Industrial automation has become a necessity for companies seeking to improve their productivity and competitiveness. to improve their productivity and competitiveness. According to a report by The Insight Partnersreport, it is projected that industrial automation market is projected to reach $322.67 billion by 2030, growing from $171.23 billion in 2022, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.2% over the 2022-2030 period. This data reflects a clear trend: automated machinery is the future of the industry.
Choosing the right machinery is a crucial process that can determine the success or failure of a company. It is not just a matter of acquiring modern equipment, but of selecting those that truly align with the needs and objectives of the business. In this article, we explore the key factors in choosing the ideal automated machinery for your company.
How to choose the right automated machinery for your business
Analyze your company’s needs
Before investing in machinery, it is essential to analyze the specific needs of the company. Questions such as:
- What is the expected production volume?
- What are the processes that could benefit from industrial automation?
- Are there bottlenecks in production that can be solved with automated machinery?
Performing an accurate diagnosis will allow you to identify which type of machinery is the most suitable for your business.
Considers efficiency and return on investment (ROI)
According to a study by McKinsey & Company, automation can reduce operating costs by 25% to 40% and improve efficiency by 20% to 50%. However, the initial investment can be considerable, so return on investment (ROI) is key. To do so, consider factors such as:
- Acquisition and maintenance cost.
- Reduction of production times.
- Labor savings.
- Improved product quality.
If the machinery allows the investment to be recovered within a reasonable period of time, it is a sign that it is a good option.
Evaluates available technology
The market offers a wide range of options in automated machinery. Some of the most advanced technologies include:
Collaborative robotics:
Robots that can work alongside operators, improving safety and efficiency.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning:
They enable process optimization and data-driven decision making.
Internet of Things (IoT):
Facilitates remote monitoring and predictive maintenance.
It is important to choose technologies that are not only modern, but also compatible with the company’s current processes.
Consider scalability
Business growth is a key objective, so the machinery selected must be scalable. Investing in equipment that can adapt to increased demand or integrate with new technologies will avoid unnecessary future investments.
Ensure technical support and maintenance
High-quality automated machinery can become inefficient without good technical support. When choosing a supplier, it is important to evaluate:
Spare parts availability:
When purchasing automated machinery, it is essential to ensure that the supplier offers fast availability of spare parts. Otherwise, a mechanical failure could halt production for days or even weeks, resulting in financial losses and order delays.
Factors to consider:
- Does the supplier have a local stock of spare parts or do you need to import them?
- How long does it take for critical spare parts to arrive?
- Are spare parts standard or machine specific (which can make replacement more expensive and delayed)?
- Does the supplier offer basic spare parts packages with the purchase of the machinery?
Example: Imagine you have an automated robot on an assembly line and a key part fails. If the replacement part is not immediately available, the production line may stop, affecting delivery to customers.
Response time to failures:
The time it takes for the supplier to respond to a breakdown is crucial to minimize production downtime. Some suppliers have remote assistance for quick diagnostics, while others require the presence of a technician on site.
Key aspects to be evaluated:
- Does the supplier offer 24/7 support or only during business hours?
- What is the average response time of your technicians?
- Is there a remote or on-site assistance service?
- Does the manufacturer offer maintenance contracts with priority attention in case of breakdown?
Example: If a critical machine stops working on a Friday night and technical support only operates during office hours, you could lose an entire weekend of production.
Preventive maintenance services:
Preventive maintenance helps reduce the likelihood of unexpected failures and extend the life of the machinery. It is key that the supplier has regular inspection and adjustment plans.
Factors to consider:
- Does the supplier offer scheduled maintenance plans?
- Do you include software revisions and machine upgrades?
- Can predictive diagnostics be performed using sensors and artificial intelligence?
- Are there annual maintenance packages with fixed prices?
Examples: In a company using automated hydraulic presses, a preventive maintenance program could detect premature wear on a valve before it fails completely and stops production.
Regulatory compliance and safety
Industrial safety regulations are a key aspect of machinery procurement. According to the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, 30% of industrial accidents are due to incorrect use of machinery. Ensure that equipment complies with current regulations and provides adequate safety measures.
Choosing the right automated machinery is a strategic decision that directly impacts a company’s productivity and profitability. Analyzing needs, evaluating ROI, considering scalability and ensuring technical support are fundamental steps in this process.
Industrial automation not only optimizes processes, but also enables companies to remain competitive in a constantly evolving market.
