EECO Asks Why Podcast

Electrical Equipment Company

Welcome to EECO Ask’s Why – A podcast that dives into industrial manufacturing topics and spotlights the heroes that keep America running. On this podcast, we do not cover the latest features and benefits on products that come to market. Instead, we focus on advice and insight from the top minds of industry because people and ideas will be how America remains number one in manufacturing in the world. read less
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Episodes

Unlocking Efficiency and Security in Smart Manufacturing with Managed Network Switches
Mar 5 2024
Unlocking Efficiency and Security in Smart Manufacturing with Managed Network Switches
Discover the transformative shift that's redefining industrial manufacturing: the ascendancy of managed network switches. We will walk through the cutting-edge intersection of technology and production, where managed switches reign supreme to streamline data flow, bolster efficiency, and dramatically cut downtime. Let's examine the critical nuances between unmanaged and managed switches, offering insights into how these powerful tools shape the future of smart manufacturing.Delve into the cyber battleground of industrial networks, where the security of your operations hangs in the balance. Managed Ethernet switches emerge as the unsung heroes, locking down vulnerabilities and fortifying your infrastructure against threats. Through candid discussions on the imperative of port authentication to VLAN segmentation, we unravel the strategies that keep your intellectual property and compliance in check. This is a wake-up call to embrace managed switches as your ally in the relentless pursuit of secure, efficient smart manufacturing.Gazing ahead, we chart a course through the innovations defining tomorrow's connected factories. From Stratix to Hirschmann, we highlight the trailblazers pushing boundaries and the ways Electric Equipment Company can prime your business for a robust infrastructure. Tune in for a comprehensive look at the resources and expertise at your disposal, ensuring you navigate the complexities of industrial connectivity with unwavering confidence. Remember to keep asking why...Network Switch Resources:Network Switch ArticleHow to Configure a Network Switch in Siemens TIA PortalManaged Ethernet Switches are Essential to the Connected FactoryNetwork Architecture | Do you think you have the best?Other Resources to help with your journey:Understanding your One-LineInstalled Asset Analysis SupportEECO Smart Manufacturing GuideSystem Planning SupportSchedule your Visit to a Lab in North or South CarolinaSchedule your Visit to a Lab in VirginiaSubmit your questions and feedback to: podcast@eecoaskwhy.comFollow EECO on LinkedInHost: Chris Grainger
From Reactive to Proactive: The Evolution of Industrial Power Monitoring
Feb 6 2024
From Reactive to Proactive: The Evolution of Industrial Power Monitoring
Unlock the secrets to operational excellence with a deep dive into the world of power monitoring in industrial manufacturing. We weave through genesis including technology such as chart recorders to the latest sophisticated systems, providing an eye-opening perspective on process health. Discover how the shift from scheduled maintenance to condition-based strategies, with smart motor protection and IIoT solutions like Eaton's Power Xpert meter and Rockwell Automation's PowerMonitor, is not just reducing downtime, but paving the way for remarkable cost savings and enhanced operational efficiency.Imagine a world where maintenance teams can predict equipment failures before they occur, and decisions are made not on hunches but on hard data; that's the reality we're discussing today.  We emphasize the critical role of power monitoring in staying competitive, optimizing energy usage, and extending the life of your assets. Choosing the right power monitoring solution is a journey, and we shed light on the critical mileposts to ensure you're on the right path. Learn about the importance of a compelling proof of concept, scalability, and the collaboration between IT and OT for seamless integration. Remember we're not just a podcast but a community dedicated to fostering growth in the electrical distribution industry, where people and ideas are over products, and continual learning is our driving force. Join us, and let's revolutionize the way we think about power monitoring together.Remember to keep asking why...Power Monitoring Resources:Power Monitoring ArticlePower Show Video Smart Monitoring for Pump ApplicationsEaton Power Xpert Integration Guide Other Resources to help with your journey:Understanding your One-LineInstalled Asset Analysis SupportEECO Smart Manufacturing GuideSystem Planning SupportSchedule your Visit to a Lab in North or South CarolinaSchedule your Visit to a Lab in VirginiaSubmit your questions and feedback to: podcast@eecoaskwhy.comFollow EECO on LinkedInHost: Chris Grainger
Empowering Industrial Automation with IIoT Solutions
Jan 4 2024
Empowering Industrial Automation with IIoT Solutions
