Making Things Move

Automation Has Caught The Fancy Of Indian Manufacturing Companies. But How They Are Working At It Is What Lies Within.

AS MANUFACTURING COMPANIES FACE increased competition – and get by with lower headcount – they are constantly looking for every means possible to boost the efficiency of their manufacturing automation processes and decrease costs. Most companies define efficiency in their own way but there are some common interests. The focus on equipment performance is one, with “overall equipment efficiency” (OEE) coming up in more and more discussions. The use of data to measure and report on performance is another. Collecting the data is one thing. Knowing what to collect is another. Knowing how to analyse and present actionable data for shop floor management and operators comprises yet another essential skillset.

In the last two decades, technology has massively evolved, thereby transforming the nature of industrial and manufacturing operations. Indeed, industries are no longer entirely dependent on a human workforce for simple or complex tasks. With digitalisation and IoT, industrial automation has become a competitive advantage in today’s industrial landscape.

Dr Ashok Kumar, ED, Pudumjee Pulp and Paper Mills, says, "Streamlining manufacturing must sync with technology. This ensures that deliveries are smooth and there are no glitches in the supply chain. A good production plan involving all cross-functions can reduce stress and improve delivery.”