Industrial Automation

In addition to Smart Industry and Industry 4.0, the terms IT (Information Technology), Internet of Things (IoT), Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and big data are becoming increasingly common in industrial automation. Data are crucial to any automation.

The need for data within the industry is increasing, as is the need for the proper interpretation and integration of all data in processes and systems. Good collaboration between industrial automation and IT will automatically display the huge flow of data in dashboards to control processes. Or in other words, important decisions are made automatically based on data. So, industrial automation truly reveals the real value of data.

To optimize processes within an organization we require systems. These systems support the operator in his work, without actually taking over the work completely. Some common systems are PLC, SCADA, MES and ERP.

– A PLC, or Programmable Logic Controller controls machines using a microprocessor. Through inputs, this controller receives information from the connected sensors. Based on that information, this controller uses the outputs to control the actuators through the pre-programmed logic circuits and conditions.
– SCADA stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition and its function is to understand the efficiency of all the different devices within a process. This will reveal areas of improvement within a process.
– MES stands for Manufacturing Execution System. It is an information system that manages production. With the help of MES, work in the workshop can be measured more accurately. Is the production process on track or inefficient?

– ERP stands for Enterprise Resource Planning and supports financial and administrative business processes. This includes automated inventory management resulting better information exchange and cost savings.

These systems have contributed to new developments in rapid succession. The application of CODESYS software and OPC UA is an ideal example of this. CODESYS is scalable and flexible native software that is very easy to use. OPC UA is open source and easily extensible data exchange standard that allows effortless connection of different systems. Controlling these systems requires specialized knowledge. Knowledge that can be learned quickly due to the user-friendliness of the above systems, CODESYS and OPC UA. After optimal application, it creates consistency between network infrastructure, operating systems and applications.

Our range of PLCs
Our range of Industrial PC’s 
Our range of SCADA software

First of all, production will be faster and more efficient. It will also be cheaper and guarantee higher quality production (OEE, or Overall Equipment Effectiveness). In addition, machines are the ideal replacement for people in case of unsafe situations; work can be done with more control and safety. Devices can be more sophisticated and perform more difficult and

specialized tasks compared to humans. Consider complex calculations. Also, an automated process can be easily modified or expanded when a change is desired. Finally, data collection is much more accurate which makes your data much more important. It will reduce data collection costs and process costs.

The first disadvantage is that simply not all work can be automated. Human action is occasionally required during processes. Moreover, new industrial automation in a company is still a big investment. Finally, in the event of a failure,

specialist knowledge is required. Without this knowledge, a failure can have serious (financial) consequences. So, personnel must be trained to work with equipment or external support must be hired.

As mentioned, the investment costs for applying industrial automation are substantial. However, after installing this industrial automation, the investment is recouped fairly quickly because processes will be many times more efficient and time and cost effective.

Also, applying industrial automation is profit-enhancing in the long run. Are you thinking of improving or applying industrial automation within your company? We would be happy to advise you on the products and software types that are ideal for your situation. Contact us directly