Embark on a journey through the evolution of industrial automation as we unravel the mysteries of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) on ECO Ask Why. Prepare to trace the lineage of innovation from the days of clunky relays to the sleek, data-driven era of programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and sophisticated control system. We're not stopping at the hardware; we delve into the networking revolution that's interlinking machines and churning out data at an unprecedented rate. Yes, this data is the new gold, and with the aid of trailblazers like HMS Networks and their offerings, we're dissecting how this precious resource is being mined, refined, and put to work turbocharging manufacturing efficiencies.In our latest installment, the spotlight shines on the unsung heroes of industrial automation—interoperability and standardization. These twin pillars have knocked down walls between disparate systems, thanks to common languages like Ethernet IP.As we peer into the crystal ball of manufacturing's future, the shimmer of edge computing, the allure of AI, and the promise of 5G beckon, foretelling a saga of operational wizardry and split-second strategy. So buckle up, because this episode is an electrifying ride through the past, present, and future of industrial automation that is sure to ignite your imagination and fuel your curiosity.Remember to keep asking why...Automation IIoT Resources:Connectivity ArticleInteroperability ArticleWhat is IIoT ArticleEthernet ArticleOther Resources to help with your journey:Understanding your One-LineInstalled Asset Analysis SupportEECO Smart Manufacturing GuideSystem Planning SupportSchedule your Visit to a Lab in North or South CarolinaSchedule your Visit to a Lab in VirginiaSubmit your questions and feedback to: podcast@eecoaskwhy.comFollow EECO on LinkedInHost: Chris Grainger
The Future of Manufacturing: A Deep Dive into Smart Motor Protection
Dec 4 2023
The Future of Manufacturing: A Deep Dive into Smart Motor Protection
What if the key to revolutionizing your manufacturing operations lies in the smart protection of your motors? As industrial leaders seek competitive advantage, embracing smart motor protection is not just about enhancing reliability and longevity of equipment, but also about steering the company's perception towards quality. We introduce you to the countless benefits of this technology, illustrate how real-time data and proactive interventions can keep expensive downtime at bay, and underscore the importance of seeing beyond the products to the impact on your brand image.Ever considered the shift from reactive to proactive maintenance? The efficiency of smart motor protection is not limited to manufacturing alone, but extends to industrial facilities as well. In our conversation, we'll guide you through the importance of staying hands-on with the latest technologies and how to maximize their potential with the right partners. Assess the impact of smart motor protection on reliability, downtime, energy usage, and explore the critical need for interconnected systems and data-driven insights.Looking forward to you joining us on this exciting journey of transformation.Remember to keep asking why...Smart Motor Protection Resources:Smart Motor Protection ArticleRockwell Automation E300 ArticleEaton C445 InformationOther Resources to help with your journey:Understanding your One-LineInstalled Asset Analysis SupportEECO Smart Manufacturing GuideSystem Planning SupportSchedule your Visit to a Lab in North or South CarolinaSchedule your Visit to a Lab in VirginiaSubmit your questions and feedback to: podcast@eecoaskwhy.comFollow EECO on LinkedIn Host: Chris Grainger
Mastering System Design: From Concept to Reality
Nov 2 2023
Mastering System Design: From Concept to Reality
Are you ready design systems that make a true impact in industrial manufacturing? In this enlightening episode, we're taking you on a tour from the drawing board to the production line. We're not just drawing blueprints here; we're creating tangible, practical systems that will revolutionize the way you work. We'll be sharing tried and tested strategies, setting objectives, and outlining tools you can use to make the design process more efficient.We're excited to take you on a journey through the labyrinth of automation tools. We discuss the top-notch tools like Rockwell Automation's Integrated Architecture Builder and Proposal Works, Bidman from EATON, and the Siemens TIA Selection Tool. Get the inside scoop on how these tools can transform your system design process, making it smoother and more streamlined. We'll also launch into a deep dive into the crux of the system design process - execution - and the importance of having a solid foundation and well-defined plan to bring your system to life.Embrace the importance of upgrading and modernizing your manufacturing equipment. We'll probe into the timing of these upgrades, the risks of waiting for the equipment to fail, and the potential for increased safety and reduced maintenance costs. We'll also disseminate the five value points of modernization - improved efficiency, enhanced safety, integration capabilities, reduced maintenance costs, and scalability. Plus, we'll equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about equipment upgrades. We'll finish with a reflection on the importance of having confidence in your system design and ways to ensure that your design is competitive. We promise you a journey of discovery and learning that will leave you with a treasure trove of insights and strategies for mastering system design in industrial manufacturing. So, tune in and get ready to unleash your full potential in the industrial manufacturing arena.Remember to keep asking why...System Planning Resources:System Planning Blog Let us help you plan your system todayOther Resources to help with your journey:Installed Asset Analysis BlogEECO Smart Manufacturing GuideSubmit your questions and feedback to: podcast@eecoaskwhy.comHost: Chris Grainger
