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Automation in Manufacturing: Revolutionizing Productivity and Efficiency

July 31, 2023 // 1 minute read

In today’s fast-paced world, automation has become a buzzword and for good reason. Automation is a game-changer for the manufacturing sector, revolutionizing processes and enhancing productivity. By utilizing largely automatic equipment, businesses can streamline operations, optimize efficiency, and improve worker safety. 

In this article, we will explore the concept of automation, its benefits to the manufacturing sector, and how PennAir’s Automation Division helps customers achieve remarkable results. Let’s delve into the world of automation and discover how it’s reshaping the manufacturing landscape.

What is Automation?

Automation, as defined by the Oxford Dictionary, refers to the use of largely automatic equipment in a system of manufacturing or other production processes. It involves employing machinery and technology to perform tasks that were traditionally carried out by human labor.

Examples of Automated Manufacturing

Fixed Automation: Fixed automation refers to the use of specialized equipment designed to perform a specific set of repetitive tasks. This type of automation is ideal for processes that require consistent precision and speed, such as assembly lines. An example would be using ABB’s CRB 15000 to perform automated material handling. 

Programmable Automation: Programmable automation involves the use of machinery that can be reprogrammed to perform various tasks using automation products like Festo’s Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). This flexibility allows manufacturers to adapt to changing production needs and achieve greater versatility in their operations. 

Flexible Automation: Flexible automation combines the benefits of fixed and programmable automation. It utilizes robotic applications and advanced control technologies to perform a wide range of tasks with high precision and adaptability. Flexible automation is particularly useful for complex manufacturing processes that require agility and customization.  

5 Benefits Automation provides the Manufacturing Sector

Automation holds numerous advantages for the manufacturing sector, making it an attractive solution for businesses seeking enhanced efficiency and productivity.

  1. Enhanced Productivity: Automated processes perform tasks at a consistent speed, eliminating variations caused by human factors. This leads to higher production rates, reduced cycle times, and increased overall output.

  2. Increased Safety and Ergonomic Benefits: Automation allows for the automation of dangerous or physically demanding tasks, minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries. By relieving human workers of strenuous activities, automation promotes a safer and healthier work environment.

  3. Financial Benefits: Automation optimizes operations, reduces labor costs, and enhances resource allocation. By automating repetitive and mundane tasks, businesses can reallocate human resources to more value-added activities, improving overall operational efficiency.

  4. Reduced Waste: Automation ensures precise control over manufacturing processes, reducing material waste, and improving quality control. By minimizing errors and defects, businesses can achieve higher yield rates and reduce costs associated with rework or product recalls.

  5. Simplified Operation: With automation, complex manufacturing processes can be simplified through standardized and automated workflows. This streamlining leads to fewer operational complexities, easier maintenance, and shorter training times for new employees. 

Industries Utilizing Manufacturing Automation

Automation has found its place in a wide range of industries. Here are some sectors that heavily rely on manufacturing automation:

  1. Automotive: The automotive industry utilizes automation for assembly, painting, and quality control processes, ensuring efficient production lines and consistent product quality.

  2. Transportation: Automation plays a crucial role in transportation industries, such as aviation and rail, by enabling precision manufacturing of critical components, improving safety, and reducing maintenance downtime.

  3. Defense: Automation is employed in defense industries for manufacturing advanced weaponry systems, vehicles, and other defense-related equipment. It ensures precision, reliability, and consistency in production.

  4. Medical & Pharmaceuticals: Automation is vital in medical and pharmaceutical manufacturing, ensuring accurate dosage, sterile production environments, and efficient packaging of medicines and medical devices.

  5. Food & Beverage: Automation has transformed food and beverage manufacturing, enabling consistent quality control, precise measurements, and efficient packaging processes while maintaining strict hygiene standards.

  6. Packaging: Automation in the packaging industry ensures precise and efficient packaging of products, reducing human errors and optimizing speed, ultimately enhancing supply chain efficiency.

How PennAir's Automation Division helps Our Customers KICK@$$

Automation presents a modern solution for businesses seeking to boost productivity, enhance quality, ensure traceability, and prioritize safety, all while reducing operating costs. However, implementing automation can be a daunting task, especially when customers have a clear goal in mind but they’re not sure how to get there. That’s where we come in.

At PennAir, we understand our customer base is diverse, with unique needs and challenges. To provide the best possible assistance, we become an extension of your company, offering support precisely where and when you need it by offering:

 

  1. Project Assistance: PennAir’s team of experts collaborates closely with customers to identify and evaluate the ideal components for their projects. From selecting the right equipment to ensuring seamless integration and installation, PennAir provides comprehensive support to optimize project outcomes.

  2. Motion Control Systems: Understanding the importance of performance requirements, PennAir works closely with customers to design and implement efficient motion control systems. These systems are tailored to meet specific expectations, enhancing productivity and precision.

  3. UL Certified Panel Shop: PennAir’s Automation Division operates a UL508A certified panel shop. This certification ensures that the industrial control panels provided by PennAir adhere to safety standards, guaranteeing reliable and secure operations. PennAir is successfully qualified for the Implementation of Manufacturer’s Technical Representative (MTR) Certification for General Coverage of Industrial Control Panels.

  4. Robotic Applications: To boost production efficiency, PennAir evaluates the unique needs of each customer and assists in selecting suitable robotic systems. These systems automate essential tasks, enabling faster and more efficient production processes.

PennAir not only offers top-notch automation solutions but also provides in-house technical support to address any concerns or challenges that customers may face. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, PennAir is committed to delivering phenomenal customer service throughout the automation journey.

PennAir’s Automation Division collaborates with multiple industry-leading suppliers and capable integrators to offer a comprehensive range of automation solutions. Partnerships with reputable brands such as Tolomatic, ABB, Nidec, Schunk, Festo, Dorner, Schmalz, and Leuze ensure that customers have access to cutting-edge technologies and expertise.

From the initial stages of component selection to engineering services and assembly, we leverage our expertise and product lines to seamlessly integrate your designs and requirements. By combining your vision with our experience, we collaborate closely to create a tailored automated system that aligns with your processes and needs.

Automation is reshaping the manufacturing sector, delivering enhanced productivity, safety, and efficiency. Businesses across various industries are reaping the benefits of automation, and PennAir’s Automation Division stands at the forefront, helping customers unlock their full potential. Whether it’s identifying areas for automation improvement, providing expert guidance, or offering exceptional customer service, PennAir is committed to supporting customers on their journey to success in the automated manufacturing world. Embrace the power of automation and witness your manufacturing operations reach new heights with PennAir as your trusted partner.

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