Continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) have been used in mass-produced vehicles since the 1950s, but the technology has enjoyed a steady increase in popularity over the past 10 years. Paul Stevens reports on some of the latest developments and applications, including pressure-charging systems and hybrid power trains

Peristaltic pumping offers a host of advantages over conventional pumping techniques, especially when coupled with the latest control technology. Sean Ottewell reports

Mixer suppliers are not only releasing more energy efficient models, but users can now avail themselves of 'test drive' programmes to make sure that what they buy is being optimised for their needs. Sean Ottewell reports

Modern solids handling systems, from silos via conveyors to bags or containers, have to be carefully engineered, installed and maintained. Eugene McCarthy reports.

For buyers of plant and machinery who appreciate that the cost of ownership is more significant than the purchase price, energy efficiency is a very important factor. Alistair Rae reports on the European Minimum Energy Performance Standard scheme for electric motors, and highlights some of the most efficient motors currently available

For many process companies plant-wide control optimisation is one of the cornerstones of efficient production - as these case studies demonstrate. Eugene McCarthy reports

Quality Companion organises and manages all types of quality improvement projects within one application.

Manufacturers of everything from cars to factory automation and domestic washing machines are finding that wireless machine-to-machine (M2M) communications technologies offer a number of benefits for manufacturers and customers alike. Jon Severn reports on some of the latest developments

Rolling element bearings have a significant impact on the energy-efficiency of most mechanisms, yet they have their limitations in terms of load capacity, speed and longevity. Jon Severn reports on recent developments that could lead to major advances in bearing steels

As a family of related yet diverse joining technologies, welding continues to evolve - though designers and production engineers are always demanding greater process improvements. Paul Stevens reports on some of the latest developments in welding that could offer major advances

Many of the challenges discussed today on a national level can only be solved on an international scale. Global partnerships are called for. Dr Kathrin Rübberdt reports

Environmental treatment concepts use clamp-on flow and heat measurement in sustainable water treatment projects

Phil Burge explores the ways in which plant and maintenance engineers can reduce operating costs, while improving machine reliability and plant productivity, through the use of a new generation of dedicated component technologies.

Global market expected to increase from $11.70 billion of 2010 to $19.29 billion by 2017, says survey

RenewableUK says it fails to recognise the 'hugely significant role' that wind energy already plays in generating clean electricity in the UK

Low-glare displays ensure optimum readability in direct sunlight

Electronic Assembly offers a data logger for monitoring and recording ambient temperature

Cable solutions are six times more flexible than conventional optical cable, says Molex

Porvair signs a $10-15m agreement to supply char filtration equipment to Posco’s Gwangyang facility, South Korea

element14’s 'YouTube for engineers' is the newest community resource to inspire design ideas, insight and collaboration