to join the future energy workforce. A total of $3M is available for this funding opportunity, with the number of proposals being funded dependent on the quality and quantity of applications. Applicants must request at least $75,000 for projects, commensurate with the scope of work, that are up to 24 months in duration. Applicants may request up to $1,000,000, with a preference for projects that are less than $500,000. Applicants that request between $500,000 and $1,000,000 will be subject to an additional Merit Review Criterion and should focus on more transformative projects that have the potential to impact a larger number of students, teachers, classes, school districts, and/or communities. Key Dates April 3, 2024: Online proposal submission opens April 24, 2024: Funding Opportunity Question & Answer Office Hours; 9:00 - 11:00am Central Time / 10:00am - 12:00pm Eastern Time (Held virtually over Zoom) June 25, 2024: Grant Submission Help Hours; 12:00 - 3:00 pm Central Time / 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time (Zoom link will be sent to active applicants) June 26, 2024: Deadline for submissions of proposals due by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time September 2024: Award selection and notification November 1, 2024: Anticipated funding start date Online submission website: https://gulfresearchprogram.smapply.io/

Utilities update on newest FERC order to be discussed at upcoming conference The issuance of FERC Order No. 2023 triggered a flurry of much needed interconnection and queue reform implementations in ISOs, RTOs, and individual utility Balancing Areas across the continent, while DOE programs aimed at developing better interconnection processes are beginning to bear fruit. However, under this new regime the extent and pace of reforms differs significantly in markets across the nation. Those interested in learning more and getting their voices hear (who aren't going to EASA in Las Vegas for that entire event) can consider attending the June 25th Executive Briefing at the Transmission & Interconnection Summit in Arlington, Virginia to examine the progress being made in each ISO/RTO and areas not subject to organized markets, providing up-to-date information on:

Provaris, GES enter into collaborative agreement for hyrdogen facility Global Energy Storage (GES) and Provaris Energy Ltd (Provaris) have entered a collaboration agreement to develop a gaseous hydrogen import facility at the GES terminal in Rotterdam, per an April 9 press release from GES. Rotterdam, located in the Netherlands, is one of the largest ports in the world. GES is developing a multi-client, multi-product terminal in Rotterdam, able to import both refrigerated ammonia and compressed hydrogen, with redeliveries into barges, rail, truck and the H2 grid (HyNetwork) operated by Gasunie. Under the collaboration, GES and Provaris will complete a comprehensive prefeasibility study to demonstrate the technical and economic viability of berthing and unloading of Provaris’ H2Neo compressed hydrogen carriers. Activities will also include the joint marketing of the proposed facility where Provaris will be responsible for the transportation of the hydrogen in the H2Neo carriers and GES responsible for the discharge and injection into the hydrogen grid. Both parties have a shared belief that the GES terminal in Rotterdam is an ideal site for bulk scale import of green hydrogen given the early connection to the HyNetwork grid for gaseous supply to industrial users in the Port of Rotterdam and key industrials users in Europe.Provaris’ compressed hydrogen supply chain offers a first mover and competitive alternative to chemical carriers from regional supply sources from the Nordic region and extend across the Baltics, North Sea, Iberia and down to North Africa. The companies are committed to advancing an energy efficient and timely supply of green hydrogen to industrial users in Europe to support ambitious decarbonization goals. Peter Vucins, CEO of GES commented, “This collaboration with Provaris showcases the types of partnerships that GES is pursuing to facilitate the Energy Transition through our contribution with storage and logistics solutions, at Rotterdam as well as other existing and future locations. I welcome the opportunity to work closely with Provaris to develop a cost competitive import solution for Rotterdam and European energy customers.” Martin Carolan, CEO of Provaris Energy, says, “We are delighted to be collaborating with GES on a world-first terminal for bulk scale import of gaseous hydrogen that can accelerate the availability of green molecules for industrial users. GES has a global network and track record of terminal assets and is demonstrating leadership in the development of a bulk-terminal for hydrogen and derivatives for Europe. We look forward to the outcomes of this collaboration which can accelerate the delivery of ambitious import volumes required for the European market and support export projects under development based on the Provaris approach to the simple and energy efficient marine transport.” During 2024 GES and Provaris will complete prefeasibility level studies focused on the jetty facilities to discharge the H2Neo carrier, along with scavenging compression, storage, HyNetwork grid connection, risk and safety, emissions, and other permitting and environmental considerations. Provaris has advanced the H2Neo hydrogen carrier through an extensive FEED package design approval in December 2022, with a Prototype Tank under construction and testing program underway in Norway to support a final construction approval from Class targeted for mid-2024.

