Indraneel Bhattacharya, Vice President – Sales & Marketing at Laxmi Machine Works, says our focus will include multi-axis, high-speed, and integrated automation machines. And we will prioritise the development of large turning and machining centres catering to the industry’s requirements.

What is your outlook on increasing automation in the machine tools industry?
The machine tools industry is set to experience a profound transformation due to the rapid integration of automation. This revolution is expected to yield substantial benefits in terms of productivity, efficiency, and manufacturing capabilities. Automation empowers machine tools to function continuously, delivering tasks with remarkable precision and consistency. Manufacturers can significantly enhance productivity and reduce cycle times by automating processes like workpiece handling, tool changes, and quality inspections, leading to accelerated production rates and improved overall efficiency.

Incorporating automation technologies, such as advanced robotics and CNC systems, introduces a new level of flexibility in machine tool operations. These systems can be easily reprogrammed and reconfigured, allowing seamless adaptation to diverse product specifications and production requirements. Consequently, manufacturers can efficiently produce customised products in smaller batches, effectively meeting the ever-changing demands of their customers.

What are the key highlights of your recently launched product line?
We have recently launched an impressive line-up of new products, featuring a wide range of variants. Among our latest offerings are state-of-the-art machines, including:

• Turning Centers: S Turn 1 & Gigaturn 1
• Vertical Machining Centers: J6 R, J8
• High-speed Drill Tap Center: JD 1
• Horizontal Machining Center: JH500

In addition to these cutting-edge machines, we also offer specialised solutions tailored to specific industries:

LR Series: Designed for the Oil & Gas industry in turning centres.

Smart Minimaster and Smart LT: Specially crafted for the Bearing industry.

LF 20C Twin G: A highly productive machine catering to the needs of the Auto, Pumps, and General Engineering sectors.

How does LMW’s collaborative and customised approach to product development cater to the distinct requirements of various industries?
At LMW, we take great pride in our adaptability and ability to cater to the distinct requirements of diverse industries. We recognise that each sector presents unique challenges, needs, and processes, be it automotive, textiles, aerospace, or any other.

Rather than offering standardised machines, we firmly believe in a collaborative approach with our clients, working closely to grasp their industry-specific pain points and demands. We can better comprehend their exact requirements by closely engaging with our customers and gaining valuable insights into their workflows and production processes.

With this comprehensive understanding, we leverage our vast experience and cutting-edge technology to create customised products that precisely meet their needs. This tailored approach ensures that our solutions seamlessly integrate into their existing operations, resulting in heightened efficiency, productivity, and overall performance.

Whether it is about developing specialised machinery, incorporating specific features, or optimising performance for particular applications, our primary goal is to deliver tailor-made solutions that enable our customers to excel in their respective industries. Through this level of customisation, we empower our customers to maximise operational potential and maintain a competitive edge in their markets.

What key factors make LMW stand out in terms of quality, ease of use, and customer support?
LMW is a prominent industry leader, distinguished by several key factors contributing to its excellence in quality, user-friendliness, and customer support. First and foremost, the company’s commitment to high precision is complemented by the expertise of skilled professionals, producing superior-quality products. Substantial investments in manufacturing facilities and meticulous attention to detail, such as maintaining dust-free and temperature-controlled assembly lines, ensure the utmost accuracy in its offerings. This unwavering dedication to quality is evident across all LMW products. CNC machines are built using precision engineering, top-quality materials, and cutting-edge technology, ensuring outstanding performance and long-lasting reliability.

Secondly, LMW strongly emphasises ease of use, reflected in its user-centric design approach. The company prioritises intuitive interfaces, ergonomic features, and user-friendly controls, making its machines accessible and straightforward, even for less-experienced operators. This focus on user-friendliness translates to enhanced productivity and reduced downtime, benefiting customers across diverse industries.

Thirdly, LMW’s unparalleled dedication to customer support sets it apart. The company places great importance on understanding and addressing its customers’ needs. It offers comprehensive after-sales support, including training, technical assistance, and prompt maintenance services. This commitment ensures that customers can maximise the performance of their CNC machines, minimise disruptions, and maintain seamless operations.

Furthermore, LMW’s customer-centric approach goes beyond problem-solving. The company actively seeks customer feedback, using it to improve its products and services continuously. This open and collaborative communication fosters strong relationships and builds trust, making customers feel valued and respected.

Lastly, LMW’s commitment to innovation is pivotal in upholding its reputation. The company invests in indigenous research and development, enabling it to stay at the forefront of the market by offering cutting-edge solutions that address emerging industry challenges and trends.

How do LMW’s CNC machines deliver a competitive advantage to automobile and general engineering customers?

LMW’s CNC machines provide significant advantages to automobile and general engineering customers, offering enhanced precision, heightened productivity, superior quality, versatility, cost-effectiveness, advanced technology, energy efficiency, and comprehensive after-sales support. These machines facilitate accelerated production, tighter tolerances, and the ability to work with various materials, empowering customers to gain a competitive edge in their manufacturing operations.

Can you provide insights into LMW’s indigenous research capabilities and its role in developing advanced CNC machines?
LMW has established itself as a leading machine tool industry player and has made substantial investments in indigenous research capabilities. The company’s unwavering research and development (R&D) focus has been pivotal in creating cutting-edge CNC machines. LMW has established state-of-the-art research facilities supported by a team of skilled engineers and researchers by emphasising innovation and continuous improvement. Leveraging advanced software for design and analysis, the R&D team conducts in-depth studies and experiments, resulting in CNC machines surpassing performance, precision, and efficiency expectations.

Through in-depth studies and cutting-edge technology adoption, LMW has developed CNC machines that push the boundaries of performance, precision, and efficiency. LMW integrates the latest advancements and customises solutions to cater to the diverse needs of its customers. This commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction is evident in their indigenous research capabilities. The company’s R&D endeavours play a crucial role in developing advanced CNC machines that effectively address the ever-evolving demands of the industry, contributing significantly to its growth and continued success.

What are your future expansion plans to meet the business demand of the industry?
Our future expansion plans are aligned with a deep understanding of our customers’ distinct needs and fulfilling them accordingly. To meet the growing demands of the industry, our focus will be on developing new products infused with cutting-edge technology. Our key areas of concentration will include multi-axes machines, high-speed machines, and machines with integrated automation. Moreover, we will prioritise the development of large turning and machining centres catering to the industry’s requirements.

In line with the industry’s stringent quality standards, we will prioritise machines with exceptional accuracy and precision. By aligning our expansion strategy with the specific needs of our customers, we aim to maintain our leading position in the industry and continue delivering innovative solutions that enhance efficiency and productivity for our valued clients.

Switchgear ensures the overall control and protection of electrical equipment, enhancing the industrial automation system’s safety, reliability, and efficiency, remarks Piyush Garg, Director, Balaji Switchgears Pvt. Ltd.

In what ways does switchgear contribute to the safe and dependable distribution of power in automation systems?
Switchgear plays a vital role in automation systems, ensuring secure and dependable power distribution. It comprises various protective devices like electrical disconnect switches, fuses, circuit breakers, and relays, all enclosed. Switchgear is essential for power control, fault protection, ensuring reliability and redundancy, enabling remote operations, and monitoring and controlling functions within automation systems.

In summary, switchgear within automation systems ensures the safe and reliable distribution of electrical power by offering control, protection, redundancy, monitoring, and integration capabilities. Its purpose is to minimise downtime, prevent equipment damage, and enhance the overall efficiency of power distribution in automation systems.

What is the primary role of switchgear in industrial automation, and how does it contribute to effectively controlling and safeguarding electrical equipment?
In industrial automation, switchgear performs crucial tasks that ensure effective electrical equipment control and protection. These tasks encompass several primary functions:

• Switchgear manages power distribution, enabling precise control over the electrical flow. It also facilitates electrical isolation, guaranteeing the safe operation of equipment.
• Switchgear safeguards against faults and overloads, shielding the system from potential damage.
• It regulates voltage levels, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply.
• Switchgear incorporates monitoring and metering capabilities to track and assess electrical parameters.
• It facilitates remote control and automation, allowing operators to manage the system from a distance.

By fulfilling these functions, switchgear ensures the overall control and protection of electrical equipment, enhancing the industrial automation system’s safety, reliability, and efficiency.

What considerations should be considered when choosing the suitable switchgear for specific automation needs?
Certain factors take precedence when selecting a switchgear component due to their utmost relevance. These factors include the voltage and current rating, determining the component’s compatibility with the electrical system. The short circuit rating is also crucial, as it signifies the component’s ability to handle sudden electrical surges.

The operational environment must be considered, as different conditions may require specific protective measures. Additionally, any necessary statutory approvals should be obtained to ensure regulation compliance. Lastly, the integration and communication protocol should be considered to ensure seamless connectivity and compatibility within the overall system.

How does integrating switchgear into automation systems enhance energy management and operational efficiency?
Integrating switchgear with automation systems offers several advantages, including enhanced circuit accuracy, real-time monitoring capabilities, efficient load management, optimisation of energy consumption, and the ability to predict and prevent failures. In today’s context, it is crucial to employ condition monitoring, predictive maintenance, and fault detection techniques to safeguard the health of electrical infrastructure and minimise unexpected downtimes. Furthermore, energy reporting and analysis enable better control over operational expenses (OPEX) and contribute to developing a reliable system. 

Aditi Garg, Managing Director, BIBUS India talks about how ITEM’s eco-friendly KH profiles enhance efficiency, innovation, and precision in custom anechoic chambers, driving advancements in engineering.

What are some specific examples of state-of-the-art solutions provided by BIBUS India that have helped industries improve efficiency and innovation?
In the ever-changing industrial sector, businesses must find a dependable, forward-thinking technology partner to maintain a competitive edge. BIBUS India stands out as an exceptional option, providing a wide range of distinctive qualities that differentiate it from others. With a strong emphasis on quality, customisation, and outstanding service, BIBUS India has become the preferred choice for industries seeking state-of-the-art solutions. As a frontrunner in delivering advanced industrial solutions, BIBUS India takes great pride in offering top-notch products that redefine efficiency and innovation.

What are ITEM aluminium profiles known for?
One standout product in our diverse selection is ITEM aluminium profiles, which bring a transformative solution. ITEM is a renowned brand from Germany that excels in manufacturing modular aluminium extrusion profiles, connectors, and fasteners. These components are used to construct various structures, including machine bases, workbenches, safety enclosures, clean rooms, conveyor systems, and automation solutions. The versatility of ITEM aluminium profiles empowers engineers and designers to unlock their creativity and customise solutions to meet specific needs, ultimately achieving optimal functionality.

What is the purpose of anechoic chambers?
The world of advanced engineering reveals the fascinating realm of anechoic chambers, where state-of-the-art technology merges with a science fiction-like atmosphere. Anechoic chambers are meticulously designed environments with pyramid-shaped absorbers to prevent reflections and external disturbances. Engineers utilise these chambers to conduct precise tests on electromagnetic radiation, antenna performance, and wireless communication systems. The data obtained in anechoic chambers drive groundbreaking advancements in wireless technology, ensuring compliance with rigorous standards and shaping the future of wireless communication and electromagnetic engineering.

How does ITEM’s KH 8 40×40 Profile contribute to the custom anechoic chamber? 
ITEM’s KH 8 40×40 Profile offers a metal-free alternative made from environmentally friendly material (over 70 percent wood fibre) while maintaining an identical design to its aluminium counterpart. This custom anechoic chamber utilises the KH profile, which is moisture-resistant, dimensionally stable, and suitable for lightweight applications. It is an ideal choice for constructions requiring a lightweight design and electrical insulation, making it suitable for various applications such as EMC measurements, shelving, table frames, guards, and enclosures.

What are the advantages of using ITEM’s KH profiles?
ITEM has introduced the KH profile as a metal-free alternative to the traditional aluminium profile in its MB Building Kit System. These KH profiles are manufactured using wood from sustainably managed forests, carrying the PEFC label. Notably, the KH profile demonstrates its ecological superiority by consuming 76 percent less primary energy during manufacturing than aluminium profiles. With an emissions balance sheet weighing 3.6 kg in CO2 equivalents, the KH profile outperforms aluminium profiles regarding environmental impact. It achieves a remarkable 91 percent reduction in CO2 emissions. 

Furthermore, the KH profile offers the advantage of being lightweight, weighing only 1.6 kg/m. This characteristic makes it well-suited for applications that involve electromagnetic waves and electrical insulation. Unlike metals, which are conductive and reflect waves, the KH profile ensures precise measurements without distortion caused by wave reflection. Additionally, the use of metal-free KH profiles and foamed plastic spikes on the walls and floor of the chamber guarantees that electromagnetic waves are not reflected, further enhancing the accuracy of measurements.

Sameer Gandhi, Managing Director, OMRON Automation, India, discusses that major manufacturers in industries such as automotive, secondary packaging, FMCG, and consumer electronics have made significant strides in adopting robots and cobots.

In what ways do Industry 4.0 and AI integration in manufacturing contribute to sustainability?
Industrial automation technologies play a crucial role in promoting sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of companies. By implementing appropriate automation applications, businesses can optimise their production processes, minimise waste and emissions, and enhance energy efficiency. Omron’s iBelt technology facilitates the digital transformation of plants, offering valuable data-driven insights into operations. This includes identifying bottlenecks, streamlining workflows, and improving overall efficiency. By eliminating inefficiencies and optimising resource utilisation, technology enables organisations to reduce waste and better use their resources.

Moreover, iBelt technology emphasises energy efficiency by monitoring power consumption and providing insights for optimising the configuration of plant systems. By fine-tuning these parameters, the technology minimises energy waste, leading to lower energy consumption, reduced operational costs, a smaller environmental footprint, proactive maintenance, and compliance with environmental standards.

In addition, automation enables companies to adopt sustainable practices such as utilising renewable energy sources, thereby further reducing their carbon footprint. Automated systems can effectively control and balance renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines. By embracing automation, companies can effectively decrease their environmental impact, contribute to a more sustainable world, and work towards a greener future.

How does the relationship between humans and robotic machines on the shop floor impact manufacturing?
Establishing a harmonious relationship between humans and machines on the shop floor is crucial in the manufacturing sector. OMRON recognises the value of robots by assuming repetitive and hazardous tasks, allowing employees to focus on higher-level responsibilities that demand more complex skills. OMRON’s mobile robots (AMRs) have been successfully employed in various applications, including UV sanitation in hospitals and delivering supplies and conventional material movement within the manufacturing environment. Many functions are being robotised to enhance efficiency:

Pick & Place: Robots excel at tasks such as arranging objects in a matrix or palletising, even when objects are randomly oriented, ensuring precision, speed, and improved productivity and quality.

