Industrial Talk Media

Industrial Talk is onsite at Xcelerate 2025 and talking to Michael Mills, Technical Sales Manager at Fluke Reliability about "Connected Reliability with EMaint".

Scott MacKenzie interviews Michael Mills, Technical Sales Manager at Fluke Reliability, about the eMaint X5 system. X5, the third version in three years, is a scalable, cloud-based system designed for global deployment, integrating data from various locations and currencies. It supports standardized benchmarking and offers a unified dashboard for executive views. X5 also includes a spare parts inventory section and integrates with Azima's vibration analysis for automated work order generation. Future developments focus on standardization, mobile enhancements, and AI/machine learning to improve data accuracy and user experience.

Action Items
[ ] Reach out to Michael Mills on LinkedIn to connect and learn more about email and Fluke Reliability's solutions.
Outline
Introduction and Welcome
Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk podcast, highlighting its focus on industry professionals and innovations.
Scott MacKenzie welcomes listeners and thanks them for their support, mentioning the platform's celebration of industry professionals.
Scott MacKenzie announces the broadcast from the Accelerate 2025 event, sponsored by Fluke Reliability.
Scott MacKenzie introduces Michael Mills, the Technical Sales Manager with Fluke Reliability, and expresses excitement about discussing various topics.
Discussion on Autonomous Cars and Personal Backgrounds
Scott MacKenzie and Michael Mills discuss their experiences with autonomous cars, specifically Waymo.
Michael Mills shares his positive experience with the autonomous car, noting the absence of a driver.
Scott MacKenzie mentions his son's experience with the autonomous car and expresses excitement about the future of such technology.
Michael Mills provides a brief background on himself, mentioning his 10-year tenure with Fluke Reliability and his focus on software and integrated systems.
Overview of eMaint X5 System
Scott MacKenzie expresses enthusiasm for the connected reliability effort at Fluke Reliability.
Michael Mills explains the evolution of the eMaint system, from X3 to X5, highlighting the modern technology and scalability of X5.
Michael Mills discusses the global deployment capabilities of X5, including support for different currencies and time zones.
Scott MacKenzie inquires about the system's ability to provide an executive view of data across multiple sites, and Michael Mills confirms its capabilities.
Currency and Scalability of eMaint X5
Scott MacKenzie asks about the system's handling of currency and exchange rates, and Michael Mills confirms its ability to pull and translate data from different databases.
Michael Mills discusses the ongoing development and integration of new technologies like Zima and Proof Technica into the eMaint system.
Scott MacKenzie and Michael Mills discuss the architectural vision of eMate as a hub for seamless connectivity and integration with other systems.
Michael Mills emphasizes the importance of standardization and the ability to scale the system across multiple locations.
Cloud Transition and Support
Scott MacKenzie and Michael Mills discuss the transition from on-premise to cloud-based systems, with eMaint being one of the first to adopt a SaaS platform.
Michael Mills highlights the benefits of cloud-based systems, including faster updates and reduced maintenance requirements.
Scott MacKenzie expresses amazement at companies still reluctant to adopt cloud solutions, and Michael Mills explains the ease of updates and support in cloud environments.
Michael Mills mentions the support team's ability to access and manage the system remotely, enhancing efficiency and reducing travel time.
Integration with Azima and Vibration Analysis
Scott MacKenzie inquires about the integration of Azima's vibration expertise with eMaint, and Michael Mills explains the proof of concept integration.
Michael Mills describes how Azima's analysis results can generate work orders within eMaint, streamlining maintenance processes.
Scott MacKenzie and Michael Mills discuss the automation of work orders and the removal of human intervention in mundane tasks.
Michael Mills emphasizes the importance of accurate data and the role of Azima in providing actionable insights for maintenance planning.
Inventory Management and Tool Tracking
Scott MacKenzie asks about the warehouse component of eMaint, and Michael Mills explains the system's spare parts inventory management.
Michael Mills discusses the integration of purchasing processes with ERPs and other resource planning software.

