Intelligent technologies at a device layer are changing the manufacturing industry, managing and monitoring production outputs and keeping operational costs down. “The devices and software that companies install now will affect the future of their business. They need to be sure they are procuring top quality brands and devices to transform the way they operate on a day-to-day basis,” says Adrian van Wyk, Managing Director at Referro Systems.
As a distribution and support company, Referro Systems supplies well-recognised branded electrical and automation software and hardware to the mining, industrial and commercial markets, and has been doing so for over two decades. Van Wyk says: “Our deep understanding of manufacturing processes means we can assist companies in making their hardware and software procurement more efficient and, in turn, support their competitiveness and profitability.”
Today’s intelligent devices can communicate with an entire network, provide the variability that suits specific production requirements, and minimise waste of resources by providing contextualised insight at device layer around actionable, real-time and diagnostic information.
“Manufacturers need relevant and contextualised data at hand to make calculated and cost-effective decisions about their business operations, in real time. They also need to select fit-for-purpose software and hardware that does this, taking future needs into account and maintaining process flexibility,” says Van Wyk.
He identifies some of the main factors that require consideration when manufacturers are deciding on the type of devices that are right for their operations.
Fundamentally
Functionality, reliability, scalability, interoperability, security, maintenance, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory compliance should all be taken into account. These factors may be evaluated alongside self-healing and replacing capabilities at device layer, to inform decisions aligned with the operational requirements and long-term goals of the manufacturing operation.
Devices that interpret data
He suggests that manufacturers partner with a provider that offers devices which link into systems and do more than share only the obvious with the user (that a protection device has tripped, for example). They should be able to access data that is contextualised and does not need deciphering – information that is understandable and allows the user to make informed decisions that boost production, on the move.
Devices that inform the ROI
Intelligent devices can measure data that can be used to calculate a machine's throughput performance. Contextualised data will allow the user to adjust process variables to improve machine performance, and thus reduce costs and wastage.
Think long-term
Van Wyk advises that manufacturers should think of the long term when procuring devices and software, taking future needs into account. It’s also important to consider sustained support from reputable brands and organisations with the necessary expertise and insight. They will assist customers in selecting the right devices to implement strategically, and expand into more advanced executions as business and process needs change.
Lowest cost is not always best
“The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten,” van Wyk says. Quality products and brands are affordable and mean customers will not battle with support, after-sales service, availability, and the expertise to select the right product to meet their needs.
For more information visit: www.referro.co.za