Goods Movement: Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) are crucial in efficient goods movement within manufacturing facilities.

Quality Inspection & Precision: Robots are particularly valuable for tasks requiring exceptionally high precision, eliminating manual intervention. This includes handling delicate food items like chocolates, cookies, and seafood.

Flexible Manufacturing: The manufacturing process becomes more flexible by utilising AMRs and cobots in material handling. These robots interact closely with humans, fostering collaboration and creating a sense of unity on the shop floor. This transition from fixed conveyors and traditional “hard-tooled cells” to flexible integrated cells improves productivity and efficiency.

OMRON recognises the significance of enabling humans and robots to work together seamlessly, allowing employees to upskill and focus on complex tasks. Robotising various functions, such as pick and place, goods movement, quality inspection, and flexible manufacturing, contributes to increased productivity, precision, and efficiency in manufacturing operations.

What major transformations are taking place in the robotic industry for industrial automation? 
A significant transformation in the robotics industry is shifting from ‘hard-tooled robotic cell’ to ‘flexible integrated cell’ and from ‘Hard-Coded conventional AGV with limited Flexibility’ to ‘Flexible AIV Autonomous Navigation’ primarily led by digitisation. Vision-guided robots, autonomous intelligent vehicles, mobile robots, and cobots are gaining acceptance and contributing to the development of intelligent manufacturing environments where humans and machines work together seamlessly. Major automotive, secondary packaging manufacturers, FMCG, and consumer electronics have made significant strides in adopting robots and cobots. They recognise that robots are a crucial component of end-to-end automation solutions. Combined with other automation technologies, they can achieve global quality, consistency, reliability, and hygiene standards.

OMRON stands out globally for its robust and diverse robotics portfolio, seamlessly integrated with vision systems. OMRON offers a range of robotic solutions, including cobots, Scara robots, articulated robots, and parallel robots, which, when combined with vision systems, enable synchronised movement, facilitate part manipulation, and assemble intricate designs with speed and precision. These solutions provide numerous benefits, such as increased uptime and throughput, enhanced safety levels, and optimised space and energy consumption. OMRON’s Mobile Robots (AMRs) also significantly contribute significantly by promoting collaboration between humans and machines to boost productivity across diverse operations.

What are your future priorities in meeting automation needs?
Expanding our presence in India remains a key priority for OMRON, as the country holds immense importance for our automation business. With its growing market and the China+1 opportunity, India has become even more significant in our business strategy. Furthermore, considering OMRON’s long-term vision, known as Shaping the Future (SF 2030), which focuses on addressing social issues through automation, we are committed to improving the lives of people in India, given its substantial population.

We are actively strengthening our connections through physical and digital interfaces to enhance our customer engagement. This involves conducting webinars and seminars, participating in exhibitions, and investing in facilities that enable customers to experience our technologies and collaborate on innovative solutions with OMRON’s support. We are also investing in expanding our capabilities, both in terms of skilled personnel and their skill sets, to serve the needs of our customers better.

Please talk about human-centred robotics and its impact on reshaping industries.
Collaborative robotics, referred to as human-centred robotics, involves developing and implementing robots that can work alongside humans in shared workspaces. This technology brings significant advancements to the manufacturing industry, particularly in productivity, safety, and efficiency. As this field progresses, we can expect to witness further advantages and expanded applications.

One notable advantage of human-centred robotics is its ability to enhance task completion speed and accuracy. These robots perform repetitive tasks without fatigue or errors, improving overall quality and consistency in manufacturing processes. Moreover, they can assist human workers in undertaking hazardous or physically demanding tasks, reducing the risk of injuries.

Another benefit of using human-centred robotics in manufacturing lies in the increased efficiency and cost reduction that human-centred robotics brings to manufacturing operations. Robots can operate continuously, enabling uninterrupted production without breaks or shift changes. They also offer flexibility by being easily reprogrammable to perform various tasks or adapt to evolving production requirements. This adaptability enhances operational efficiency and helps control costs.

Pankaj Sethi, Business Segment Manager – Automation, WAGO India, says that the quality assurance processes are being automated with AI systems and this technology helps in root cause analysis of defects, recommends preventive measures, and boosts overall manufacturing line efficiency.

How does smart automation contribute to improving production efficiencies?

Unlike standard automation, which primarily focuses on handling repetitive or dangerous tasks, smart automation leverages advanced technologies such as IoT-based cloud connectivity, machine learning, and AI systems. These enhanced capabilities enable smart automation to carry out automated processes, analyse process patterns, learn from them, and make predictions over time.

By harnessing the power of smart automation, organisations can proactively identify vulnerabilities in their production systems and receive suggestions for preventive actions well in advance of any potential issues occurring on the production line. This proactive approach empowers organisations to take timely and appropriate measures, effectively preventing production losses.

Please talk about smart automation developments in Indian manufacturing.

The Indian manufacturing industry is enthusiastically embracing smart automation in its production processes. They are investing in various automation technologies that align with the scale and complexity of their business operations. These organisations are reaping many benefits, including enhanced product quality, improved designs, increased efficiency, and a competitive edge through faster time-to-market, reduced labour costs, fewer human errors, and minimised maintenance expenses and time.

Indian startups, in particular, are leading the way in incorporating smart automation at the core of their business models with the support from venture capital firms and major multinational companies.

The growing reach of the 5G network in India further accelerates the adoption of IoT-based technologies in the country’s manufacturing sector. According to various research reports, AI-based automation’s contribution to India’s manufacturing sector Gross Value Addition (GVA) is experiencing a steady Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 5 percent.

What key technologies are used in smart automation for production processes?

Modern smart automation systems are highly advanced, combining cutting-edge technologies. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are at the heart of these new-age automation systems. They are complemented by supporting technologies like edge and cloud computing, robotics, motion control, high-speed communication networks, Internet-of-Things (IoT), and sensory technologies such as vision, sound, touch, light, heat, and proximity sensing.

An excellent demonstration of how smart automation harnesses this amalgamation of technologies can be seen through Collaborative Robots or Cobots and cloud-based control & monitoring systems. These examples showcase the seamless integration of various technologies to create efficient and intelligent automation solutions.

How has AI-powered quality control equipment transformed the manufacturing industry’s approach to quality assurance?

AI-powered quality control equipment is making a transformative impact on the industry’s quality assurance procedures and benchmarks. Quality control holds immense significance in the manufacturing sector for ensuring business continuity and meeting customer satisfaction. Integrating artificial intelligence into quality assurance has revolutionised the process, significantly improving speed and accuracy. Previously, the quality inspection took time and effort, with the risk of human error persisting. However, with AI systems, the inspection process has been automated. Also, the technology offers root cause analysis of defects, recommends preventive maintenance, and boosts overall manufacturing line efficiency. As a result, customers benefit from a superior experience with the product.

Can you provide examples of the implementation of smart automation in improving production efficiencies?

 WAGO has significantly impacted the smart automation industry with its advanced automation products and solutions. The company serves a wide range of sectors and industries, including energy, automotive, building & lighting technology, manufacturing, railways, metros, and marine.

For instance, WAGO successfully assisted a prestigious steel manufacturing plant in eastern India by deploying its cutting-edge Edge Computers, high-end PFC Controllers, IO systems, and communication equipment. This implementation enabled the plant to optimise its output through predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and enhancing machine performance. Utilising IoT technology and cloud computing, the solution empowered plant operators to monitor and optimise production in real-time, swiftly address potential issues and manage operations from decentralised IT Server centres, thus reducing dependencies. Moreover, the system intelligently analyses energy consumption patterns and suggests energy-saving measures. Thanks to WAGO’s automation system, the steel plant has reduced energy wasteage, minimised inefficiencies, improved maintenance planning, optimised production, and reduced operational costs.

What are the potential challenges when adopting smart automation in production processes?

Despite the numerous advantages of smart automation in production processes, businesses encounter several challenges that make its adoption complex.  Availability of capital for new investments, concerns over job loss due to automation, the need for a skilled workforce to operate and program smart automation systems, and moreover trust in allowing autonomous operations are some of the potential challenges

Depending on business size and available resources, different organisations may confront distinct challenges. Larger organisations might not struggle with capital availability but could face labour-related issues and trust concerns when implementing smart automation. On the other hand, startups may not encounter problems related to skilled resources or labour but could grapple with capital investment challenges.

In what ways Cobots are transforming the manufacturing and production processes for SMEs?

The SME sector in India is experiencing remarkable growth, leading to increased business opportunities and competitiveness. To stay relevant, SMEs face the challenge of serving customers faster, at lower costs, and with improved production quality. While Robots based automation could address this, capital constraints and lower production requirements make them impractical for SMEs.

However, Cobots or Collaborative robots have emerged as an excellent alternative due to their cost-effectiveness, easy installation, small space requirements, and safe collaboration with humans. Unlike standard robots, Cobots can work alongside human resources, significantly enhancing efficiency and productivity in the production line. This unique feature of Cobots makes manufacturing and production processes much more competitive and efficient for SMEs, allowing them to thrive in the competitive business landscape.  

According to Amit Deokule, Director – Sales & Marketing, NORD Drivesystems, implementing suitable drive systems based on the NORD ECO BOX’s findings, one can effectively reduce CO₂ emissions, lower energy usage, and optimise various costs related to administration, maintenance, and wear.

What latest advancements have taken place in the drive systems for energy efficiency?
The NORD ECO BOX offers a comprehensive understanding of energy consumption in your system, enabling the identification of opportunities to minimise energy requirements. Its advantages lie in providing measurable data, precise analysis, and the ability to utilise potential energy savings. This innovative tool allows for detailed measurement of energy consumption in your drive system or individual drives, providing valuable insights into consumption patterns and identifying areas for potential savings.

The NORD ECO BOX breaks down consumption, utilisation, and total cost of ownership (TCO) values through thorough data analysis, allowing for informed comparisons with other drive systems. This facilitates environmentally and economically responsible decision-making.

By implementing suitable drive systems based on the NORD ECO BOX’s findings, one can effectively reduce CO₂ emissions, lower energy usage, and optimise various administration, maintenance, and wear costs. Furthermore, lowering variants offers opportunities to streamline production, logistics, storage, and service processes, improving efficiency.

Please discuss new technology trends for motors or components for transmission systems.
NORD Drivesystems introduces the next generation of efficient energy-saving motors. The IE5+ synchronous motor substantially increases energy efficiency, complementing the standardised geared motor variants of the LogiDrive system and effectively reducing the need for multiple variants. Ideal for intralogistics applications, this latest generation permanent magnet synchronous motor surpasses the efficiency of the current IE4 series with significantly lower losses. 

Its unventilated smooth design allows it to maintain high efficiency that, at times, is significantly above efficiency class IE5 across a wide torque range, making it particularly well-suited for operation in partial load conditions.

Further, in the context of increasing demand trends, the expanding Indian market in various sectors presents significant opportunities for automation and machine tools. Among these industries, Intralogistics stands out with a tremendous demand for automation in areas such as warehousing and airports.

How do you evaluate Industry 4.0/5.0 role in improving automotive production?
In Industry 4.0, the conditions of machines are monitored, and a broader database is analysed using intelligent algorithms. This is made possible through the Internet, cloud solutions, and enhanced data bandwidth. As a result, predictive maintenance becomes feasible, allowing potential drive damages to be detected based on evaluated operating parameters before they occur. Additionally, drive units can form intelligent groups and communicate with each other, enabling independent problem-solving in case of issues in conveyor systems (e.g., alleviating congestion, opening bypass routes). This global networking and interaction give rise to the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). The ultimate goal of Industry 4.0 is to achieve flexible, modular, and self-organising production that coordinates processes decentrally and autonomously.

· The NORD drive electronics feature an integrated PLC, enabling all drive units to operate autonomously by locally pre-processing data and communicating externally. Furthermore, they can perform process, and movement controls decentrally, effectively reducing the central control system’s workload.

· NORD Drivesystems’ drive units can control actuators in conveyor systems or production plants through their analogue and digital input interfaces, allowing intentional manipulation of processes. These drive units can receive, process, and transmit analogue and digital sensor signals and data from internal and external sources (e.g., photocell barriers, temperature sensors, or vibration sensors) via the inverter PLC’s input interfaces.

· NORD Drivesystems’ drive electronics come equipped with integrated interfaces compatible with all common field bus types, enabling seamless communication with various automation environments. This facilitates internal or global networking within the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and allows connection to cloud solutions, unlocking the full potential of Industry 4.0.

What primary advantage is available with the design and 3D printing of parts and accessories?
The primary benefit of designing and 3D printing parts and accessories lies in the simplified and accelerated manufacturing process, reducing waste and ease of production.

What demand trends in the automation and machine tool segments influence the gears and motors market?
With the rapid growth of Indian industries, there is a significant opportunity for the gears and motors market. NORD Drivesystems, as a leading drive technology company, caters to various industry sectors worldwide with its comprehensive solutions. 

NORD Drivesystems offer extensive application knowledge and technical support, providing complete drive solutions from a single source. Their global presence ensures strong service capabilities, and their products are known for their high quality, reliability, and long service life. NORD Drivesystems’ wide range of products adheres to recognised international standards, making them a reliable choice for industries seeking top-notch drive technology solutions.

What automation technology trends are occurring in the gear, Motors and transmission segment?
In the current landscape, automation technology has become indispensable across various industries. The demand for gearboxes, motors, and electronics is consistently increasing due to the rise of automated conveyors, storage systems, airports with advanced baggage handling, automated car parking systems, and many other applications. NORD is a trustworthy and skilled partner to its customers, offering custom-made, high-efficiency drive solutions and extensive expertise in various applications and industries.

In essence, our motto is “Our solution. Your success.” We are dedicated to providing solutions that lead to your success and growth. 

According to Ankit Jain, IT Head at WIKA India, IoT-enabled test and measurement solutions are instrumental in guaranteeing manufacturing process safety. They are critical in facilitating various processes’ corrective, preventive, condition-based, and predictive maintenance.

How does process automation contribute to manufacturing processes?

The manufacturing sector has experienced remarkable growth in technology and innovation. Today, automation is an essential aspect of production processes. This progress has led to increased production capacity. It has also enhanced manufacturing efficiency significantly. Manufacturers are actively utilising automation technology to boost productivity and ensure safer operations.

Consequently, automation has revolutionised the quality of final products, meeting global precision standards and reshaping the industry’s landscape. All manufacturers strive to optimise their operations, reduce disruptions, achieve precision, and embrace sustainable practices. Automation has become the sole solution to fulfil these requirements of the manufacturing industry.

