The extremely high speeds that automated systems work deliver exponentially higher output. For example, sawmills, automated bottling and packaging lines, and CNC cutting benches can be 20 times more productive than the equivalent human-operated systems. And unlike human staff, a machine never asks for a pay rise.
In short, automation will:
- Streamline your workflow
- Allow production to get into motion faster
- Significantly increase throughput
The economics of automation
So automating wherever possible seems like an obvious decision that every manager should take – but it does come at a cost. The upfront expense of purchasing an automated production system for your business can be perceived as a major barrier. However, in our experience, BTS Engineering clients who conduct a cost/benefit analysis that looks ahead 24 to 36 months typically recognise that the initial outlay will be recovered quickly due to the dramatic gains in productivity automation delivers.
We’ll keep the system humming
Automated systems are complex, and it is critical must be maintained to the letter of their manufacturers’ guidelines. Little problems that have been ignored can become BIG problems very fast due to the speed at which automated systems operate.
But we can shoulder that responsibility for you with a scheduled maintenance programme that will keep your machine performing reliably. The BTS Engineering team specialise in visiting our clients to carry out maintenance when it has the least impact on production. For example, we work through the festive season and during other seasonal slowdowns or shutdowns, like Easter and Labour Weekend.
Safety and the human factor
Because automated systems replace much of the close interaction between operators and machinery, the scope for workplace accidents is decreased – especially where appropriate guarding is in place. Meeting WorkSafe requirements is easier, and managing your safety obligations is more straightforward.
Working with automated systems tends to be easier for your staff, too. In particular, less experienced operators can get up to speed at a new workstation faster because the machinery is doing most of the job for them.
Maximising efficiency
Carbide cutting tools can’t reach their optimal operating temperature when they’re being served by human operators, but it’s a different story with automation. A typical comparison is a cutting head that might run at 1000 rpm in a manual system, but it can actually run at 12,000 rpm when it’s used on a CNC machine. Clearly, the productive potential is much higher on an automated system. And that’s just one example of productive potential that human-operated systems leave on the table.
We can streamline installation and maintenance for you
If you’re considering integrating an automated manufacturing or processing system or are wondering how it could work for your business, we would love to share the benefits of our extensive experience. We install automated production systems with minimal disruption and ensure they’re maintained correctly so they deliver on the promise of exponentially increased productivity.
Get in touch today and plan for an automated future with BTS Engineering.