Cerexio Logo
Address

21, Woodlands Close, #05-47 Primz Bizhub, Singapore 737854

Phone

+(65) 6762 9293

Search
Close this search box.

How Does Increasing Automation Lower Manufacturing Cost?

How Does Increasing Automation Lower Manufacturing Cost?

Did you know that automation can reduce manufacturing costs by up to 30%? As industries demand higher precision, quality, and performance, the shift towards automation has become an essential aspect nowadays. We can see that those traditional mechanical systems that rely heavily on human interaction are quickly being replaced by advanced automation control systems. Unlike the past’s complex and wire-filled relay logic panels, automation systems use powerful computers and devices that streamline processes and minimise the need for extensive wiring. This transition leads to higher production rates, improved efficiency, and ultimately lower manufacturing costs. Therefore, there is literally no doubt that automation proves to be a key driver of cost reduction.

In this article, we go beyond predictions and find the answers to the most asked question, ‘How does increasing automation lower manufacturing costs?’

What is Automation?

How Does Increasing Automation Lower Manufacturing Cost?
  • If we look back at history, the first self-operating device, a water clock float regulator, was invented in 270 BCE. This is when ‘Automation’ comes under the radar, and it basically refers to any system or mechanism that moves or operates independently.

  • By the late 18th century, Oliver Evans designed the first fully automated flour mill, showcasing the potential of self-directed systems in manufacturing. However, modern industrial automation relies on advanced technologies like PCs, PLCs, PACs, and industrial communication systems to manage processes such as controlling liquid flow, air pressure, temperatures, and rates.

  • The heart of these systems lies in their control systems, which regulate behaviours using control loops. Closed-loop control systems utilise feedback from sensors to maintain variables at desired setpoints. Beyond regulation, automation performs critical tasks like calculating setpoints, monitoring processes, ensuring quality control, and scheduling maintenance. These capabilities make manufacturing more efficient and reduce downtime while improving data accuracy.

  • With automation, industries achieve higher reliability, better process performance, and seamless reporting.

How Does Increasing Automation Lower Manufacturing Cost- Top 10 Ways

How Does Increasing Automation Lower Manufacturing Cost?

Automation Reduces Manual and Repetitive Work

Automation eliminates the need for manual effort in routine and repetitive tasks, making workflows more efficient and streamlined.

As the latter automates essential but tedious activities, businesses reduce operating costs and create opportunities to focus on high-value tasks that drive growth and innovation. This is where the employees can redirect their time and energy toward strategic goals, increasing productivity and contributing to revenue generation.

Automation transforms processes by ensuring faster and more consistent task execution, which improves overall efficiency. With fewer repetitive responsibilities, teams experience reduced workloads and greater motivation, leading to better performance.

Automation Lessens Human Errors

Manual tasks tend to increase the chances of costly mistakes, especially when handling complex or repetitive processes.

However, if automation is in place, it eliminates this risk by performing tasks with consistent accuracy and precision, which humans may struggle to maintain over time.

Automated systems provide greater control and reduce variability, ensuring processes run smoothly and deliver predictable results. When minimising errors, automation improves the quality of work and enhances a company’s reputation for reliability.

Automation Streamlines Process Improvement

When automation is there, it literally simplifies the process of tracking, documenting, and reporting by ensuring constant and accurate data collection. This allows businesses to analyse results effectively and identify areas for improvement, boosting both processes and overall performance.

Unlike manual tasks, which often lead to inconsistencies and make tracking difficult, automated activities provide reliable and actionable insights.

If they can monitor performance continuously, businesses can quickly spot bottlenecks and delays that hinder progress.

Automation Speeds Up Processes

This has the ability to accelerate processes by aligning workflows and ensuring tasks get completed efficiently, helping projects stay on schedule and within budget.

You know, employees often work differently, and managing these variations across a team can become expensive and time-consuming. Automation eliminates these inconsistencies and minimises errors in critical tasks like structural analysis, estimations, detailing fabrication, and on-site execution.

