The Benefits of Factory Automation

The first and most important benefit is increased productivity. Robotic systems ensure that companies can have faster manufacturing times and increased efficiency. By making goods faster companies can sell more items and therefore make more profit and because of the increased efficiency goods are delivered and manufactured in a timelier manner than before. This also enables companies to “turn on a dime” when the wind changes. But more of that in a minute.

 

The second benefit is that, despite an initial huge outlay, automated systems do provide significant cost savings. However, this outlay is quickly paid back with the increased efficiency of the system and the reduced number of staff required to perform labor intensive tasks and reduced wastage of faulty materials and products. In warehouses, driverless automated vehicles are capable of operating in “lights-out” conditions from the receiving area to the shipping dock, so now these machines can ensure that work is carried out around the clock, making the most of the rental of the property.
 

The third benefit is improved quality. By automating manufacturing the resulting products have a guarantee to be the same every time and any errors or defects are picked up by automated quality control. With automation these processes can be regulated and controlled so the quality of the end product is vastly improved.

 

A fourth benefit is improved safety when working with hazardous substances and in dangerous environments such as  frigid, explosive, foundry, cleanroom therefore saving employees from dangers that could result in hospitalization. This means that they can be used in more challenging operation and programming jobs and therefore protect against expensive insurance claims.

 

The fifth and final benefit is that of an increased competitive edge. With the global marketplace being as fast paced as it is, companies need to keep up with their competition and try and move ahead. Automated manufacturing also improves the competitive edge by providing flexibility and convertibility in the manufacturing process as it provides manufacturers with the ability to change the types of products they produce without having to retool and rebuild the entire production line.

 

With all these benefits it’s clear to see that manufactures should have no hesitation in investing in factory automation to provide them with an advantage over their competition.