Automation can change a business, create new opportunities, and foster growth. However, sometimes the path to automation can be overwhelming. It is important to stay true to the fundamentals. In this post, our guest writer, Jordan, explains two key steps to getting started on the journey to welding automation. Read more below.
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Welding Automation often is not standard out-of-the-box. Between the welding process, controls, peripheral technology, and material handling, most projects are very dynamic. These types of projects can demand skill sets from manufacturing, weld engineering, mechanical/electrical engineering, PLC controls, and project management. Most people do not have qualifications in all these areas which typically demand a team to bring a project together. So, how do you approach a project? Where do you start? Understandably, this can be a little overwhelming for some companies.
Considering a few key factors and involving the right people it can be simplified. Here we discuss two initial steps to set up any weld automation project for success.
Any project needs to start with the fundamentals and understanding “why” is the first step. What is the issue? And why is there an attempt to solve it? Welding automation is no different.
What is your reason for automating? What are the greatest challenges that you want to solve? Or what benefits/outcomes do you expect to reach from solving them?
The “why” is typically assessed among the following factors:
Often these key factors can be overlooked and it is easy to suggest that they all sound fantastic. However, each factor must be evaluated to understand how it correlates to the return on the investment.
When considering “why”, avoid assumptions. The “why” needs to be determined with data. Simply assuming quality needs to be improved or assuming costs need to be reduced is not enough - understand how the numbers are driving the justification for the project. Collect as much data and information from the existing process as possible. This might mean investing in time studies, conducting surveys, and evaluating production reports. Every automation project must be measured for success and that starts with defining a benchmark for the existing process.
If there is not a quantitative reason for “why”, the project is at risk to be either “over” or “under” automated. In other words, when it comes to capital spending, either spending too much or not enough.
Taking a step back, asking “why” with measurable criteria will help keep the project focused on the desired outcome.
Automation can be daunting, technology is evolving at a pace at which if you do not live it day-to-day, it can be difficult to keep up. Leaning on an automation partner is often the route most manufacturers choose, however picking the right partner is one of the most critical steps in the process.
In welding automation, an automation partner can come in several different forms: Integrators, Weld Distributors, Automation Consultants, and Equipment Dealers. All can add value when it comes to automation. However, the challenge is how to make the right choice?
Here are four keys areas to consider when selecting an automation partner:
For example, here's what the typical project journey is like with our team at IRCO Automation.
In welding automation, the stakes are usually high (meaning capital intensive), and not a lot of room for mistakes. Selecting a well-rounded partner over cost is something to always reflect on in the automation world.
Following these initial first steps will help kick start your project and set it up for success.
What's Next?
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