How can process automation using IoT and advanced software technologies improve efficiency and product quality in manufacturing functions?

Test and measurement equipment are indispensable in various industrial sectors, utilised throughout different stages of a product’s life cycle. As per a Research and Markets report, the Indian Test and Measurement Equipment Market reached US$ 390.77 million in 2022 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.33 percent by 2028, driven by the surging demand for high-performance manufacturing.

To remain competitive globally, Indian manufacturers must prioritise productivity, quality, and compliance. The integration of advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), big data, sensor data, and machine-to-machine (M2M) communication has significantly enhanced operational efficiency, productivity, and simplified processes in the industry.

Industrial IoT has revolutionised manufacturing strategies, enhancing quality, safety, and productivity across all industries. The Indian manufacturing sector has swiftly embraced these technologies to align with global manufacturing standards. WIKA India offers a diverse range of IIoT-enabled smart instruments and sensors. They are integrated with radio units, enabling seamless connectivity between WIKA and third-party measuring instruments through standard interfaces. WIKA’s AI-integrated solutions are vital in fostering a ‘smart’ manufacturing ecosystem in the era of smart machines.

How IoT-based instruments and technologies can be used to monitor operations and enable preventive maintenance in manufacturing processes?

IoT-enabled test and measurement solutions are crucial in ensuring manufacturing process safety. They are essential for any process’s corrective, preventive, condition-based, and predictive maintenance. It is vital for manufacturing facilities to keep their machines operational, avoid downtime, prevent equipment breakdowns, and mitigate losses to the organisation.

WIKA offers a range of smart sensors explicitly designed to withstand hazardous and explosive environments. For example, pressure switches ensure optimal safety in volatile oil and gas extraction processes. WIKA has also developed control panels to prevent accidents in high-risk extraction and offshore platforms. These pressure switches are vital for monitoring pressure in lines and valves, triggering alarms in case of spikes or leaks and shutting down processes to avoid accidents.

WIKA’s devices are designed as plug-and-play modules. These facilitate easy integration with advanced machine tools, thus enhancing overall workflow efficiency. All solutions are modular and customised to meet specific industry demands.

What benefits can businesses in the pharmaceutical and food and beverage industries expect to achieve using IoT?

The Pharmaceutical and Food & Beverage industries have strict quality and hygiene requirements. Hygienic design of plant components in contact with products is essential to prevent microbiological contamination and ensure product quality. Measuring instruments must also adhere to these standards, focusing on surface finish quality, process safety, connection engineering, and cleaning during the Clean-in-Place (CIP) process.

WIKA’s IoT-enabled smart instrumentation products are crucial for maintaining these critical conditions in these industries. WIKA’s ‘Multi-function Temperature Calibrator’ with four controller parameters efficiently calibrates the required process temperature. Additionally, the range of CTx9100 portable calibrators ensures seamless on-site calibrations, enhancing operational safety for machines and plants.

What challenges may businesses face when implementing process automation and IoT technologies in operations?

The test and measurement industry has made significant advancements in providing highly digitised solutions to enhance manufacturing efficiency, precision, and quality. However, Indian manufacturers have been slower in fully embracing the available technology. Challenges stem from a lack of awareness and skepticism about adopting new solutions, difficulty selecting the right technology from various options, and reluctance to invest in system overhauls.

To excel in production efficiency, the industry must take a leap of faith and embrace highly automated test and measurement solutions. Shifting from traditional manufacturing to a digitally-enabled setup can open up numerous opportunities, making processes more efficient, competitive, and sustainable for manufacturers.

WIKA is future-ready with smart instrumentation solutions to cater to customer needs. The company plays a vital role in helping manufacturers understand the potential benefits of IoT-enabled test and measurement solutions, offering them a competitive edge in the market. WIKA’s team of experts raises awareness about sustainable product manufacturing and provides localised and customised solutions at affordable costs, aiming to deliver excellence in quality.

How can measurement and testing technologies help reduce errors and improve product quality in the manufacturing industry?

 Integrating test and measurement devices into manufacturing processes guarantees high precision and product quality standards. These devices also play a crucial role in maintaining machine functionality by promptly addressing minor damages, thus enhancing their overall efficiency and lifespan. Moreover, they contribute to ensuring safety in hazardous work environments, facilitating smooth operations throughout the process. All of these factors are essential in achieving flawless manufacturing of high-quality products. By selecting the appropriate test and measurement equipment, organisations can enhance process performance and reduce time-to-market for their products, gaining a competitive advantage over their rivals.

Incorporating test and measurement devices in manufacturing processes ensures high standards of precision and quality of products. Test and measurement equipment also ensure that machines stay in good operational condition with the timely restoration of minor wear and tear of equipment, improving their overall life and efficacy. It also helps address safety issues in hazardous work conditions to ensure seamless operations. All these are instrumental in ensuring error-free manufacturing of quality products. The right test and measurement equipment can boost the process performance and help organisations to shorten the time to market the products, thereby ensuring an edge over their competition. 

India’s manufacturing industry is experiencing a profound transformation with the widespread adoption of smart automation. Backed by venture capital and 5G-enabled IoT technologies, Indian startups are leading the charge, reaping benefits such as enhanced product quality, reduced labour costs, and increased efficiency. Automation Industry experts shared their views on emerging opportunities, automation and Cobots, skilled workforce, quality control, cybersecurity and data connectivity, and government initiatives offering industry growth support. 

”The first rule of any technology used in a business is that automation applied to an efficient operation will magnify the efficiency. The second is that automation applied to an inefficient operation will magnify the inefficiency.” —Bill Gates

The Indian manufacturing industry is wholeheartedly embracing smart automation in its production processes. With a focus on tailored automation technologies, companies are witnessing many benefits, from elevated product quality to streamlined designs and increased efficiency. The adoption of smart automation has granted them a competitive edge, enabling faster time-to-market and reduced labour costs while also minimising human errors and maintenance expenses. Leading the charge are Indian startups, incorporating smart automation at their core, backed by the support of venture capital firms and multinational companies. The widespread reach of the 5G network is further propelling the integration of IoT-based technologies in the country’s manufacturing sector. Research reports show that AI-based automation is steadily contributing to India’s manufacturing sector’s Gross Value Addition (GVA) with an approximate 5 per cent Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR), promising a future of boundless possibilities.

Smart Automation

According to Mr Niraj Shah, Owner Arihant Satiate, utilising all available nine pillars of automation in product design is crucial for optimal outcomes. Incorporating AR/VR alongside laser cutting can improve decision-making and productivity. 3D printers, combined with laser cutting technology, have the potential to advance gear manufacturing, especially in robotics. Smart technology can be applied to all nine pillars, ensuring the creation of superior products when used effectively. It’s essential to harness the potential of each pillar to achieve the best possible results.

Battery Management Systems (BMS)

Battery voltage can balance voltage between battery connections, bypass the batteries, and control the voltage through automation, IoT, and software. Mr Shankar Balakrishnan, President-Elect – ISA Banglore, added, “BMS (Battery Management Systems) is utilised to monitor individual cells or batteries for factors like current, temperature, density, and terminal voltages. If a particular cell or battery is found to be failing, the BMS activates specific relays to remove it from the circuit. The series-parallel circuit can also be reconfigured to maintain terminal voltage and power output, even at a reduced rate (e.g., 10%, 20%, or 40%). The BMS communicates this information through IoT and other methods.”

A reliable Battery Management System (BMS) is essential for enhancing safety in electrical power storage systems, particularly those utilising lithium-ion and advanced batteries. With proper BMS implementation, the risk of incidents like explosions and fires associated with these batteries can be significantly reduced or avoided altogether. This ensures the secure and trouble-free operation of energy storage systems.

Adopting automation for lighting in an industry can lead to significant cost savings when considering business improvements. Utilising solar or PIR sensors might involve an initial investment of around $25,000 to $30,000, but it can result in a considerable 10% to 20% reduction in electricity bills. This return on investment is especially beneficial for SMEs and medium-sized enterprises. Implementing automation, whether partially or fully, can yield substantial benefits and should be a focus for smaller and medium-sized businesses.

Igniting ROI

“The automation systems offered to businesses vary depending on their size and specific needs. Each system is not a standardised module that fits all scenarios. Instead, it is essential to understand the individual business processes and identify pain points that can be addressed through automation,” added Mr Ravichandran Duraiswamy, Sr. Manager – Product Management, Messer Cutting Systems India Pvt Ltd. The approach is highly configurable, tailoring modules to meet specific requirements and enhance productivity while reducing additional costs like labour or equipment. It’s crucial to analyse and adapt automation solutions based on each business and process’s distinct characteristics and needs.

Mr Shankar says, “Understanding the process thoroughly is crucial for any successful automation project. Without a clear understanding, there is a high risk of encountering significant issues. Proper documentation is essential, and a detailed comprehension of the process sequencing is necessary to ensure success. Equally important is involving and gaining the confidence of the existing workforce, as automation projects can be perceived as threats to job security. Neglecting this aspect and inadequate process understanding greatly increase the chances of failure, as per past experiences.”

The key to a successful investment in automation is fully understanding the process and determining its suitability for implementation with the available technologies. It all begins with a comprehensive understanding of the process in question. Identifying pain points and areas of inefficiency is essential before implementing automation. Some may believe that humans are more efficient, but automation excels in repetitive tasks and brings planning and intelligence to the system. Even businesses with sufficient labour can benefit from automation as it streamlines processes and highlights pain points and idle time. With a systematic approach, automation helps eliminate wastage, enhances productivity, and leads to a high return on investment (ROI).

An example of everyday automation is using Fast Tags at toll gates. Initially, people were sceptical about it, but it has become widely accepted and appreciated. With Fast Tags, the toll process is much faster and more automated. Instead of manual collection and token issuance, the system automatically deducts the toll amount from the user’s bank account, providing instant feedback, and the gate opens smoothly. Once people became accustomed to it, they realised the convenience and benefits of automation.

Cobots for SMEs

The COVID-19 pandemic has ushered us into a new era, driving the demand for Cobots and robots to replace workforce in industries. During the pandemic, businesses sought solutions to reduce human contact and automate processes. This shift towards automation has been significant and transformative, leading to changes and adaptations in various sectors.

Collaborative robots, or cobots, have revolutionised small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in manufacturing and production. They bring improved safety, increased efficiency, reduced maintenance efforts, optimised space utilisation, and cost-effective automation solutions. SMEs now have a competitive edge with enhanced output and streamlined operations, as traditional robot confinement in cages is no longer necessary. Cobots have lightened the workload for human operators, leading to increased productivity and decreased maintenance requirements. Their ability to work alongside human workers makes them a valuable tool for SMEs to thrive in the competitive business environment.

RPA technology

The effective design and execution of RPA processes can be achieved through careful consideration and simulation. Utilising advanced simulations and universal integration as the foundation, industries can analyse and optimise their production with AR and VR technologies. This approach allows for well-executed automation implementation, offering valuable benefits to various sectors worldwide. Variable automation, consultancy, and simulations are now accessible in multiple domains. 

Citing an example, Mr Ravi noticed that initially, people were sceptical about using high-power machines like 30 and 40 kilowatts in 2020. However, there is a shift, and more advocates encourage their use due to increased productivity, improved quality, and lower production costs. While India has slowly adopted high-power machines, countries like China and the US have already embraced them. In the coming year, 40-50 kilowatt machines will likely become more prevalent as India catches up with the trend.

Upskilling

To maximise the return on investment, it is essential to prioritise upskilling the existing workforce. Ensuring that experienced workers and fresh college graduates possess the right skills is vital for a smooth transition from traditional to automated manufacturing processes. This upskilling and reskilling focus applies to MSMEs and larger industries in India.

When upgrading from manual machines to PLC-controlled systems, there is a need for PLC programmers. The existing workforce may lack PLC knowledge, but this can be addressed through upskilling or hiring experienced individuals. It is crucial to ensure a harmonious mix of both experienced and younger workers without creating a sense of threat or blame. Achieving this balance may be challenging, but it is essential and achievable.

Mr. Niraj added that modern technologies had made significant advancements, allowing PLCs to be controlled through mobile devices, making them more user-friendly. Upscaling and reskilling efforts are more effective when the user interface is easy to navigate. Many industries now offer PLCs and HMIs with mobile control options, utilising intuitive designs and graphical interfaces. Users can input parameters and see simulated outputs on the screen. Technological advancements are inherent, and we must keep upgrading ourselves and our environment. The technology curve has shifted from spatial skills in the 90s to mobile and cloud computing recently, emphasising the need to develop user-friendly mobile apps and interfaces.

Automation is the future for India’s competitiveness. Mr. Shankar emphasised that automation is essential to excel in manufacturing on a larger scale. It is crucial to focus on the younger generation and implement trade-oriented education from schools to colleges and diploma courses. The Skill India program is progressing, but industry participation is vital to enhance its effectiveness. Emphasising skill-based learning will greatly benefit the automation industries in the long run. Embracing change and adopting automation is essential in the current landscape. To stay competitive and efficient, we must wholeheartedly embrace automation and continually upgrade our skills and processes.

Learning Centers

Including industry-oriented subjects in the curriculum is crucial to upskill students and prepare them for the workforce. Many students need to gain knowledge of practical applications like thermography and plasma technology upon graduation. Establishing Learning Centers and involving industry professionals in curriculum planning can bridge this gap. Mr Ravi shared an instance where Messer Cutting set up a Learning Center in Odisha with a two-year syllabus and trained lecturers to impart relevant industry knowledge. This approach ensures that graduates are well-equipped with up-to-date skills and are aware of the latest technologies used in the industry. Industry professionals’ involvement in the curriculum planning committee is essential to enhance upskilling efforts and train the workforce effectively.

India is a growing automation market, and although there may be some initial hesitancy regarding ROI, people gradually understand and appreciate the advantages of automation. As businesses witness firsthand benefits, acceptance and adoption of automation on a larger scale are expected to increase naturally.

Er Niraj Shah, Owner, Arihant Satiate.
“The technology curve has shifted from spatial skills in the 90s to mobile and cloud computing in recent times, emphasising the need to develop user-friendly mobile apps and interfaces.”

Ravichandran Duraiswamy, Sr. Manager – Product Management, Messer Cutting Systems India Pvt Ltd
“It is crucial to include industry-oriented subjects in the curriculum to upskill students and prepare them for the workforce.”

Shankar Balakrishnan, Consultant, President-Elect – ISA Banglore
“The key to a successful investment in automation lies in fully understanding the process and determining its suitability for implementation with the available technologies.”

