Exploring the key themes in manufacturing

Artificial intelligence

AI in manufacturing can help to optimise and automate various aspects of the manufacturing process. This includes using machine learning, computer vision and natural language processing to enhance efficiency, precision and adaptability in production.

AI offers the potential to transform manufacturing by enabling intelligent systems that learn from data, adapt to changing conditions and make real-time decisions, leading to improved product quality, reduced costs and increased productivity.

Many automation components and controllers are already embedding AI technologies for enhanced operation of machines and systems, and machine builders will be able to see a number of examples at MachineBuilding.Live.

Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency in manufacturing focuses on optimising energy use to minimise waste, reduce costs and lower environmental impact. This involves implementing technologies, systems and practices that ensure energy is used effectively across all manufacturing processes.

From variable speed drives and high efficiency motors, to energy monitoring technologies, to taking steps to tackle leaks in compressed air systems, manufacturers can optimise processes, materials and equipment, significantly curtailing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Visitors to MachineBuilding.Live will be able to talk to industry leaders about a whole range of energy efficient technologies, and many of those suppliers will also be able to conduct energy audits to facilities to identify opportunities for energy savings.

Robotics

Robots are a proven technology in manufacturing to automate repeatable tasks, improving efficiency, precision and safety. They can handle a huge range of repetitive, dangerous and complex jobs like assembly, welding, painting, material handling, parts loading, pick and place, and quality inspection. This leads to increased productivity, reduced labour costs, and enhanced product quality.

While there are many perceived barriers to robotic automation, all of these can be overcome, and adoption of robots can deliver a rapid payback period. Despite this, UK manufacturing significantly lags many other nations in its adoption of robots, languishing at 23rd in the league table of robot density.

From colloborative to industrial robots, and their associated controllers, visitors to MachineBuilding.Live will be able to talk to industry leaders about embracing robotics within machine designs.

Predictive maintenance

Predictive maintenance in manufacturing is a proactive approach that uses data analysis and machine learning to anticipate equipment failures and schedule maintenance accordingly, minimising downtime and optimising resource allocation. This contrasts with traditional maintenance methods like reactive maintenance (fixing problems after they occur) and preventive maintenance (scheduled maintenance regardless of equipment condition).

The facility to enable predictive maintenance starts with the machine design, and visitors to MachineBuilding.Live will be able to see examples, of sensors, condition monitoring systems, intelligent actuators, controllers with embedded monitoring technologies, retrofit monitoring solutions and more.

Safety

An ongoing theme at MachineBuilding.Live given the transition from the Machinery Directive to the new Machinery Regulation, visitors will have ample opportunity to talk to suppliers and attend workshops to explore this vital topic.

MachineBuilding.Live is the only specialist event dedicated exclusively to the UK's machine building community. Taking place on 15 October at the NAEC Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire, MachineBuilding.Live is where all the latest innovations and advances in machine building and industrial automation are showcased, with almost 200 exhibitors highlighting the advantages brought by thousands of the latest new products.

Click here to register to attend.