What is Industrial Automation and how does it work?

The automation of industrial processes has become the backbone of this important sector. But… why? Simple; the use of these systems is key to optimizing resources and achieving a good quality product.

However, to better understand this topic, let’s be more specific and explain in detail the role that industrial automation plays in the modern world.

What is industrial automation?

When we talk about industrial automation, we refer to the application of various technologies that have been oriented to the control and monitoring of a process, apparatus, machine, or device that – in general – performs repetitive tasks, making it work automatically and minimizing the intervention of people.

The main objective of the automation of industrial processes is to manufacture as many products as possible in the shortest amount of time, reducing costs and ensuring quality.

Industrial Automation, how does it work?

We already said that industrial automation is the product of the union of different technologies, now what technologies are we talking about? Well, among them is the instrumentation that helps to measure matter in different states: solids, gases, and liquids (volume, weight, and pressure).

On the other hand, there are motors, pneumatics, servos, and other systems that allow movements or move a product or an object.

We must also mention the communication systems that generate interaction between all the parts and, of course, the controllers so that the process follows a logical sequence, making everything work according to a program.

Let’s not forget that the nature of industrial automation is to ensure that processes are carried out in a repetitive and correct manner. Finally, there are other technologies that are applied during the process such as vacuum, robotics, etc.

Industrial automation characteristics

Besides the understanding of how this type of system works, you also need to know its main features.

  • Optimizes product quality through a constant and repetitive process.
  • Reduces production time and effort.
  • Improves productivity, reducing industrial costs.
  • Minimizes damage to parts and increases personnel safety.
  • Machine repair is less costly.
  • It allows savings, which translates into greater efficiency in the organization’s production.

The importance of the industrial automation in the 4.0 Industry

This technological phenomenon of industrial process automation opened the door for the 4.0 Industry, a term used to describe manufacturing with all its processes interconnected through the internet.

In fact, we can say that it is the current industrial revolution, posing the digitization of processes through the interaction of artificial intelligence with machines and the improvement of resources oriented to the creation of new business methodologies.

Of course, by automating this entire process, it will be possible to improve even more the machinery operation, taking it to its maximum level of optimization, in addition to improving control and obtaining more information on the state in less time.

Do you want to know more about industrial automation? Write to us and we will give you the advice you need.

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