As manufacturing facilities look to get back on track from the global pandemic which has caused supply chain issues, staffing shortages, and a shift in the economy, they are looking to increase productivity to a greater scale.
If your company is looking for a solution that promotes long-term results, a new or upgraded investment in industrial automation may be the most valued option. Let’s look at some of the potential benefits of automation and learn how they can make a difference in your production.
Increased Production
One of the significant advantages of automation is its ability to limit and, in some cases, eliminate the need for manual intervention. Manual processes that may have created bottlenecks in the past can be re-engineered, so production volumes increase without sacrificing quality or requiring additional staffing.
Once an automated workflow is implemented, the chance for production errors drops dramatically; variability factors associated with performing manual tasks are eliminated. This results in the delivery of consistently higher-quality products and services.
Safer Working Environments
Interacting with machinery and heavy equipment is inherently dangerous. Performing repetitive tasks poses a risk of injury and can also create worker fatigue. Automation significantly reduces the need for workers to be in close proximity to moving equipment and frees them to focus on other important tasks. Creating distance between workers and active machinery results in a safer and more productive workplace.
Reduced Equipment Downtime
When you take advantage of integrated automation, you gain critical insight into the operational status of your system. Sophisticated control systems like OSCO Connect can monitor components, perform diagnostics, trigger alerts, troubleshoot, and send communications to panels and alert management via intelligent devices. Having access to this type of information in real-time keeps equipment up and running and can help you avoid production delays.
Increased Production Efficiency
Unfortunately, the manufacturing process can result in a large volume of wasted materials. Modern automation systems can monitor and report on the usage of various material components and highlight opportunities to improve workflows and reduce costs.
Collect Accurate Metrics
Compiling accurate production statistics and metrics can be difficult when work is performed manually. Data historically tracked in spreadsheets and logs is automatically captured by computer systems and stored in databases. Thanks to 24/7 monitoring, automated systems can deliver analytics and trending continuously so that management can make informed decisions.
Create Operational Improvements
Over time, as the production statistics are reviewed, management will likely discover opportunities for improvements. Thanks to the operational transparency provided by automated processes, workflow adjustments can be made based on functional activity and then reviewed to confirm success.
Increase Revenue
Industrial operations involve a broad range of costs. By leveraging automated features, businesses can increase revenue by reducing costs (less waste, reduced overtime, avoiding downtime, creating efficiencies) and raising production quality and volumes.
How OSCO Can Help
We have extensive experience in every phase of control automation development, management, and implementation, and we understand the complexities of today’s technology. From custom panels to PLCs and cloud-based software, OSCO Controls can install new controls automation designs or create solutions that integrate with your existing equipment.
The initial cost of implementing automation may be significant, but the ROI can easily offset your investment over time. The OSCO team can help you evaluate your goals and options and design a strategy that makes financial sense for your business. Contact us today for a free quote, and let’s get started!