How industrial automation control systems can revolutionise your business

Discover how Industrial automation control systems (IACS) utilises data from one database across process-controlled machinery and why it’s a game-changer for the production and manufacturing industries.

Industrial automation is continuing to experience exponential progression across all areas of production.

Statista reports that the current market for industrial automation in 2022 is valued at $207 billion and predicted to rise at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) to $265 billion in 2025.

Industrial automation reigns king for manufacturing companies across the globe. But now, with industrial automation control systems, industrial automation is reaching new levels of productivity and efficiency that expands beyond operations.

An industrial automation control system (IACS) will consist of multiple control systems for industrial process control. All (IACS) operate electronically and are designed to complete tasks as efficiently as possible. The size and capabilities of an IACS vary dramatically depending on various operational factors, including the chosen conveyor system and robotics.

Currently, the world has 3 million industrial robotics in operation, with a market value of $81 billion. From this quantity and value, it’s clear to see the potential for ICAS.

Ultimately, industrial automation control systems involve an integrated system comprised of separate devices, equipment and machinery, all taking place in a manufacturing or production facility. But unlike previous industrial control systems (ICS), industrial automation control systems have advanced into new realms of possibilities for manufacturing and production purposes.

Now, ICAS can be developed to incorporate an entire organisation’s processes through automation and software. This includes multiple industries such as:

• Compliance processes
• Supply chains
• Research and development
• Sales operations

Industrial automated control systems receive data in the form of process variables and set points. This information then corresponds to commands that can perform separate operations. This technological advancement is what makes IACS so valuable and innovative.

IACS requires hardware, software and communication solutions to combine and process the data. The data is collected through sensors attached across the different machinery and equipment. The IACS processes the information before transforming the data into an action performed by the machinery.

These actions can range from production line instructions to managing the amount of production based on information corresponding to stock shortages, sales targets and other forms of operation channels.

Industrial process control and automation systems come in various forms, depending on the level of integration and industry. Here are some popular industries that utilise automation systems and process controls:

• Manufacturing
• Chemical manufacturing
• Electrical power generation
• Oil refineries
• Water and wastewater treatments

IACS works across many integrated systems, such as:

• Computer-aided process planning
• Automated conveyors and cranes
• Computer-supported design and manufacturing
• Flexible machine systems
• Automated material handling systems (robots)
• Computer numerical control machine tools
• Automated storage and retrieval systems
• Computerised production and scheduling control

All these IACS integrated systems can support business management operations through one common database.

One of the biggest benefits of automation control systems is time. As we all know in business, “time is money”. And the efficient, effective and innovative methods of automated production control systems make it the go-to process improving the industry. However, the real benefit of investing in an IACS solution is witnessing the overarching improvements it rewards an entire organisation.

Here is a list of key benefits for an IACS:

Productivity
As with all innovations concerned with industrial automation, the main benefit of IACS is productivity. IACS speeds up production time and ultimately streamlines all aspects of operations.

Flexible
IACS makes it faster and more efficient to introduce new products onto the production line.

Scalable
Due to the ability of IACS to connect with business management, it is easier to dictate the levels of scalability required from the production.

Accuracy
ICAS grants a much greater scope over operations by tracking individual and batch products. It also serves your customer service standards by solving issues of compliance and monitoring stock control.

Predictability
IACS can predict oncoming issues while scheduling the most efficient times for operations.

If you’re currently searching for ways to streamline your operations and boost your entire business, then you should invest in an industrial automation control system. At Hills Electrical, we provide automation and control systems for smarter automation solutions. From design to commissioning and ongoing support, we can supply you with the perfect IACS that will take your business into the future of production and manufacturing.

Contact us today for more advice or a free quotes, you can also follow us on LinkedIn.