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KNOWLEDGE HUB
Knowledge you can use from experts you can trust
CYBERSECURITY
7/17/2024 - Paul Sainato, IIoT Business Development Manager
In the face of increasing cyberattacks on industrial manufacturers, taking proven steps towards a robust cybersecurity posture is crucial. This blog post guides you through two essential starting points: conducting a comprehensive asset inventory to understand your vulnerabilities and segmenting your OT systems to create a layered defense. By taking these initial steps, you can build a stronger foundation for your cybersecurity strategy and better protect your critical operations. Don't wait for a breach - start securing your industrial environment today.
ESG
7/10/2024 - Jacquelyn Kingsley, Senior Director of ESG Programs
In an era of heightened expectations and evolving regulations, industrial manufacturers are facing something new: ESG (environmental, social, and governance). This brief guide breaks down what ESG means for you and how you can take tangible steps to enhance your performance in all three areas. Learn how embracing ESG can attract investors, engage employees, win over customers, and drive innovation and profitability.
CASE STUDY
6/27/2024 - Rexel
When Metallus (formerly TimkenSteel) needed to sharpen its company’s safety training and software management, they turned to Rexel Automation Solutions to hone their procedures. This blog post highlights how we helped Metallus improve their safety and efficiency while saving them money and boosting employee confidence.
SAFETY
6/19/2024 - Dave Cucerzan, Senior Industrial Automation Solutions Specialist
In today's digital age, automation and data analytics are transforming industrial safety. Explore how these technologies are revolutionizing manufacturing by minimizing risks, predicting hazards, and ultimately creating safer workplaces for employees. From robotic automation to data-driven insights, discover how these advancements are shaping the future of industrial safety.
SAFETY
6/12/2024 - Dave Cucerzan, Senior Industrial Automation Solutions Specialist
This blog post outlines 5 key tips to optimize safety circuit design for industrial manufacturers. By following these tips, industrial safety professionals can create more dependable safety systems leading to a safer work environment, reduced downtime, and increased profitability.
SAFETY
6/5/2024 - Tom Hopkins, Senior Industrial Automation Solutions Specialist
Machine safety should do two things: Keep personnel safe and increase machine uptime. This blog post discusses modern machine safety concepts, outlining the importance of a risk assessment to identify and mitigate hazards to detailed steps to take such as forming a safety team that includes people from various departments.
AUTOMATION
5/29/2024 - Matt Trowbridge, Information Software Business Development Manager
While AI-powered predictive maintenance offers clear cost savings and efficiency benefits, there are other strategic advantages. This blog post explores five ways AI goes beyond saving money. Learn how AI can empower data-driven decision making, optimize inventory management, enhance product quality, foster continuous improvement, and strengthen your brand reputation.
CYBERSECURITY
5/22/2024 - Billy Hayes, IIoT Business Development Manager
The growing use of interconnected devices in modern manufacturing creates a larger target for cyberattacks. This blog post explores the growing threat landscape and offers practical cybersecurity strategies to secure your smart factory. From conducting security assessments and integrating "Security by Design" principles to leveraging AI and educating your workforce, learn how to protect your critical industrial control systems.
CONTROL PANELS & ENCLOSURES
5/10/2024 - Chris Jackson, Automation Specialist - IC/SSC
From bumps and spills to dust and extreme temperatures, environmental threats can damage your control panels and disrupt your operations. This blog post details four tips to protect your control panels, ensuring smooth production and protecting your investment.
ROBOTICS
5/7/2024 - Robert Werkman, Industrial Automation Services Manager
Is your factory working overtime but still missing targets? Robots can supercharge your production line, boosting efficiency and safety. But how do you convince your supervisor to make the investment? This blog post gives you three easy steps to build a winning case for robots.