GE's Vernova branch clinches marine contract GE Vernova’s Power Conversion business has been awarded a contract by Singapore shipbuilder ST Engineering Marine Limited to supply its Ship’s Electric Grid with Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) equipment for the Republic of Singapore Navy’s six-ship Multi-Role Combat Vessel (MRCV) program, according to a March 18 press release. The six MRCVs will be the first IFEP-powered vessels for the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and will replace its fleet of mechanical drive Victory-class missile corvettes, which have been in service since 1989. Delivery of the electric propulsion systems for the new ships is planned over the next 10 years. GE Vernova’s Ship’s Electric Grid delivers the electrical power required by the ship’s propulsion, and energizes its operational and mission systems, such as radar and communications. With the ability to share electric power to any load on the ship’s power network, the system is more energy-efficient and cost-effective to operate than a conventional mechanical drive configuration. GE Vernova’s Ship’s Electric Grid includes all generators, medium-voltage switchboards, transformers, propulsion variable frequency drives (VFDs), electric propulsion motors, thruster motors, soft starters, a shore power connection, power management system (PMS), and the propulsion control system (PCS). The modular platform design of the RSN’s new MRCVs allows for different naval missions requiring electric power. This includes the ability to host unmanned air and surface vehicles, which will expand the area of each vessel’s surveillance capability. Andy Cooper, General Manager at GE Vernova’s Power Conversion UK business, said: “Power Conversion is pleased to equip the RSN’s new MRCVs with electric power. Like so many other navies around the world, the RSN is adopting an electric ship configuration as an enabler for increased levels of power and energy-efficiency. Being equipped with an electric grid allows a ship the ability to share every bit of available power throughout the vessel, strengthening its energy surety and even helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions”. With deep expertise in marine and naval performance requirements, GE Vernova’s Power Conversion UK center of excellence (COE) will be responsible for the design, systems engineering, manufacturing and testing of the equipment. The execution of the project will be supported by the Power Conversion Asia team based in Singapore, who will oversee project engineering, project management, commissioning and sea trials. GE Vernova’s Power Conversion business powers the majority of the UK Royal Navy’s large vessel fleet, including Queen Elizabeth Class, Type 45 and Type 26 vessels, as well as many other global naval programs.

Next week's agenda for 'Innovation Days' includes big names Set to take place next week from April 15-19, the agenda for ZEISS Quality Innovation Days is now available. This weeklong digital event offers an opportunity to learn about the latest trends in metrology for manufacturing in your industry, including: AI automation digitalization quality production Hear keynote speakers and participate in interactive breakout sessions to exchange ideas with experts on topics that matter to you. Here's a sneak peek, courtesy of Zeiss, at the agenda: Monday, April 15: Automotive & New Energy Vehicles: Hear success stories from companies like Volkswagen, LG Energy Solution and Ford. Gain exclusive insights into the production and quality assurance of global OEMs and suppliers. Explore the intricacies of battery production and learn about electronic components and fuel cell trends. Tuesday, April 16: Medical: Learn from innovative industry speakers like J&J MedTech, Smith+Nephew and Orchid Orthopedics Solutions! Gain exclusive insights into best-in-class quality assurance of medical devices, discover the latest innovations in microsurgery with AI and robotics, and dive into the world of research with biomechanical testing. Wednesday, April 17: Aerospace: Embark on a journey into the future of aerospace with industry-leading speakers from Hitchiner Manufacturing, Volocopter, Rolls Royce, Delta TechOps and more. Deep dive into precision and accuracy for optimal performance in turbine engine applications, AI-solving material analysis, testing challenges and next-gen MRO inspection techniques. Thursday, April 18: Electronics: Immerse yourself in the world of electronics by joining sessions from ODW, Valeo, TE and other leading companies. Discover the latest innovations in consumer and automotive electronics and gain insight into the quality assurance processes of global electronics manufacturers. Friday, April 19: Power & Energy: Hear from leading experts like IRENA, Rolls-Royce and BCG as they share trends, innovations, and best practices in power and energy. During specialized breakout sessions, dive deeper into topics like wind energy, gas and steam turbines, and electrolyzers. Gain insights into the ongoing research and development of renewable energies. You can register for the digital event online here.