MICHAEL MILLS' CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelmills-technicalsales/
Company LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/fluke-reliability/posts/?feedView=all
Company Website: https://reliability.fluke.com/

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Industrial Talk is talking to Chris Luecke, Founder and Host of Manufacturing Happy Hour Podcast about "Complete focus on manufacturing success".

Scott Mackenzie interviews Chris Luecke about his "Manufacturing Happy Hour" podcast. Chris, an engineer with a background in manufacturing and automation, discusses the podcast's origins, its evolution from a YouTube series to a leadership podcast, and its focus on collaboration and idea-sharing in the manufacturing industry. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging technology, such as AI and digital transformation, to enhance productivity and attract young talent. Chris also highlights the need for manufacturers to engage with the tech community and innovate to stay competitive. The conversation is punctuated by power outages but remains engaging and insightful.

Action Items
[ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Subscribe to the Manufacturing Happy Hour podcast.
[ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Explore the concept of "exponential improvements" in manufacturing through automation and AI.
[ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Consider ways for manufacturers to engage more actively with the broader tech community.
[ ] Connect with Chris Luecke on LinkedIn.
Outline
Introduction and Technical Difficulties
Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast and highlights the importance of celebrating industry professionals.
Scott mentions the technical difficulties faced during the recording due to power outages.
Scott expresses gratitude to Chris Luecke for his participation and sets the stage for the conversation.
Scott acknowledges the resilience of Chris and himself in continuing the conversation despite the technical issues.
Chris Luecke's Background and Manufacturing Happy Hour
Chris Luecke shares his background, starting as an engineer at Marquette University and working with Anheuser Busch and Rockwell Automation.
Chris explains the origin of Manufacturing Happy Hour, a podcast that started as a YouTube series recorded on his iPhone.
The podcast evolved into a leadership podcast, focusing on manufacturing and automation technology.
Chris discusses his transition from a full-time job to a full-time content creator and community builder.
The Journey to Podcasting
Scott MacKenzie and Chris Luecke discuss their experiences with podcasting, including initial challenges and equipment choices.
Chris shares his early podcasting journey with Pub Cast Worldwide, a podcast about drinking culture and craft beer.
Chris emphasizes the importance of starting with basic equipment and gradually upgrading as the audience grows.
Scott and Chris agree on the value of podcasting as a relationship-building tool in the B2B world.
Impact and Purpose of Manufacturing Happy Hour
Chris explains the purpose of Manufacturing Happy Hour, which is to bring people together to collaborate and share ideas over a beverage.
The podcast aims to equip manufacturing leaders with tools, technologies, and insights through interviews with experts.
Chris highlights the importance of the community aspect, where listeners can engage and learn from each other.
Scott asks about the tangible benefits of the platform, and Chris shares examples of connections made through the podcast and events.
Future of Manufacturing and Industry 4.0
Chris discusses the future of manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of automation and digital transformation.
He explains the concept of Industry 4.0 and the role of artificial intelligence in contextualizing data for manufacturing decisions.
Chris highlights the potential for exponential increases in productivity through advanced automation and digital tools.
Scott and Chris agree on the need for manufacturers to innovate and leverage technology to stay competitive.
Challenges and Opportunities in Manufacturing
Chris talks about the challenges of attracting young talent to the manufacturing industry and the importance of changing perceptions.
He emphasizes the need for manufacturers to show up in places where young tech talent is present, such as meetups and events.
Scott and Chris discuss the importance of having an innovative mindset and leveraging technology to attract capital and investment.
Chris shares his vision of a resurgence in manufacturing, driven by new technologies and skilled trades.
Personal Insights and Final Thoughts
Chris shares his personal insights on the future of manufacturing, including the potential for humanoid robots and autonomous mobile robots.
He emphasizes the importance of focusing on low-hanging fruit opportunities in automation and digital transformation.
Scott and Chris discuss the maturity of the IoT market and the need for practical applications of technology in manufacturing.

