Technology Is Changing the Manufacturing Business
Computerized machinery and smart building features have transformed the manufacturing business and manufacturing facilities.
“In the past, manufacturing equipment was very manual: operated by individual switches, transformers, etc. In today’s world, almost every machine has a computer in it,” Calderon, general manager of industrial accounts at Current, powered by GE, tells GlobeSt.com. “This has opened the door for virtually limitless possibilities in terms of creating a connected environment. Digital platforms enable enhanced visibility to the performance of the machines, the flow of raw materials, and even the movement of people throughout a facility. The benefits of utilizing digital platforms for manufacturing include energy efficiency, improved safety and product quality, predicting preventative maintenance, and asset tracking and performance.”
Smart building digital platforms are creating efficiencies in the building. Scheduling programs that can do everything from turn light fixtures on or off and automated HVAC systems are boosting energy efficiencies as well as saving on energy costs. Technology is also improving safety within the building. “Digital platforms can monitor the movement of equipment such as forklifts moving through the plant, helping workers avoid collisions. In the case of an emergency or a building evacuation each worker’s location is known and everyone is accounted for,” says Calderon. “Environmental monitoring on digital platforms allows building managers to better monitor CO2 levels or other harmful gases in the plant to make sure the condition of the air is in a healthy range.”
In addition to creating efficiencies, manufacturers are also relying on technology to improve business operations, starting with maintenance of machinery. The smart technology in warehouses today can proactively diagnose equipment to determine whether an asset is at risk of a failure and issue a repair request in advance to prevent breakdowns. “These types of platforms can also monitor the wear and tear of equipment with much greater precision than previously available,” says Calderon. “One of the biggest priorities of any plant is to maintain throughput. A lot of these plants run 24/7, meaning that each minute that production is stopped is extremely costly. It is imperative that production lines stay running – automation can help with that by preventing system-stopping failures from happening.”
The technologies are also able to track performance and the movement of goods. “Digital platforms provide the ability to trace the movement of goods, people, and equipment like never before,” adds Calderon. “Real-time location services can pinpoint the location of high dollar assets and tools along with people and machines.”
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