Anup Wadhwa, Director, Automation Industry Association
“A cultural shift is needed to create a connected work environment that seamlessly integrates humans, materials, and machines, with a digital Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) at its core.”

According to Dhiraj Podutwar, Business Development Manager, System Sales, Pilz India, safeguarding valuable data against unauthorised access and cyber-attacks has become a crucial aspect of intelligent automation in production.

How does smart automation contribute to improving production efficiencies?
Factories have embraced advanced automation technologies to enhance productivity, throughput, and efficiency while minimising downtimes. The factories collect shop floor data to enhance Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE). They have witnessed positive outcomes through digital transformation projects and initiatives. These projects have boosted productivity and reduced waste. These also facilitated predictive and condition-based maintenance, ensuring optimal utilisation of components and preventing unexpected downtime. By implementing intelligent automation solutions, factories have achieved efficiency, productivity, safety, security, connectivity, digitalisation, and optimisation.

Please talk about smart automation developments in Indian manufacturing.
While the pace of technological advancements in Indian manufacturing may be slower compared to the Western world, there is a noticeable increase in the digitalisation of operations within manufacturing units. A growing emphasis accompanies this shift towards digitalisation on safety and security. Safety is now viewed as a necessity rather than an optional consideration, although progress must be made to reach the standards set by Western countries. In addition to manufacturing units recognising the importance of safety and security and requesting compliance from machine builders, significant efforts have been made by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to establish machine safety standards and regulations.

Pilz India – the safety ambassador, actively collaborates with the BIS to ensure compliance with product conformity standards. Furthermore, Pilz India support Indian manufacturing setups aligning their production lines and machinery with regulatory requirements, such as CE marking in Europe, OSHA in the US, NR-12 in Brazil, KOSHA in Korea, GOST in Russia, and CCC in China.

What key technologies are used in smart automation for production processes?
The prominent technologies in manufacturing, such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and Business Intelligence (BI), have driven the convergence of information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT). This convergence has prompted manufacturing units to consider employee protection, liability protection, productivity, and data security. As a result, safeguarding valuable data against unauthorised access and cyber-attacks has become a crucial aspect of intelligent automation in the production process. Pilz India provides a comprehensive portfolio of products, solutions, and software under the “Identification and Access Management” category, catering to safety and security requirements in manufacturing.

AI-powered algorithms detect defects with greater accuracy and speed to improve efficiency in manufacturing—your views.
Machine and line complexities are increasing day by day. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) based algorithms are increasingly deployed in machine and line automation to overcome various challenges. One such application is the inspection machines for quality checks of various products in various industries. These processes have been continuously automated from the cumbersome manual inspection processes involving humans, drastically reducing human errors and, thus, improving product quality. It is possible to further integrate AI-based algorithms in automation systems to enhance inspection machines’ speed and accuracy. These algorithms are also efficient for safe zone monitoring. Pilz safe scanners for 2D monitoring enable productive area monitoring and are well suited for stationary and mobile area guarding and access monitoring.

Can you provide examples of the implementation of smart automation in improving production efficiencies?
Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) is a crucial measure of productivity and efficiency in manufacturing. It is a valuable indicator of a plant’s added value and can swiftly demonstrate its overall productivity. Achieving optimal OEE relies on implementing safe automation solutions. Machinery safety is pivotal in preventing avoidable accidents and promoting an economical and efficient process, including reduced downtimes, capacity planning, and Predictive Maintenance. Guaranteeing the safety of both workers and machines is instrumental in minimising the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Developing a tailored safety concept for processes and manufacturing units is essential for optimised operations. Therefore, embracing smart, digitalised, and safe production methodologies significantly contributes to increased productivity, enhanced efficiency, availability, and safety.

What are the potential challenges when adopting smart automation in production processes?
There remains to be a significant gap in awareness levels among operators and manufacturing units regarding advanced automation solutions. Successfully implementing revolutionary smart automation requires collaboration among stakeholders, including management, workers, implementation teams, machine builders, and automation vendors. Digital transformation is not the sole responsibility of one entity. Still, a collective effort. Challenges faced by Indian production processes include a lack of alignment, collaboration, and awareness of the benefits of digitalisation, along with the presence of legacy systems. Some manufacturing units still rely on manual and semi-automatic operations, requiring innovative approaches to address these challenges in their digitalisation journey. Out-of-the-box thinking is necessary to overcome these obstacles and propel such units towards digital transformation.

In what ways Cobots are transforming the manufacturing and production processes for SMEs?
The introduction of collaborative robots, or cobots, has revolutionised manufacturing and production processes for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These cobots have profoundly impacted safety, enhanced efficiency and productivity, reduced maintenance efforts, optimised space utilisation, and provided cost-effective automation solutions. As a result, SMEs are now better equipped to compete in the market, increase their output, and streamline their operations. The traditional concept of confining robots within cages needs to be updated. Cobots have transformed manufacturing lines by enabling a new way of working and operating. Ensuring enhanced safety is paramount when using cobots to protect machines and humans. Today, cobots have significantly lightened the workload for human workers on production lines by minimising maintenance efforts and enhancing overall productivity and throughput. Additionally, cobots have effectively reduced the space required for machines since there is no longer a need for cages to safeguard human operators. This has direct implications for machine installation and plant costs. 

Marking a decade of presence in India, Schmersal Group embarks upon their successful journey with the dedicated R&D developments in ensuring safety and addressing customer demands.

How has Schmersal ensured the functionality of their devices and addressed customer demands?
Henning Carl: Ensuring the device’s functionality is a top priority for us. To achieve this, we have established our own injection molding area. This decision has allowed us to enhance our responsiveness to customer demands. As a result, our team and company have grown in expertise, specifically in the assembly and deeper processes.
Our next strategic move involved establishing partnerships with local suppliers who can provide technical support for crucial processes such as painting, die casting, and stamping, while we primarily focus on plastic parts manufacturing, injection machines, assembly, and the essential testing of the final product. Conducting 100% testing ourselves using our own equipment is vital, as it enables us to make necessary adjustments to meet customer requirements. 

How does the company ensure compliance with different safety standards in various regions?
Henning Carl: Operating in various parts of the world poses a significant challenge for us, as each region has its own set of safety standards. Our R&D department plays a crucial role in ensuring that our products comply with these standards and obtain the necessary approvals from the respective notified bodies. When developing new products, R&D informs us about the specific requirements for each target market, such as UL certification. While this presents a challenge, the advantage of our global presence is that it allows us to gather valuable insights from different regions and offer our clients the opportunity to assemble machines tailored to their needs. Since our machines are not limited to a single location, but rather exported to various countries like Taiwan, Bangladesh, Europe, and the US, it is essential for us to be well-versed in the regulations. Our clients often seek our assistance in ensuring the safety of the machines they intend to export.

What challenges has Schmersal faced in managing their business in India?
Michael Ambros: India has witnessed significant progress in the field of production science. Despite facing internal challenges, such as the integration of various family members and managing a business that originated in Germany, the company has successfully brought together a talented team of professionals.

The company takes pride in its accomplishments over the past decade in India, particularly for being early adopters of initiatives like “Make in India.” Initially, there were difficulties pertaining to legal, tax, and governmental aspects, but these have now been resolved, and the company considers itself to be in a leading position in terms of safety in India. The main challenge ahead is to maintain a leading position in the market as new competitors emerge. It also gives us a push to establish local production facilities for both domestic and international markets.

How has Schmersal worked towards enhancing workplace safety?
Sagar Bhosale: Schmersal’s core mission is to enhance workplace safety. Over the past decade, the company has actively engaged in collaborations with industry partners, stakeholders, and government authorities to minimize accidents in the workplace.

Training plays a vital role in the overall safety process. It serves as the initial step where customers are educated about the potential hazards associated with their machines. Schmersal conducts comprehensive training sessions to create awareness about machine safety and the necessary measures to mitigate risks. This includes instructing on the appearance and operation of a safe machine, as well as providing guidance on maintenance and proper handling. Ongoing training remains essential even after safety measures have been implemented, particularly for advanced technical products that incorporate electronics and IoT capabilities. This ensures that customers can utilize them effectively and avoid future issues.

What are the unique demands of the safety market in India?
Sagar Bhosale: The safety market in India has unique demands, with customers seeking greater flexibility in their machines. Unlike standard products with stringent tolerances, Indian customers require more tolerance and flexibility, often requesting modifications to suit their specific needs. Schmersal meets these requirements by manufacturing products in Pune, where they have dedicated teams for research and development, vendor development, and supply chain management. This allows them to provide comprehensive solutions that directly fit the customers’ machines, meeting their individual specifications.

While cost is not the primary concern, Indian customers prioritize the value they receive from the products. They assess the worthiness of the offerings and evaluate the benefits and advantages provided by Schmersal’s products, focusing on the value delivered rather than just the price.

How does Schmersal contribute to the implementation of IoT for predictive maintenance?
Sagar Bhosale: Schmersal plays a significant role in the application of IoT for predictive maintenance, a widely adopted practice in various industries. The company collects machine data, transfers it to a gateway, and ultimately to the cloud. However, the value lies not only in obtaining data but also in analyzing it and taking actionable steps based on the insights gained. Schmersal’s IoT team in India has developed an ecosystem where they collaborate with analytics experts and other partners to offer comprehensive solutions to customers. This includes providing analytics dashboards and developing web and mobile applications for convenient access to the data. Schmersal’s IT professionals, through a global Competency Center, contribute to developing these user-friendly applications that enhance the customer experience.

How does Schmersal ensure consistency and quality across their manufacturing locations globally?
Sagar Bhosale: Schmersal maintains consistency in its solutions regardless of the manufacturing location, be it India, Germany, Brazil, or China. All products undergo the same international approvals to ensure uniformity. The company implements stringent production processes, including the use of identical machines for manufacturing switches, guaranteeing consistent quality. Due to the nature of safety products, thorough testing is conducted on each switch, evaluating it against a minimum of 10 to 15 parameters before it is deemed ready for delivery. Schmersal prioritizes strong consistency throughout the entire production and testing processes to ensure the reliability of their products.

An interesting fact, Schmersal’s testing machines for switches are interconnected globally, enabling quality personnel in Germany to monitor the quality control processes and progress in India. This interconnected system allows for real-time monitoring and ensures consistent quality standards are maintained across different locations.

How does Schmersal ensure consistent and standardized safety and automation solutions across different regions while accounting for unique regional requirements and regulations?
Sagar Bhosale: Schmersal ensures consistent and standardized safety solutions worldwide, including in India. Products manufactured in various countries meet the same international approvals, maintaining global uniformity. Production processes are also consistent, employing identical machines for switch manufacturing across regions, ensuring reliability.

Stringent testing is applied to all safety products. Each switch undergoes a comprehensive evaluation, meeting 10 to 15 parameters before delivery. This rigorous approach guarantees adherence to quality standards.

By emphasizing manufacturing consistency, thorough testing, and reliable delivery, Schmersal achieves consistency across regions. This enables us to meet diverse regional requirements and regulations while upholding the highest safety and quality standards. 

In response to the significant demand for Skill Development in Advanced Manufacturing, Phillips Education introduced its Centers of Excellence (CoE) program to offer a comprehensive solution to its partners.

Throughout history, the manufacturing industry has been crucial in driving progress, fostering innovation, and creating wealth for societies, starting from the iron-age era. However, the modern global manufacturing sector faces a significant challenge in the form of a severe shortage of skilled workers, which hampers its capacity to meet growing demands. Despite its vast population of 1.4 billion people, India needs help to secure a stable and well-trained workforce for its manufacturing sector. The issue arises as more individuals migrate to Tier 1 cities and prefer more lucrative fields such as Finance, back office functions, and IT supposedly.

With a GDP of $3.75 trillion, India has become the world’s 5th largest economy, and its technological expertise has been steadily growing for over two decades. However, India needs to catch up to countries like Japan, Germany, China, and Vietnam in modern-day manufacturing. The primary reasons for this lag are the need for a skilled workforce in advanced manufacturing and inadequate supporting infrastructure. Despite ambitious initiatives such as Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat by the government, achieving success in this sector will only be possible with swift systemic changes.

Phillips Education has emerged as a catalytic force to address these challenges, aiming to empower learners with the knowledge and skills required to boost India’s manufacturing sector. This becomes especially crucial as India aims to export goods worth $1 trillion by 2030, with manufacturing projected to contribute a quarter of the economy’s output by 2025. Phillips Education’s efforts can play a vital role in driving the growth of India’s manufacturing industry and fulfilling its ambitious economic goals.

Phillips Education is a bold undertaking by Phillips Corporation, a 6-decade-old advanced manufacturing solution provider in several countries, including the U.S., India, Bangladesh, Middle East & Africa, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. Phillips Education is dedicated to collaborating with India’s thought leaders and decision-makers through its India office. The primary objective is to offer accessible and transformative resources, machinery, training & certifications, and global opportunities. This partnership aims to unleash the complete potential of advanced manufacturing in the country.

In response to the significant demand for Skill Development in Advanced Manufacturing, Phillips Education introduced its Centers of Excellence (CoE) program to offer a comprehensive solution to its partners. The Phillips Advanced Manufacturing CoE typically collaborates with State Governments in India, prominent Universities, or Government Agencies representing the State to establish a CoE that serves their specific objectives. These purposes may vary from providing skills training to the youth in the region to enhance their employability, fostering Research & Development initiatives, or aligning the curriculum with industry requirements.

This is achieved through practical training sessions, workshops, and access to cutting-edge equipment, empowering the local industry with advanced manufacturing technologies, processes, and best practices. The curriculum covers essential Industry 4.0 technologies like robotics, additive manufacturing, and digital manufacturing. These skills are crucial for India to reduce dependence on China for products and parts, thus gaining a geopolitical advantage in the region. India possesses a unique opportunity to lead the world economy by excelling in the service economy through its IT workforce and in the product economy through its advanced manufacturing workforce. It is vital to expedite the establishment of CoEs at a rapid pace to capitalise on this potential.

Phillips Education has successfully established a CoE in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha, in just one year. Another CoE is scheduled to be inaugurated on August 15th, 2023, India’s 76th Independence Day, in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. These milestones signify significant progress in India’s journey towards self-reliance. Through strategic partnerships and CoE setups across the country, Phillips Education effectively bridges the skill gap and equips individuals with the expertise required by the Indian manufacturing sector. By doing so, CoEs enhance India’s competitiveness in the global manufacturing landscape, fill the need for skilled labour, and empower the nation to emerge as a strong contender in international trade.

