Have you ever wondered what the benefits of manufacturing automation might be for your business? Read on to learn more about what manufacturing automation is, how it has evolved, and its benefits for both the environment and your bottom line.
What is Manufacturing Automation and How Has it Evolved?
Manufacturing automation, often referred to as factory automation or industrial automation uses a combination of software, computers, and robotics (or control systems) in place of human labour. Economic and global shifts affect manufacturing trends and the changing needs and evolution of the industry are matched by changes in manufacturing automation.
As the world becomes more acutely aware of the effects of climate change, demands for more sustainable manufacturing practices are on the rise. Manufacturing automation companies have helped the industry at large keep pace with this demand.
This can be seen through the development and use of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to achieve ‘Smart Manufacturing’ practices. Smart Manufacturing connects various control systems through the Internet of Things (IoT). Using a combination of data analytics and machine learning, these devices work together to create a more efficient and sustainable process.
Companies that use manufacturing automation experience increases in accuracy, flexibility, and productivity with decreases in energy consumption, waste, and workplace injury. These benefits mean that manufacturing automation can bolster a company’s bottom line and provide a more sustainable approach to manufacturing.
Although constructing a sustainable factory may require more upfront capital, the reduced operating expenses, increased productivity, and increased flexibility made available to companies through ‘Smart Manufacturing’ means long term savings. Many manufacturers from breweries to pulp and paper mills are catching on to the environmental benefits of manufacturing automation.
What are the Environmental Benefits of Manufacturing Automation?
Automated manufacturing is inherently sustainable. Its existence allows companies to create and use processes that minimize the negative environmental impact. This helps companies to achieve sustainable manufacturing goals including lowered energy, water, and land usage.
Here are some of the ways that manufacturing automation companies help the environment:
- Data collected is used by manufacturers to ensure their machines are efficient.
- More efficient machines have lower heating requirements.
- Robots help to streamline processes, meaning less material waste.
- Automation allows for reduced cycle times, resulting in reduced energy output.
- Robots can be compact and can streamline processes thus requiring less factory floor space.
From a business perspective, manufacturing automation can help companies reach key performance indicators (KPIs) related to corporate sustainability and environmental regulatory compliance. A combination of regulations and internal guidelines have resulted in industrial companies seeing cost savings and increased efficiency.
Manufacturing Automation Companies
Sustainable manufacturing and automation are two pieces of a very large environmental puzzle. Companies who grow and evolve with an eye to the future will see that investing in sustainable innovations is necessary to become economically competitive. This leads to new job opportunities and a more stable future for both the company and the environment.
Manufacturing automation companies like Innovative Automation support sustainable manufacturing through automation and have the experience and skills necessary to tackle your automation project. We are experts in a wide variety of manufacturing automation applications including assembly automation, testing automation, robotics and welding. Contact us today to discuss how a sustainable manufacturing automation solution can help your business.