When automation was introduced in factories, its sole purpose was to increase productivity and to reduce operating costs – especially since robots could work 24 hours a day without a break. However, there’s been a shift in the collective mindset as businesses discover industrial automation is also essential to increasing the overall quality and flexibility in their processes.

Take the automotive industry as a prime example. In the past, the installation of pistons in a car’s engine was a manual function with an estimated error rate of 1 to 1.5%. Now, due to automated machinery, such as robots, the error rate sits at approximately 0.00001%. That’s a significant difference that translates into serious and impactful savings – both in terms of time and money.

The advantages of industrial automation

According to a Fortune Business Insights, the industrial automation market reached $157.04 billion in 2018 and is expected to reach $296.70 billion in 2026. Naturally, this increase is due to industries quickly discovering the advantages of automation as they strive to move towards Industry 4.0.

But what are the main benefits you can expect to see? 

Productivity. Industrial automation enables a manufacturing plant to operate around the clock without the need for a break or holiday. Through the implementation of robotics, it’s possible to see an increase in the overall production and efficiency of your line. More importantly, it allows a business to predict its throughput accurately, which is a huge plus for forecasting.

Speed. A machine is capable of achieving speeds that aren’t humanly possible. This means that a robot will be able to perform a task faster than any human counterpart – and as mentioned before, you won’t be sacrificing any quality for an increase in performance.

Precision. With increased speed, you also require precision. Whether a robot is assembling a smartphone and all its intricate parts or handling large items up to hundreds of kilograms, accuracy and care are essential. Thankfully, robots are renowned for being extremely precise and maintaining the highest quality standards.

Flexibility. If you were to add a new task to the assembly line, you’d need to train a human operator on how to do it. In the case of a robot, it offers a high degree of flexibility. If you need a robot to perform a new function or task, it’s often just software programming that’s required. And even in the instance that a different gripper is required, it’s still more cost-effective than buying a new machine or training up a new staff member.

Safety. Manufacturing plants need to adhere to the highest health and safety standards. Through the use of robotics, it’s possible to deploy robots to handle dangerous tasks or hazardous conditions.

Maintenance. Most newer robots are designed with fewer parts and cables, allowing for any possible faults to be traced and identified quicker than before. Naturally, this means reduced downtime because of easy maintenance.

Space. We’re living in an age where less is more. Manufacturing plants are trying to maximise the square metreage available and to avoid bulky items that take up too much space. Due to the design of robots, they’re relatively easy to install and capable of operating in the tightest of spaces.

Get in touch with Yaskawa to discuss industrial robotics

Through decades of technical progress and unmatched experience, we’ve established ourselves as the leaders and experts in the field of industrial automation. Yaskawa understands the specific challenges that industries face, knowing full well that a one-size-fits-all solution isn’t the right answer.

This is why we design flexible and intelligent robotic solutions that can be tailored to align with your business needs. Additionally, we provide the training, upskilling and support for the robot, empowering you and your staff with the appropriate knowledge and technical knowhow to get maximum value out of your solution.

If you’d like to discuss how Yaskawa can add real value to your business through the use of industrial automation, please contact us for more info.