Phillips Education is active beyond India and has partnered with Malaysian government agencies to develop a CoEin to drive Industry 4.0. Phillips is also collaborating with Factory One – a model factory by Qatar Development Bank, to develop Qatar’s first advanced manufacturing CoE, led by Mckinsey. As more countries and states within India join the CoE revolution initiated by Phillips Education, a network will be created where student exchange programs will help the exchange of ideas and technology transfer can improve the overall competitiveness of the entire region.

In recent times, the manufacturing industry has greatly advanced with the advent of Industry 4.0 and the introduction of machines that were non-existent a decade ago. Nevertheless, the industry faces significant challenges from pandemics, wars, and supply-chain disruptions, as demonstrated during events like the Covid pandemic and conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine wars. As a result, the imperative to manufacture domestically has become crucial, leading countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Malaysia, and India to strive to reduce their dependence on China for products and parts.

Phillips carefully designs and develops each Center of Excellence with the needs of the local industry in mind, managing everything from creating the curriculum to training CoE instructors extensively through its rigorous Train the Trainer program. With long-standing strategic partnerships with world-renowned manufacturing technology providers such as Haas, EOS, Markforged, and Universal Robots, the Phillips team even provides state-of-the-art, industry-grade equipment so learners are trained in leading technologies. Upon completing a program, individuals can also receive industry-recognised certification, which immediately boosts their employability.

Democratising manufacturing resources

 Taking the Education division’s efforts further, the Phillips Machinist app is a unique mobile application designed for the manufacturing industry. This app offers professionals in the sector the opportunity to enhance their skills through various online modules, connect with Phillips’ global machinist community, access valuable resources for better machine understanding, and seek assistance from Phillips experts through inquiry submissions. Additionally, the app features a Job Connect platform that enables businesses in the industry to post job vacancies without any charges, allowing professionals to apply for these positions.

In a country like India, where the number of smartphone users is estimated to exceed 600 million, the Machinist app presents a distinctive chance for industry experts to enhance their skills and access valuable resources conveniently, regardless of location. With ongoing updates and the incorporation of innovative features, the platform is already a valuable tool that Indian businesses and professionals can utilise. It continually empowers machinists to acquire much-needed knowledge in the sector and provides manufacturers access to a talented pool of industry-ready professionals.

The road ahead

The Indian manufacturing sector is facing critical challenges that require immediate attention, and this is not a new development. The scarcity of skilled labour, changing market dynamics, and the pressing requirement to adopt advanced technologies are crucial issues that must be tackled to ensure the sector’s growth and prosperity. Education plays a pivotal role in overcoming these obstacles and achieving the vision of a self-reliant India.

Through its targeted focus on essential aspects such as robotics, additive manufacturing, and digital manufacturing technologies, Phillips Education endeavours to provide diverse offerings that can be customised to meet the specific requirements of different regions. In doing so, Phillips Education aims to contribute to a brighter future for India, where the manufacturing industry thrives on the global platform, fueling economic growth, fostering unmatched innovation, and establishing itself as a manufacturing power force to be reckoned with.

Rakshit Kejriwal, President of Phillips Education, often echoes the words of Alan Mulally, former President & CEO of Ford Motor Co., stating, “No country can achieve long-term success without a robust and thriving manufacturing base.” This quote reflects the vital importance of a strong manufacturing sector for sustained growth and prosperity in any nation.

Nupur Recyclers, a leading player in waste management and recycling, celebrates its growth journey with expansion and acquisitions, aiming to become a prominent force in sustainable waste solutions.

Nupur Recyclers Limited in the continuity of its journey of growth is adding a few major landmarks through expansion and acquisition.

In continuation of NRL’s growth path, the company has ventured into Nupur Polymers Pvt. Ltd. at Bawal, Haryana. This plant is spread over 2000 sq. mt. and is having a capacity of more than 6000 metric tons of polymers per year. Through this plant, the company is already addressing the meaningful use of plastic waste.

In addition, the company intent to venture into Aluminum extrusion through Nupur Extrusion Pvt. Ltd. The company has acquired a new piece of land measuring 6070 sq. mt. at Sampla, Haryana for this plant which will be scheduled to start early next year having production capacity of 8000 metric tons of Aluminum.

The company is actively looking for controlling stakes in various other ventures towards the direction of recycling of metal and other products to provide waste management solutions across the globe.

Mr. Rajesh Gupta, Managing Director of Nupur Recyclers added “Our objective is to establish Nupur Recyclers as the “numero uno” in the Recycling industry through rock-solid performance, growth, and acquisition strategy. The next financial year promises to bring even bigger opportunities for us, and we are geared up for the same.” 

Nupur Recycler is dedicated to promoting sustainable living by offering innovative waste management solutions that are efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. The company’s commitment to excellence has earned it a reputation as a leader in the waste management industry, and it is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the years to come. 

WIKA India takes a significant step towards growth by inaugurating a new Force Measurement Production Unit in Pune. The unit aims to offer customized solutions and strengthen WIKA’s position in the market.

WIKA India inaugurated Force Measurement Production Unit in Pune. With this, the company has taken another major leap towards its successful future growth in the country.

The Force Measurement Production Unit will play a pivotal role in the future technological advancements in WIKA’s products. It is one of the major investments made by WIKA India in recent years to strengthen its position in the market and align itself with its aim to double the company’s turnover by 2025.

WIKA’s Force Measurement Production Unit brings together the company’s expertise to create customized force measurement solutions for the industry. The unit is a major step in the company’s mission to bring high-quality products to the market in the shortest possible time.

Mr. Alexander Wiegand, Chairman and CEO, WIKA Group said “Our key strength lies in our global presence. We continuously aim to strengthen our global operations to provide optimum local services to our customers and are proud to have the strength of a big company with the flexibility of a local business. Our product range caters to every industry need and India is an important center for our global operations and growth. Pune is where our India story began and it is a proud moment to see the successful expansion of the operations here.”

Mr. Andreas Keiger, Executive Vice President – EMEA/India, WIKA Group emphasised that WIKA Group’s growth strategy places India at its core, driving our vision and expansion plans. In line with our unwavering commitment to advancing our operations and fostering excellence, we proudly unveil the advanced Force Measurement Production Unit in Pune, a symbol of our commitment to innovation, quality, and technology. With firm dedication, we empower growth and propel towards unparalleled achievements. Together, we look forward to embarking on an exciting journey of progress, innovation, and mutual prosperity.

Force measurement devices find critical applications in various industries including automotive, oil and gas and medical equipment, among others. WIKA India has a wide range of force measurement devices, which includes tension and compression force transducers, shear and bending beams, shackle load cells, ring force transducers, load pins, tension links, wire rope force transducers and strain transducers.

“Establishing a Force Measurement production unit has always been an integral part of our vision for the growth of WIKA in India. Round-the-clock dedication by the team towards the project has made it such a success. The Unit will play a vital role in catering to the robust demand for test and measurement equipment arising in India. The unit makes WIKA future-ready to meet the requirements of the market,” said Gaurav Bawa, Senior Vice President, WIKA India.

WIKA India has manufacturing plants in four states—Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. The inception of WIKA India began in Pune in 1997 with the establishment of WIKA Instrument. Along with its first calibration facility, the Pune operation is also home to the company’s unit for level, calibration and SF6 gas. The addition of the Force Measurement Production Unit is a value addition to the entire operation.

Trio Motion Technology, a leading Indian automation company with 30 years of expertise, is set to showcase its cutting-edge Gen5 automation and robotics solutions at Automation Expo 2023 in Mumbai. Visitors can explore their advanced offerings at Hall 1, Stall S1.

Trio Motion Technology, a renowned automation company based in India, is set to showcase its advanced automation and robotics solutions at Automation Expo 2023 in Mumbai. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Trio Motion Technology has established itself as a leading provider of automation solutions across various sectors. The exhibition, taking place from August 23 to August 26, 2023, at the Bombay Exhibition Center, will feature their cutting-edge Gen5 solutions that promise to revolutionize the landscape of manufacturing in India. Visitors can explore the innovative and high-performance offerings at Trio Motion Technology’s stall in Hall 1, Stall S1.

Trio Motion Technology, since its inception, has provided high-performance and technologically advanced solutions, making them a preferred automation solutions provider for various OEMs and factories across industries. “We are in a prime position to support our customers with Gen5 technology and solutions and our expertise in India. We focus on providing our customers with mechatronics consultation, application, technical support, and service locally, helping them reduce their time to market and stay ahead of their competition. We prioritize strengthening our RnD facility in Pune, India,” mentions Mr. Upendra Vanarase, Managing Director, Trio Motion Technology India Private Limited. 

Integrated solutions for higher performance

Trio’s comprehensive range allows users economical, flexible, and seamless control of 1 to 128 axes of servo motors, stepper motors, piezo motors, or hydraulic systems. Trio products can be found in virtually every servo and stepper application. Additionally, we control all the motion, robotic systems, and I/O using a single controller. This primarily benefits users with effective programming, higher speeds, and accuracy. With the powerful, real-time EtherCAT technology as the communication backbone for Trio Motion Technology solutions, it enables seamless, high-speed synchronization between the motion controller and drives, enhancing application precision and performance.   

EMO preview in Frankfurt am Main ring in the hot phase of trade show preparations; Digitalisation and sustainability are key areas of focus for industrial production.

The EMO Hannover organizer VDW (German Machine Tool Builders’ Association) invited visitors to attend the major preview for the event in Frankfurt am Main on July 5 and 6. EMO Hannover is scheduled to take place from September 18 to 23, but 31 exhibitors have been giving a sneak preview

of their innovations a good ten weeks before the event itself. Almost 70 journalists from over 30 countries came, saw, marveled and asked the exhibitors for details.

Dr. Wilfried Schäfer, Executive Director of the VDW, welcoming the guests said, “The EMO Hannover preview was held for the first time in Frankfurt am Main. The event has a long tradition and is both the climax and conclusion of our EMO Hannover World Tour. In around 60 events held in 40 countries, from Japan to Mexico and from Finland to South Africa, we have been presenting EMO Hannover 2023 to the EMO community since the beginning of the year.” 

Dr. Markus Heering, his Executive Director colleague at the VDW, continues, “Under the banner of Innovate Manufacturing. We have decided to focus on three megatopics at EMO Hannover this year: The Future of Business, The Future of Connectivity and The Future of Sustainability in Production. The aim here is to show that production technology is not merely of interest to experts, but that the industry is doing its part to solve the most pressing problems of our time. And that’s what exhibitors are showing – in impressive variety and depth – with their technical solutions here at the preview and at the fair itself in September.”

EMO Hannover to feature a wealth of offerings as the countdown begins
More than 1,750 exhibitors from 42 countries are currently expected at EMO Hannover 2023. They will present the entire spectrum of production technology.Major points of interest include machining centers and lathes, cutting tools and clamping devices, measuring equipment and control systems. “The breadth of the technical offerings is unparalleled at the international trade fair for production technology,” emphasized Markus Heering.The event highlights the challenges that exist in production: greater efficiency, more flexibility, better quality, increased accuracy, the integration of AI, comprehensive factory-wide networking, and much more besides. 

EMO Hannover is offering various joint stands aimed at drawing attention to specific trend topics: Additive Manufacturing, Connectivity, Cobots and Sustainability in Production. “In particular, latest developments such as those showcased in the Sustainability in Production Area are attracting a lot of interest, as exhibitors are keen to reposition themselves in this field,” reported Wilfried Schäfer. Research institutes will also feature prominently on the stand, using it to present their sustainability projects.  

Trend forum for the future of production technology
As the world’s leading trade fair for production technology, EMO Hannover aims to cover all the important topics relating to the industrial value chain, to present the current state of the art and to highlight possible scenarios for future development. “In addition to the aforementioned topics, a further focus will be on the recruitment of skilled workers on the Special Training Stand. The range of services offered by the NachwuchsstiftungMaschinenbau (Youth Education and Development Foundation for Mechanical Engineering) has been expanded beyond initial vocational training to include ongoing training and development,” Markus Heering explained. The special umati stand will feature a major live demonstration aimed at showcasing the latest developments in the connectivity initiative for the mechanical and plant engineering industry as a basis for effective networking within and between factories. Finally, the Startup Area will be promoting pioneering collaboration with young companies, said Schäfer, describing two further examples.  

The joint stands will be complemented by two forums in halls 9 and 16 of the Hannover exhibition center. They provide a platform for exhibitors’ presentations on technology topics and for in-depth presentations on special Future Insights topics. The program includes a conference on business opportunities in the Indian market, and two half-days entitled “New digital work – opportunity or disenfranchisement?” Both go into greater depth on individual aspects of the Future of Business. Further Future of Connectivity half-days will address the topics of umati and Energy efficiency through digitalization. Sustainability in production aspects will finally be covered in presentations and discussions on e-mobility, climate-neutral production, the potential of circular business models and best practices with regard to sustainability in production. 

The presentations are closely linked to the EMO Hannover digital service, which was launched in the run-up to the trade fair. “Some of the presentations, conferences and key topics will be streamed live or recorded and will be available on demand via our website at www.emo-hannover.de – just like this Preview, incidentally. Our aim here is to extend the reach of our exhibitors and to ensure that visitors who may not be able to take advantage of all the offerings are kept in the loop in terms of in-depth information and discussions,” explained Wilfried Schäfer of the VDW.

World’s leading trade fair supporting the cultivation and expansion of international networks
All the above forums and events not only provide in-depth information, but also promote discussion and the sharing of ideas and experience among participants. As the world’s leading trade fair for production technology, EMO Hannover is better suited than any other to grow the international network by attracting further manufacturing experts from the supplier and customer sides as well as from the scientific community. EMO Hannover digital is already making a contribution to this – even across geographical borders – with its EMO sessions, digital chats and video meetings in the run-up to the fair itself. In addition, all visitors receive a “matchmaking” offer when they register online in the ticket store at www.emo-hannover.de. There they can enter their profile and interests and, based on any potential matches, can then arrange appointments with people who share the same interests.

“After a four-year break, EMO is returning to Hannover – with a new concept, with a new look and with renewed energy,” concluded Wilfried Schäfer. “The mood is buzzing. That much emerged clearly from the Preview. Our exhibitors and we, the organizers, are very much looking forward to reconnecting with our customers and business partners.”

The centre is a valuable platform for manufacturers and industry experts to directly witness the revolutionary potential of YASKAWA India’s innovative robotic automation technologies.

