P R O C E S S I N G Automation & Processing Affordable, Benefi cial and with a Made to Fit Option Factory automation has a major impact on a plant’s ability to maintain consistent quality and achieve any number of key goals. Automation solutions have evolved in recent years delivering an increased number of advantages including safety, traceability and increased competitive edge through reduced labour and inherent processing costs. Safety USA statistics have shown over a 30- year span there were 37 robot- related accidents versus 4,585 overall fatalities in the same period*. These fi gures can be dissected to specifi c industries, but the data overwhelmingly supports workers are safer with automation processes in place. Benefi ts include a reduction in the risk of injury at an operational level through the removal of workers from dangerous work procedures. An automated system will also typically respond faster in emergencies because of the constant real-time monitoring, potentially taking care of a situation that previously may have been perceived as unavoidable. There is also the ability to update safety protocols quickly and effi ciently ensuring normal operations are not disrupted. Traceability With the recently well- publicised case of Mars recalling a range of brands in more than 50 countries due to plastic contamination, the importance of traceability is critical to consumer confi dence and sales, whatever size the business is. Incorporating automated systems to manage products/ingredients through all stages of sourcing, processing and distribution is a necessity in today’s world where regulations have become stricter and more complex. Integrating an automated system that can quickly identify when and where a contaminated batch occurred can reassure consumers, protect a business’s integrity and reduce the impact on sales. Increased competitive edge Automation has become a determining factor in whether or not a company will remain competitive within the manufacturing industry. Whilst capital costs may be a major consideration, factory automation can not only decrease costs, but provide dramatic increases in production capabilities through increased speed, reduction of bottle necks and the capability to run 24/7. By improving processes and equipment effectiveness, the return of investment will reduce the cost of goods sold, increasing market competitiveness. Also an increase in capacity utilisation, can reduce time to market and inventory, further improving return on investment. Automation integration can be achieved regardless of size regard- Automation is not just for the large manufacturers and can be integrated on a small or large scale. Any manufacturer can make the investment to achieve a sustainable, globally competitive business through the integration of automation processes. Finding suppliers who understand the needs of a smaller business is crucial in achieving a cost- effective manufacturing system that meets a business needs. For more than 30 years, APC Technology has provided a range of solutions in the automation arena, including industrial computers, HMIs, input devices and & custom food processing equipment for applications performing in the most demanding environments. This includes withstanding constant cleaning and disinfecting with a variety of harsh agents, whilst maintaining the highest levels of hygiene, performance, reliability and safety. APC Technology’s fully sealed stainless steel computers and HMIs can be designed to include a range of connectivity and protocols enabling the systems to be seamlessly integrated into a plant’s process control system. These protocols include Modbus, Fieldbus and Profi bus. Additionally Custom made highpressure hose-proof cabinet designed for leading SA food manufacturer Cloud data storage and wireless communications are readily achievable through a range of industrial Wi-Fi and Gateway products. Customisation Can Be Cost Effective Smaller businesses can feel shoe-horned into choosing commercial off the shelf solutions which do not meet their requirements but appear to be cost effective. APC Technology specialises in designing and manufacturing customised solutions to meet a client’s budget and requirements. A recent client had identifi ed the opportunity to improve the effi ciency of its production line through the introduction of a solution designed to dispense absorbent pads as part of their meat processing facility. In consultation with the client, APC Technology designed and manufactured a custom solution to meet the needs of the manufacturer. For more information contact: fbaldrighi@apctechnology.com.au. * http://www.robotics.org/content-detail.cfm/Industrial-Robotics-Industry-Insights/Robot-Safety-Everything-But-Routine/content_id/5653 APC Technology design and manufacture state of the art computer/control technology solutions for use in food/beverage production, abattoirs, meatworks & livestock management. Computing Solutions for Tough Conditions www.apctechnology.com.au 22 MARCH 2016 Built to Last Waterproof Sunlight Readable Fully Sealed
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