Month: June 2023
4 Ways Robotic Machine Tending Benefits the Bottom Line
Although robots have been helping manufacturers improve their operations for some time, robotic machine tending hasn’t been as widely adopted as it is perceived as a very complex process. However, advances in automation technology coupled with a shortage of skilled workers and an economy that demands higher production levels despite tighter budgets have manufacturers reconsidering […]
Versatile Pick and Place Robots Provide Speed and Consistency
Modern industrial facilities rely on robots of all kinds to gain efficiency, increase throughput and improve safety. One of the most employed types of automation, pick and place robots speed up the process of picking up parts and placing them in other locations, helping to increase production rates, reduce bottlenecks and spare human workers from […]
Troubleshooting 7 Common Causes of Piston Air Compressor Failure
Compressed air is often dubbed as the “4th utility” in industrial facilities because it powers essential tools, machines and processes; however, heavy use of air compressors subjects them to wear and tear that will more than likely result in operational issues and potential failure at some point during the lifetime of the asset. The expense […]
Photoelectric Optical Sensors Boost Quality and Efficiency
Industrial sensors serve as the eyes and ears of industrial processes and, as manufacturers continue to add automation in an effort to increase efficiency and quality, the use of sensors is expected to grow. Photoelectric optical sensors, especially, are quickly becoming a favored device as they provide many advantages and execute multiple tasks in harsh […]
What are the 4 Main Types of Linear Actuators?
Linear actuators provide push or pull straight-line motion and are often used for lifting, dropping, sliding or tilting of machines, objects or materials. Because they provide precise and efficient linear movement, they are essential in many automation, robotics and motion control applications in a variety of industries, including: The Benefits of Linear Actuators One of […]
DEED Automation Loan: Does Your Small, Minnesota-Based Business Qualify?
Have you heard about the DEED Automation Loan Participation Program, but don’t know much about it or whether you qualify? If you’re a small manufacturing, distribution, warehousing or technology company in Minnesota and are in need of gap financing for an automation project, chances are you’ll be able to obtain the assistance you need! This […]
Compressor Controls Increase Efficiency and Cut Costs
Industrial facility owners must balance skyrocketing energy costs, aggressive sustainability goals and stiffening environmental regulations with cost reductions and increased demand for productivity. And, it is likely that the vast majority of these industrial facilities employ an air compression system to power equipment and processes. While air compressors do provide a convenient and clean supply […]
Top 5 Considerations for Proper Compressed Air System Installation
A well-designed compressed air system will provide many years of reliable service…as long as it has been installed in accordance with industry best practices. To ensure smooth, trouble-free operation for years to come, be sure to pay as much attention to the details of how the system is installed as you did to selecting a […]
Replacing an Aging Electrical Control Panel Boosts Safety, Reduces Costs
Although electrical control panels are an integral component in automated equipment as they include a combination of electrical devices that distribute power to control the mechanical functions of industrial machinery, most facilities put them in place and then largely ignore them. This can be a dangerous and expensive oversite. Replacing an aging control panel with […]