Home > Resources > Articles > How Industry 4.0 Solutions Are Revolutionizing the Shop Floors

How Industry 4.0 Solutions Are Revolutionizing the Shop Floors

Bhagyashri Kambale | March 29, 2022 | 309 views
INDUSTRY 4.0
Smart manufacturing industry 4.0 is based on the concept that machines should be able to communicate and collaborate to produce new products and services. Industry 4.0 solutions, often known as the fourth industrial revolution, are transforming the way we live and work—and significantly impact the global economy.

“As companies learn to tap into the potential of the vast amounts of data emerging across all areas of operations, decision-making and action-taking are taken to a new level.”

- Thomas Erwin Global Head of KPMG Lighthouse, CoE for data-driven technologies

Industry 4.0 solutions or technologies are used to alter the way industrial companies function. Industrial IoT, automation and robots, predictive maintenance, simulation, additive manufacturing, and IoT analytics are a few of these technologies.
In this article, we will take a look at how these industry 4.0 technologies are accelerating the shop floor activities to optimize the overall manufacturing operations.


Industry 4.0 Technologies and How They Can Help

Robotics: The application of computer-controlled robots to manual tasks, such as assembling.
3D Printing: Manufacturing a three-dimensional item by layering material under computer control.
Sensor Technology: A sensor capable of detecting and responding to environmental circumstances.
AI and Machine Learning: Enables the extraction of fresh insights and decision-making capabilities from massive amounts of information.
Digital Twin: Creates digital replicas of operations to diagnose problems and test operational adjustments.
Augmented Reality: This allows for new data visualizations to increase worker productivity.
Communications Network Infrastructure: Enables data transit between machines and humans and comprehensive system integration.
Big Data Platforms: Stores, manipulates, and shows data while also providing new degrees of operational management.
Digital Supply Chain: Provides real-time visibility into supply and demand to eliminate network delay.
IoT Enabled Cybersecurity: New cyber security techniques are required due to newly digitized and automated activities.


Improve Shop Floor Operations with Industry 4.0 In Manufacturing


Digitize Each Process

Recognizing machine availability, idle state, running status, efficiency, and product quality data in real-time is crucial for any shop floor supervisor or manager to meet the actual vs. target production for that day.

Digitizing the manufacturing operations enables everyone on the shop floor to precisely comprehend machine parameters and meet day-to-day production targets.

With real-time data collection, supervisors, operators, and plant managers can easily track the overall effectiveness of their equipment.


Track OEE Using IoT and Mobile App

Capture and monitor the accuracy of sensitive data in real-time using IoT devices to record and deliver threshold alerts to supervisors’ and plant managers. This can be done using the mobile app to examine each machine's performance and efficiency. The data acquired by the OEE monitoring software will aid the organization in increasing its overall productivity rate.


Keep Track of Product Counts

Monitoring production in real-time is difficult for most operators, but digitizing the process with a TV dashboard enables operators to keep track of the number of goods produced on the machine. A production monitoring system allows operators to keep track of the number of products manufactured each day compared to the expected number.


Assign Tasks Dynamically

Supervisors spend considerable time allocating jobs to operators and tracking their efficiency. Digitizing job card processes makes it easy for supervisors to assign tasks seamlessly to operators on a shift or transfer tasks to others in the absence of an operator via automation. It also efficiently tracks each operator's performance across multiple changes.


Keep Track of Machine Failures

Maintaining accurate machine uptime and downtime records is a constant challenge for operators. With the arrival of industry 4.0 technologies such as industrial IoT solutions in the market, operators now have real-time data on machine uptime and downtime, allowing for smooth analysis of machine performance. In addition, preventive maintenance software helps operators and managers monitor equipment data while on the go. Unplanned downtime and frequent repairs are incredibly costly, and prevention is critical to achieving a higher return on investment.


Utilize Data with a Predictive Maintenance System

Tracking machine data and identifying machine downtime in real-time can significantly lower the TCO (Total Cost of Ownership). Collecting machine data for at least five years and evaluating it using a predictive maintenance system powered by AI and machine learning will help your organization reduce unplanned downtime or unexpected machine failures and increase production.

In the future, with predictive maintenance software, industrial businesses can figure out what will happen to their machinery and how to avoid it.

Many manufacturing organizations have already begun to utilize the potential of industry 4.0 solutions to improve their day-to-day operations and efficiency to satisfy the ever-changing and expanding needs of their customers, resulting in an increased return on investment.


Final Word

Industry 4.0 technologies enable firms to optimize their daily manufacturing operations and business processes in various ways. As a result, industry 4.0 solutions are generating significant interest in the industry, and several businesses are implementing them on their shop floors. Apple, Amazon, General Electrics, Siemens, Ford, and Bosch are some of the industry's biggest employers of industry 4.0 solutions.

