Pacific Blue Engineering

03/10/2026

CBTC transforms century-old transit systems—increasing capacity 30-50% on existing infrastructure. NYC achieved 10% speed gains. 60% of new metro projects worldwide now use CBTC. Complete guide: https://pacificblueengineering.com/cbtc-systems-transit-control-complete-guide/

03/03/2026

Lockout tagout violations rank #5 on OSHA's most cited standards — and 120 workers die every year from stored energy accidents. A poster on the wall isn't enough. From authorization gaps to multi-energy isolation, is your LOTO program truly compliant? https://bit.ly/4r2pCM2

02/26/2026

Scaling food and beverage production requires more than just new machinery. It requires a robust automation stack—integrating PLC programming, SCADA systems, and process control to maximize uptime. Our 2026 guide breaks down how to build a resilient architecture for F&B manufacturing.

Comprehensive guide to industrial automation, control systems, PLC programming, SCADA systems, and process optimization in food and beverage manufacturing.

02/25/2026

Traditional signaling has reached its limit. CBTC systems are the future of transit, offering up to 50% capacity increases without building new lines. From energy efficiency to full automation, modernization is the key to 21st-century urban rail. Read our complete guide to communications-based train control.

https://pacificblueengineering.com/cbtc-systems-transit-control-complete-guide/

02/24/2026

Machine metrics are critical to driving performance improvement. To support this type of effort, PBE recently developed a bolt-on application for a customer by using a combination of proven industrial hardware and open-source software. The application is self-contained and doesn’t require external support but can be connected to be remotely accessible. Now they have at their fingertips access to not only high level OEE metrics, but also fault logs, MTBF / MTTR and Pareto charts to support their improvement program. This will allow for focused effort giving measurable results. And once their goal is met, the application can be redeployed to a different machine. Contact us to learn more. https://pacificblueengineering.com/

02/19/2026

Aging rail infrastructure limits capacity. CBTC modernizes fixed-block signaling for real-time train control—NYC deployments showed 10% speed increases without new tracks. Major cities worldwide are implementing CBTC systems. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3NJfYjM

02/18/2026

Meet Louie, PBE's Automation & Controls Engineer

Louie joined Pacific Blue Engineering after graduating from UCLA with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Now a TÜV SÜD–certified Functional Safety Engineer, he specializes in controls, automation, and safety systems across food & beverage, automotive, aerospace, and life sciences. His project experience includes work for SpaceX, PepsiCo, Toyota, and Bio-Rad, with expertise ranging from wastewater systems and combustion processes to AGVs and warehouse automation. Louie is passionate about designing safer industrial environments through thoughtful risk assessment and enjoys supporting clients from concept through commissioning. Originally from Los Angeles, he recently relocated to Boston where he enjoys running, hiking, and exploring the city's restaurant scene.

02/17/2026

PLCs control the invisible systems keeping transit running 24/7—from track switches to platform doors. The market for transit PLCs will exceed $174B in 2026, with edge computing and AI enabling predictive maintenance. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4a74Ftb

02/11/2026

CBTC uses wireless tech to manage train movements, but what happens when communications fail? Fallback systems automatically take over—maintaining safe operations even during disruptions. Discover how these critical backup systems protect millions of commuters: https://bit.ly/4ar2oKs

02/04/2026

Machine safety + controls engineering work together to protect workers while maximizing productivity. Our 2026 guide covers OSHA updates, AI innovations & Industry 5.0.
Learn more: https://bit.ly/3MjJjkj

01/28/2026

Food & beverage processors face rising costs and higher throughput demands. Smart process controls and control panel design improve efficiency, protect margins, and boost OEE.
See how: https://bit.ly/3YkLfLZ

01/20/2026

Food processing is getting more complex. Strong control system engineering brings automation, data, and equipment together for reliable, scalable production. Get integration right from the start.
Learn more: https://bit.ly/44X3jiS