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The company makes yet another large acquisition...try and keep up It's starting to feel like IPS (Integrated Power Services, the Greenville, S.C. outfit) is making a new acquisition each week. The thing is, they continue to be large and highly significant within the industry: this time, the company announced it has agreed to acquire assets of ABB’s Industrial Services business. That business includes a US and Canadian service shop network with locations in Tucson, Arizona; Evansville, Indiana; Charlotte, North Carolina; Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; and Burlington, Ontario, Canada, employing 114 talented employees.  The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2024. Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed as of the April 23 press release received via e-mail by Electrical Apparatus. IPS just acquired Swiger Coil Systems from Wabtec a mere eleven days prior. The ABB acquisition brings to IPS five well-equipped electric motor, generator, mechanical, switchgear, and circuit breaker service centers, which were a part of the General Electric Industrial Solutions acquisition by ABB in July 2018. The ABB Industrial Services business offers high-quality repair and field service capabilities for electric motors up to 50,000 HP and low and medium-voltage switchgear equipment from 480V to 15kV.  Additionally, the service centers perform rotating equipment repair services for pumps, compressors, blowers, bearings, gearboxes, and OHV mining drivetrains. The business has a decades-long relationship with customers, providing lifecycle solutions for critical processes in power generation, petrochemicals, pulp and paper, mining, metals, and other industrial applications.  Based on its historic original equipment manufacturer service heritage, the business possesses specialized knowledge and expertise working on General Electric and ABB rotating equipment and switchgear. For IPS, the addition of this business addresses service location gaps in Arizona, Western and Central Canada while adding complementary capabilities in the Midwestern and Southeastern US.  This agreement follows IPS’ acquisition of ABB’s hydrogenerator and transformer repair business in June 2022. “IPS is aspiring to become the trusted advisor for our customer’s electrical balance of plant and electromechanically driven processes,” said John Zuleger, IPS President and CEO. “The addition of these highly skilled technicians and service network, along with the legacy General Electric and ABB experience, puts IPS in a position to carry forward and improve on the confidence customers have placed in these teams to solve their biggest reliability challenges.”

Negotiations on a global plastics treaty close in Ottawa The fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment (INC-4), concluded April 29 in Ottawa with an advanced draft text of the instrument and agreement on intersessional work ahead of the fifth session (INC-5) in November. More than 2,500 delegates participated in INC-4, representing 170 Members and over 480 Observer organizations including - non-governmental organizations, intergovernmental organizations, and UN entities. INC-4 marked the Committee's largest and most inclusive gathering to date, with Observer participation increasing by almost fifty per cent. Over the course of INC-4, delegates worked on negotiating the Revised Draft Text of the international legally binding instrument. Delegates discussed, among other things: emissions and releases; production; product design; waste management; problematic and avoidable plastics; financing, and a just transition. INC Members also agreed on intersessional work – expert meetings that take place between the official INC sessions – that is expected to catalyze convergence on key issues. In addition, Members decided to create an Open-ended Legal Drafting Group to form at INC-5, serving in an advisory capacity by reviewing elements of the draft revised text to ensure legal soundness. “We came to Ottawa to advance the text and with the hope that Members would agree on the intersessional work required to make even greater progress ahead of INC-5. We leave Ottawa having achieved both goals and a clear path to landing an ambitious deal in Busan ahead of us,” said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). “The work, however, is far from over. The plastic pollution crisis continues to engulf the world and we have just a few months left before the end of year deadline agreed upon in 2022. I urge members to show continued commitment and flexibility to achieve maximum ambition.” The fourth session follows INC-1 in Punta del Este in November 2022, INC-2 in Paris in May/June 2023, and INC-3 in Nairobi in November 2023. INC-5 – set to be the end of the INC process – is scheduled for November 2024 in Busan, the Republic of Korea. “Canada is committed to reaching a final agreement at INC-5 in the Republic of Korea before year end. We are no longer talking about “if” we can get there, but “how.” Together we can land one of the most significant environmental decisions since the Paris Agreement and the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework,” said Steven Guilbeault, Canada’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change. “We are doing everything we can to raise the international profile of the plastic pollution crisis so that the agreement gets the global attention it deserves to cross the finish line.” The Chair of the INC, Ambassador Luis Vayas said: “During these seven days of intense deliberations, you – the delegates – have managed to build on and advance the revised draft text of the instrument, providing streamlined text and entering textual negotiations on several elements,” Ambassador Vayas said. “At the same time, we also leave with a much clearer picture of the work that remains to be done, if we are to deliver on the promise that Members have made through UNEA Resolution 5/14.” “We are all united by our strong shared commitment to deliver an international legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution. It is this spirit of multilateralism which has guided our discussions here in Ottawa,” he added. “We have found some common ground, and we are walking this path together until the end. I firmly believe that we can carry this same spirit forth to Busan to deliver on our mandate.” Ambassador Vayas thanked the Government of Canada for hosting the session, as well as the Committee Members, Observers, co-facilitators, support staff, and the INC Secretariat, and his team. “It has been an ambitious timeline of just 18 months and four sessions to get us to this point, and we are now firmly on the road to Busan. Compromise and commitment remains strong at this advanced stage of the negotiations,” said Jyoti Mathur-Filipp, Executive Secretary of the INC Secretariat. “Members should arrive in Busan ready to deliver on their mandate and agree a final text of the instrument. This is more than a process – it is the fulfilment of your commitment to saving future generations from the global scourge of plastic pollution.”