SUSTAINABILITY
4/18/2024 - Jacquelyn Kingsley, Senior Director of ESG Programs
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) recently adopted Climate Disclosure Rules, mandating public companies to disclose their climate-related information. However, the implementation of the Climate Disclosure Rules have now been voluntarily stayed by the SEC in response to pending court challenges. Despite this development, there are still implications and proactive measures industrial manufacturers can take to prepare for future climate reporting requirements.
SAFETY
4/10/2024 - Dave Cucerzan, Senior Industrial Automation Solutions Specialist
Even the best lockout/tagout (LOTO) programs can become outdated. From current safety procedures to OSHA requirements to workforce training, this blog post explores 5 key questions industrial manufacturers should ask to make sure their LOTO program is effectively protecting their workforce.
SUSTAINABILITY
3/27/2024 - Erica McConnell, Life Cycle Service Business Development Manager
Cost savings and sustainability don’t have to be mutually exclusive. In fact, sustainable manufacturing practices, like using thermal imaging to reduce energy waste, can save money and benefit the environment. This blog post breaks down the science of heat and how thermal imaging can help address energy inefficiencies, lower utility bills, improve equipment performance, and create a more sustainable operation.
CYBERSECURITY
3/19/2024 - Paul Sainato, IIoT Business Development Manager
Industrial manufacturers continue to be a primary target for cyberattacks – particularly through ransomware. This blog post outlines four key cybersecurity strategies to safeguard your manufacturing operations. By following these recommendations, manufacturers can significantly strengthen their cybersecurity posture and mitigate the risk of costly operational disruptions.
CYBERSECURITY
2/29/2024 - Billy Hayes, IIoT Business Development Manager
While embracing modern technologies for your industrial operations is clearly beneficial, if not configured properly, it can possibly introduce cybersecurity risks into your environment. This blog post explores 3 ways the Stratix 5800® goes beyond advanced features and boosts your overall security posture.
ROBOTICS
2/15/2024 - Robert Werkman, Industrial Automation Services Manager
Traditional automation solutions can be complex and seem out of reach for some busy manufacturers – but it doesn’t have to be. This post explores 5 ways READY Robotics and their ForgeOS no-code/low-code operating system can make automation and robotics accessible for even the busiest of manufacturers.
CYBERSECURITY
2/7/2024 - Billy Hayes & Paul Sainato, IIoT Business Development Managers
With cyberattacks increasing on the Water/Wastewater Sectors, critical infrastructure and public safety are at risk. This blog post breaks down the four stages of the incident response lifecycle as part of the recently published guide from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
AUTOMATION
2/2/2024 - Kim Goodwin, Director of Customer Success and Life Cycle Services
Industrial manufacturers report that the cost of unplanned downtime can be anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000+ per hour. That’s a lot of money you can’t afford to lose. Here’s a pro tip for you: Predictive maintenance can help. Discover 7 ways that this data-driven approach can save money, extend your equipment life, and support a sustainable future.
CASE STUDY
1/31/2024 - Rexel
Bama Companies, a leader in the food and beverage industry, faced operational challenges impacting their high-volume production. Learn how we delivered a comprehensive solution to reduce their downtime and set them up for long-term success through the Rexel Support Agreement.
AUTOMATION
1/14/2024 - Scott Savage, Senior Power Technical Consultant
This blog post looks at the modern E300 overload relay, which offers advanced features like ground fault detection and system integration. You’ll learn how to configure the relay via the web interface or Logix software and access motor data and control outputs directly from your Logix system.
AUTOMATION
1/10/2024 - Scott Savage, Senior Power Technical Consultant
This blog post explores the transformative features and capabilities of the PowerFlex 755TS variable frequency drive (VFD) from Rockwell Automation. It combines high-performance motor control, advanced self-monitoring capabilities, and a contemporary digital platform for faster, more precise AC drives. The PowerFlex 755TS stands at the forefront of AC drive innovation, promising improved productivity, energy savings, and ease of installation.
