Automation of technological processes involves the implementation of systems and equipment that reduce the need for manual intervention in manufacturing and technological processes. It uses programmable logic controllers (PLCs), SCADA systems, and industrial robots to improve the efficiency, repeatability, and accuracy of processes.
Automation of technological processes
Type of technology
Description of the technology
Basic elements
- PLCs: Programmable controllers for controlling and automating complex processes.
- Industrial robots: Machines that perform repetitive tasks, such as assembly, welding, and painting.
- Sensors: Monitoring of production parameters, such as temperature, pressure, and liquid level.
- Machine vision systems: Automatic recognition and visual inspection of components.
Industry usage
- Assembly lines: Automated assembly of components in automotive manufacturing.
- Food industry: Automatic packaging and sorting systems.
- Chemical industry: Automatic lines for mixing and processing chemicals.
- Electronics manufacturing: Robotic assembly lines for chip production.
- Heavy industry: Automation of welding and cutting processes.
Importance for the economy
Automation of technological processes is a key factor in increasing production efficiency. It enables companies to increase productivity, reduce costs, and adapt faster to changing market requirements, leading to increased competitiveness.
Related technologies
Mechanism of action
- Process automation is based on a combination of sensors, robots, and control systems that collect data in real time and transmit it to the central SCADA system or PLC. On this basis, control systems dynamically adjust process parameters, such as speed, temperature, and pressure, to ensure production stability and efficiency.
Advantages
- Efficiency: Increasing the speed of execution of technological processes.
- Precision: Elimination of human error by automating critical operations.
- Scalability: Ability to easily expand with additional modules and functions.
- Cybersecurity: Reducing the risk of accidents by eliminating manual handling.
- Savings: Reducing operating costs by optimising the consumption of energy and raw materials.
Disadvantages
- High implementation costs: Significant initial investment in equipment and integration.
- Risk of cyber attacks: Increased vulnerability of automated systems to external threats.
- Compatibility issues: Difficulties in integrating with existing control systems.
- Loss of jobs: Replacing workers with automated production systems.
- Lack of competence: High requirements in terms of technical expertise.
Implementation of the technology
Required resources
- Industrial robots: Robotic units for production tasks.
- PLC systems: Controllers to manage and control processes.
- SCADA software: Process monitoring and visualisation systems.
- Sensors: Sensors monitoring technological parameters.
- Operators and engineers: Specialists for operation, integration, and maintenance of systems.
Required competences
- PLC programming: Ability to program and implement controllers.
- Process engineering: Knowledge of manufacturing and technological processes.
- Systems integration: Connecting devices and systems into a cohesive platform.
- Industrial automation: Design of automation systems for various industries.
- Cybersecurity: Protecting automation infrastructure from digital threats.
Environmental aspects
- Energy consumption: High energy consumption in automated systems.
- Raw material consumption: Use of metals and specialised electronic components.
- Emissions of pollutants: Indirect emissions from electricity consumption.
- Waste generated: Difficulties in recycling complex electronic components.
- Recycling: Complicated process of recovering materials from automation equipment.
Legal conditions
- Safety standards: Regulations for safe operation of machines and robots.
- Environmental standards: Energy consumption and emissions regulations.
- Intellectual property: Patents for innovative automation systems.
- Occupational safety: Regulations for protection of operators in automated environments.
- Export regulations: Export of advanced automation technologies control.