Wright Electric launches electric aircraft test cell Wright Electric, the Albany, NY-based producer of electric propulsion for large commercial aircraft, has officially announced the launch of its Wright Electric Aircraft Engine Test Cell (WEAETC). The new product is designed to "characterize the performance of megawatt-class electric aircraft propulsion systems," per an April 25 press release. Founded in 2016, Wright’s goal is to decarbonize the aerospace industry. Wright works with leading groups such as NASA, Y Combinator, The US Department of Energy Advanced Research Projects Agency–Energy, and the US Department of Defense. Wright builds power dense-electric motors and energy-dense batteries for aerospace and defense applications. For example, Wright recently tested its industry-leading electric motor to over 1 megawatt and is planning for altitude testing at the NASA Electric Aircraft Testbed (NEAT). Also, earlier this year, Wright was selected to join the ARPA-E Pioneering Railroad, Oceanic and Plane Electrification with 1K energy storage systems (PROPEL-1K) program, which aims to develop emission-free, high-energy, and high-power energy storage solutions to electrify domestic aircraft, railroads, and ships. Achieving 1 Megawatt of shaft power is an important step in reaching Wright’s goal of making all single-aisle flights under 800 miles zero emissions. Commercial class airplanes need megawatt-sized propulsion systems for a full passenger load take off. Through rigorous testing and analysis at the WEAETC, Wright aims to validate the thermal and dynamic stability of Wright's Electric Propulsion Unit (EPU), which is notably quieter than conventional engines. This EPU will be subsequently installed under the wing and flight tested, paving the way for advancements in electrification technologies. WEAETC will enable testing on fan- and propeller-based propulsion systems. The testing process will unfold in two key phases. Initially, Wright will conduct ground testing utilizing their cutting-edge 2 MW Wright-1A motor. Initial tests will use the LF507-1F fan module and the C-130 propeller. Subsequently, Wright will embark on the second phase, using Wright’s new motor, the WM2500, capable of delivering up to 2.5 MW of power and equipped with an integrated custom drive; this motor has been developed under the ARPA-E ASCEND program. “Using a proven fan module significantly reduces the risk of the test campaign and lets us directly compare the acoustic profile and thermal signature of the electric propulsion unit and its classical turbofan version,” said Peter Kurowski, Propulsion Lead at Wright. “The successful ground test campaign will open the doors to a flight test.” Wright’s partners in this effort include ARPA-E, Rzeszow University of Technology, CFS Aero, Avalon Aerospace, and Executive Jet Support.

Tesla shares dip, but optimism remains Tesla reportedly cut the starting price of its Model 3 in China to 231,900 yuan ($32,000) on Sunday, a reduction of 14,000 yuan. Chinese rival, Li Auto, also cut prices for its models, including the L7, L8, L9 and the newly launched Mega SUV. Hong Kong-listed shares of Li Auto plummeted to an 11-month low Monday. Eugene Hsiao, head of China equity strategy at Macquarie Group, said in a research note over the weekend that all of China’s biggest EV makers have one goal in mind — “taking the crown from Tesla,” while noting that it is the most competitive domestic auto market in recent history.

Airplane business adds 50 electric motors One of North America’s largest commercial seaplane carriers agreed Monday to buy 50 electric engines from Everett manufacturer magniX, according to the HeraldNet of Everett, Washington. Harbour Air, which operates up to 300 daily West Coast flights, signed a letter of intent to purchase 50 magni650 electric motors from magniX, which designs and builds electric motors to power aircraft at facilities near Paine Field. The airline is based in Richmond, British Columbia. “The agreement is a milestone in electric aviation and a significant next step in the industry-leading partnership between magniX and Harbour Air,” the two companies said in a statement. The motors will be used to electrify Harbour Air’s existing aircraft fleet. “We are excited to accelerate the adoption of electric aviation technology and further our journey towards a sustainable future” Bert van der Stege, the CEO of Harbour Air, said in a statement. “The agreement with magniX underscores our commitment to revolutionize commercial aviation with electric propulsion and to pave the way for cleaner, quieter, and more efficient air travel.” Harbour Air plans to retrofit the first plane, a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, in 2026. “Electrifying Harbour Air’s fleet with magniX’s engines sets us on a course to define the future of regional flight,” Riona Armesmith, magniX’s chief technology officer, said in a statement.