2023
NEWS & UPDATES
12/28/2023 - Rexel
As 2023 wraps up, it’s time to reflect on the most-read blog posts from this year. We explored cybersecurity, cutting-edge technology, shared practical and useful tips to help you optimize your industrial operations, and more. Thank you for taking the time to explore what we have to offer, and we hope you’ll keep coming back to see what’s new.
AUTOMATION
12/21/2023 - Kim Goodwin, Director of Customer Success and Lifecycle Services
Is fragmented industrial support hindering your manufacturing efficiency? This blog post explores how the Rexel Support Agreement (RSA) offers a transformative solution. Consolidate all your support needs into one annual contract, unlock proactive insights and priority service, and reveal hidden efficiencies within your automation assets.
CASE STUDY
12/5/2023 - Rexel
Learn how the City of Lakewood Waste Water Treatment Plant in Cleveland, Ohio partnered with Rexel to transform its operations. Through a cutting-edge SCADA system upgrade, Lakewood saw a positive return on investment for a sustainable water future.
CYBERSECURITY
11/29/2023 - Billy Hayes, IIoT Business Development Manager
When was the last time you evaluated your cybersecurity preparedness? This post outlines four critical questions you should ask yourself to determine if it’s time for a network assessment: Understanding your network assets, safety implications, audit depth, and access regulation.
AUTOMATION
11/28/2023 - Mark Miozzi, Industrial Automation Sales Manager
This blog post highlights two first-hand accounts of industrial manufacturers facing unforeseen OT network challenges and disrupted operations. Learn some key takeaways and proactive measures you can take to fortify your industrial operations and avoid costly downtime.
AUTOMATION FAIR
11/27/2023 - Rexel
This blog post unveils the key takeaways from Automation Fair 2023, hosted in Boston, where more than 6,000 industrial manufacturing professionals gathered to explore the forefront of robotics, artificial intelligence, software solutions, cybersecurity, and more.
AUTOMATION
11/16/2023 - Scott Savage, Senior Power Technical Consultant
This blog post explores PID pump control, specifically focusing on the exclusive pump control model. It covers key aspects such as configuration, output selection, tuning parameters, and features like preload and zero clamp. It also covers the importance of testing in manual mode before PID activation and includes additional resources for the PowerFlex 750.
AUTOMATION
11/9/2023 - Scott Savage, Senior Power Technical Consultant
The blog post troubleshoots what to do if your unmanned PowerFlex 753 drive fails to restart or respond as expected.
AUTOMATION FAIR
10/25/2023 - Rexel
This post explores how Automation Fair 2023 – now a 4-day event – will help you embrace and capitalize on ways to optimize production, drive sustainability, and embrace digital transformation. By exploring these three key areas, you’ll set your business up for a successful and productive future.
AUTOMATION
10/11/2023 - Kim Goodwin, Director of Customer Success and Life Cycle Services
This blog post explores how Rexel Support Agreements go beyond traditional support plans and are reshaping the landscape of industrial manufacturing. Dive into the heart of efficiency and learn how RSA's suite of tailored services can streamline your operations, prevent downtime, and keep your industrial processes at their peak.
AUTOMATION
10/4/2023 - Rexel
As technology continues to advance, it’s important that your teams are adaptable, innovative, informed, and well-trained. This blog post defines Industry 4.0 and explores the implications, knowledge, and skills needed for your workforce.
ROBOTICS
9/20/2023 - Robert Werkman, Industrial Automation Solutions Manager
This blog post highlights how Unified Robot Control breaks down traditional silos, enhances flexibility, elevates product quality, and empowers your workforce. You’ll learn how this technology drives innovation, helps you adapt to change, and allows you to embrace sustainability in your manufacturing processes.
AUTOMATION
9/15/23 - Rexel
The Stratix 5200 Managed Industrial Ethernet Switch, set to replace the Stratix 5700, introduces advanced features like simplified portfolio selection, higher port speeds, and enhanced redundancy. The post explores the enhanced capabilities and security of the switch and how it can elevate your operations.