However, manufacturers must implement these industry 4.0 technologies correctly. Instead of going with the flow, examine your business requirements and choose the appropriate technological implementation.


FAQ


Why is Industry 4.0 so critical?

Industry 4.0 technology helps you control and optimize your manufacturing and supply chain processes. It provides real-time data and insights to help you make better business decisions, increasing your company's productivity and profitability.


What is Industry 4.0's key objective?

Industry 4.0's primary purpose is to propel manufacturing forward: make it faster, more efficient, and customer-centric. Also, push beyond automation and optimization in search of new business prospects and models.


What are the benefits of smart manufacturing?

Improved efficiency, leaner processes, maximum flexibility, enhanced agility, innovation, and higher-quality products are some of the significant benefits of smart manufacturing.

Spotlight

Bruel & Kjaer Sound & Vibration Measurement A/S

At Brüel & Kjær, we help our customers solve sound and vibration challenges, and develop advanced technology for measuring and managing sound and vibration. Through this expertise, we ensure component quality, optimize product performance and improve the environment.

OTHER ARTICLES
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY,OPERATIONS

Size, Scope, and Forecast of the Air Cannon System Market

Article | July 11, 2022

During the forecast period of 2022-2029, the Air Cannon System market size is expected to develop revenue and exponential market growth at a remarkable CAGR. The market's expansion can be attributed to rising demand for Air Cannon System in construction, industrial, mining, and other applications on a global scale. At the country level, the report provides insights into the lucrative opportunities in the Air Cannon System Market. The report also includes a precise cost, segment, trend, region, and commercial development of the major key players worldwide for the projected period. The comprehensive report on the Air Cannon System Market will analyse data changes and their global market impact. It also examines the overall growth of companies in the market as well as their ability to manage and control profit levels, which is critical for any investor looking to open and expand a business in the same market. The report aims to provide investors with an accurate prediction of market development over time by providing a detailed analysis of current trends and key changes that serve as a framework for the company to calculate market growth potential in the near future. The report also tracks and records significant events such as business combinations, joint initiatives, accomplishments, new product developments, or market activities. The main purpose is to provide a growth map from which the benefits can be calculated. It includes Porter's Five Forces analysis, which explains the five forces: customer bargaining power, distributor bargaining power, the threat of substitute products, and the degree of competition in the Air Cannon System market, as well as a market overview, which includes market dynamics. It describes the various market ecosystem players, such as system integrators, middlemen, and end users. Another major topic covered in the report is the competitive environment of the Air Cannon System market. The research also provides in-depth details about the COVID-19 scenario and its impact on the market to help with decision-making.

Read More
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY,FUTURE OF MANUFACTURING

Factors Explaining Why American Manufacturing Is Growing

Article | July 11, 2022

Even though Silicon Valley has built its reputation on innovation, it is believed that it has lost its edge. Business entrepreneurs were encouraged to focus on gleaming venture capitalists, to sell bigger dreams to the most popular technology. The future of the American manufacturing industry is predicted to have more growth than the past two decades, and here are the reasons why: Excluding the Middleman: From ancient times, manufacturers sold through retailers who acted as middlemen in the distribution process, but with the upgradation of the industry, manufacturers can now directly connect to the consumers and the government. Rising Demand for US Made Products: The US population leans more towards products that are made in America. Hence, the manufacturers make extra efforts to produce high quality premium products for their customers. Customer Loyalty and Support: Customers love to connect with the brand and understand the brand’s struggle to manufacture and create excellent products. Engaging customers in the journey will help manufacturers gain insights and feedback, and improvise accordingly. People today are more keen towards seeing improvements sooner, and it has become much easier to hear from customers, iterate, fail, pivot, and improve quickly. Conscientious Capitalism’s Rise: When you take into account the carbon cost of transportation imports, there is another clear advantage to the growth of domestic production. Important financial advisors are also raising this alarm. For instance, the polypropylene required for the majority of PPE is manufactured in the U.S., transported to China, used to make masks, and then returned. Additionally, since at least 18% of air pollution is caused by ocean freight, domestic product manufacturing may benefit both the environment and consumer demand. Energy Costs: The cost of energy consumption in the United States is declining, which is crucial when competing with foreign companies. For the first time in modern history, domestic production has a strategic advantage because electricity is the second-highest cost after labor. Automation: The strategic advantage of cheap labour possessed by international competitors is eliminated by the growth of automation. Over the next ten years, robotic automation is expected to challenge enterprises that have relied on cheap labour as a competitive advantage, paving the way for a revival of American manufacturing.