Women in manufacturing make a statement The Manufacturing Institute—the workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers—announced that Sarah Dale, plant general manager at International Paper has been recognized as a 2024 Women MAKE Awards, per an April 19 press release sent to EA from the Memphis-based organization. . This annual national awards program honors women who have demonstrated excellence and leadership in their careers and represent all levels of the manufacturing industry, from the factory floor to the C-suite. "I was delighted to be selected for the Women MAKE Award," Sarah said. "For the organization to take time, which is in short supply, to consider me for this notable award, was a treasure, but then, for an external group to review my nomination alongside impressive leaders and recognize my work — I am honored." Learn more about Sarah's story here. The Women MAKE Awards are part of the MI's Women MAKE America initiative, which is the nation's marquee program to close the gender gap in manufacturing. Women account for about half of the U.S. labor force but represent less than one-third of the manufacturing workforce. Women MAKE America aims to build the 21st-century manufacturing workforce by empowering and inspiring women in the industry. "With more than 600,000 open jobs in manufacturing today and the continued need to fill millions more jobs by the end of the decade, it's critical for manufacturers to engage the largest underrepresented pool of talent: women," said MI President and Executive Director Carolyn Lee. As part of its Vision 2030 goals, IP aims to have 30% overall representation of women in all positions and 50% of women in salaried positions. Additionally, the company's Women in IP Employee Networking Circle (ENC) is committed to actively contributing to the growth and development of women in IP's workforce, providing career guidance, professional development and fostering connections.

New safety advice issued from ASSP The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) issued a press release April 25 encouraging safety professionals and employers to raise awareness and participate in the 11th annual National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction on May 6-10. The observance is part of a year-round campaign led by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Falls from height are the leading cause of death for construction workers, with more than 350 fatalities and 20,000 serious injuries occurring each year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Workers face risks on roofs, above floor openings and even at lower levels. “No matter the job, worker injuries and fatalities are preventable,” said fall protection expert Thom Kramer, P.E., CSP, vice president of finance on ASSP’s Board of Directors. “Companies can create safe environments by using prevention through design principles, providing the right equipment and training everyone involved. It’s also a great idea to implement a fall protection program that follows our recently updated Z359.2 consensus standard.” Construction companies can recognize the stand-down that week by briefly stopping work and giving a toolbox talk; performing a safety equipment inspection; conducting a rescue planning exercise; or discussing job-specific hazards. It’s important that all workers be outfitted with proper-fitting personal protective equipment (PPE). ASSP encourages the use of #StandDown4Safety in social media to share stories and recommendations during the weeklong observance, which coincides with National Construction Safety Week. It has helped train more than 10 million workers on fall prevention since its inception in 2014. Organizations of all sizes have participated over the years, including the U.S. military, highway construction companies and residential contractors. OSHA offers several resources for conducting a safety stand-down, including infographics and articles about construction risks and fall protection; publications about ladder safety; fall protection videos; and hardhat stickers and hazard alert cards. Materials on working safely at height are available in English and Español. “Safety and health professionals should encourage their organizations to take an active role in the stand-down,” Kramer said. “And sharing how your company is participating may inspire others to get involved.” OSHA’s many partners in the stand-down include ASSP, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA), the Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) and the National Safety Council.

Purdue program emphasizes manufacturing and technology In an effort to accelerate physical, digital and sustainable manufacturing efforts across Indiana, Purdue University’s Manufacturing and Materials Research Laboratories (MMRL) will establish a presence in Indianapolis at 16 Tech Innovation District, the city’s destination for innovation and entrepreneurship, deep inside the heart of the Hard-Tech Corridor. MMRL will locate in 16 Tech’s Machyne makerspace, the region’s leading makerspace for prototyping. This latest announcement comes just before the official launch of Purdue University in Indianapolis, Purdue’s new, comprehensive urban campus in Indiana’s capital city, on July 1. “Manufacturing, or ‘making,’ is the core pillar of who we are as Boilermakers,” said Ajay Malshe, inaugural director of MMRL and the R. Eugene and Susie E. Goodson Distinguished Professor of Mechanical Engineering. “Having a significant presence for MMRL in Indianapolis will empower Purdue, along with industry and government partners in central Indiana, to accelerate manufacturing excellence across the Hard-Tech Corridor for opportunities and wealth creation in Indiana.”

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.