New products from Dewalt for trade professionals Towson, Maryland-based DEWALT, the well-known tool brand under the Stanley Black & Decker umbrella, unveiled several new tools for the electrical trades April 11, "furthering its mission to provide total workflow solutions for trades professionals," per a press release e-mailed to EA. "Innovation in the category" includes the 20V MAX* Hydraulic Knockout Tool (DCE600), 20V MAX* XR Brushless Cordless Mid-Size Bandsaw (DCS378) and 20V MAX* XR Brushless Cordless Dual-Trigger Bandsaw (DCS379). "DEWALT is hyper-focused on bringing cutting-edge solutions to the trades to enable seamless workflow as pros move from phase to phase on the job,” said Derek Stevenson, Product Manager, Stanley Black & Decker. “From punching holes in enclosures to cutting conduit and strut, our latest tools for the electrical trade join more than 300 products in the DEWALT 20V MAX* line and are supported by DEWALT’s suite of technology, software, and anchors and fasteners giving users a total solution that optimizes end-to-end productivity.” 20V MAX* Hydraulic Knockout Tool The DEWALT 20V MAX* Hydraulic Knockout Tool (DCE600) delivers up to 11 tons of force** output to perform heavy-duty applications in a lightweight design. To maximize precision in punch alignment, the knockout dies contain embedded magnets which securely attach to mild steel. The tool punches split slugs ranging from 1/2 in. to 2 in. for ease of use in disassembling the system once the knockout is complete. Additionally, the tool's inline design, 180° rotating head, and ability to set up the punch and die system without the weight of the tool provides versatility in the knockout process flow. Other features include a bright LED ring to help illuminate the work area, a shoulder strap and connection ring for portability, as well as a "Tool Connect" chip pocket to connect with the Tool Connect Site Manager app for seamless inventory tracking (chip sold separately). The tool also features Crimp Connect software, an onboard intelligence system that provides users detailed reports of work completed, tool calibration and service history. The DEWALT 20V MAX* Hydraulic Knockout Tool will be available this month. 20V MAX* XR® Brushless Cordless Mid-Size Bandsaw and 20V MAX* XR® Brushless Cordless Dual-Trigger Bandsaw Each featuring a brushless motor that delivers up to 535 MWO at 570 SFPM, the 20V MAX* XR Brushless Cordless Mid-Size Bandsaw and 20V MAX* XR Brushless Cordless Dual-Trigger Bandsaw take on tough cutting needs in commercial applications. Designed for quick and efficient performance, the bandsaws deliver up to 120 cuts per charge through 12 gauge strut and cut 12 gauge strut in as fast as 5.1 seconds.ǂ Part of the XR lineup, the tools are each equipped with a large 3-3/8 in. cut capacity suitable for a wide range of work. The 20V MAX* XR Brushless Cordless Dual-Trigger Bandsaw is designed with a PERFORM & PROTECT auxiliary handle that houses a secondary trigger for added control on the foregrip. The bandsaws each feature an integrated blade guard, an LED light, and a Tool Connect Chip pocket (Chip sold separately). The new models are available now. To learn more about DEWALT’s total electrical solutions, you can visit: dewalt.com/electrical-solutions. * Maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 20 volts. Nominal voltage is 18. ** Based on conversion rate of 100 kN to tnf of 100 / 8.896443230521. ǂ1-5/8" strut using the DCB205 battery (sold separately) and a 18 TPI blade

Upcoming feature preview: Apex Industrial Automation At Electrical Apparatus, we're constantly on the lookout for exemplary businesses and operations that demonstrate the best qualities of the industries we cover. This includes family-owned businesses, commercial outfits, M&A specialists, and all-around innovators. In an upcoming issue, we'll be featuring Apex Industrial Automation, an Illinois company that exemplifies many of the traits listed above and can provide your business with a useful template for success. As a taster, here's a rundown of Apex's history: Now approaching the 20-year mark, Apex Industrial Automation, LLC was established back in 2006. Ryan Watts started the business as an independent distributor in a small warehouse in Downers Grove, Illinois, a Chicago suburb, with just three employees. Since then, the company has acquired seven different businesses, each of which brought a "new and/or improved, value-added service for its customers," the company says. This Apex timeline is detailed below, as per the company's website: Watts is still the current owner and President of the EASA-accredited service center. We visited Apex earlier this week, in preparation for coverage that will appear in the June EA. What we saw there was an encouraging template of how to incorporate automation into traditional industrial repair shop methods. We also witnessed a diverse range of expertise, from control panel specialties to gears, bearings, motors, and more. Look for more in the upcoming article!

Aviation specialists holding live flight demo April 16 H55, a pioneering company in electric aviation, and BRM Aero, the B23 aircraft manufacturer, invite members of the press and friends to attend a dedicated briefing and flight demonstration at Aero 24 on Tuesday, April 16th at 2 pm in the Zepplin Hangar Restaurant in Friedrichshafen, Germany. The press conference and accompanied livestream are taking place alongside Aero 24, Europe’s premier general aviation exhibition and trade show whereby the revolutionary all-electric 2-seater B23 Energic, 850KG maximum take-off weight, will be on display. Guests and viewers will be offered the opportunity to witness the aircraft in action as it takes flight, demonstrating the advancements in electric aviation technology. The flight demonstration will be accompanied by a briefing moderated by H55’s Executive Chairman André Borschberg together with Martin Bristela the founder of BRM Aero who elaborate on the BRM’s unique performance characteristics as well as provides insights into their vision for the future of electric aircraft in sustainable transportation.