YASKAWA India, a prominent worldwide supplier of robotic automation solutions, has introduced its advanced Robotic Experience Centre in Manesar, Gurugram, India. This state-of-the-art establishment presents the latest progressions in industrial automation, showcasing six industrial robotic cells incorporating Articulated and collaborative robots, drives, and motion control products. The centre is a valuable platform for manufacturers and industry experts to directly witness the revolutionary potential of YASKAWA India’s innovative robotic automation technologies.

COBOT Palletizing: 

At the YASKAWA Robotic Demo Centre, the Cobot Palletizing cell is a standout feature. This Cell allows visitors to observe the impressive stacking abilities of the HC20DTP collaborative robot, which can handle payloads of up to 20 kg. The demonstration exhibits the cobot’s stacking height capabilities, enabling manufacturers to evaluate how it can enhance their palletizing operations. Additionally, the cell showcases the advanced functionalities of YASKAWA’s intelligent teach pendant and robust pallet-mate software.

Spot Welding: 

YASKAWA collaborates with Denyo, a reliable channel partner, to introduce an innovative Spot-Welding cell. In this demonstration, the SP210-spot-welding robot’s accuracy and effectiveness are displayed when paired with Denyo’s C-type spot-welding gun. The showcased features include:

• Tip wear calculation and sheet thickness detection.
• Offering valuable insights into how these technologies improve welding processes.
• Leading to enhanced quality and productivity.

Machine Tending: 

At the Robotic Demo Centre, the Machine Tending cell replicates the process of loading and unloading components using a dummy CNC machine. This demonstration effectively showcases the YASKAWA GP12 robot’s ability to manage variant selection and transfer components with efficiency flawlessly. Visitors can witness the robot’s precise inspection process and observe how rejected components are accurately placed in the rejection bin.

Arc Welding: 

At YASKAWA’s Arc Welding cell, the AR2010 Robot is paired with the MDB 250B, a two-axis positioner, to demonstrate the seamless coordination between the two. This showcases the impressive welding efficiency of car seat frames. Adding a laser pointer further emphasizes the precision and accuracy of YASKAWA’s robotic welding solutions.

Painting: 

In the painting cell, YASKAWA showcases the combination of MotoFeeder and EPX1250 Robot, designed to be explosion-proof for paint product usage. This demonstration offers a fascinating glimpse into automated car painting, highlighting how YASKAWA’s robot achieves accurate and consistent paint application. Manufacturers can observe the benefits of adopting robotic painting solutions, including improved efficiency, quality, and worker safety.

The newly established Robotic Experience Centre by YASKAWA India in Manesar, Gurugram, reflects the company’s strong dedication to driving innovation and revolutionizing industrial automation. This advanced facility houses various industrial robotic cells, including applications like collaborative robots, spot welding, machine tending, arc welding, assembly, and painting. By offering such a wide range of demonstrations, the centre becomes a valuable resource for manufacturers, providing them with essential insights into the transformative capabilities of YASKAWA’s state-of-the-art technologies. As industries increasingly embrace automation, this Robotic Experience Centre is well-positioned to serve as an inspiring hub, fostering collaboration and propelling the Indian manufacturing sector towards a new era of productivity and efficiency.

Assembly: 

Within the Robotic Demo Centre, an Assembly Application cell offers visitors the chance to observe the YASKAWA GP25 robot in operation. The demonstration showcases the robot’s impressive ability to execute complex assembly tasks with speed, accuracy, and repeatability. By displaying the robot’s potential to streamline assembly processes, the cell showcases how YASKAWA’s technology can enhance production efficiency and lower operational costs.

Jindal Aluminium Limited, a renowned extrusion manufacturer, has achieved the prestigious AS 9100D Aerospace certification, acknowledging its commitment to exceptional quality and safety in aviation, space, and defence manufacturing.

Jindal Aluminium Limited received the AS 9100D Aerospace certification (based on and including ISO 9001:2015), recognising the company as a qualified extrusion manufacturer for the aviation, space, and defence industry.  

After completing a two-stage stringent audit process, the prestigious accreditation was awarded to its Bangalore facility by M/s NVT Services, one of India’s top aerospace certification agencies. The certification process commenced in January 2023, and Jindal Aluminium received the certificate in June 2023, demonstrating the company’s commitment to meeting the rigorous standards of the aerospace & defence industry.  

The aerospace & defence industry strongly emphasises safety and quality, with standardisation and thorough research being crucial factors. The sector requires a pre-requisite for qualifying as an aerospace & defence material supplier to companies or partners in the aerospace segment. This certification is a testimony to standards accepted worldwide and practices the company has been implementing, marking it as a substantial development. Developed jointly by the Society of Automotive Engineers and the European Association of Aerospace Industries, AS9100D has become a benchmark for ensuring exceptional quality in aviation, space and defence manufacturing and supply chain processes. 

Commenting on the occasion, Pragun Khaitan, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, said, “We are excited to achieve the AS9100D certification, a significant accomplishment for Jindal Aluminium. It will pave the way for our strategic expansion plans, consolidate our domestic and international reach in the industry and meet the rigorous quality standards demanded by the growing aviation, space and defence segment.”  

With a remarkable legacy spanning over 50 years, the achievement of the AS 9100D Aerospace certification adds to Jindal Aluminium’s list of accomplishments. It will also instil greater confidence in its customers, reflecting its unwavering commitment to excellence and reliability. 

Dassault Systèmes will equip the center with the latest technologies such as 3DEXPERIENCE Works, to drive future-ready innovation leveraging modern design and engineering solutions.

Dassault Systèmes signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Telangana’s T-works, India’s largest fully integrated hardware prototyping center, to set up a Startup Center of Excellence and introduce a 3DEXPERIENCE Works startup program to engage early-stage hardware startups. This one-of-a-kind Startup Center of Excellence in India, dedicated to revolutionising the IT engineering ecosystem in India. It intends to support startups across industries such as aerospace and defence, transportation and mobility, and others.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Suchit Jain, Vice President, Strategy and Business Development, 3DEXPERIENCE Works, Dassault Systèmes, P M Ravikumar, India Management Director, SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE Works, Dassault Systèmes, Ramakrishnan Venkataraman, Director and Head – Enterprise Solutions, Dassault Systèmes, and Sujai Karampuri, CEO, T-Works and Director Electronics, Government of Telangana.

T-Works is an initiative of the Government of Telangana aimed at creating and promoting a culture of innovators in the country who have a passion to experiment, explore and innovate without the fear of failure. With the signing of the MoU, Dassault Systèmes will equip the center with the latest technologies, such as 3DEXPERIENCE Works, to drive future-ready innovation leveraging modern design and engineering solutions. The 3DEXPERIENCE Works startup program will offer software, training and co-marketing resources to participating startups and help them succeed. The Startup Center of Excellence will enable an innovation ecosystem that empowers next-generation startups to design, build and create prototypes of their products leveraging state-of-the-art equipment, design tools and mentoring across fields to accelerate the journey from ideation to product development.

“The collaboration with Dassault Systèmes to set up the Startup Center of Excellence, will further equip the center with the latest technologies, such as the 3DEXPERIENCE Works, which will prove beneficial to early-stage startups who can leverage cutting-edge software and IT technology solutions to create prototypes of their products to take it to the next level,” said Sujai Karampuri, CEO – T-Works and Director Electronics, Government of Telangana.

“Such initiatives are integral to empowering the new generation of startups across core industries. Invaluable design guidance and mentorship will be advantageous to new startups when launching a new product in the market as it can help them avoid common mistakes and overcome challenges early on while making the entire journey more sustainable,” said Deepak NG, Managing Director, India, Dassault Systemes.

Mitsubishi Electric India’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) extends to skill development and knowledge-sharing in the semiconductor industry.

Mitsubishi Electric has been actively promoting its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in India, focusing on skill development, community welfare, healthcare, and environmental conservation. These efforts align with the Government of India’s initiatives and are in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Over the years, being at the pinnacle of Semiconductor industry, Mitsubishi Electric India has been supporting the diverse production and manufacturing needs through its Electronic and Electrical products and solutions. Along with the widespread operation, comes the responsibility of practical learning and knowledge about the modern techniques and technology of Semiconductor devices.

In the company’s vision to spread out the information and practical knowledge about the function and application of Semiconductors, Mitsubishi Electric Semiconductor & Devices department extends continuous support to the semiconductors and devices lab project across the country.

In the initial phase of this philanthropic project, two institutions of technical education were supported with the educational material and advanced training methods. Moving a step ahead towards the second phase, the company prepared educational kits and equipment which were provided to the three technical institutions; Indian Institute of Technology located in Delhi, BMS College of Engineering located in Bengaluru and Institute of Technology, NIRMA University located in Ahmedabad to set the practical knowledge of semiconductor devices as a literary technical project across institutions of India that has benefited around 700 students from these colleges.

The educational material prepared by semiconductors & devices department includes IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor Module), SiC (Silicon Carbide) Module, IPMs (Intelligent Power Modules), DIPIPMs, DIPIPM (Dual In Line IPM) Evaluation PCBA with controller, IGBT Gate Drivers, Application notes, etc. which have been supplied at the labs of the three colleges. In its endeavour to give it back to the society, the company adapted this partnership to bring technological upliftment in India which can be achieved through the CSR initiative of educating the youth and helping them get familiar with technical advancements of the Semiconductor industry.

Inauguration of the Power Semiconductor devices set-up at the lab of these institutions was done by Mr. Hitesh Bhardwaj, General Manager, Semiconductor and Devices division, Mitsubishi Electric India Pvt. Ltd.

STUDER will present a new automation solution at the joint stand of the UNITED GRINDING Group at the EMO in Hanover in hall 11, booth E34.

Fritz Studer AG, one of the market and technology leaders in universal, external, internal cylindrical, and non-circular grinding, will present a new automation solution on the S31 universal external cylindrical grinding machine at EMO 2023 in Hanover. In addition, visitors can look forward to other machines on display:

• favorit – The price hit for the most important applications.
• S33 with uniLoad – The value for money for individual requirements.
• S100 – The ergonomic machine for the entry-level segment.
• S131R with roboLoad – The expert for every conceivable internal grinding task. 

The customer-oriented revolution continues

With the first-time presentation of C.O.R.E. at EMO 2021 in Milan, the UNITED GRINDING Group has triggered a revolution in the field of machine tools. The advanced hardware and software architecture on which C.O.R.E. is based enables a novel machine interaction concept. But C.O.R.E. is much more than just a revolutionary operating system. It opens up new possibilities for networking, controlling, and monitoring the production process and thus for process optimization. It also lays the foundation for the operation of modern IoT applications and thus opens the door to the digital future.

According to the data released by the National Statistical Office, the manufacturing sector experienced a growth of 4.9% in April 2023.

India’s industrial production growth in April 2023 witnessed a significant improvement, primarily attributed to the strong performance of the manufacturing and mining sectors. Official data released by the National Statistical Office (NSO) revealed that the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) recorded a growth rate of 4.2 percent, surpassing the 1.7 percent growth observed in March 2023. Compared to the corresponding period in April 2022 when the IIP growth was 6.7 percent, the growth rate in April 2023 remained slightly lower. The manufacturing sector, in particular, experienced a growth rate of 4.9 percent, indicating a moderate expansion compared to the 5.6 percent growth the same month the previous year.

In April 2023, there was a decline of 1.1 percent in power generation compared to a substantial growth of 11.8 percent seen previously. However, the mining sector witnessed a positive growth of 5.1 percent during the same period, albeit slightly lower than the 8.4 percent growth recorded in the corresponding month of the previous year. When classified based on usage, the capital goods segment experienced a growth rate of 6.2 percent in April, which was a decrease compared to the 12 percent expansion observed a year ago.

During April 2023, there was a decline of 3.5 percent in the output of consumer durable goods, contrasting with a growth of 7.2 percent observed in the same period a year ago. On the other hand, consumer non-durable goods recorded a growth rate of 10.7 percent, indicating a positive turnaround from the contraction of 0.8 percent witnessed in the previous year. Infrastructure and construction goods also experienced significant growth of 12.8 percent compared to a four percent expansion in the corresponding period of the previous year. In terms of primary goods output, there was a growth of 1.9 percent in April, which was notably lower than the 10.3 percent growth observed in the same month the previous year.

The output of intermediate goods in April increased by 0.8 percent, a notable decrease from the 7.1 percent growth recorded during the same month last year. In the fiscal year 2022-23, the overall growth in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) stood at 5.2 percent, marking a decline from the 11.4 percent growth observed in the preceding year.

IMTMA and Landesmesse Stuttgart GmbH join hands to launch MOLDEX and FASTNEX to be held at Bengaluru from 19-23 January 2024.

The development of the Indian machine tool industry has sparked a growing demand for advanced technologies in metal forming. For over a decade, IMTEX FORMING has played a pivotal role in fostering the growth of the metal forming business. The metal forming industry encompasses crucial technologies such as moulding, fasteners, welding, laser cutting, and more. Expanding the scope of IMTEX FORMING would greatly benefit the machine tool and manufacturing sectors. Consequently, the Indian Machine Tool Manufacturers’ Association (IMTMA) has collaborated with domestic and international organizations to co-locate new exhibitions alongside IMTEX FORMING.

IMTMA and Landesmesse Stuttgart GmbH (Messe Stuttgart) announced a partnership to organize MOLDEX India and FASTNEX. Both these shows will be held at Bangalore International Exhibition Centre in Bengaluru along with IMTEX FORMING, Tooltech, Digital Manufacturing, and WELDEXPO (organized in association with the Indian Institute of Welding), which takes place from 19 – 23 January 2024.

MOLDEX India is the satellite show of the Molding Expo Stuttgart/Germany and would highlight the latest advancements and solutions in moulding technology. FASTNEX is a new trade fair for the fastening and fixing sector and will showcase the latest trends in fastening, fixing, joining, and assembly technologies. These shows are being held for the first time along with IMTEX FORMING.

This remarkable initiative aims to enhance the Indian metal-forming machine tool sector by incorporating important aspects such as moulding technology and fastening and fixing solutions. By expanding the exhibition, attendees will have access to state-ofthe-art technologies and solutions that will drive the progress of the manufacturing industry. This integration will facilitate knowledge exchange across different industries, foster innovation, and stimulate collaborative partnerships.

MOLDEX and FASTNEX, together with IMTEX FORMING, Tooltech, Digital Manufacturing and WELDEXPO, will provide comprehensive coverage on the entire metal forming and digital manufacturing technologies which are widely used in various industry sectors such as automotive, aerospace, medical, consumer durables, construction, defence and many more. The shows will be able to attract many visitors who can find solutions to their everyday manufacturing needs in one place.

