2021's Most Innovative Products for Manufacturers

Disruption has been a defining factor in 2021, but the past year has also been one of innovation. New innovative manufacturing products and technologies have pushed back boundaries in the world of manufacturing. Let’s take a look at the most innovative manufacturing products that took the industry to the next level in 2021.

Thermal Printing

Thermal printing isn’t new. However, new thermal printer models can transfer images to more surfaces. Dalemark’s new tabletop model creates sharp, high-quality thermal transfer images on matte, polished and varnished surfaces.

The ability to do fast printing on pouches, bags, tags, blister cards and more makes this a game-changer for label printing.

Box-Making Machine

Neway Packaging’s new box-making machine can create boxes on demand in a wide range of shapes and sizes. Using this machine, manufacturers can minimize their consumption of cardboard and packing material while reducing shipping volume.

This new approach will allow manufacturers to reduce shipping costs and reduce waste at the same time.

Customizable LED Lighting

LEDs are easy to customize. Miller Lighting Products offers two new LED lighting solutions that use dip switches to adjust both wattage and color range. Their third new product is an LED bulb designed to fit in small spaces while providing extremely bright light.

Perfect for retrofits, these new products can reduce power consumption while improving visibility and comfort in stores, offices and facilities.

Wireless Force Sensors

A force sensor measures a mechanical input and then translates it into an electrical signal. In other words, these sensors can measure tension, compression, pressure, or weight.

The new generation of sensors uses wireless connectivity. Strainsert’s new wireless force sensors enable accurate measurements in places where wired sensors would be unworkable or cost-prohibitive. Manufacturers can also move and reuse these sensors as needed.

High-Speed Cables

Manufacturers and consumers demand ever-faster data transfer speeds. To meet that demand, ACON-USA has introduced innovations in its copper and optical cables. These new cables reduce latency and help manufacturers analyze data in real-time.

Vial Filling and Capping

Innovations in robotics are making automated vial filling and capping more precise for the pharmaceutical industry. In 2021, Dispense Works Inc. unveiled a new fully programmable dispensing machine that can fill vials and small bottles. This machine has precise torque control for capping, and easily accommodates quick changeover.

Ultra-Thin Gaskets

Ultra-thin silicone rubber gaskets have been around for a while. However, Stockwell Elastomerics now offers the first-ever line of thin-gauge silicone materials with acrylic adhesive backing. These seals will do a better job of keeping dust and water out of displays and other products. Innovative manufacturing products like these pressure-sensitive seals offer new solutions to old problems.

Hybrid Fiber Laser Machine

Turning and milling are two key manufacturing steps, and there are machines that can automate each one. Murata Machinery USA, however, has now introduced a hybrid fiber laser machine, the first of its kind in fabrication technology. Combining punch press technology with fiber laser cutting capabilities, this machine optimizes floor space and allows for more complex applications.

Vibration Solutions for Metrology

Vibrations are always posing a challenge in metrology. They can make measurements useless. In the past, it was possible to adjust readings to account for vibrations on a specific plane. Zygo Corporation’s new anti-vibration solutions make it possible to work with vibrations on multiple planes. This innovation makes quality metrology available even in environments where external factors are hard to control.

Embracing Transformation in 2022

Embracing transformation and forming partnerships with innovative companies is crucial for growth. IndustryNet, the industrial marketplace, is home to a half a million industrial businesses to help you find your next partner in innovation. Set up a free account, search for suppliers, send quote requests and more with this free industrial marketplace.

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