Read More
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY,INDUSTRIAL DATA

The Top 8 Latest Trends in Manufacturing and Engineering for 2022

Article | July 8, 2022

Manufacturers are constantly striving to overcome challenges, improve processes, and identify efficiencies, and the manufacturing trends we predict for 2022 will all serve to further these objectives. As with any new year, technological advances, market needs, and business objectives will drive manufacturing industry trends. Looking ahead to the rest of 2022, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have an impact on manufacturing, implying that some 2021 trends will carry over — but there will be new challenges and opportunities. From business agility to worker safety and the realities of adapting to what may be a "new normal," the manufacturing trends in 2022 will be a response to the unique challenges of recent years in many ways. The continuous advancement of technology, connectivity, and automation is poised to solve problems while also presenting unprecedented opportunities. Let’s understand the trends in manufacturing and engineering in 2022: 2022 will be the year of smart factories Greater emphasis on sustainability and carbon neutrality Supply chain re-evaluation The permanent importance of reshoring Employee safety and health Data-driven maintenance as a margin booster Growing reliance on virtual processes Increasing demand with a reduced labor force ATS, as a technology-driven maintenance company, can assist you with your challenges and goals for 2022 and beyond, allowing you to lead your operations into the next decade. Contact ATS today for more information.

Read More
SMART FACTORY,INDUSTRIAL 4.0

Smart Manufacturing with IoT & Industry 4.0

Article | July 8, 2022

Industry 4.0 is a new phase of the Industrial Revolution that emphasizes interconnectivity, automation, machine learning, and real-time data. Industry 4.0 and IIoT combine physical production with smart digital technology to create a holistic and better connected ecosystem for manufacturing and supply chain management. Industry 4.0 is about revolutionizing the way your entire business operates and grows by investing in new technology and tools to improve manufacturing efficiency. In most cases, businesses are deploying iIoT devices and machinery linked by communication technologies to help industries collect, monitor, analyze, and deliver valuable insights. The specifics of how this technology is used vary from company to company, but the goal is always the same: to improve operational efficiency through analytics, automation, and connectivity. For example, The manufacturing sector is already undergoing a revolution. According to an IDC report, the sector spent $178 billion on the iIoT in 2016. Also, as per MarketWatch, iIoT investment in the manufacturing sector will grow at a CAGR of 29.68% until 2020. Amazon paid $775 million for the robotics company Kiva in 2012. It crosses our mind: why such a big investment? It made more sense for them to use robots to locate products and deliver them to their workers than for their workers to find the products themselves. Smart Manufacturing Use Cases: Industry 4.0 technology is being implemented by a North American tool manufacturer in order to improve efficiencies and productivity in its global manufacturing operations. Caterpillar recently collaborated with industrial analytics firm Uptake to develop technologies that will assist their customers in monitoring the health of their equipment. They used a variety of IoT and augmented reality technologies to provide machine operators with an instant view of vitals such as fuel levels and when the air filter needs to be replaced. When an air filter needs to be replaced, the technology sends detailed instructions to the machine operator. Siemens' factory in Amberg, Germany, personifies the company's passion for technological innovation. The plant was created as part of a collaboration with the German government to create a series of fully automated smart factories. The plant itself manufactures parts for BMW and is said to be approximately 75% automated. The purpose of going over these use cases is to help you imagine and consider how smart manufacturing could be integrated into your own organization.

Read More
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY,OPERATIONS

Size, Scope, and Forecast of the Air Cannon System Market

Article | July 11, 2022

During the forecast period of 2022-2029, the Air Cannon System market size is expected to develop revenue and exponential market growth at a remarkable CAGR. The market's expansion can be attributed to rising demand for Air Cannon System in construction, industrial, mining, and other applications on a global scale. At the country level, the report provides insights into the lucrative opportunities in the Air Cannon System Market. The report also includes a precise cost, segment, trend, region, and commercial development of the major key players worldwide for the projected period. The comprehensive report on the Air Cannon System Market will analyse data changes and their global market impact. It also examines the overall growth of companies in the market as well as their ability to manage and control profit levels, which is critical for any investor looking to open and expand a business in the same market. The report aims to provide investors with an accurate prediction of market development over time by providing a detailed analysis of current trends and key changes that serve as a framework for the company to calculate market growth potential in the near future. The report also tracks and records significant events such as business combinations, joint initiatives, accomplishments, new product developments, or market activities. The main purpose is to provide a growth map from which the benefits can be calculated. It includes Porter's Five Forces analysis, which explains the five forces: customer bargaining power, distributor bargaining power, the threat of substitute products, and the degree of competition in the Air Cannon System market, as well as a market overview, which includes market dynamics. It describes the various market ecosystem players, such as system integrators, middlemen, and end users. Another major topic covered in the report is the competitive environment of the Air Cannon System market. The research also provides in-depth details about the COVID-19 scenario and its impact on the market to help with decision-making.

