Industrial Talk Media

Industrial Talk is onsite at PowerGen and talking to Robert "Bob" McGinty, Director, Marketing and Sales at Braden about "Advanced SCR Solutions".

Bob McGinty, a veteran in the power industry, discussed the evolution and growth of the power generation sector, particularly driven by data centers and AI. He highlighted Braden's role in emission control and gas turbine technology, emphasizing their advanced SCR system for faster compliance and reduced costs. Bob noted the increased demand for power due to population growth and technological advancements, stressing the need for responsible environmental practices. He also touched on the challenges of renewable energy costs and the importance of mentorship and family-oriented environments in the industry.

Outline
Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast
Industrial Talk, sponsored by the Propane Education and Research Council, highlighting their commitment to safety, training, and innovative propane power technology.
Scott Mackenzie, welcomes listeners to the Industrial Talk podcast, emphasizing the focus on industry professionals and their innovations.
Scott thanks listeners for joining the top industrial podcast, celebrating industry professionals for their boldness, bravery, and problem-solving skills.
Scott mentions the PowerGen event in San Antonio, encouraging listeners to attend next year and introduces Bob McGinty from Braden.
Bob McGinty's Background and Current Role
Scott introduces Bob McGinty, who has been in the Navy and has extensive experience in the emission and environmental marketplaces for over 35 years.
Bob shares his journey from the Navy to the emission marketplace, focusing on improving emission controls through technology in the power industry.
Bob discusses his transition into the gas turbine industry and his role in growing the Braden group, a multinational company.
Bob emphasizes the importance of contributing to society and bettering human life through his work in the power industry.
Impact of Data Centers and AI on Energy Market
Bob explains how the data center industry and AI business have driven the energy market to new heights, contributing to the growth of power generation.
Scott and Bob discuss the increased demand for power in the US due to population growth and the retirement of aged coal-fired systems.
Bob highlights the role of new gas turbine technology and the symbiotic relationship between conventional and new power generators.
Bob mentions Braden's involvement in various aspects of gas turbine technology, including auxiliary systems, acoustic control, and emission control systems.
Challenges and Opportunities in Power Generation
Bob discusses the structural challenges in the way power is consumed and delivered, emphasizing the need for different approaches to meet growing demand.
Bob highlights the importance of responsible environmental compliance and the US's leadership in this area.
Bob explains the migration of transparency between conventional and new power generators, particularly in the data center and AI industries.
Bob shares Braden's expertise in building advanced air pollution control systems and the company's global presence in design, supply, and manufacturing.
Braden's Role in Power Generation and Emission Control
Bob explains Braden's role as an equipment supplier for power generators, providing systems according to specifications or best practices.
Bob discusses the importance of managing exhaust trains safely and preparing air for generator operation.
Bob highlights Braden's experience in building gas turbines since the 1960s and the company's knowledge in preparing air for generator operation.
Bob emphasizes the need for advanced emission control systems to meet regulatory requirements and improve air quality.
Regulatory Challenges and Technological Advancements
Bob discusses the evolution of emission control technology, from addressing efficiency haze in the 1960s to advanced catalytic systems today.
Bob explains the use of precious metal catalysts and the development of technologies to meet single-digit parts per million emission levels.
Bob shares his experience working in Southern California, a region known for its strict air quality regulations, and the impact on Braden's technologies.
Bob highlights the importance of developing technologies to meet regulatory challenges and the role of the EPA in setting and enforcing standards.

ROBERT MCGINTY'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-mcginty-34717119/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/braden-europe-b-v-/
Company Website: https://braden.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Marian Schneider, Applications Engineer at Planar Motor about "Innovative, Smart conveying systems".

Marian Schneider, a mechanical engineer from Germany now living in Vancouver, discussed the innovative technology of Planar Motors at the MD&M West conference. Planar Motors uses magnetic levitation for motion, offering six degrees of freedom, including rotation, tipping, and tilting. The technology, which has been around for 10 years, is modular, flexible, and programmable, making it suitable for various assembly and packaging lines. Schneider highlighted the system's scalability, with applications ranging from small payloads to large systems with up to 1000 units. The technology is maintenance-free, relying on solid-state electronics and permanent magnets.