CYBERSECURITY
9/6/2023 - Billy Hayes, IIoT Business Development Manager
The integration of new technology and data is revolutionizing manufacturing efficiency, productivity, and innovation. However, it also creates new challenges. This post explores microsegmentation, network segmentation, and the role of data types in hardware selection.
AUTOMATION FAIR
8/30/2023 - Rexel
Managing risk and empowering your workforce to proactively and efficiently prevent and handle challenges are important parts of running your operations efficiently. Now a 4-day event, this post explores how the resources available at Automation Fair 2023 can improve both areas of your business.
CONTROL PANELS & ENCLOSURES
8/23/2023 - Erica McConnell, Life Cycle Business Development Manager
Excess heat poses several hidden risks to your equipment’s performance and operational life. This post explores the world of thermal management and an often-overlooked factor that can lead to unplanned downtime and costly repairs.
AUTOMATION
8/16/2023 - Kim Goodwin, Director of Customer Success
As an industrial manufacturer, it’s not uncommon to face challenges across your operations. This post explores the role that the Rexel Service Agreement (RSA) has in maximizing productivity, reducing risk, and increasing productivity in a streamlined, convenient package.
CYBERSECURITY
8/8/2023 - Paul Sainato, IIoT Solutions Manager
This post outlines 5 key challenges industrial manufacturers face when implementing industrial internet of things (IIoT). By mitigating these challenges, you’ll drive innovation and enhance operational efficiency.
SAFETY
7/26/2023 - Dave Cucerzan, Product Specialist
There’s no shortage of hazards when working around machines, and we know employee safety is top of mind for you. This post explores four types of machine safety input devices that can protect your team(s) and keep your operations running at peak efficiency.
AUTOMATION
7/18/2023 - Rexel
This post explores the risks involved in purchasing industrial automation products from gray market sources. You’ll learn what the gray market is and how you can protect yourself and your operations from these dangerous products.
CASE STUDY
7/11/2023 - Rexel
Discover how Aurora Organic Dairy (AOD), the nation's leading producer and processor of organic dairy products, partnered with Rexel to strengthen their cybersecurity measures. In this insightful case study, learn how AOD overcame device visibility challenges, implemented a proactive cybersecurity approach, and safeguarded their operations while maintaining their Grade A rating.
CYBERSECURITY
6/30/2023 - Billy Hayes & Paul Sainato, IIOT Solutions Managers
This post explores some of the different types of cyberattacks that industrial manufacturers may face, including phishing attacks, malware, DDoS attacks, insider threats, and supply chain attacks. You’ll also gain valuable insights into these threats and learn proactive measures to protect your organization.
AUTOMATION
6/29/2023 - Rexel
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Greg Powell as the new Vice President of Automation at Rexel Automation Solutions. With over 30 years of industrial automation experience, including eight years of leading the Rexel Automation USA team's sales and business development efforts, Greg brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role.
SAFETY
6/23/2023 - Dave Cucerzan, Product Specialist
This post takes you through five crucial stages of the machine safety lifecycle. From conducting hazard/risk assessments to maintaining and improving safety systems, this comprehensive approach provides valuable insights and guidance for creating a safe working environment in your industrial manufacturing facility.
SAFETY
6/14/2023 - Rexel
This blog post explores why conducting regular safety assessments is critical to maintaining a safe workplace. From identifying hazards to complying with regulations, keeping your employees safe benefits them and you.
CYBERSECURITY
6/9/2023 - Billy Hayes & Paul Sainato, IIOT Solutions Managers
As technology continues to evolve, threat actors are actively seeking out ways to exploit vulnerabilities in your industrial networks and systems This post explains key cybersecurity concepts and best practices to make sure you don’t fall victim to a cyberattack, putting both business and reputation on the line.