Read More
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY,FUTURE OF MANUFACTURING

Factors Explaining Why American Manufacturing Is Growing

Article | July 11, 2022

Even though Silicon Valley has built its reputation on innovation, it is believed that it has lost its edge. Business entrepreneurs were encouraged to focus on gleaming venture capitalists, to sell bigger dreams to the most popular technology. The future of the American manufacturing industry is predicted to have more growth than the past two decades, and here are the reasons why: Excluding the Middleman: From ancient times, manufacturers sold through retailers who acted as middlemen in the distribution process, but with the upgradation of the industry, manufacturers can now directly connect to the consumers and the government. Rising Demand for US Made Products: The US population leans more towards products that are made in America. Hence, the manufacturers make extra efforts to produce high quality premium products for their customers. Customer Loyalty and Support: Customers love to connect with the brand and understand the brand’s struggle to manufacture and create excellent products. Engaging customers in the journey will help manufacturers gain insights and feedback, and improvise accordingly. People today are more keen towards seeing improvements sooner, and it has become much easier to hear from customers, iterate, fail, pivot, and improve quickly. Conscientious Capitalism’s Rise: When you take into account the carbon cost of transportation imports, there is another clear advantage to the growth of domestic production. Important financial advisors are also raising this alarm. For instance, the polypropylene required for the majority of PPE is manufactured in the U.S., transported to China, used to make masks, and then returned. Additionally, since at least 18% of air pollution is caused by ocean freight, domestic product manufacturing may benefit both the environment and consumer demand. Energy Costs: The cost of energy consumption in the United States is declining, which is crucial when competing with foreign companies. For the first time in modern history, domestic production has a strategic advantage because electricity is the second-highest cost after labor. Automation: The strategic advantage of cheap labour possessed by international competitors is eliminated by the growth of automation. Over the next ten years, robotic automation is expected to challenge enterprises that have relied on cheap labour as a competitive advantage, paving the way for a revival of American manufacturing.

Read More
MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY,INDUSTRIAL DATA

The Top 8 Latest Trends in Manufacturing and Engineering for 2022

Article | July 8, 2022

Manufacturers are constantly striving to overcome challenges, improve processes, and identify efficiencies, and the manufacturing trends we predict for 2022 will all serve to further these objectives. As with any new year, technological advances, market needs, and business objectives will drive manufacturing industry trends. Looking ahead to the rest of 2022, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have an impact on manufacturing, implying that some 2021 trends will carry over — but there will be new challenges and opportunities. From business agility to worker safety and the realities of adapting to what may be a "new normal," the manufacturing trends in 2022 will be a response to the unique challenges of recent years in many ways. The continuous advancement of technology, connectivity, and automation is poised to solve problems while also presenting unprecedented opportunities. Let’s understand the trends in manufacturing and engineering in 2022: 2022 will be the year of smart factories Greater emphasis on sustainability and carbon neutrality Supply chain re-evaluation The permanent importance of reshoring Employee safety and health Data-driven maintenance as a margin booster Growing reliance on virtual processes Increasing demand with a reduced labor force ATS, as a technology-driven maintenance company, can assist you with your challenges and goals for 2022 and beyond, allowing you to lead your operations into the next decade. Contact ATS today for more information.

Read More
SMART FACTORY,INDUSTRIAL 4.0

Smart Manufacturing with IoT & Industry 4.0

Article | July 8, 2022

Industry 4.0 is a new phase of the Industrial Revolution that emphasizes interconnectivity, automation, machine learning, and real-time data. Industry 4.0 and IIoT combine physical production with smart digital technology to create a holistic and better connected ecosystem for manufacturing and supply chain management. Industry 4.0 is about revolutionizing the way your entire business operates and grows by investing in new technology and tools to improve manufacturing efficiency. In most cases, businesses are deploying iIoT devices and machinery linked by communication technologies to help industries collect, monitor, analyze, and deliver valuable insights. The specifics of how this technology is used vary from company to company, but the goal is always the same: to improve operational efficiency through analytics, automation, and connectivity. For example, The manufacturing sector is already undergoing a revolution. According to an IDC report, the sector spent $178 billion on the iIoT in 2016. Also, as per MarketWatch, iIoT investment in the manufacturing sector will grow at a CAGR of 29.68% until 2020. Amazon paid $775 million for the robotics company Kiva in 2012. It crosses our mind: why such a big investment? It made more sense for them to use robots to locate products and deliver them to their workers than for their workers to find the products themselves. Smart Manufacturing Use Cases: Industry 4.0 technology is being implemented by a North American tool manufacturer in order to improve efficiencies and productivity in its global manufacturing operations. Caterpillar recently collaborated with industrial analytics firm Uptake to develop technologies that will assist their customers in monitoring the health of their equipment. They used a variety of IoT and augmented reality technologies to provide machine operators with an instant view of vitals such as fuel levels and when the air filter needs to be replaced. When an air filter needs to be replaced, the technology sends detailed instructions to the machine operator. Siemens' factory in Amberg, Germany, personifies the company's passion for technological innovation. The plant was created as part of a collaboration with the German government to create a series of fully automated smart factories. The plant itself manufactures parts for BMW and is said to be approximately 75% automated. The purpose of going over these use cases is to help you imagine and consider how smart manufacturing could be integrated into your own organization.