Outline
MD&M West Event Overview
Scott introduces the episode of Industrial Talk, sponsored by MD&M West and the News and Brews team.
MD&M West is highlighted for its medtech automation, packaging, plastics, and design innovations.
Scott emphasizes the importance of attending MD&M West to connect with passionate individuals in the industry.
The event is described as a significant platform for innovation, energy, and conversation in the medtech industry.
Introduction of Marian Schneider
Scott introduces Marian Schneider, a key individual at Planar Motors.
Scott praises the impressive footage from Marian's booth at MD&M West.
Marian shares that the first day of the conference was very busy and exceeded expectations.
The eye-catching demo at Marian's booth drew in many attendees, making it hard to avoid.
Marian Schneider's Background
Marian shares his background, mentioning he is originally from Germany and now lives in Vancouver.
He has a background in mechanical engineering and transitioned to the solutions team at Planar Motors.
Marian has a degree in aerospace engineering and a master's in Mechatronics.
Speaker 1 is impressed by Marian's extensive educational background and achievements.
Planar Motors Technology
Marian explains the technology behind Planar Motors, which uses magnetic levitation for motion.
The technology allows for movement in any direction, including up, down, rotating, tipping, and tilting.
Planar Motors' technology is more advanced than traditional magnetic levitation systems.
The technology has been around for 10 years and is used in various applications, including assembly and packaging lines.
Applications and Flexibility of Planar Motors
Marian discusses the flexibility and scalability of Planar Motors' technology.
The system is modular and can be customized to fit different automation equipment and processes.
The motion on the system is programmable, allowing for quick changes in motion patterns without physical adjustments.
Planar Motors' technology is designed to meet both immediate and future needs with its flexible and scalable solutions.
Future Innovations and Customer Collaboration
Marian mentions potential future innovations, including smaller movers for smaller payloads and higher density.
The company is focused on improving motion capabilities, such as rotation speed and stability.
Software development is a significant part of Planar Motors' product, with ongoing efforts to make integration easier and reduce programming time.
The company works closely with customers to understand their needs and requirements, ensuring their solutions meet market demands.
Technical Details and Customer Support
Marian explains the technical details of Planar Motors' technology, including the use of permanent magnets and a 2D grid of coils.
The system is solid-state and does not require mechanical parts, making it robust and maintenance-free.
Planar Motors provides comprehensive support to customers, including application development, simulations, and virtual commissioning.
The company ensures that customers are well-supported throughout the entire life cycle of their systems.
Contact Information and Final Thoughts
Marian provides contact information for those interested in Planar Motors' technology, including email and LinkedIn.
Scott expresses his admiration for Marian's technology and encourages listeners to reach out to him.
The conversation concludes with a reminder to attend MD&M West next year to experience similar innovations.
Scott emphasizes the importance of manufacturing and the exciting developments in the industry, encouraging listeners to stay tuned for more conversations.

Finally, get your exclusive free access to the Industrial Academy and a series on “Why You Need To Podcast” for Greater Success in 2026. All links designed for keeping you current in this rapidly changing Industrial Market. Learn! Grow! Enjoy!

MARIAN SCHNEIDER'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianlschneider/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/planar-motor/
Company Website: https://www.planarmotor.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at Xcelerate 2026 and talking to Jay Hack and Navin Kulkarni about "eMaint and the impact AI has on asset management".

At Fluke's Xcelerate 2026 event, Jay Hack and Navin Kulkarni introduced new AI features in eMaint, a maintenance management system. They highlighted four key features: AI-driven email data interaction, SOP generation from OEM manuals, natural language work order creation, and multilingual document translation. The AI features received significant interest, with 40 customers eager to join the beta test. The system ensures data quality, supports structured data ingestion, and allows for real-time updates. Future plans include enhancing work order management and leveraging historical data for better decision-making and asset management.

Outline
Xcelerate 2026 Event Overview
Scott introduces the Industrial Talk podcast, highlighting the importance of industrial professionals and the event Xcelerate 2026.
Scott mentions the event's focus on real-world strategies, predictive maintenance tools, and AI diagnostics.
Scott emphasizes the importance of attending the event and mentions the swag received on site.
Scott introduces Jay Hack and Navin Kulkarni, who have been on the hot seat before.
Introduction of AI Features in eMaint
Jay Hack announces the launch of their first AI features in eMaint, which were well-received during the intro presentation.
Jay mentions that 40 customers in the audience wanted to sign up for the beta test immediately.
Navin confirms positive feedback from customers and customer success managers.
Jay and Navin discuss the importance of AI in improving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
AI Assistant for Email Data Interaction
Jay explains the AI assistant feature that allows users to interact with email data in a chat GPT-style fashion.
Jay provides a use case where users can query the system to get intelligent responses about asset information.
Navin discusses how the AI assistant improves access to historical work orders and other data without the need for additional queries.
Jay emphasizes the importance of having good quality data for the AI assistant to be effective.
SOP Generation and Document Digitization
Jay introduces the SOP generation feature, which allows users to upload OEM repair manuals and generate preventive maintenance procedures.
Jay explains that the SOPs need to be validated by the customer to ensure accuracy.
Navin discusses the process of digitizing user manuals and other documents to make them accessible through the AI assistant.
Jay and Navin highlight the benefits of having the latest and most accurate documentation available in real-time.
Work Order Generation and Prioritization
Jay introduces the work order generation feature, which allows users to create work orders by speaking into their smartphones.
Navin discusses how the feature can help prioritize work orders based on their criticality and importance.
Jay and Navin emphasize the importance of having a complete and contextualized work order to improve maintenance operations.
Navin mentions that the roadmap includes allowing users to close work orders through the system.
Translation and Language Support
Jay introduces the translation feature, which allows users to translate dense documentation into other languages.
Jay explains that the feature is particularly useful for customers operating in multiple countries.
Navin discusses the process of validating translated information and the importance of having accurate translations.
Jay and Navin highlight the benefits of having a multilingual AI solution to support global operations.
Future of AI in Maintenance Operations
Jay discusses the future possibilities of using AI to track and analyze asset data and maintenance tech proficiency.
Jay mentions that AI can help infer the rate of learning and competency of maintenance techs.
Navin discusses the potential for normalizing data across different geographic locations to improve decision-making.
Jay and Navin emphasize the importance of having a secure and reliable AI solution to support maintenance operations.
Conclusion and Contact Information
Jay and Navin provide their contact information for listeners who want to connect with them on LinkedIn.
Scott wraps up the podcast, encouraging listeners to attend Xcelerate 2027 and connect with industry professionals.
Scott emphasizes the importance of being bold, brave, and innovative in the industrial field.
The podcast concludes with a reminder to stay tuned for future episodes and events.