Unleashing Your Asset Potential with Installed Base Evaluations
Oct 2 2023
Unleashing Your Asset Potential with Installed Base Evaluations
What if you had a detailed list of your assets, helping you to prioritize investments, identify risks, and streamline your path to efficiency? That's what an Installed Base Evaluation (IBE) offers, and we're diving deep into the transformative power of IBEs. We'll explore how knowing exactly what you own can serve as a foundation for effective strategizing and action planning where it's needed most.We'll also look at how an IBE can be an engine for facility improvement. It's not just about data - it's about leveraging that data to identify functional improvements, manage surplus and obsolete inventory, and ultimately make better decisions. We'll discuss the crucial steps of an IBE, from trusting the data, verifying accuracy, modernizing goals, to capital planning. Plus, we'll share our tips for creative thinking and identifying quick wins to build trust along the way.As we move forward in our modernization journey, we'll emphasize the importance of device level planning and looking beyond the short term to consider what technologies will be vital in the next couple of years. We'll discuss how best to seek expert advice and innovative solutions, ensuring maximum value from upgrades, and the benefits of documenting realized gains. Finally, we'll focus on how to manage data, establish objectives, and make decisions based on the information obtained from the IBE. It's a packed episode, full of insights that could change your destiny. Tune in and join us on this transformational journey.Remember to keep asking why...Resources:Installed Base Evaluation BlogEECO Smart Manufacturing GuideStart your IBE today with EECOSubmit your questions and feedback to: podcast@eecoaskwhy.comHost: Chris Grainger
250. Idea - How to Debrief to Win
Mar 20 2023
250. Idea - How to Debrief to Win
Debriefing can have a powerful impact on business when done correctly.In this powerful conversation Robert "Cujo" Teschner breaks down the idea behind a debrief and to execute them to achieve significant results.  His definition of a debrief is simple and elegant - Debrief is the constructive evaluation of the quality of our decisions and associated actions measured against the objectives we set out to achieve.The key words of that definition are what Cujo unpacks in detail.  He starts by differentiating between a debrief and feedback.  Current business culture puts a heavy emphasis on feedback and while that has its benefits it often is met with a negative connotation.  A debrief has an entirely different objective and when the culture is created to execute them efficiently, consistently and with a high level of vulnerability magical things begin happening. Cujo gets tactical into how you can begin executing debriefs that make a true impact.  He covers the importance of perspective and ensuring that every seat at the table has an opportunity to be heard.  He breaks down the importance of debriefing wins and not solely focusing on areas of improvement.  This is a monumental shift in thinking as most organizations never take the time to research why and initiative, process, sale was such a big win and spend too much time discussing what went wrong.This conversation you want to have a notepad ready as the wisdom Cujo shared will move the needle.  By the way Cujo is a former fighter pilot and his stories are absolutely incredible!  We thank him for his service and how he continues to make those around him better everyday. Remember to keep asking why...Guests:Robert "Cujo" Teschner - Founder, CEO and Chief Consultant at VMax Group Consulting Cujo's Website VMax Website Submit your question to be featured on EECO Asks Why to podcast@eecoaskwhy.comHost: Chris GraingerExecutive Producer: Adam Sheets
248. Idea - Creating Supply Chain Agility Through Software
Mar 6 2023
248. Idea - Creating Supply Chain Agility Through Software
In this episode we explore the ways in which software can help create supply chain agility. Ara Surenian discusses the importance of supply chain agility, the role of software in achieving it, and some examples of software solutions that can be used to enhance supply chain agility.Specific areas explored are:What is supply chain agility? Ara explains that supply chain agility refers to the ability of a supply chain to quickly and effectively respond to changes in demand, disruptions, and other unexpected events. It involves having the flexibility to adjust production, inventory, and logistics in real-time.How can software help create supply chain agility? Ara unpacks several ways in which software can enhance supply chain agility, such as by providing real-time visibility into inventory levels and shipment status, enabling predictive analytics to anticipate demand and optimize production, and automating manual processes to improve efficiency and reduce errors.Examples of software solutions for supply chain agility. We highlight some popular software solutions that can be used to improve supply chain agility, including transportation management systems, warehouse