Read More
MORE ARTICLE

Spotlight

Bruel & Kjaer Sound & Vibration Measurement A/S

At Brüel & Kjær, we help our customers solve sound and vibration challenges, and develop advanced technology for measuring and managing sound and vibration. Through this expertise, we ensure component quality, optimize product performance and improve the environment.

Related News

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

Epicor Acquires MES Provider eFlex Systems, Expanding Industry 4.0 Capabilities to Modernize Manufacturing Production Processes

Epicor | October 07, 2022

Epicor, a global leader of industry-specific enterprise software to promote business growth, today announced it has acquired eFlex Systems, a provider of cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) technologies. The acquisition expands the Epicor portfolio of Advanced MES capabilities to help manufacturers increase productivity by modernizing their production environments through digital work instructions, advanced process control, and real-time visibility. Financial terms were not disclosed. “I am thrilled to bring eFlex Systems into the Epicor family! Shop floors are a complex intersection of people, machines, robots, and materials, and it’s critical they work seamlessly together, People will continue to be at the heart of manufacturing, and our acquisition of eFlex Systems extends our ability to give Epicor customers the information they need to improve the user experience and unlock new levels of productivity.” -Steve Murphy, CEO Epicor. The eFlex Systems Manufacturing Integrated Platform (MIP®) enables manufacturers to manage and visualize global operations in real time, connecting devices, sensors, and machines with people to help operators build the right part, with the right tool, at the right setting in a safe and repeatable way. This helps manufacturers solve labor challenges by simplifying tasks and extending workers with connected devices which improves productivity. Epicor customers will be able to digitize processes through operator guidance, alerts, traceability, and data collection at the individual task level. Workstations can be configured and connected to their environments through open protocols and tools such as RFID, MQTT, and Node-RED, enabling operators to seamlessly leverage IoT devices such as DC tooling, barcode readers, weight scales, pick lights, PLCs, and others to complete the task at hand. “We’ve always been focused at eFlex Systems on helping customers reimagine manufacturing through sustainable, world-class production processes, By joining with Epicor, we’re furthering our mission to modernize manufacturing and bridge the data gap with cost-effective, easy-to-use solutions that drive efficiencies and throughput.” -Dan McKiernan CEO eFlex. About Epicor: Epicor Software Corporation equips hard-working businesses with enterprise solutions that keep the world turning. For nearly 50 years, Epicor customers in the automotive, building supply, distribution, manufacturing, and retail industries have trusted Epicor to help them do business better. Innovative Epicor solution sets are carefully curated to fit customer needs and built to respond flexibly to their fast-changing reality. With deep industry knowledge and experience, Epicor accelerates its customers’ ambitions, whether to grow and transform, or simply become more productive and effective.

Read More

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

Amnovis Selects 3D Systems’ Dual Laser Direct Metal Printing Solution to Advance High-Reliability Applications

