º  Siemens has joined forces with the US wireless networking specialist Apprion to offer secure, scalable wireless networks that will combine hardware and software to allow manufacturers to manage multiple industrial wireless networks. The partners will integrate Siemens’ Scalance wireless access points with Apprion’s Intelligent Operations Network (Ion).

º  Under a €1.5m contract, ABB is supplying 1,000 hazardous area motors and 150 variable speed drives to a massive project by Abu Dhabi Gas Industries to expand its gas processing facilities in the United Arab Emirates. The order covers ATEX-approved packages of drives and motors for driving pumps, fans and compressors in Zone 1 and 2 hazardous areas. The motors range in size from 0.55–132kW.

º  The incoming chief executive of the Brazilian motor-maker WEG, Harry Schmelzer, has told a local newspaper that he wants to double the company’s production outside Brazil from 10% to 20% by 2010. In China, where WEG is investing $25m in a factory, Schmelzer is looking for a turnover of $30m in 2008, and $100m within three years.

º  The Harting Technology Group has invested €12m in the first stage of a new manufacturing facility in Zuhai, China. The 20,000m² site will employ 250 people producing a wide range of products.

º  The power semiconductor specialist Semikron International is teaming up with Korea’s factory automation market leader, LS Industrial Systems (formerly LG Industrial Systems), to develop and produce power electronic systems for the industrial drives and consumer markets. The developments will be based on Semikron’s MiniSKiiP IGBT platform.