Investing in new automation equipment or custom process machinery is a great way to improve production efficiency. Begin by defining the project goals and creating a prioritized list of features the new equipment should have.
Once you have established your requirements, find a reputable equipment builder to help you design and manufacture the equipment to meet them. Schedule visits with them to both your plant and their facilities and share the information you have put together. Ask them to provide you with system concepts and budgetary quotes.
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Increased Productivity
Custom automation equipment significantly impacts how you run your production process. It can improve productivity, reduce downtime, lower maintenance costs, and increase safety.
When manufacturing companies implement custom automation equipment, they can meet high production demands while keeping costs down and quality up. They can also integrate automated equipment into existing production processes to enhance their capabilities.
As a result, companies that automate can improve their manufacturing processes and compete with competitors in the marketplace. They can quickly achieve higher quality, productivity, and throughput while staying competitive.
As automation continues evolving, we expect increased integration into factory production lines. It will allow more manufacturers to utilize the power of automation to increase production and boost their productivity in ways that would have been impossible a few years ago. It will help them to keep up with rising demand, improving their overall competitive edge in the market.
Reduced Downtime
In the manufacturing industry, downtime can be a major issue. Whether it’s an unexpected delay in production, a broken piece of equipment, or even a simple error, downtime can be expensive and affect productivity.
In a highly automated environment, the most effective way to reduce downtime is to ensure employees are trained and equipped to handle problems when they arise. It includes a clear set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and initial and refresher training on all equipment.
Operators should be able to locate the root of any issue and attempt to find a solution to reduce further downtime.
It requires knowledge and keen attention to detail, and it also means having a team that is familiar with the machinery and the sound and appearance of the process when it is in operation.
It is where a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) comes in handy. It will show when a break in production occurs and what is going on during that time, helping you track and analyze the cause of downtime.
Lower Maintenance Costs
Custom automation equipment can improve your production process in various ways, but one of the most important benefits is the ability to lower maintenance costs. By incorporating maintenance strategies that follow strict schedules set by your manufacturer, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure all production equipment runs smoothly at all times.
Preventative maintenance can also extend the life of your manufacturing automation equipment and increase productivity in your production facility. Exhaustive engineering analyses help identify lubrication levels, vibrations, and other factors leading to robot wear and tear.
A preventive maintenance strategy can significantly reduce downtime in a manufacturing environment and even help you keep up with fabrication timetables for new products. Maintaining equipment can also help you minimize engineering errors and ensure your end products are as high-quality as possible.
Increased Safety
Custom automation equipment can improve your production process in several ways. One of the most important benefits is that it can help you create a safer workplace.
A safer work environment keeps workers healthy, reduces injury costs, and creates a stress-free work environment. In addition, it can increase employee retention.
Using automated systems can also help companies meet safety standards and regulatory requirements. Manufacturers can use sensors and cameras to detect and prevent accidents that could lead to severe injuries or even death.
Automated machines are typically more efficient and faster than humans. It can lead to a significant increase in productivity. However, it is essential to remember that they still need routine maintenance and monitoring.