CHRIS LUECKE'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwluecke/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/manufacturinghappyhour/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech 2025 and talking to Ben Lanz, Sr. Director, Industry & External Affairs at Osmose about "Power reliability and resiliency".

Scott Mackenzie hosts an industrial podcast from Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, sponsored by Siemens. He interviews Jason Cunningham from Power Grid Components (PGC), who has 19 years of experience in the industry. PGC, formed in 2017, owns eight to nine companies and focuses on providing compatible solutions for utilities and renewables. Cunningham discusses the Syncrotec MDX, a device that mitigates inrush current when switching into a transformer, addressing voltage sags. The device, which has been on the market for about 10 years, can be installed in various switchgear and is compatible with different manufacturers. It stores operational data for up to 500 operations, with the Supertech Plus storing up to 2000 operations. Cunningham can be contacted via LinkedIn for more information.

Action Items
[ ] Reach out to Siemens for more information on their smart infrastructure and grid software solutions.
[ ] Connect with Jason Cunningham on LinkedIn to learn more about the Syncrotec MDX product.
Outline
Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast
Speaker 1 introduces Scott Mackenzie and the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry innovations and professionals.
Scott MacKenzie welcomes listeners, highlighting the importance of industry professionals and their contributions to making the world better.
The podcast is broadcasting from Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, and is sponsored by Siemens, smart infrastructure, and grid software.
Scott MacKenzie introduces Jason Cunningham from PGC, who is in the "hot seat" for the interview.
Jason Cunningham's Background and Role at PGC
Jason Cunningham introduces himself, mentioning his 19 years of experience in the industry, including selling high-voltage circuit breakers and circuit switchers.
Jason recently joined Power Grid Components (PGC) to help integrate products into the US market.
PGC owns about eight or nine companies within the industry, formed in 2017 to provide compatible solutions for utilities and renewables.
Jason explains that PGC's goal is to offer compatible products that can support each other, providing solutions to end-users.
Introduction to Syncrotec MDX and Its Functionality
Jason introduces the Syncrotec MDX, a device that can be applied to any switchgear component, such as a circuit breaker, recloser, or circuit switcher.
The Syncrotec MDX mitigates the inrush current when switching into a transformer, addressing the issue of voltage sags or drops.
Scott MacKenzie and Jason discuss the importance of power quality and how the Syncrotec MDX helps maintain it.
Jason mentions the IEEE 1547 standard, which is gaining traction and addresses power quality issues in large wind or solar farms.
Installation and Compatibility of Syncrotec MDX
Jason explains the installation process of the Syncrotec MDX, which involves working with the manufacturer of the switchgear to set the timing of the unit.
The device can be installed remotely, and PGC can dial it in slightly on-site to ensure it is ready to go.
Jason highlights the agnostic nature of the Syncrotec MDX, which can be used with various switchgear manufacturers and voltage levels.
The Syncrotec MDX can handle voltage levels up to 1100 KV, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Future Prospects and Additional Devices
Jason discusses the future of the Syncrotec MDX and mentions another device called the Supertech Plus, which can handle independent pole operation.
The industry's growth, particularly with the increasing number of farms and data centers, necessitates maximizing power quality within the system.
Jason emphasizes the importance of power quality for data centers, as poor quality can damage equipment and disrupt operations.
The Syncrotec MDX can store up to 500 operations, while the Supertech Plus can store 2000 operations, providing valuable data for troubleshooting and maintenance.
Data Collection and Insights from Syncrotec MDX
Jason explains that the Syncrotec MDX can report up to 500 operations and store them for analysis.
The device can detect any miss or off-calibration and provide waveforms for adjustment.
The Supertech Plus can store 2000 operations, offering more detailed data for analysis.
Scott MacKenzie and Jason discuss the potential insights that can be gained from the data, such as identifying mechanical failures or unusual switching patterns.
Contact Information and Conclusion
Jason provides his contact information, recommending that interested parties reach out to him on LinkedIn.

