Innovate, Automate, Elevate: The IICA Newcastle Technology Expo

The IICA Newcastle Technology Expo is an essential event for plant managers, project leaders, process control engineers, superintendents, and operations managers looking to enhance efficiency, improve safety, and future-proof their operations.

Taking place on Thursday, 13 March 2025, from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the Newcastle Jockey Club, this event will feature cutting-edge technologies, real-world applications, and live demonstrations showcasing innovations in automation, industrial data analytics, digital twins, and AI-driven process optimisation.

Attendees will gain valuable insights and earn CPD points while staying ahead of industry trends.

Industry-focused presentations and live demonstrations

This expo is designed to tackle real-world industrial challenges. It will feature keynote presentations and hands-on demonstrations, offering practical solutions for operational efficiency, cost reduction, and digital transformation — all taking place on the expo floor at exhibitors’ stands.

Schedule of presentations and live demonstrations

12:30 pm – Where Innovation Meets Application – University of Newcastle, I2N and KEE

The Integrated Innovation Network (I2N) and the Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise (KEE) team from the University of Newcastle will be presenting their groundbreaking work in bridging the gap between research and industry, supporting innovators and entrepreneurs, connecting them with community, customers, coaching, and capital. Discover the impact these two have in industry.

1:00 pm – Revolutionising Machining with 6-Axis Robots – Live Demonstration, IDW CAD

The use of robots in pick-and-place operations, welding, and materials handling is already widespread, but what about machining? Unlike conventional robotic applications, machining demands extreme precision and thousands of coordinated movements. Traditional machining involves separate software platforms:

• CAD: to design the part
• CAM: to generate toolpaths
• Robot programming: to convert these into machine code
   

This live demonstration will showcase how robotic machining can streamline these processes into a single workflow, replacing large, costly 5-axis CNC machining centres. Learn how 6-axis robotic machining (and beyond) is redefining manufacturing possibilities.

1:30 pm – Precision, Safety and Efficiency with 2D Radar Sensors – Indurad

Industrial operations require precision, reliability, and safety, and the latest 2D radar sensor technology is delivering just that. This cutting-edge solution enables:

• High-precision level measurement – even in harsh environments
• Reliable anti-collision detection – enhancing safety in cranes, vehicles, and machinery
• Versatile applications – from mining to automation
   

3:00 pm – Measuring Efficiencies with iba – Live Demonstration, iba Oceania

In today’s fast-paced industrial landscape, real-time data acquisition and process analytics are essential. This session will explore iba’s powerful solutions, including:

• ibaPDA – Universal data acquisition in real time
• ibaAnalyzer – Advanced analytics for deep performance insights
• Real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance
• Boosting transparency and operational efficiency
   

3:30 pm – Steam Control and Decarbonisation through Electrification – Samson

As industries push towards net-zero targets, the need for efficient, precise, and flexible steam control has never been greater. Decarbonisation through electrification is a game-changer for process industries, and engineers, plant operators, and maintenance teams must stay ahead of evolving steam management strategies.

Witness a live demonstration of the SAMSON Type 251GR modular control valve — a cutting-edge solution for optimising steam control in electrified industrial environments:

• Tighter process control: Achieve unmatched precision in steam regulation, leading to better efficiency and reduced waste
• Electrification-ready: Seamlessly integrate into decarbonised energy systems, eliminating dependence on fossil fuel-driven steam control
• Reduced maintenance and downtime: Modular design enhances serviceability and adaptability, keeping plants running efficiently
• Scalable for diverse applications: Ideal for power generation, chemical processing, food and beverage, and manufacturing industries
   

4:00 pm – AI and 3D Digital Twin Solutions: Transforming Industrial Operations – NVMS

AI-driven 3D digital twins are revolutionising industrial operations by enhancing efficiency, performance monitoring, and predictive maintenance. This session will dive into Visionaize’s AI-powered V-Suite Platform, with live demonstrations showcasing real-world industry applications.

Key topics include:

• Real-time performance monitoring and what-if analysis for process plants
• Process plant real-time optimisation (RTO) – enhancing production, yield, and energy efficiency
• Predictive maintenance and process upset detection
• Decarbonisation solutions leveraging AI and digital twins
• Corrosion/fatigue detection and PPE compliance using computer vision
• GenAI agents for diagnostics and analytics
• 3D digital twin applications for inspection, maintenance planning, turnarounds, and VR-based training
   

4:30 pm – Unlocking Opportunities: Industry Engagement without Vendor Lock-In – ICN

Essential for project managers, procurement teams, and operations leaders, this session will cover:

• Understanding industry engagement: When and how buyers and sellers should connect before tenders
• Probity vs. vendor lock-in: Ensuring fair competition while maintaining procurement integrity
• Future industry needs: How buyers and plants are planning for evolving industry demands
• Maximising supplier opportunities: Supporting Australian SMEs through transparent, ethical procurement
•  

5:00 pm – 6:00 pm – Happy Hour and Networking

Stay afterward for networking and drinks to discuss procurement opportunities with industry leaders.

Why you should attend

• Earn CPD points: Stay accredited while gaining cutting-edge industry insights
• Hands-on experience: Engage directly with live technology demonstrations
• Network with experts: Expand your professional circle
• Discover new solutions: Optimise efficiency, reduce costs, and improve safety
   

This is your opportunity to stay ahead, connect with industry leaders, and explore the latest in industrial automation and innovation. Whether you’re an engineer, plant manager, procurement specialist, or innovator, the IICA Newcastle Technology Expo is where knowledge meets application.

Event details

• When: Thursday, 13th March 2025, 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Where: Newcastle Jockey Club, 100 Darling St, Broadmeadow, NSW
   

Register now at https://iica.org.au/Web/Web/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=IICANSWNC.

Image credit: iStock.com/EduLeite