Speaking about the new initiative, Jibak Dasgupta, Director General & CEO, IMTMA, said, “Indian metal forming sector, which recovered post the pandemic, is expected to grow further. The machine tool industry needs to tap the rising demand and develop new technologies to meet the requirements of the user sectors. IMTEX FORMING has always played a catalytic role in bringing technologies. With the addition of the new shows, the metal forming industry would get a boost, and visitors can source all the allied technologies in the industry in one place. IMTMA partnering with Landesmesse Stuttgart to hold MOLDEX and Fastnex along with IMTEX FORMING will enhance the value proposition and provide a platform to showcase innovations and forge collaborations.”

Expressing his views about the development, Bernhard Müller, Executive Vice President and Member of the Management Board of Landesmesse Stuttgart GmbH, stated, “The integration of MOLDEX India and FASTNEX with IMTEX FORMING will strengthen the synergy between various industries and create a comprehensive platform for participants to explore the latest trends and technologies. We are delighted to collaborate with IMTMA and look forward to a successful partnership.”

For more information, visit the websites: www.imtex.in, www.fastnex-india.com, and www.moldex-india.com.

B&R innovations deliver decisive technological advantages for adaptive, connected manufacturing that helps produce small batches efficiently and benefit from the higher margins of personalised products.

Integrating technology into machines enhances their flexibility and readiness to meet various demands. The widespread acceptance of innovations and robust business growth are outcomes of connected market strategies. Innovations implementation strategically helps maintain market equilibrium, allowing manufacturers to contribute and gain a competitive market position with a targeted share. Smart Factories and the Internet of Things (IoT) have already become integral parts of the production ecosystem for many manufacturers. As factories become smarter, the amount of data being transmitted and processed increases from the plant floor to the control room. Adopting smart manufacturing practices introduces its own challenges for maintaining production efficiency and adapting to new demands. Consequently, manufacturers seek reliable partners to provide innovative and sustainable solutions to address these challenges.

Increase production efficiency
Machine downtime that occurs unexpectedly poses significant challenges and can lead to inefficiencies in manufacturing processes due to sudden machine malfunction. Enhancing production efficiency involves:

• Addressing production bottlenecks.
• Implementing predictive maintenance measures promptly.
• Adopting advanced technologies to achieve better outcomes.

Additionally, maintaining optimal inventory levels and maximising the utilisation of energy resources can contribute to improved production efficiency. Manufacturers must navigate various crises while maintaining a healthy production ecosystem that enables them to increase efficiency and adapt to market fluctuations. In this volatile market environment with increasing demands, overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) is a metric to measure production efficiency.

Thus, as a comprehensive performance indicator, overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) can make manufacturing assets more productive. However, the challenges associated with collecting the necessary data for calculating OEE have hindered its application in improving older brownfield systems. However, now available solutions in the market facilitate accessing the operating data of digitally isolated equipment, enabling automated data acquisition, harmonisation, and analysis, including real-time OEE monitoring. By leveraging connected manufacturing systems equipped with the latest technology, gathering and analysing comprehensive technical and operational data becomes possible. This opens up opportunities to implement the envisioned solutions for Industry 4.0 and the Industrial Internet of Things, where extensive technical and operational data utilisation plays a crucial role.

Adapting to innovations
Automation technology is gaining momentum in the market due to increasing demand. Manufacturers universally acknowledge the significance of technology and the crucial role played by innovations in tackling challenging situations. B&R, known for its pioneering spirit, has been a trusted partner to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), working together to navigate market fluctuations.

ACOPOStrak, SUPERtrak, and ACOPOS6D are revolutionary adaptive manufacturing solutions offered by B&R. These highly flexible transport systems bring the benefits of mass production to even small batches, efficiently transporting parts and products between processing stations using independently controlled shuttles. The unique designs of these B&R products provide significant technological advantages for connected manufacturing, enabling efficient production of small batches and capturing the higher margins associated with personalised products. B&R’s machine vision cameras in many manufacturing systems play a vital role in process control, product sorting, and quality inspection. The lighting used with these cameras plays a crucial role in achieving precise and consistent results. These innovations contribute to production efficiency and enhance product tracking capabilities. Adapting to new technologies and analysing machine-generated data for improved outcomes provide a positive growth trajectory and enable manufacturers to meet market demands effectively.

Knowledge courtesy: B&R Automation

New, free igubal Food Contact sample box – including magnet and new double joint.

In the food industry, machine components must meet high hygiene requirements to avoid a safety risks. Since 2019, the motion plastics specialist igus has offered igubal Food Contact (FC), a special spherical bearing system made from high-performance polymers that comply with FDA and EU 10/2011 for direct contact with food. The company is now expanding this product range with a new double joint. Interested parties who want to see the advantages and quality of the igubal FC series in advance can now order a new free sample box.

Food manufacturers are faced with the challenge of constantly improving the reliability of their systems. Detecting the smallest impurities is a particularly decisive safety factor for guaranteeing the purity of the products. By integrating detectable and, at the same time, food-compliant additives into its high-performance plastics, the motion plastics specialist igus has managed to develop a spherical plain bearing series, especially for direct food contact: igubal Food Contact (FC). By using FC, it is possible to significantly minimise the risk of a costly recall as detectors recognise even the smallest parts of the components, which makes the work for quality assurance easier. Furthermore, the materials are also coloured blue to improve optical detectability.

More design freedom with the new double joint
Dennis Steffen, Product Manager for igubal Spherical Bearings at igus explains, “To give users even more design freedom in such a hygiene-sensitive area, we are now adding another component to our proven igubal FC series. In addition to pillow block and fixed flange bearings, rod ends, and clevis joints, the product range now also includes a double joint,” explains he. Like all igubal FC products, it contains an optically and magnetically detectable housing made of FDA-compliant igumid FC material. Thanks to the high-performance polymers, the new spherical bearing is also lubrication-free and maintenance-free, vibration-dampening, corrosion-free and, in combination with a spherical ball, suitable for compensating for misalignments. “When selecting the right spherical ball, customers can choose between several materials, depending on their needs,” says Steffen. “The insert made of the material iglidur A181 can be used to comply with the strict FDA guidelines. The material iglidur FC180 guarantees 100% detectability. Both also meet the EU 10/2011 standard for direct food contact. Customers can also choose a stainless-steel version if a higher tightening torque is required due to the spherical ball.” As with all igus products, they work without external lubricants, which rule out contamination. In addition, cleaning processes can be carried out regardless of the bearings.

Try it yourself: new Food Contact sample box
If you want to hold the igubal FC spherical bearings in your hands before you buy them and would like to convince yourself of the materials’ quality and advantages – such as magnetic detectability – you can order a free sample box. The new box contains samples from all product areas: pillow block bearings, fixed flange bearings, rod ends, clevis joints and double joints. A long service life and chemical resistance characterise the entire spherical bearing system. This was proven by numerous tests in our own test laboratory – the largest in the industry for tribopolymers. The igubal FC also beats the conventional spherical plain bearings made of stainless steel in terms of costs. Compared to stainless-steel solutions, a cost advantage of up to 85 percent can be achieved. The igus product also requires less maintenance due to the self-lubricating specifications of the bearing material.

*With the free igubal FC sample box – including the new double-joint – interested parties can see the advantages of the lubrication-free spherical bearing system for the food industry. (Source: igus GmbH)

Virgo Communications & Exhibitions are again organising their much-lauded second edition of GSSE: Global Stainless Steel Expo 2023 from 14 to 16 September at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai.

Stainless steel is one of the most commonly used machining materials. It is a versatile material that has applications in various industries, including the automotive industry. Because of its durability, strength, and corrosion resistance, have become a popular choice among automotive manufacturers. This article will go over the benefits of using stainless steel in the automotive industry and some of its applications.

GSSE is an apt platform that attracts the participation of India’s leading stainless steel producers, who come together to showcase sustainable business solutions to end-user industries. The event will further augment the usage of metal, mainly in India, the world’s second-largest consumer of stainless steel. The platform presents an exclusive opportunity for manufacturers & suppliers of stainless steel products to meet with potential customers representing 200+ product applications from India and globally. It has fast developed as the largest dedicated stainless steel industry stakeholder platform that helps end-user industries to source and network!

Vijay Sharma, Director of Jindal Stainless, said, “As the exclusive Title Partner for GSSE, we are looking forward to yet again interacting with fellow stakeholders in the stainless steel ecosystem, including suppliers, users, traders, associations, regulators, and fabricators. Together with these partners, we intend to leverage this event to discuss issues pertinent to the growth of India’s stainless steel industry and solutions needed to raise the bar for the whole country.”

The durability of stainless steel in the automotive industry is one of its primary benefits. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, making it an excellent material for automotive components. Stainless steel also has a high tensile strength, making it resistant to breakage and deformation under high pressure or impact.

Another advantage of using stainless steel in the automotive industry is its corrosion resistance. The automotive industry is known to use a variety of chemicals in the manufacturing process, and stainless steel can withstand this exposure without deterioration. Because of this property, stainless steel is a popular material for chemically exposed components such as fuel tanks.

Using stainless steel in the automotive industry also has environmental advantages. Stainless steel is now being used in various automotive components, such as exhaust systems, catalytic converters, and fuel tanks. Stainless steel exhaust systems are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and corrosion resistance. They are also lighter than other materials, making them ideal for sports cars and other high-performance vehicles. Catalytic converters, on the other hand, are critical in lowering vehicle emissions. Because of its corrosion resistance and ability to withstand high temperatures, stainless steel is an excellent material for catalytic converters. Furthermore, it is simple to shape into various shapes, making it ideal for custom-made catalytic converters.

Stainless steel fuel tanks are also becoming increasingly popular in the automotive industry. Stainless steel fuel tanks are highly corrosion resistant, making them ideal for trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles in harsh environments. They are also lighter than traditional steel fuel tanks, which can help with fuel efficiency.

In conclusion, stainless steel has become an important material in the automotive industry. Its strength, durability, and corrosion resistance make it an excellent choice for various automotive components. Moreover, its resistance to chemicals and extreme weather conditions has made it a popular choice among automotive manufacturers. Automotive manufacturers are partnering with reputable stainless steel suppliers to ensure that they receive highquality stainless steel that meets the specifications of their automotive components. It is a material that can assist automotive manufacturers in creating long-lasting, high-quality vehicles that can withstand harsh environments and extreme weather conditions

RPA helps manufacturers achieve production quality and minimise manpower-based production. It ensures maximum production capacity and serves as the foundation for Industry 4.0.

A rapid evolution of digital dominance is ongoing daily, signalling the onset of a technological revolution where automation is poised to replace human labour. This shift is driven by the pressing challenges faced by manufacturers in terms of time and cost efficiency when performing mundane tasks in today’s fiercely competitive environment.

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) stands out as a crucial concept for present and future production technologies, enabling manufacturers and decision-makers to keep themselves updated on technological advancements in the rapidly developing world.

The escalating labour costs, limited production capacity due to the scarcity of skilled workers, time constraints, expenses associated with employees, and the physical limitations of human labour all hinder production and efficiency. Consequently, there is a compelling need to transition to RPA to address these challenges. Implementing RPA would enable manufacturers to achieve high product quality while minimising reliance on human labour, ultimately ensuring maximum production capacity and laying the groundwork for Industry 4.0.

Implementing robotic process automation in the manufacturing industry would bring a revolutionary transformation, leading to positive changes across the entire industry infrastructure. Adopting RPA and replacing human jobs is worthwhile, as it offers greater efficiency and the ability to handle basic tasks effectively.

Manufacturers have recognised the importance of RPA in recent years, resulting in a growing demand for its implementation. Robotic technology has enabled manufacturers to achieve high production efficiency. While robots have undoubtedly replaced human labour, they have also significantly saved time for manufacturers. The seamless integration of machine tools and robotic automation systems has increased production capacity and facilitated time savings. Moreover, RPA excels in eliminating unnecessary labour and freeing the workforce from repetitive tasks, allowing humans to focus on innovation.

One example of embracing RPA is the Vadodara-based Cosmos Group, which started manufacturing CNC machine tools in 1987 and has expanded its offerings to include industrial automation turnkey project solutions. Their introduction of the “Cosmos Boxy Autoloader” showcases a smart automation solution for machine tending, bringing optimal efficiency to factories dealing with small and medium-sized workpieces. This CNC machine tending robot automation system proves to be the most cost-effective solution. The Boxy Autoloader series comprises three types.

According to the World Robotics report in October 2022, 517,385 new industrial robots were installed in factories worldwide in 2021. This represents a 31 per cent year-on-year increase and a 22 per cent surge compared to the pre-pandemic record of robot installations in 2018.

The stock of operational robots worldwide hits a new record of about 3.4 million units. These data show that, within the six years between 2015 and 2021, the number of yearly robot installations worldwide more than doubled and that robotic automation is expanding at an astonishing rate.

Asia region, especially India

Asia continues to dominate the global industrial robot market, with 74 per cent of newly deployed robots in 2021 being installed in the region. The forecast predicts this figure will rise to 77 per cent by 2025. Notably, India experienced robust growth, with a 54 per cent increase and 4,900 units shipped, highlighting the rapid pace of robotisation in Asia and, specifically, in India.

As per the report, the demand for industrial robots has never been higher than it has been post-pandemic. Global robot installations are expected to increase by 10 % by 2022, reaching nearly 5,70,000 units.

In conclusion, the post-pandemic period has seen unprecedented demand for industrial robots. Global robot installations are projected to grow by 10 per cent by 2022, reaching nearly 570,000 units. Various challenges, such as labour limitations, intermediate product prices, and time constraints, are being faced by industries worldwide. To tackle these challenges comprehensively, industry players must embrace robotic automation, a significant technological advancement that brings new possibilities and enhances the performance of existing processes. By taking decisive actions, we can adapt our industry and empower our workforce to overcome the challenges in the manufacturing sector.

Expertise shared by- Nisarg J. Shah
Sr. Representative, Cosmos Impex

This platform aims to enhance traceability and visibility throughout the manufacturing process. By digitising this manufacturing backbone, companies can integrate their critical business processes vertically.

Many manufacturing companies around the world adopt lean methods to enhance their productivity. However, research indicates that 90 percent of these companies need more reliable and detailed real-time data on their machines and processes.

The concept of the industrial Internet, coined by General Electric, refers to integrating sophisticated physical machinery with networked sensors and software. It encompasses various fields such as machine learning, big data, the Internet of Things (IoT), machine-to-machine communication, and cyber-physical systems. The industrial Internet enables the data collection from machines, analyses it in real-time, and utilises the insights gained to make operational adjustments.