3D Systems | October 06, 2022

3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) announced that Amnovis, an additive manufacturing production and engineering company based in Aarschot, Belgium, has incorporated 3D Systems’ DMP Flex 350 Dual into its contract manufacturing workflow. This next-generation technology includes two lasers, which enables Amnovis to produce high-quality, highly reliable end-use parts for a variety of industrial and medical device applications. As a result of employing the DMP Flex 350 Dual solution, Amnovis is realizing enhanced productivity – at least 50% more as compared to the single laser DMP Flex 350 – and lower costs. Amnovis’ founders were among the first to employ laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technology to additively manufacture Titanium medical devices such as orthopedic and spinal implants. Incorporating the DMP Flex 350 Dual printer into its manufacturing workflow is allowing Amnovis to expand its potential for stock and patient-specific medical device innovation. This unique innovation ecosystem is also enabling Amnovis to introduce product and process enhancements that can also be utilized for highly regulated industrial applications including aerospace and high tech. The DMP Flex 350 Dual is the most recent addition to 3D Systems’ Direct Metal Printing (DMP) portfolio. This dual-laser configuration maintains the benefits of the single-laser configuration including flexible application use and quick-swap build modules, and a central server to manage print jobs, materials, settings, and maintenance for 24/7 productivity. Additionally, the company’s unique vacuum chamber significantly reduces argon gas consumption while delivering best-in-class oxygen purity (<30 ppm). The printer also includes Oqton’s 3DXpert — the all-in-one software for industrial additive manufacturing that enables efficient preparation, optimization, and 3D printing of high-quality parts by streamlining the workflow from design to printing. The DMP Flex 350 Dual is designed to help accelerate innovation for a variety of applications including medical devices, aerospace, turbomachinery, semiconductors, and automotive & motorsports. “For us, innovation benefits from material and process enhancements, as well as the ability to increase productivity, We’ve experienced a tremendous leap in 3D printing efficiency by integrating 3D Systems’ DMP Flex 350 Dual into our workflow. By scaling our high-end parts manufacturing for quality-critical applications in medical, high tech, and other industries, we ensure faster delivery at lower cost, while maintaining our high-quality standards." -Ruben Wauthle, CEO and co-founder, Amnovis. In order for our service bureau customers to gain a competitive advantage, they need to differentiate the services they provide while becoming increasingly responsive to customer requirements, said Scott Anderson, vice president, segment leader, 3D Systems. Our collaboration with Amnovis is yet another example of how we can apply our application development expertise and a broad range of integrated additive manufacturing solutions to help maximize productivity, reliability, uptime, and yield. By integrating the DMP Flex 350 Dual into its solution portfolio, Amnovis is delivering high-quality parts to their customers while realizing exceptional total cost of ownership. About 3D Systems: More than 35 years ago, 3D Systems brought the innovation of 3D printing to the manufacturing industry. Today, as the leading additive manufacturing solutions partner, we bring innovation, performance, and reliability to every interaction - empowering our customers to create products and business models never before possible. Thanks to our unique offering of hardware, software, materials, and services, each application-specific solution is powered by the expertise of our application engineers who collaborate with customers to transform how they deliver their products and services. 3D Systems’ solutions address a variety of advanced applications in healthcare and industrial markets such as medical and dental, aerospace & defense, automotive, and durable goods. About Amnovis: Amnovis, based in Aarschot, Belgium, is a manufacturing and engineering company that uses innovative additive manufacturing (AM) technologies and materials for high-end applications such as medical devices. As an ISO 13485 certified contract manufacturer, Amnovis offers best-in-class AM technologies and expertise and paves the way for emerging AM technologies and materials. Digital process automation provides the traceability and repeatability to flexibly scale up manufacturing of products that comply with customer and regulatory requirements.

Read More

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

CORE Industrial Partners Portfolio Company Cadrex Manufacturing Solutions Acquires EPMP

CADREX | October 07, 2022

CORE Industrial Partners (“CORE”), a manufacturing, industrial technology, and industrial services-focused private equity firm, announced today the acquisition of E.P.M.P., Ltd. (“EPMP” or the “Company”), a precision sheet metal fabrication services provider, by CORE portfolio company Cadrex Manufacturing Solutions (“Cadrex”). The Cadrex platform was formed in 2021 and includes ten business units with approximately 1.5 million square feet of manufacturing space and more than 2,000 employees across ten states as well as Mexico. Founded in 1984, EPMP provides high-volume sheet metal punching, forming, welding and assembly capabilities utilizing a variety of different metals, including aluminum, copper and brass, as well as carbon, galvanized and stainless steel. The Company serves a nationwide customer base in the renewable energy, HVAC, food & beverage, and industrials end markets, among others, through an equipment fleet that includes press brakes, turret punches, fiber lasers, combination laser & punch machines and automated fabrication cells. Headquartered outside San Antonio in Seguin, Texas, EPMP operates an ISO 9001-certified facility with over 50,000 square feet of manufacturing space. “EPMP’s significant historical investments in automation-driving material handling systems and robotics augment Cadrex’s high-volume sheet metal fabrication capabilities and make EPMP a highly strategic fit with the platform.” -Matthew Puglisi, Partner at CORE. Clint Plant, President of EPMP, said, For almost 40 years, EPMP has been committed to manufacturing and service excellence, demonstrating that commitment throughout all aspects of our organization. We recognize and appreciate this same customer-centric orientation at Cadrex and we’re looking forward to collaborating with Cadrex and CORE to continue our strong momentum. ABOUT CORE INDUSTRIAL PARTNERS: CORE Industrial Partners is a private equity firm with $700 million of capital commitments investing in North American lower middle-market manufacturing, industrial technology, and industrial services businesses. CORE’s team is comprised of highly experienced former CEOs and investment professionals with shared beliefs, deep experience, and a demonstrated track record of building market-leading businesses. Through our capital, insight, and operational expertise, CORE partners with management teams and strives to build best-in-class companies. ABOUT CADREX MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS: Cadrex is a leading provider of complex production parts, assemblies, and weldments for a variety of end markets, including information communication technology, aerospace & defense, energy transmission & distribution, food production & agriculture, medical, material handling and electronic gaming & kiosk. With locations in nine states and Mexico, Cadrex offers comprehensive in-house manufacturing capabilities, including laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, injection molding, electromechanical assembly, CNC punching, CNC machining, robotic welding, stamping, fastener insertion, and tool and die manufacturing, to effectively serve customers with lights-out manufacturing capabilities from low- through high-volume production. ABOUT EPMP: EPMP is a precision sheet metal fabrication services provider for a variety of end markets, including renewable energy, HVAC, food & beverage, and industrials. The Company offers high-volume sheet metal punching, forming, welding and assembly capabilities from an ISO 9001-certified facility outside San Antonio in Seguin, Texas.