JASON CONNINGHAM'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-cunningham-245b9214/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/power-grid-components-inc/
Company Website: https://pgc.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at Xcelerate 2025 and talking to Gary Wood, Customer Success Manager at Fluke Reliability about "You reliability journey today into the future".

Scott Mackenzie interviews Leandro Escobar from Time Now, a Brazilian consulting firm expanding in the US, at the Xcelerate 2025 conference in Austin, Texas. Leandro discusses the firm's AI-driven solutions, including their large language model, Keno, and project management tool, Time Connect. Time Now offers consulting services for asset management, reliability, and project management, helping clients with criticality assessments, training, and technology integration. They also provide temporary skilled labor to address industry shortages. Leandro emphasizes the importance of bridging generational knowledge gaps and leveraging AI to improve industrial asset management and reliability.

Action Items
[ ] Visit Time Now's website at www.timenowglobal.com.
[ ] Connect with Leandro Escobar on LinkedIn.
Outline
Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott Mackenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, highlighting its focus on industry professionals and their innovations.
Scott MacKenzie welcomes listeners and thanks them for their support, emphasizing the platform's celebration of industry professionals.
The podcast is broadcasting live from Xcelerate 2025 in Austin, Texas, showcasing problem solvers and innovations.
Scott MacKenzie introduces Leandro Escobar, a problem solver and former neighbor, to the conversation.
Leandro Escobar's Experience at Xcelerate 2025
Leandro Escobar shares his positive experience at the conference, mentioning insights on AI and machine learning in asset management.
Leandro discusses the importance of understanding market trends and positioning companies ahead of the competition.
Scott MacKenzie clarifies the difference between large and small language models, with Leandro explaining their role in reliability and training technicians.
Leandro mentions their AI-based tool, Keno, which uses historical data to support clients in project and asset management.
Overview of Time Now and Its Services
Leandro provides an overview of TimeNow, a large consulting engineering firm in South America, now expanding in the US.
Time Now started as a project management consulting firm and has grown to include engineering, asset management, and reliability tools.
The company supports clients from the beginning of a project's life cycle to its commissioning, covering all aspects of asset management.
Scott MacKenzie asks if Time Now's services are more suited for Greenfield projects or existing manufacturers, with Leandro confirming they support both.
Consulting and Technology Solutions by TimeNow
Leandro explains that Time Now offers consulting services, including program management and asset management support for existing clients.
The company partners with Fluke Reliability to provide training and support for clients implementing their solutions.
TimeNow helps clients revise their equipment criticality, hierarchy, and response plans, and integrates real-time monitoring sensors.
Scott MacKenzie inquires about TimeNow's technology solutions, with Leandro mentioning their AI-based tools like Keno and Time Connect.
AI and Technology Integration in Time Now's Solutions
Leandro describes Time Connect as a project management and shutdown planning tool that integrates schedules from different sources.
The tool provides a one-page report for better management of interventions during shutdowns.
Time Now's AI tools include large language models and statistical neural networks for improved planning and scheduling.
The company also invests in startups to bring innovative software solutions for shutdowns and equipment health monitoring.
Future Prospects and Business Model for TimeNow
Leandro discusses the importance of providing skilled experts to clients, especially in the current market with a shortage of maintenance and project management professionals.
TimeNow sees opportunities in both new investments and renovations, where their expertise and technology can add value.
The company aims to help clients with temporary peaks in maintenance and project management needs, providing both expertise and technology solutions.
Scott MacKenzie and Leandro discuss the importance of bridging the gap between generations in the industry, with Time Now helping clients transition knowledge and experience.
Conclusion and Contact Information
Leandro provides contact information for Time Now, including their website and LinkedIn profiles.
Scott MacKenzie wraps up the conversation, emphasizing the importance of connecting with organizations like TimeNow for asset management and reliability.

LEANDRO ESCOBAR'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leandroescobar/
Company LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/somostimenow/
Company Website: https://timenowglobal.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at PowerGen and talking to Eneko de Irala and Alejandro Borges with Nomad Solar Energy about "Solar power solution anytime, anywhere".

