You can't achieve SMART Manufacturing without embracing modern technology. This is where NHP can help our customers modernise their automation systems and start their journey towards Industry 4.0.
Current State of the Industry
In 2014, ARC Advisory Group reported that 88% of process manufacturers acknowledged the use of automation beyond the manufacturer's obsolescence date.
According to ARC Advisory Group, there is currently more than $65 billion worth of legacy automation assets reaching the end of their useful life. And though some would like to think these systems can run and be serviced indefinitely, it is simply not possible.
After operating a PLC-5® or SLC® controller for over 20 years, for example, maintenance might start to feel like the controller is bulletproof - that since it has made it so long without a problem, it will continue to do so. But, as it often does in life, age wins in the end and serviceability will be limited or even non-existent.
Challenges to obsolescence
Increasing support costs
As machines become older, they break down more frequently. Not only do frequent breakdowns result in lost revenue, replacement parts get more expensive as time goes on.
Subject matter expert attrition
The older generation is leaving the workforce with tremendous knowledge as subject matter experts.
At the same time there's a younger generation entering the workforce with different training and general life experience to someone who's been in the industry for 20-30+ years.
The younger generation not only accept IOT devices and PowerBi's "dashboard" style reporting - they demand it.
Regulatory compliance
There's a good chance that a machine designed and installed 30 years ago might not meet the latest industry standards.
Safety and sustainability
A system that was considered "safe" 20 years ago is not necessarily safe or might not meet the standards now. Standards are reviewed/updated every 2-3 years.
Limited parts availability
Spare parts are hard to come by when a product ages as internal components are no longer available due to the technology moving on.
Modernisation incentives
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Connectivity
We can't afford to have any "islands" of automation. Standalone machines will become obsolete. The 'smart' in 'SMART Manufacturing' is a highly connected, knowledge-enabled industrial enterprise where devices and processes are connected, monitored and optimised to enhance productivity, sustainability and economic performance.
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Security
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Intelligence
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Flexible automation
Products
Let's meet the next gen architecture that will become the foundation of our Modernisation journey
Improve the functional operation of machinery with our innovative, wide-range portfolio of products and solutions. As new technology emerges, we develop and deliver integrated, value-added components and systems that help to maximise production and overall equipment effectiveness.
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Visualisation hardware
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Software