Read More

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

Epicor Acquires MES Provider eFlex Systems, Expanding Industry 4.0 Capabilities to Modernize Manufacturing Production Processes

Epicor | October 07, 2022

Epicor, a global leader of industry-specific enterprise software to promote business growth, today announced it has acquired eFlex Systems, a provider of cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) technologies. The acquisition expands the Epicor portfolio of Advanced MES capabilities to help manufacturers increase productivity by modernizing their production environments through digital work instructions, advanced process control, and real-time visibility. Financial terms were not disclosed. “I am thrilled to bring eFlex Systems into the Epicor family! Shop floors are a complex intersection of people, machines, robots, and materials, and it’s critical they work seamlessly together, People will continue to be at the heart of manufacturing, and our acquisition of eFlex Systems extends our ability to give Epicor customers the information they need to improve the user experience and unlock new levels of productivity.” -Steve Murphy, CEO Epicor. The eFlex Systems Manufacturing Integrated Platform (MIP®) enables manufacturers to manage and visualize global operations in real time, connecting devices, sensors, and machines with people to help operators build the right part, with the right tool, at the right setting in a safe and repeatable way. This helps manufacturers solve labor challenges by simplifying tasks and extending workers with connected devices which improves productivity. Epicor customers will be able to digitize processes through operator guidance, alerts, traceability, and data collection at the individual task level. Workstations can be configured and connected to their environments through open protocols and tools such as RFID, MQTT, and Node-RED, enabling operators to seamlessly leverage IoT devices such as DC tooling, barcode readers, weight scales, pick lights, PLCs, and others to complete the task at hand. “We’ve always been focused at eFlex Systems on helping customers reimagine manufacturing through sustainable, world-class production processes, By joining with Epicor, we’re furthering our mission to modernize manufacturing and bridge the data gap with cost-effective, easy-to-use solutions that drive efficiencies and throughput.” -Dan McKiernan CEO eFlex. About Epicor: Epicor Software Corporation equips hard-working businesses with enterprise solutions that keep the world turning. For nearly 50 years, Epicor customers in the automotive, building supply, distribution, manufacturing, and retail industries have trusted Epicor to help them do business better. Innovative Epicor solution sets are carefully curated to fit customer needs and built to respond flexibly to their fast-changing reality. With deep industry knowledge and experience, Epicor accelerates its customers’ ambitions, whether to grow and transform, or simply become more productive and effective.

Read More

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

Amnovis Selects 3D Systems’ Dual Laser Direct Metal Printing Solution to Advance High-Reliability Applications

3D Systems | October 06, 2022

3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) announced that Amnovis, an additive manufacturing production and engineering company based in Aarschot, Belgium, has incorporated 3D Systems’ DMP Flex 350 Dual into its contract manufacturing workflow. This next-generation technology includes two lasers, which enables Amnovis to produce high-quality, highly reliable end-use parts for a variety of industrial and medical device applications. As a result of employing the DMP Flex 350 Dual solution, Amnovis is realizing enhanced productivity – at least 50% more as compared to the single laser DMP Flex 350 – and lower costs. Amnovis’ founders were among the first to employ laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technology to additively manufacture Titanium medical devices such as orthopedic and spinal implants. Incorporating the DMP Flex 350 Dual printer into its manufacturing workflow is allowing Amnovis to expand its potential for stock and patient-specific medical device innovation. This unique innovation ecosystem is also enabling Amnovis to introduce product and process enhancements that can also be utilized for highly regulated industrial applications including aerospace and high tech. The DMP Flex 350 Dual is the most recent addition to 3D Systems’ Direct Metal Printing (DMP) portfolio. This dual-laser configuration maintains the benefits of the single-laser configuration including flexible application use and quick-swap build modules, and a central server to manage print jobs, materials, settings, and maintenance for 24/7 productivity. Additionally, the company’s unique vacuum chamber significantly reduces argon gas consumption while delivering best-in-class oxygen purity (<30 ppm). The printer also includes Oqton’s 3DXpert — the all-in-one software for industrial additive manufacturing that enables efficient preparation, optimization, and 3D printing of high-quality parts by streamlining the workflow from design to printing. The DMP Flex 350 Dual is designed to help accelerate innovation for a variety of applications including medical devices, aerospace, turbomachinery, semiconductors, and automotive & motorsports. “For us, innovation benefits from material and process enhancements, as well as the ability to increase productivity, We’ve experienced a tremendous leap in 3D printing efficiency by integrating 3D Systems’ DMP Flex 350 Dual into our workflow. By scaling our high-end parts manufacturing for quality-critical applications in medical, high tech, and other industries, we ensure faster delivery at lower cost, while maintaining our high-quality standards." -Ruben Wauthle, CEO and co-founder, Amnovis. In order for our service bureau customers to gain a competitive advantage, they need to differentiate the services they provide while becoming increasingly responsive to customer requirements, said Scott Anderson, vice president, segment leader, 3D Systems. Our collaboration with Amnovis is yet another example of how we can apply our application development expertise and a broad range of integrated additive manufacturing solutions to help maximize productivity, reliability, uptime, and yield. By integrating the DMP Flex 350 Dual into its solution portfolio, Amnovis is delivering high-quality parts to their customers while realizing exceptional total cost of ownership. About 3D Systems: More than 35 years ago, 3D Systems brought the innovation of 3D printing to the manufacturing industry. Today, as the leading additive manufacturing solutions partner, we bring innovation, performance, and reliability to every interaction - empowering our customers to create products and business models never before possible. Thanks to our unique offering of hardware, software, materials, and services, each application-specific solution is powered by the expertise of our application engineers who collaborate with customers to transform how they deliver their products and services. 3D Systems’ solutions address a variety of advanced applications in healthcare and industrial markets such as medical and dental, aerospace & defense, automotive, and durable goods. About Amnovis: Amnovis, based in Aarschot, Belgium, is a manufacturing and engineering company that uses innovative additive manufacturing (AM) technologies and materials for high-end applications such as medical devices. As an ISO 13485 certified contract manufacturer, Amnovis offers best-in-class AM technologies and expertise and paves the way for emerging AM technologies and materials. Digital process automation provides the traceability and repeatability to flexibly scale up manufacturing of products that comply with customer and regulatory requirements.