management systems, and demand planning tools. Each of these solutions provides unique features and benefits that can be tailored to the needs of a specific organization.Best practices for implementing software solutions. For those looking to implement software solutions for supply chain agility, Ara offers some advice on best practices, such as involving all stakeholders in the selection process, testing software thoroughly before implementation, and providing adequate training and support to end-users.We hope that this episode has shed some light on how software can help create supply chain agility. Remember, achieving supply chain agility is a continuous process that requires collaboration, innovation, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances. Remember to keep asking why! Guest: Ara Surenian VP Product Management at PLEXPLEX WebsiteHost: Chris GraingerExecutive Producer: Adam Sheets
246. Idea - Inside look at Modular Data Centers
Feb 20 2023
246. Idea - Inside look at Modular Data Centers
Flexibility, customization and innovation are the heart of the exciting world of modular data centers! In this conversation Michael Hennings and Bret Lehman give an inside look at this evolving technology.  As frontline industry leaders they have a perspective that is unparalleled in this space.  They share insight around how the technology has changed over the years and what is coming down the pike for the future.  In true EECO Asks Why fashion we have some fun and put Modular Data Centers in a ring against Brick and Mortar - listen to see who wins!Michael and Bret had fun playing "Is It True" and took hard hitting questions straight on such as:MDS only come in ISO shipping containers.MDS are only used for temporary installations.MDS tend to be more expensive.MDS are less secure.You have limited hardware and design choices with prefabricated data centers.MDS are fixed and won’t scale.These industry experts unpacked a ton of wisdom and insight in this powerful conversation.  For support with your Modular Data Center solutions let EECO and our valued partners at Hubbell and PCX solve your most complex applications. Remember to keep asking why... Guests: Michael Hennings - Director Business Development at Hubbell IncorporatedBret Lehman - Director of Product and Business Development at PCX Corporation Hubbell WebsitePCX WebsiteSubmit your question to be featured on EECO Asks Why to podcast@eecoaskwhy.comHost: Chris GraingerExecutive Producer: Adam Sheets
245. Hero - Michael Hennings, Director Business Development at Hubbell Incorporated
Feb 13 2023
245. Hero - Michael Hennings, Director Business Development at Hubbell Incorporated
Look for challenges and never be content.That is what drives Michael Hennings and he shares about his amazing journey in this Hero conversation.  Michael is the Director of Business Development at Hubbell and is on the front lines of cutting edge technology daily.  His career began in distribution and has provided him tremendous opportunities to grow into the role he currently has at Hubbell.Michael shares how the recent addition of PCX has changed the game in how the market is being served.  They are consistently looking for new and innovative solutions that solve the most complex items industry faces. He shares insight into how you can enter the industrial world by proven ways that he's seen firsthand.  Learning how to ask questions is huge and for those wanting to pursue a career in sales his advice about being genuine is rock solid! Michael is an elephant hunter in the world of sales and loves the pursuit of large business deals.  In his spare time he can be found on a baseball field coaching his son and is thoroughly enjoying that season of life.Throughout this conversation you can feel Michael's passion for industry and the impact he's making is tremendous.  Sit back, enjoy and learn from our hero Michael Hennings! Remember to keep asking why... Guest: Michael Hennings - Director Business Development at Hubbell IncorporatedHubbell WebsitePCX WebsiteSubmit your question to be featured on EECO Asks Why to podcast@eecoaskwhy.com Host: Chris GraingerExecutive Producer: Adam Sheets
244. Idea - eCommerce Strategy for Manufacturing and Distribution
Feb 6 2023
244. Idea - eCommerce Strategy for Manufacturing and Distribution
83% of B2B buyers prefer an e-commerce or digital experience, as opposed to picking up the phone!Let that sink in for a minute.  The digital experience for those in manufacturing is here and the businesses that are making the investments now will be the ones carrying the flag in the future.  Curt Anderson is the expert in all things eCommerce (he literally wrote the book about it) and in this insight packed conversation he shares all the salient truths that will put any manufacturer on a path to serving the market like never before. He walks through how the desire to digital self-serve is making such an impact and in order to meet the changing customer demands this is no longer a nice feature but rather a must have capability.  Curt gets tactical on steps you can begin taking to move the needle and he even reviews the metrics to measure to gauge success.  One thing you will quickly find after spending any time around Curt is his passion for what he does.  He has an energy and drive that is contagious and his success is driven by his desire to serve.No matter where you sit on your eCommerce journey there is a ton of wisdom and practical insight to start applying to make an impact.  Remember to keep asking why!Guest: Curt Anderson - eCommerce Evangelist for Manufacturers at B2BtailStop Being the Best Kept Secret: Manufacturing eCommerce StrategiesIndustry War Story Submission: Send us a DM!FacebookInstagramHost: Chris GraingerExecutive Producer: Adam Sheets
