OTC Insights Team
Established in 1963, OTC Industrial Technologies is one of the largest industrial distributors & service providers in the United States. We're committed to seeing industrial operations advance through expert technical solutions & unmatched support using our years of experience.
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Industrial automation can help your manufacturing business run more smoothly and efficiently. With an understanding of automation strategies, you can unlock opportunities for increased efficiency using automation.
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Types of Manufacturing Automation
While there is a range of automation tools, sensors, and technologies, most can be grouped into four broad categories, including:
1. Fixed Automation
Fixed automation is a type of industrial automation where machines are dedicated to a specific task, with little or no operator involvement. Fixed automation is typically used in manufacturing where large volumes of identical products are produced. It’s also often used for tasks such as machining, welding, and assembly.
While fixed automation can be expensive to set up, there are many business advantages once it is in place, such as saving companies money with every production run, increasing productivity, and reducing labor costs.
An example of fixed automation would be an assembly line for car manufacturing. The machines on the assembly line are permanently set up to assemble car parts in a specific order.
2. Programmable Automation
Automation in which machines can be programmed to perform different tasks is known as programmable automation. As the cost of technology has decreased and new tools have increased capability, programmable automation has become increasingly common because of its advantages to efficiency and productivity.
One example of programmable automation would be a robotic arm. The robotic arm can be programmed to perform different tasks, such as welding or painting. In addition, programmable automation can also be used to control the movement of other types of manufacturing equipment, such as variable-speed conveyor belts that operate to assist production, rather than move at a set rate.
3. Flexible Automation
When machines are designed to be easily reconfigured to create and build products in a variety of different shapes, sizes, configurations, and materials, it is known as flexible automation. Flexible automation can also be used to change the production process without having to stop the production line to switch the tools and machines over. It provides manufacturing more flexibility and increases efficiency for discrete manufacturers.
An example of flexible automation would be a robotic arm in a factory that is equipped with different attachments. By switching out the attachments, the robotic arm can be quickly reconfigured to perform different tasks.
4. Integrated Automation
Integrated automation utilizes multiple machines that have been integrated into one system. This enables machines to communicate and share data with each other to increase productivity and efficiency. By integrating automation into the manufacturing process across machines, companies are able to have the machines receive and act on data and information automatically, reducing waste, saving time, and improving quality control. In many cases, integrated automation can also lead to a reduction in the need for human labor. Since the machines are directing work with their own input, employees can be moved to higher-priority work.
One example of integrated automation would be an assembly line where each machine is connected to a central system. The system controls monitor the assembly line and ensure that each machine is working properly. Any change can be input into the central system, eliminating the need to direct individual machines.
Begin Automating Your Manufacturing Process with OTC
Automation holds great promise and possibility for manufacturers. As technology has been refined and more options have become available, companies have begun implementing new systems. By evaluating your needs, then matching them with the available automation tools, you can directly address current needs for a rapid ROI.
If you have any questions about automation products, contact OTC today to discuss your needs or to talk about your options for increasing productivity and improving efficiency.