JAY HACK'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayhack1/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fluke-corporation/
Company Website: https://www.fluke.com/
NAVIN KULKARNI'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/navinkulkarni/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at SMRP 2025 and talking to Nancy Regan and Corey Dickens about "The future of operational excellence".

Scott Mackenzie introduces Elevotec ERP, EAM, and business intelligence solutions on the Industrial Talk Podcast. The episode features Nancy and Corey, industry veterans discussing their careers in reliability and maintenance. Nancy, with 27 years of experience, emphasizes the importance of mentorship and simple explanations in reliability. Corey, with 13 years in the Navy and industry, highlights the need for leadership, mentorship, and workforce development. They stress the importance of overcoming comfort zones, embracing failure, and leveraging technology while maintaining foundational skills. Both advocate for inspiring the next generation and the value of conferences like SMRP for professional growth.

Outline
Introduction to Elevotec and Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott introduces Elevotec, highlighting their ERP, EAM, and business intelligence solutions.

Scott thanks listeners for joining the podcast, celebrating industrial professionals and their contributions.
Scott mentions the SMRP 33 conference in Fort Worth, Texas, and introduces guests Nancy and Corey.
Backgrounds of Nancy and Corey
Scott asks Nancy and Corey to introduce themselves.
Nancy shares her 27-year journey in reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) and her passion for the field.
Corey discusses his 13-year career in maintenance and reliability, starting in the Navy and transitioning to the industrial sector.
Both guests highlight their experiences and the impact of mentorship on their careers.
Challenges and Opportunities in Mentorship
Scott emphasizes the importance of inspiring the next generation and addressing the skills gap.
Nancy stresses the significance of mentorship and the impact of her mentors, particularly John Mowbray.
Corey talks about the need for vision, leadership, and ongoing support to develop talent.
Both guests agree on the importance of mentorship and the role of experienced professionals in guiding the next generation.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Corey discusses the need for workforce development, including training and recruitment efforts.
He highlights the importance of mentorship and the role of military veterans in the workforce.
Nancy shares her approach to simplifying complex concepts to make them accessible to new professionals.
Both guests emphasize the need for practical experience and the value of hands-on training.
Overcoming Comfort Zones and Embracing Failure
Nancy talks about the importance of getting out of one's comfort zone to achieve personal and professional growth.
Corey shares his experience with failure and how it has shaped his approach to leadership and problem-solving.
Both guests discuss the challenges of middle management and the need for effective leadership.
They emphasize the importance of embracing failure as a learning opportunity and not being afraid to take risks.
The Role of Technology and Certification
Corey discusses the role of technology in training and developing the next generation of professionals.
He highlights the importance of certification programs like the Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician (CMRT).
Nancy shares her approach to explaining complex concepts using simple analogies.
Both guests agree on the need for a balanced approach to technology and traditional training methods.
Final Thoughts and Contact Information
Scott thanks Nancy and Corey for their insights and encourages listeners to reach out to them for mentorship and guidance.
Nancy provides her contact information and mentions her availability on LinkedIn.
Corey also encourages listeners to connect with him on LinkedIn for further discussions.
Scott wraps up the podcast, emphasizing the importance of attending conferences like SMRP to network and learn from industry professionals.

If interested in being on the Industrial Talk show, simply contact us and let's have a quick conversation.