242. Idea - Quality as a Mindset
Jan 23 2023
242. Idea - Quality as a Mindset
When quality becomes part of your culture the game changes completely! Anthony Murphy shares how he and the team at PLEX stay focused on building solutions that helps organizations align to achieve amazing results.  When everyone is driving in the same direction greatness awaits and the leaders of manufacturing recognize there is tremendous power in this mindset.He reviews how to take a holistic approach to quality and why every stakeholder plays a role in the path to excellence.  The days of quality being a stand alone department are transitioning where all team members are now able to see how they make a direct impact.  Anthony walks out a suggested path forward to those wanting to lean in without making drastic wholesale changes.  He points to the importance of solidifying quick wins that drive impactful business outcomes.  Once measurable success is realized then the snowball begins to take over.Towards the end of this conversation Anthony gives an inside look at his journey and provides great lessons to find success in industry.  He is an avid runner and he is the first interview to share that he enjoys listening to earning calls for publicly traded manufacturing companies while he's logging in the miles! This conversation is chocked full of wisdom and insight that will connect the dots on the ever changing world of quality and how that mindset is leading industry towards great things in the future. Guest: Anthony Murphy VP Product Management at PLEXPLEX WebsiteHost: Chris GraingerExecutive Producer: Adam Sheets
241. Hero - Curt Anderson, eCommerce Evangelist for Manufacturers
Jan 16 2023
241. Hero - Curt Anderson, eCommerce Evangelist for Manufacturers
We need more evangelists for manufacturing!Curt Anderson is one of the most energetic and impactful voices that is ensuring manufacturing get the attention it deserves.  He is extremely passionate about helping manufacturers connect with customers through eCommerce solutions and in this epic Hero conversation he shares his amazing story.Curt took the entrepreneurial plunge in the midst of COVID and never looked back.  He shares a ton of insight into how he responds to the needs of others and builds his business on helping manufacturers connect their solutions to the clients they can serve when they need it the most.  His knowledge around all things eCommerce is incredible and no matter your line of business there are insights guaranteed to help you grow.  He speaks to the importance of niching down until it hurts and how trying to be everything to everyone never leads to the results you desire.  It was an honor to have Curt share his amazing story and with the energy he brings in this interview you may consider doing this one while working out.  He'll have you laughing, inspired and ready to be the best version of yourself.  Cheers to our hero Curt Anderson! Remember to keep asking why!Guest: Curt Anderson - eCommerce Evangelist for Manufacturers at B2BtailStop Being the Best Kept Secret: Manufacturing eCommerce StrategiesHow I Built ThisEd Mylett PodcastIndustry War Story Submission: Send us a DM!FacebookInstagramHost: Chris GraingerExecutive Producer: Adam Sheets
240. Idea - Taking the comPLEX out of MES
Jan 9 2023
240. Idea - Taking the comPLEX out of MES
Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) are impacting factory floors like never before.In this information packed episode we welcome Jerry Foster from Plex to unpack the realities of these powerful solutions.  He shares how the need for manufacturers to track and document the transformation of raw materials into finished goods led to an exciting world of MES.Manufacturers desire control and reporting in ways to maximize efficiencies and ultimately profits in the future.   Jerry shares a ton of insight into how every manufacturer can begin utilizing data to make more informed decisions.  He covers how IT fits into the puzzle and what members of any plant operations can expect from a robust MES solution.He digs in and reviews areas that can be hurdles with implementation and how you can take action to ensure they do not hinder results.  For those thinking that their operations are not large enough just hold on.  The stats Jerry shares will challenge that head on and you will quickly realize this is not just for the elite manufacturers out there.There is nugget after nugget of pure MES gold in this conversation and at the end of the day Jerry does a phenomenal job of simplifying the idea of MES so that you can make informed decisions moving forward.  It was an honor to have Jerry clear the air on the powerful world of MES.For support with your MES needs contact our team of experts who are ready to walk with you for a powerful system that will meet all of your manufacturing goals! Remember to keep asking why!Guest: Jerry Foster - Chief Technology Officer at PLEX PLEX Website Industry War Story Submission: Send us a DM!FacebookInstagramHost: Chris GraingerExecutive Producer: Adam Sheets