The Internet of Things (IoT) and Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communications involve expanding the Internet to include sensors and intelligent connections with physical objects like consumer devices or tangible assets. This connection allows for the exchange of information through the Internet. While the concept and model have existed for some time, there has been a notable increase in the number and variety of connected objects and advancements in technologies for gathering, processing, and sharing information.

The Internet of Things (IoT) market offers a variety of options for combining smart objects and sensor network technologies. Users who employ different communication protocols that are interoperable and diverse recognise the potential of deploying dynamic heterogeneous networks. These networks can be utilised in remote or inaccessible areas such as mines, oil platforms, forests, pipes, and tunnels, as well as in emergencies like earthquakes, floods, fires, or radiation zones. In an IoT infrastructure, these objects or things interact, learn from one another, and share resources, thereby greatly enhancing the range and reliability of their services.

Recently, manufacturing and production environments have been echoing the sentiment of “Wouldn’t it be great if…”. Organisations have long understood the necessity of digital transformation to maintain future competitiveness. However, driven by factors such as the global pandemic, significant challenges in the supply chain, skill gaps, and labour shortages, some companies now realise that more than merely experimenting with technology adoption will be required to compete and survive. We have reached a turning point where smart factory predictions are being made, indicating a shift towards recognising the importance of embracing technology for sustainable success.

From occasional smart factory use cases to full-scale
In the past, the realisation of a fully integrated smart factory equipped with comprehensive solutions has been challenging due to gaps in available offerings and a need for providers capable of meeting all the necessary technological requirements. However, the landscape has evolved as technology has become more affordable, leading to the emergence of numerous start-ups in this field. Previously, advanced technologies and solutions like video analytics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, autonomous mobile robots, and command centres often required customised and in-house developments. But now, multiple providers offer these technologies and solutions, providing a range of options for each component of the technological puzzle needed to create a smart factory.

Big data will take centre stage
Manufacturers are increasingly embracing big data, which is the foundation of a functioning smart factory. The crucial aspect lies in organisations’ ability to take action based on the data, effectively bridging the gap between technology and human expertise. The convergence of human operators with a centralised command centre holds the potential for genuine business transformation. Every manufacturer needs to evaluate their readiness to adopt smart factory practices. If the answer is negative, a sense of missing out (FOMO) and thorough research on smart factory opportunities can serve as catalysts for initiation, propelling them ahead of the competition.

Cloud and edge computing solutions now offer software explicitly designed for industrial environments. By harnessing the latest IT advancements, these solutions enable real-time utilisation of machine data, whether at the machine level or across global production sites. These enhanced capabilities empower manufacturers to offer customers innovative services and applications globally.

The industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) facilitates the integration of people, products, and processes, enabling digital transformation. Through utilising IIoT platforms, businesses can establish connections, monitor, analyse, and take action based on data in novel ways.

The advanced AMG-mIoT platform is a comprehensive solution that links every aspect of the manufacturing value chain, ranging from the supply of raw materials to outbound processes and everything in between. Its primary objective is to enhance traceability and visibility throughout the manufacturing process. By digitising this manufacturing backbone, companies can achieve “vertical integration” of their critical business processes. Consequently, this integration leads to faster, improved, and cost-effective operations. It enables decentralised decision-making, utilising knowledge-based, predictable, and resilient frameworks.

Fig. x: Vertical integration
Such vertically integrated companies may then participate efficiently and effectively in a network of customers and suppliers and tap into global opportunities.

Fig. y: Horizontal integration across the global supply chain
To drive the benefits of Industry 4.0, the AMG-mIoT platform capitalises on a three-way intersection of business processes, smart initiatives, and enabling technologies. This intersection is crucial for identifying desired business outcomes and tangible results. The platform enables autonomous and risk-mitigated operations by providing relevant information, digital workflows, metrics, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to employees. Empowering the workforce with these tools ensures that operations are conducted independently and with reduced potential for adverse outcomes. That is to say, de-risked operations.

AMG-mIoT offers pre-built use cases and applications that deliver a significant return on investment (ROI) for manufacturing companies. These use cases and apps are specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of manufacturing operations such as –

· OEE & Advanced Analytics

· Production analytics

· Process energy monitoring

· Process Parameter – Remote monitoring

· Machine Maintenance Management

· Inspection data management and SPC

· Machine eDocs

· Enterprise workflows: Track & Trace; visual factory; MES & ERP Integration.

AMG-mIoT is an agnostic platform that end-users, machine manufacturers, and service providers can leverage across various industries to enable and deliver outcomes leading to high productivity and profits.

Source: Ace Micromatic Group- mIoT

This article explores the emerging solutions in water treatment, focusing on managing water formation in the oil and gas industry.

The need for sustainable water management has become increasingly critical today due to environmental challenges and a growing global water crisis. Industries, especially those involved in water and wastewater management, face the pressing need to adopt innovative technologies and processes for recycling and reusing water.

Formation water challenges
Formation water, the naturally occurring water found alongside oil and gas reservoirs, poses significant challenges for the oil and gas industry. It contains various contaminants such as salts, hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM). If not properly managed, the disposal of the formation water can lead to environmental degradation and potential health risks. The current practice of releasing untreated formation water into rivers and streams deteriorates water quality and threatens aquatic life.

Various techniques are being employed to address the challenges associated with formation water management. These include physical separation, chemical treatment, and advanced filtration processes. Advanced treatment technologies play a crucial role in removing contaminants and reducing the environmental footprint of water formation. One such innovative process is Thermal Hydrolysis, which treats wastewater and converts resulting sludge into biogas, generating usable fuel while reducing waste.

Wonder mixture formulation
The transformative journey toward sustainable water management relies on the expertise of engineers and scientists. Driven by the need for advanced filtration systems, researchers at the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, led by Dr. Arundhuti Devi, have made significant strides in treating formation water using a green approach. Through meticulous experimentation and studies, they have developed a formulation consisting of plant-based biomaterial, biosurfactant, secondary metabolites of microbes, and NPK fertiliser. This ‘wonder mixture’ efficiently restores formation water, making it reusable and environmentally friendly. The team’s efforts have resulted in filing an Indian patent, recognising the potential of their innovative solution to prevent pollution and contribute to the green revolution.

Treatment technologies benefits
The adoption of advanced treatment technologies and the emphasis on recycling and reusing formation water bring several benefits. Firstly, it reduces the demand for freshwater resources, easing the strain on already stressed water supplies. Secondly, it minimises the environmental impact of the oil and gas industry by mitigating water contamination and preserving aquatic ecosystems. Thirdly, the treated formation water can be used for agricultural and industrial applications, contributing to sustainable practices and supporting the ever-growing food demand.

Amidst the pursuit of innovative solutions, worker safety and industrial hygiene remain paramount. Handling formation water requires strict adherence to safety protocols, including appropriate personal protective equipment, training programs, and regular monitoring. Potential risks associated with formation water management can be effectively mitigated by prioritising safety measures. In summary, water scarcity and environmental concerns have prompted a paradigm shift in water and wastewater management. The urgency to adopt innovative filtration technologies and processes drive the industry towards sustainability and collective commitment to safeguarding water resources.

The treatment and reuse of formation water and advancements in water treatment technologies exemplify the potential for a more sustainable future. By embracing these solutions and placing importance on worker safety, industries can effectively address the challenges of formation water and contribute to a greener tomorrow.

The crux of the matter is – sustainability and a collective commitment to safeguarding the most precious resource – water.

Source: dst.gov.in
Contact details: Dr. Arundhuti Devi, Assoc. Professor, Advanced Study in Science and Technology; arundhuti@iasst.gov.in

There has been a significant shift in the manufacturing sector with the widespread adoption of industrial automation. This transformation has revolutionised how production processes are carried out, resulting in unprecedented levels of productivity.

With the rapid advancements in technology, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), industrial automation is poised to play an even more significant role in shaping the future of various industries. This analysis will explore the current industrial automation trends and their potential for future growth. Additionally, we will highlight its benefits while considering the challenges that may arise along the way.

Future growth potential
Integration of AI and Machine Learning: Integrating AI and machine learning algorithms is a prominent trend in industrial automation. These advanced technologies empower machines to learn from data, optimise operations, and autonomously make informed decisions.

Through the analysis of extensive real-time data, AI-driven systems can recognise patterns, identify anomalies, and enhance overall efficiency. This trend is expected to persist, with AI and machine learning becoming essential components of industrial automation, ultimately developing intelligent and adaptable manufacturing systems.

Collaborative Robotics: Cobots, or collaborative robots, have emerged as a popular choice for working alongside humans in a shared workspace. These robots are equipped with sensors and safety features that enable them to collaborate safely and effectively with human workers. Their popularity stems from their flexibility, user-friendly programming, and capacity to handle repetitive tasks. As robotics technology advances, we can anticipate a growing trend of humans and robots collaborating more closely, resulting in heightened productivity, enhanced ergonomics, and decreased operational expenses.

Industrial Internet of Things: IIoT encompasses a network of interconnected devices, sensors, and machines that gather and exchange data within an industrial environment. This interconnectedness facilitates smooth communication and data sharing among different elements of a manufacturing system, enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and process optimisation. As the quantity of connected devices grows and the prevalence of 5G networks expands, IIoT will assume a crucial role as the foundation of industrial automation. This will improve efficiency, heightened productivity, and cost savings across various industries.

Edge computing: Edge computing involves the processing and analysis of data at or close to the location where it is generated, as opposed to transmitting it to a central cloud server. This methodology minimises delays, decreases bandwidth needs, and improves the ability to make real-time decisions. In the context of industrial automation, edge computing facilitates swift data analysis and response, enabling faster and more accurate control over machinery and processes. As edge computing devices become more prevalent and edge AI expands, this trend will significantly impact the development of intelligent and decentralised automation systems.

Cybersecurity and data protection: With the increasing interconnectivity and reliance on digital systems in industrial automation, it is vital to prioritise robust cybersecurity measures. Protecting sensitive data, preventing unauthorised access, and defending against cyber threats are essential for ensuring uninterrupted operations. In the future, industrial automation systems will emphasise implementing strong cybersecurity protocols, such as encryption, authentication, and secure communication channels, to mitigate risks and prevent potential breaches effectively.

Autonomous mobile robots: AMRs are on the verge of revolutionising material handling and logistics processes in industrial environments. These robots are equipped with state-of-the-art sensors, mapping capabilities, and navigational algorithms, enabling them to navigate dynamic surroundings autonomously-AMRs efficiently transport materials, goods, and components, reducing manual labour and optimising supply chain operations. As AMR technology advances, we anticipate enhanced agility, adaptability, and collaboration between humans and robots in industrial settings.

Augmented reality for maintenance and training: Augmented Reality (AR) holds immense potential for transforming maintenance and training procedures in industrial automation. By superimposing digital information onto the physical environment, AR enables real-time guidance, instructions, and visualisations for technicians and operators. Through AR technology, remote troubleshooting, step-by-step assistance, and virtual simulations become feasible, resulting in minimised downtime, enhanced maintenance efficiency, and improved worker training. As AR applications advance in sophistication, they will empower industrial workers with valuable insights and assistance, ultimately boosting overall productivity and reducing errors.

Sustainable automation practices: Sustainability is rapidly gaining importance in industrial automation. Incorporating renewable energy sources, energy-efficient equipment, and optimised resource utilisation is driving the development of greener and more sustainable manufacturing practices. Automation is pivotal in enabling precise control over energy consumption, waste reduction, and the overall carbon footprint. As companies increasingly prioritise sustainability, we can anticipate the emergence of innovative eco-friendly automation technologies, including energy-efficient machinery, smart grids, and closed-loop systems. These advancements will significantly contribute to shaping a sustainable future.

Conclusion
The future of industrial automation is brimming with potential, fuelled by advancements in AI, robotics, IoT, AR, and sustainability initiatives. These forthcoming innovations will enhance operational efficiency and open doors to new business models, customisation options, and collaborations between humans and machines. As industries embrace these breakthroughs, we expect heightened productivity, cost savings, and a more sustainable and technologically advanced industrial landscape. The path toward the future of industrial automation is laden with opportunities, and transformative change is on the horizon.

Source – Balaji Switchgears Pvt. Ltd.
Email ID – Mktgindia@balajiswitchgears.com
Website – www.balajiswitchgears.com

Goldstone Technologies Limited (GTL) is setting up a Joint Venture Company partnering with German e-mobility major Quantron AG. The JV will operate out of Augsburg, in Germany and from Hyderabad, with plans to set up a US entity in Q3 2023.

GTL and Quantron will be serving a market that requires sustainable integrated solutions for mobility and logistic companies for their fleet management solutions. The JV company operating out of Germany will focus on providing various solutions through an AIsupported platform. The company will be a key enabler for a zero-emission transport transformation. Both parties plan to invest over 20 million Euros in the next 36 months into these platforms. The addressable market size will be 150-250 Billion Euros by 2030, enabling OEM agnostic Mobility as a Service (MaaS) Solution. Target markets are Europe, the USA, India, and the Middle East, with Quantron and ETO Motors as the first customers.

GTL as a development partner, will provide the software and manage the integration of the customised platform. Quantron will utilise the digital platform as an enabler for its 360° ecosystem for its customers. The new software will enable an AI-driven SaaS-based platform to serve both as a transaction and customer-facing platform, featuring a User Interface, e.g., fleets’ performance measurement, etc. The JV has enough enquiries, including the partners’ fleets, where the beta version will be launched soon.

GTL will bring people, processes and technology together to solve complex business problems, and BI, analytics and sustainability solutions help customers succeed with data. GTL’s world-class IT Service offerings aim to deliver focused, flexible, and high-quality solutions at optimal costs, building trust-based relationships with customers and reducing time to value. GTL will be developing the platform’s Minimum Viable Product (MVP) in collaboration with Quantron.

Roadzen Inc. is a strategic partner in this JV to support a digital product portfolio to offer Insurance-as-a-Service (IaaS), Roadside Assistance & Extended Warranty modules. The JV would also cover the distribution, sale & commercialisation of the software as a white-labelled solution to third parties. One of the objectives of the JV is to give logistics providers’ opportunities to convert their existing analogue processes into digital environments. The JV focuses on the value addition the clients get from solutions, not just the solutions themselves.

Starting as a horse-drawn carriage business in 1882, Quantron combines e-mobility know-how with over 140 years of commercial vehicle experience and plans to introduce heavy-lift e-mobility logistics solutions to the Indian market. The JV will announce the plan for the Indian market with the MaaS and Fleet Management services, with the view to become OEM agnostic and focus on the future needs of fleets in the Zero Emission World.