When automating and streamlining processes, businesses accomplish more in less time using fewer resources, which leads to profit-making.

Industrial Automation Enhances On-Site Safety

It improves on-site safety as it can reduce human errors that typically lead to fabrication mistakes and safety hazards. It enhances visibility, transparency, and data flow, ensuring that safety-related information reaches decision-makers and employees effectively.

With access to accurate and timely insights, teams can identify potential risks early and take proactive measures to avoid dangerous situations.

In other words, automation creates a more controlled and predictable environment, which lowers the likelihood of accidents and improves overall workplace safety.

Manufacturing Automation Facilitates Real-Time Information Sharing

How does manufacturing automation improve information sharing?

It allows teams to access and source data in real-time, boosting business transparency and efficiency. Accurate and instantly available data ensures decision-makers rely on relevant insights tailored to their needs.

As automation enhances data accessibility, it simplifies complex processes and strengthens communication across departments. By fostering a seamless flow of information, automation reduces delays, eliminates guesswork, and improves overall coordination.

Automation Boosts Workforce Morale

According to global studies, workplaces with higher automation report greater employee satisfaction.

Automation boosts workforce morale by creating regular and predictable workflows, making resource management smoother and more efficient. It helps managers assign the right employees to suitable projects at the right time, enhancing job satisfaction. Repetitive tasks rarely motivate employees, but automation eliminates these tedious duties, allowing staff to focus on meaningful and creative work.

This shift not only increases their enthusiasm but also drives productivity.

Automation Optimises Material Management

The latter plays a key role in this by providing detailed insights and ensuring material management is more efficient.

When it is possible to integrate automated analysis into the early design phase, it is also possible to identify opportunities for material optimisation and reduce waste. This automated system simultaneously analyses structural designs for compliance with codes, allowing engineers to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently.

This streamlined approach to material management not only optimises storage and logistics but also reduces environmental impact and enhances sustainability efforts.

Manufacturing Automation Increases Customer Satisfaction

Did you know that about 68% of customers stop doing business with a company due to poor service?

Manufacturing automation helps reduce bottlenecks and errors, leading to smoother operations and more accurate project delivery.

When a company consistently delivers projects on time and without issues, it strengthens its reputation and stands out as a preferred choice for future work.

Industrial Automation Supports Scalability

This allows businesses to grow without drastically increasing costs or manpower.

As companies expand, automation helps them maintain consistent production levels, quality, and efficiency. Businesses can handle larger volumes of work by automating repetitive tasks without sacrificing performance. Automation also simplifies the process of adding new tasks or increasing production capacity.

Cerexio MES with Smoother Automation Compatibility for the Manufacturing Industry

How Does Increasing Automation Lower Manufacturing Cost?

Cerexio offers a powerful MES solution that comes with higher and smoother automation compatibility for the manufacturing industry. Our solution is powered by Industry 4.0 capabilities, which streamline production processes, enhance real-time data flow, and ensure better coordination between machines and operators. This reduces downtime, improves efficiency, and boosts overall productivity, supporting manufacturers in achieving optimal performance.

Lowering Manufacturing Costs and Gaining Maximum Profits via Right Technologies

How Does Increasing Automation Lower Manufacturing Cost?

The integration of automation into manufacturing processes is no longer a futuristic concept but a necessity for survival. Businesses can significantly lower operational costs when they streamline operations, reduce labour costs, and enhance efficiency. This, in turn, directly impacts the bottom line, leading to increased profits. So, embracing the right technologies is not just an option; it is a strategic imperative for manufacturers seeking long-term success and profits.

Search Blog Posts

Latest Blog Posts

What is a Quantum Supply Chain?

If you are from the manufacturing industry, you know that supply chains today face an ever-growing set of challenges varying from supply disruptions, fluctuating demand,

Importance of Sensors for Logistics

If you are from the logistics industry, you may know how hard it is to imagine a world where every shipment arrives precisely on time,

Future of Food Manufacturing Singapore

Can you think of a future where Singapore’s food manufacturing industry not only meets local demand but shapes global food standards with unprecedented innovation? With