Read More

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

CORE Industrial Partners Portfolio Company Cadrex Manufacturing Solutions Acquires EPMP

CADREX | October 07, 2022

CORE Industrial Partners (“CORE”), a manufacturing, industrial technology, and industrial services-focused private equity firm, announced today the acquisition of E.P.M.P., Ltd. (“EPMP” or the “Company”), a precision sheet metal fabrication services provider, by CORE portfolio company Cadrex Manufacturing Solutions (“Cadrex”). The Cadrex platform was formed in 2021 and includes ten business units with approximately 1.5 million square feet of manufacturing space and more than 2,000 employees across ten states as well as Mexico. Founded in 1984, EPMP provides high-volume sheet metal punching, forming, welding and assembly capabilities utilizing a variety of different metals, including aluminum, copper and brass, as well as carbon, galvanized and stainless steel. The Company serves a nationwide customer base in the renewable energy, HVAC, food & beverage, and industrials end markets, among others, through an equipment fleet that includes press brakes, turret punches, fiber lasers, combination laser & punch machines and automated fabrication cells. Headquartered outside San Antonio in Seguin, Texas, EPMP operates an ISO 9001-certified facility with over 50,000 square feet of manufacturing space. “EPMP’s significant historical investments in automation-driving material handling systems and robotics augment Cadrex’s high-volume sheet metal fabrication capabilities and make EPMP a highly strategic fit with the platform.” -Matthew Puglisi, Partner at CORE. Clint Plant, President of EPMP, said, For almost 40 years, EPMP has been committed to manufacturing and service excellence, demonstrating that commitment throughout all aspects of our organization. We recognize and appreciate this same customer-centric orientation at Cadrex and we’re looking forward to collaborating with Cadrex and CORE to continue our strong momentum. ABOUT CORE INDUSTRIAL PARTNERS: CORE Industrial Partners is a private equity firm with $700 million of capital commitments investing in North American lower middle-market manufacturing, industrial technology, and industrial services businesses. CORE’s team is comprised of highly experienced former CEOs and investment professionals with shared beliefs, deep experience, and a demonstrated track record of building market-leading businesses. Through our capital, insight, and operational expertise, CORE partners with management teams and strives to build best-in-class companies. ABOUT CADREX MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS: Cadrex is a leading provider of complex production parts, assemblies, and weldments for a variety of end markets, including information communication technology, aerospace & defense, energy transmission & distribution, food production & agriculture, medical, material handling and electronic gaming & kiosk. With locations in nine states and Mexico, Cadrex offers comprehensive in-house manufacturing capabilities, including laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, injection molding, electromechanical assembly, CNC punching, CNC machining, robotic welding, stamping, fastener insertion, and tool and die manufacturing, to effectively serve customers with lights-out manufacturing capabilities from low- through high-volume production. ABOUT EPMP: EPMP is a precision sheet metal fabrication services provider for a variety of end markets, including renewable energy, HVAC, food & beverage, and industrials. The Company offers high-volume sheet metal punching, forming, welding and assembly capabilities from an ISO 9001-certified facility outside San Antonio in Seguin, Texas.

Read More

Events