Industrial automation can be a complicated, yet worthwhile, venture. Let us help you make it simple. Starting on the path of automation is exciting. Visions of clean, efficient production lines worked by robots and humans in tandem will capture the heart of any modern-day technology enthusiast. For some manufacturers, however, automation can be a source of anxiety. That’s when iGAM and NRTC Automation step in to help. Together, we make automation accessible for manufacturers of any size and industry. Learn more about the top three automation mistakes to avoid and how we can help you achieve your production goals below.

Mistakes to avoid when automating your manufacturing line

Why automation is necessary in manufacturing

Manufacturing can be a long, time-consuming process. There can be excess waste that not only hurts the environment, but also hurts your wallet. Plus, manufacturing jobs can be extremely dangerous to employees, putting them at risk of illness, injury, and even death. That’s why automation is necessary in manufacturing. Industrial robots and equipment address all these issues:

• Time: Automation will speed up the production process and get your product to your customers sooner.
• Resources: Industrial automation, and especially automation in lean manufacturing settings, reduces waste such as energy waste, product waste, and more.
• Safety: Robots can handle the dirty, monotonous, and repetitive jobs. That means your workers will be less at risk for injuries or fatalities on the job.

The process of automating your facility

Adding industrial automation to your production line can be a difficult process if you aren’t sure where to start. Here is a very basic outline of the automation process from start to finish:

1. Knowing what applications need to be automated is the first step as this will guide you through what equipment you need to purchase.
2. Then, you need to research the best equipment for the most cost-effective price and find brands that will integrate with each other on your production line.
3. After you purchase the equipment, installing it and programming it is the next step.
4. Finally, you have to run the production line, which may require an operator, and perform regular maintenance to ensure that your equipment continues to run properly.

If you are an industry veteran, perhaps you can get by without help. However, for the rest of us, industrial automation can be a tricky process that requires extensive research and expert support.

3 manufacturing automation mistakes to avoid

iGAM is here to help you navigate the world of automation. Take our three tips to avoid common automation mistakes and save yourself a headache.

1. Buying the wrong equipment

Don’t buy welding end-of-arm tooling when your robot is going to be painting. That’s an easy one. The more difficult part of choosing the right equipment is making sure the equipment you have will connect with the new equipment. Your equipment needs to act like a network so you can get the data you need to optimize your production line. If you aren’t sure, check in with manufacturing experts (like our iGAM Specialists) to ensure that everything will integrate smoothly.

2. Using inefficient programming

One of the pillars of lean manufacturing is efficiency. And depending on your equipment’s programming, you could be wasting a lot of time, motion, and energy, which turns into lost revenue. Program your robots to be as efficient in their movements as possible. Reduce any unnecessary swinging, up and down, and side to side movements. Need help programming your equipment? iGAM’s sister company, NRTC Automation, offers Robotic Engineering Services to help you get your equipment up to speed.

3. Skipping maintenance

Last but not least, maintenance is one of the most important parts of keeping your equipment happy. Skipping maintenance will result in equipment breakdowns, requiring costly repairs that cause downtime on your production floor. Downtime can get expensive quickly, so save money by scheduling regular maintenance for your equipment. Keep manufacturer manuals in one place to easily access maintenance instructions when the time comes.

Get expert automation assistance with NRTC Automation

NRTC Automation offers full-service automation and decommissioning services to help you meet your production goals. NRTC can help you design, build, and engineer a turnkey automation cell to speed up production in your facility. No matter your size, industry, or application needs, NRTC will customize a cell according to your unique production line. Plus, NRTC offers financing so any manufacturer can access automation to improve their processes. Visit the Financing page to learn more, or schedule a free consultation to have our experts analyze your automation needs.

Visit the iGAM Marketplace today

iGAM is the leading online marketplace for used industrial robots, robot parts, and manufacturing equipment. We specialize in providing affordable products that meet the demands of your business and enjoy working with our customers to deliver the results they expect. With unbeatable prices, selection, and customer service, iGAM aims to be the ultimate destination for automation products across the industry and an essential part of every manufacturer’s asset management strategy. Get up to 80 percent off brand name equipment like KUKA, ABB, FANUC, and Yaskawa when you shop online today.