Finally, get your exclusive free access to the Industrial Academy and a series on “Why You Need To Podcast” for Greater Success in 2026. All links designed for keeping you current in this rapidly changing Industrial Market. Learn! Grow! Enjoy!

NANCY REGAN'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenancyregan/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theforceinc/
Company Website: https://theforceinc.com/

COREY DICKENS' CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreydickens/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brightlysoftware/
Company Website: https://www.brightlysoftware.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at PowerGen and talking to Max Meegan, Head of Sales, North America at FPT Industrial about "Powering the future of industry".

Who is FPT and who is Max?
FPT stands for Fiat Powertrain Technologies, one of the largest diesel engine manufacturers in the world.
They produce 300,000–400,000 diesel engines per year across:
On-road
Off-road
Marine
Power generation
Their power-gen portfolio covers roughly 30 kW to 700–800 kW.
Max Meegan is Head of Sales, North America (including Mexico).
Started at FPT ~12 years ago in quality engineering, doing root-cause failure analysis on diesel engines.
Moved into customer technical integration, then into sales around 2021.
Because of his technical background, he knows the engines “inside and out” and now works directly with customers.
What does FPT do in power generation?
FPT is an engine supplier, not a generator set builder.
Their customers are generator OEMs who integrate FPT engines into gensets.
They offer:
Unregulated engines for export markets.
Tier 3 engines for emergency stationary use in North America.
Tier 4 Final engines for mobile, prime power, and rental applications.
Packaging options range from:
Bare engines (customers source and integrate their own components), to
Complete drop‑in packages including radiator, air cleaner, and full aftertreatment.
Service and support model
When FPT onboards a new genset OEM, they agree on service responsibilities:
Some OEMs are fully self‑servicing, using their own dealer/service networks.
Others leverage FPT’s existing North American service network (roughly 300–400 dealers).
Maintenance can be:
Handled by the OEM’s network, or
Performed by FPT’s authorized service dealers, either on site or at dealer locations.
Key market challenges and FPT’s solutions
1. Rental and prime power gensets – underloading issue
Challenge:
Rental yards often oversize gensets (e.g., using a 200 kW unit when the customer only needs 20–30 kW).
Underloading causes problems for the aftertreatment system and reduces reliability.

FPT’s solution:
FPT developed an exhaust brake / exhaust flap in the aftertreatment system:
When the system senses underload, it adds backpressure on the engine.
This creates an artificial load, helping maintain proper exhaust temperatures and protecting the aftertreatment and components.
This directly targets the #1 concern in rental/prime power: reliability under low-load conditions.
Result: Higher uptime, which is critical for rental fleets whose business model depends on machines running.
2. Data centers and large power demand

Challenge:
Data centers are driving huge new demand for power and want capacity immediately (“they want it yesterday”).
Traditional 1–3 MW engines needed for big data centers have:
Very long lead times, often booked out for years.

FPT’s solution:
Customers are increasingly paralleling multiple smaller gensets using FPT engines in the 30–700 kW range to reach higher total output.
FPT’s typical lead time is about 5–6 months from factory order, compared to up to 4 years for very large single engines.
Benefits of the modular / parallel approach:
Faster deployment (months vs. years).
Modularity: one unit can be taken offline for service while the others keep running.
Improved redundancy: failure of one smaller unit does not take down all power, unlike a single 2 MW engine.

Max and Scott compare this to traffic lights:
Old model: one big bulb—if it burns out, the light is dead.
New model: multiple LEDs—if one dies, the system still works.
Likewise, multiple smaller gensets in parallel create a more resilient, modular system.
FPT’s emissions and aftertreatment strategy (Tier 4 / Stage V)

Industry context:
As regulations moved from Tier 2 / Tier 3 to Tier 4 Interim and Tier 4 Final, most engine makers tried to avoid SCR/urea (DEF) systems at first.
Many adopted:
EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) +
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) with active regeneration:
Lowers engine efficiency.
Requires burning extra fuel to regenerate.
Can take the machine out of service for 30–60 minutes during regen.

FPT’s different route:
FPT did not follow the heavy‑EGR + active‑DPF path.
Instead, they:
Focused on optimizing combustion so more fuel becomes useful power.
Minimized particulate matter (PM) at the source.
Result:
Very low particulate output, so they don’t require a traditional DPF with active regen.
Even at Stage V, FPT can use a passive filter:
No active regeneration cycles.
No downtime for regen.
Max positions this as a major differentiator:
Higher efficiency (no fuel wasted on regen).
Less complexity and downtime for end users.
A strong reason why their Stage V technology is being widely adopted in North America by customers seeking alternatives to DPF-based systems.

MAX MEEGAN'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/max-meegan-2970a19b/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fpt-industrial/
Company Website: https://www.fptindustrial.com/en

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