Industrial automation is the future. Here’s why.
One of the core characteristics of industry 4.0 is enhanced efficiency, and automation systems play a crucial role in it. As creatures of habit, change can be overwhelming and, at times, even frightening for us humans. But the fact is that, as Heraclitus said centuries ago, "change is the only constant in life," so if production companies want to remain competitive, they will have to adopt automated systems. And that's a good thing.
There's a reason why the automation of production processes is an increasing trend in almost every industry. It's not that you should implement these high-tech solutions just because they're available. It's the immense benefits they bring in terms of efficiency, control, accuracy, and productivity that should lure you.
Automation is all about smarter, faster, and more efficient production. These are some of its main advantages:
Increased productivity
Automation allows for 24/7 production. Processes can be programmed and executed by machines, even unattended, resulting in constant productivity.
Lower operating costs
Machines, robots, and specialized software can perform much faster and more accurately than humans, which results in lower labor costs, more efficient use of energy, fewer human errors, and thus reduced material waste.
Increased product quality
High-precision smart machines that learn how to improve their performance allow accuracy, consistency, and superior product quality.
Increased worker safety
Machines can perform dangerous tasks and work in hazardous environments that would risk the well-being of workers. Plus, they take over tedious activities, so workers carry out jobs that require higher skills.
Improved planning
Machine learning through repetitive processes gives way to higher predictability of time and costs for any project, hence better planning.
More efficient use of floor space
Robots, machines, and automation software can take advantage of vertical space like walls, tracks, ceilings, and rails saving valuable floor space and making room for more productivity.
Easy integration
Automation systems are flexible, versatile, and built to work in sync. Machines "learn" new processes instantaneously, while hardware and software quickly adapt to updates, new utilities, and applications.
Decreased environmental footprint
A faster, more accurate production that optimizes processes and floor space, uses energy more efficiently and reduces scrap translates into a lower CO2 footprint.
Now, down to our business. What advantages does automation bring to the fiber laser cutting industry?
Faster material exchange for uninterrupted production
Automation systems cooperating with fiber laser cutters have an enormous impact on overall productivity. As a result of automated loading and unloading systems, manufacturers benefit from a faster material exchange, which means less time spent in manual handling and, therefore, shorter operating times. By constantly feeding the laser cutter with sheets, it can perform at full cutting capacity bringing about larger production volumes.
Any sheet metal manufacturer can attest that the slightest interruption in the cutting process affects operating costs. If the goal is to reduce downtimes and aim for continuous production, automation systems allow the line-up of cutting programs that keep the machine up and running 24/7.
Warehouse, storage, and production hall communication
Automation makes possible swifter and more organized logistics. Machine software is in constant communication with automated warehouse systems, and this data exchange secures long-term material supply, optimizes intralogistics and storage processes, and guarantees material readiness.
An automated storage system allows you to monitor warehouse status for control over your stock and saves valuable production space thanks to the compact design of storage towers. It also reduces the amount of equipment needed with non-automated material handling, such as forklifts and other bulky machinery. Thereby, everything is easier to plan and control, losses resulting from scratched metal sheets due to improper storage are avoided, and operators don't have to deal with monotonous sheet handling.
Overall, a reliable and money-saving connection between the warehouse and the production hall is a competitive asset you want to have.
High precision and part quality
Regarding precision, by transferring certain activities from human to machine, automated cutting systems minimize errors and reduce labor costs. This saves you money on two fronts: on the one hand, you need less workforce; on the other, you make the most of the material by producing less waste.
Process efficiency and improved working conditions
Automated laser-cutting machine systems have data processing, analysis, and reporting capabilities beyond what any human could achieve at such speed and accuracy. They can also exchange and handle material with an efficiency none of us could deliver, least of all 24/7.
New technologies relieve operators of tedious, repetitive, and potentially dangerous work in the fiber laser cutting industry. In turn, safer positions that require more creative and intellectual skills are created, and jobs become more attractive.
To sum up
Automation systems have become essential in today's fast-growing laser-cutting industry, especially for high-speed laser cutters. Why? Simply because they allow the manufacturer to exploit the fiber laser machine's capabilities fully. How? Increasing productivity, efficiency, and accuracy while reducing downtime, labor costs, costs per part, and waste material.
So, if you want to optimize production processes, increase your profits, and remain competitive, consider purchasing laser cutters that work with automated systems or retrofitting the ones you currently own.