SAFETY
6/7/2023 - Rexel
June is National Safety Month – what does safety look like at your company? This post highlights information and resources you can use during your safety journey. Remember, safety is a right, and everyone deserves to go home healthy and injury free.
AUTOMATION
5/24/2023 - Claire Felix-Davies, Process Solutions Manager
This post defines process automation and advanced process control, key things to know, and explores the benefits of investing in technology and software to improve your industrial manufacturing processes. This is a great place to start as you consider your digital transformation strategy.
CYBERSECURITY
5/17/2023 - Anita O'Brien, Services and Solutions Business Manager
Do you know how secure your industrial network is? Can anyone come into your facility and make changes on your network? This blog post highlights the challenges of network security and how you can build a roadmap to maintain control of your cybersecurity.
ROBOTICS
5/11/2023 - Robert Werkman, VP of Automation
Robotics are a smart investment for industrial manufactures looking to increase productivity without sacrificing quality – not to mention the improvements to workplace safety. This post offers five essential tips on how to industrial manufacturers can get with robotics. If you’re considering implementing robotics technology in your facility – this is a great place to start.
ENERGY
5/3/2023 - Andrew Hoerner, Business Transformation Sales Director
Electric vehicle sales are continuing to grow, and it’s important that you’re prepared to offer charging stations at your location(s). This post outlines the different infrastructure required for Level 1, 2, and 3 EV charging stations.
SAFETY
4/6/2023 - Grace Technologies, Rexel Partner
The post highlights the benefits of using the ChekVolt® system, which allows users to test for absence of voltage and provides voltage presence LED indication without opening enclosure doors, reducing the risk of arc flash or shock hazard, and improving safety and productivity.
SUSTAINABILITY
4/5/2023 - Rexel
This post details three ways you can get started with achieving your sustainability goals. With this approach, you’ll be able to reduce waste, lower costs, increase productivity, and promote sustainability throughout the manufacturing process.
ENERGY
4/4/2023 - Rexel
Rexel Energy Solutions (RES), a Rexel USA business unit, has been awarded a three-year contract with the U.S. Postal Service for the supply of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to be deployed at Postal Service facilities. The three-year contract includes two additional options of two-years each, and a potential maximum of 41,500 stations which can be ordered during the contracts period of performance.
AUTOMATION
4/4/2023 - Marcia Pohl, Process Development Manager
This blog post highlights the benefits of FactoryTalk® Historian Vision as a powerful tool to streamline manufacturing operations by turning data into actionable information. The add-on provides you with easy access to dynamic and relevant data across different devices, allowing you to make informed decisions.
TRAINING
3/27/2023 - Anita O'Brien, Services and Solutions Business Manager
With unemployment at a low, technology advancing faster every day, and experienced employees retiring, that can leave a huge skills gap in your workforce. Learning + and the new Learning + Enhanced can bridge this gap and keep your facility running at peak efficiency.
SAFETY
3/14/2023 - Tom Hopkins, Automation Specialist
Learn how Rockwell Automation’s® GuardLink™ technology can allow all types of safety devices to be placed on a single series line and still achieve Performance Level 'e' without the risk of fault masking. By using GuardLink, you can simplify your safety installations, increase efficiency, and improve overall safety.
CYBERSECURITY
3/7/2023 - Greg Powell, Director of Enterprise Solutions
Cyberattacks on critical infrastructure and industrial manufacturing are a pressing concern, with ransomware being the most popular among threat actors. This post highlights three effective strategies for safeguarding your facility against such threats.
CYBERSECURITY
2/8/2023 - Greg Powell, Director of Enterprise Solutions
This post provides basic steps to improve and optimize IT/OT security posture by following the standards of a security framework such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework. The steps include asset identification and visibility, network segmentation, continuous threat detection, and incident response and disaster recovery.
Rexel Automation Solutions specializes in industrial automation services, solutions, and products that transform your application and operational needs into fully realized solutions, delivering measurable results and profitability for your company.
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