Top Trends In Manufacturing Industry You Need To Know

The manufacturing process is the backbone of all industries and most businesses. Keeping up with the latest trends in manufacturing processes can help companies remain competitive, increase efficiency and boost profits. This article will explore some of the newest manufacturing trends to increase efficiency.

Introduction to Manufacturing Processes

Manufacturing processes constantly evolve as new technologies and approaches are developed to increase efficiency and reduce costs. Some of the latest trends in manufacturing are as follows. 

• Industry 4.0 & IOT
• 3D Printing
• Automation & Robotics
• AI & Machine Learning in Manufacturing
• Data Analytics
• Simulation Technology for Process Optimization
• Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
• Cloud Computing for Manufacturing

Industry 4.0 & IOT

The rise of Industry 4.0 is also transforming manufacturing processes. This term refers to the fourth industrial revolution, characterised by integrating digital technologies into all aspects of manufacturing. 

One of the most significant aspects of Industry 4.0 is its reliance on data and connectivity. The connection of devices, machines, and people through the Internet of Things (IoT) is a key enabler of Industry 4.0. By connecting devices and collecting data about their usage, manufacturers can gain insights into how their processes work and identify improvement areas. Industry 4.0 technologies are making factories more flexible and adaptable while increasing efficiency, with technologies such as

• 3D Printing
• Robotics
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)

3D Printing

One trend that is gaining popularity is using 3D printing technology in manufacturing. The ability to generate highly personalised products with an extremely high level of accuracy has transformed how products are developed and manufactured. There are many 3D printing technologies they are,

• Stereolithography (SLA)
• Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
• Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)

 

Stereolithography (SLA)

 

SLA is the oldest and most established 3D printing technology. It works by curing a photosensitive resin with an ultraviolet (UV) laser to create 3D objects.

• SLA printers are very accurate
• They can produce very detailed objects
• They are also very expensive

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)

SLS is a recent 3D printing process which uses a laser to sinter-powdered materials into solid shapes. Sintering is a heat treatment process in which loose material is compressed into a solid piece.

SLS printers can print using various materials, including,

• Metals
• Plastics
• Ceramics
• Food
• They are much faster than SLA printers 
• They can be used to create larger objects
• SLS prints are not as accurate as SLA prints
• SLS printers are expensive  

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

A thermoplastic filament is used in a 3D printing technique called fused deposition modelling (FDM). To construct the desired object, the filament is fed through a heated extrusion nozzle, which melts the material and deposits it in layers on a heated bed in a closed room kept at the right temperature.

• It is a relatively low cost.
• It is easy to use.
• It is well-suited for prototyping and small-scale manufacturing applications.
• Products printed with this method are industrial-grade
• Produces strong and durable parts
• It can produce visible layer lines
• It generally has a poorer surface finish

Automation & Robotics

As the industrial sector looks to enhance efficiency and productivity, automation has emerged as a key area of focus. By automating manufacturing processes, businesses can improve output while reducing costs.

There are several different types of automation that can be used in manufacturing, including:

 

Machine Automation

This involves using machines to carry out tasks that human workers would otherwise do.

This can include tasks such as,

• Welding
• Fabricating
• Assembling

Process Automation

This refers to the automated control of industrial processes, such as chemical reactions or the movement of materials through a production line.

Information Technology (IT) Automation

This encompasses the use of IT systems to manage and monitor manufacturing processes. This data is then analysed to derive insights to aid decision-making.

The benefits of automating manufacturing processes include the following:

Increased Productivity

When manufacturing processes are automated, businesses can produce more products quickly.

Reduced Costs

Automation can reduce labour and other expenses such as raw materials and energy consumption.

Improved quality

Automated manufacturing processes often improve product quality due to reduced human error.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML) in Manufacturing

AI is one of the latest trends in manufacturing processes, and it is one of the most promising methods to enhance efficiency in manufacturing. AI-based systems can monitor and optimise production processes in real-time, reducing downtime and waste. In addition, AI can control robotic arms and other machines in the production line, making the process more efficient and accurate.

Data Analytics

Another trend that hugely impacts manufacturing processes is the increasing use of data analytics. By analysing data from production lines, manufacturers can identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement. The procedure can then be modified to increase efficiency using the information provided.

Simulation Technology for Process Optimization

By creating a virtual manufacturing process model, engineers can test different scenarios and make changes to the process before implementing them in the real world. This allows for more efficient use of resources and can help avoid costly mistakes.

Many software programs offer simulation capabilities, and the features vary depending on the program. Some programs allow for detailed 3D modelling, while others focus on specific aspects of the manufacturing process, such as material handling or assembly line layout.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

AR and VR are relatively new technologies, but they already have a big impact on manufacturing. AR is used to create digital models of products that can be viewed in real-time, allowing better collaboration between designers and engineers. Conversely, VR creates realistic simulations of environments, which can be used for training recruits or testing new designs.

Cloud Computing for Manufacturing

The industrial sector has been one of the key adopters of cloud technologies. A study by Microsoft and IDC found that in the early days of cloud computing in manufacturing, only 31% of manufacturers used some form of cloud-based applications or services.

Today, that number has grown to 77%, with manufacturers using cloud-based solutions for various tasks, including,

• Product Lifecycle Management
• Enterprise Resource Planning
• Customer Relationship Management

Scalability 

Companies having to make a large upfront investment in hardware and software also have to allocate resources for maintenance and upgrades.

Cloud-based solutions help manufacturers pay for only what they need whenever they need it. They can also quickly scale up or down as their needs change. This makes it much easier for manufacturers to respond to changes in demand or new opportunities.

Flexibility

Manufacturers can access their data and applications from anywhere, anytime. This allows them to be more agile and responsive to market changes.

Reduces cost 

Cloud computing helps manufacturers reduce their IT costs. With on-premises solutions, companies have to invest in costly infrastructure, such as servers and storage systems. They also have to pay licensing fees for software applications.

The ever-changing manufacturing landscape presents challenges and opportunities for those in the industry. To stay ahead of the competition, it’s important to be proactive in investigating the latest manufacturing trends and technologies.

Skill-Lync is a great resource for keeping up with the latest manufacturing developments. The website offers articles, videos, and webinars on additive manufacturing, Industry 4.0, and lean principles. In addition, users can access online courses on specific topics to deepen their understanding. Whether you’re looking to learn more about a particular topic or stay up-to-date on the latest trends, Skill-Lync can help you upskill and become job-ready for top engineering jobs.