Scott Mackenzie interviews Eneko de Irala, VP of Sales, and Alejandro Borges from Nomad Solar Energy at Power Gen in Dallas, Texas. Nomad Solar Energy offers a mobile solar energy solution in a 20-foot container, deployable in under two hours, which can reduce diesel consumption by 30,000 liters annually. The system includes 184 solar panels, providing 107 kWh per hour, and can be scaled up with additional containers. It is designed for heavy-duty use, including remote areas and harsh climates. The company also offers battery storage solutions and aims to adapt to new solar technologies.

Action Items
[ ] Follow up with Nomad Solar Energy through their website at nomadsolar.energy or connect with Alejandro Borges on LinkedIn.
[ ] Explore opportunities to deploy Nomad Solar Energy's solutions in remote power generation applications, such as oil and gas rigs.
[ ] Investigate integrating Nomad Solar Energy's containerized solar systems with battery storage to create hybrid power solutions.
Outline
Introduction and Welcome
Scott Mackenzie introduces the podcast, highlighting its focus on industrial innovations and trends.
Scott MacKenzie welcomes listeners and thanks them for their support, emphasizing the importance of industry professionals.
The podcast is broadcasting from Power Gen in Dallas, Texas, showcasing advanced technology and individuals dedicated to solving problems.
Scott MacKenzie introduces the guests from Nomad Solar Energy and humorously mentions chasing them down for the interview.
Background of Nomad Solar Energy
Eneko introduces himself as the VP of Sales at Nomad Solar Energy, with a background in international markets.
Eneko explains the company's mission to provide sustainable energy solutions, reducing diesel consumption and bringing electricity to remote areas.
The company participates in industrial and humanitarian projects, showcasing their products at Power Gen in Dallas.
Eneko highlights the significant savings in diesel consumption achievable with their products, emphasizing the positive reception at the event.
Introduction of Alejandro Borges
Alejandro Borges introduces himself and his role in marketing and strategy at Nomad Solar Energy.
Alejandro explains the company's goal to turn on the green lights in Dallas and the United States, providing innovative energy solutions.
Scott MacKenzie asks for a simple explanation of Nomad Solar Energy's solution.
Eneko describes the company's container-based solar energy solution, designed for easy deployment and maintenance.
Details of the Solar Energy Solution
Eneko explains the design of the solar panel container, which can be deployed in about two hours with two people.
The container includes all necessary components, such as inverters, and is pre-wired for easy setup.
The solution is designed to be scalable, allowing for multiple containers to be used together for increased power.
Alejandro adds that the solution can also include battery storage for continuous power supply.
Deployment and Maintenance
Scott MacKenzie inquires about the deployment process and the size of the typical solution.
Eneko explains that the solution comes in two sizes: a 20-foot container with 184 solar panels, providing 107 kilowatts per hour.
The panels are designed to be deployed on an East-West axis for maximum efficiency.
Alejandro mentions that the solution can be deployed in parallel and is scalable, with options for battery storage.
Applications and Market Potential
Scott MacKenzie asks about the application of the solution in remote areas and standby modes.
Eneko explains that the solution is ideal for remote locations, such as oil rigs, where it can replace or complement existing generators.
The solution is designed for heavy-duty use and can withstand harsh climates, making it suitable for areas prone to natural disasters.
Alejandro highlights the flexibility of the solution, which can be transported by truck or ship and deployed quickly.
Future of Solar Technology
Scott MacKenzie inquires about the future of solar technology and how Nomad Solar Energy plans to adapt.
Alejandro explains that the company can adapt to new technologies and improve their solutions based on market demands.
Eneko emphasizes the rapid pace of innovation in the solar industry and the need for Nomad Solar Energy to stay updated.
The company aims to provide the best available technology to their customers, ensuring they receive the most efficient and reliable solutions.

ENEKO DE IRALA'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/enekodeirala/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nomad-solar-energy/
Company Website: https://nomadsolar.energy/en/

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