Technology Boosts Manufacturing

As the United States heads into a new era of manufacturing, production requirements are changing rapidly. Given the outdated state of the average American production facility, updated manufacturing technology is necessary to stay competitive in the global market. By keeping pace with the most recent developments in technology, your company can avoid losing valuable ground.

In the decades since American manufacturing was a significant economic force, the country's factories and facilities have fallen behind. Foreign companies often gain the competitive advantage by paying workers poorly. Since U.S. companies have better salaries and safer working conditions, advanced manufacturing equipment can help bridge the cost gap.

Automated manufacturing technology is expected to be one of the most important drivers in the reshoring of production. Robotic equipment has the power to transform an operation, enabling it to work faster and more efficiently. Automation technology is already at work in many of the country's largest facilities. As smaller businesses automate production, they can work around the clock with a smaller workforce and fewer quality concerns.

Large companies rarely have the capacity to provide small, highly-personalized production runs without sacrificing profits. The latest additive manufacturing technology may be the solution. Machines like 3D printers can make on-demand products to exacting specifications, all without requiring a major reconfiguration. They enable companies to make quick adjustments during the prototyping process and adapt quickly to customer demands. Additive manufacturing technology also requires businesses to have less raw material on hand, which reduces overhead costs.

Maintenance is a significant concern in manufacturing facilities, which can be backed up for days when a machine malfunctions. The complex nature of manufacturing technology does not always allow operators to spot problems before they manifest in a broken part or inefficient operation. With new radio sensors, engineers are planning to transform the maintenance and troubleshooting process. The sensors, which are designed to handle extreme temperatures and rough conditions, can be placed at strategic points around the production line. They can record the conditions and transmit information back to a central computer system. With real-time information from inside the machines, operators can identify unusual activity and take action. The sensors can also be used around the facility to sense when supplies are low and send messages for automatic restocking.

Technology also has the potential to boost manufacturing in non-technical areas such as marketing and sales. In the age of social media and near-constant Internet connection, companies must work harder to get their messages across. Technological options such as automated email systems, integrated campaign management programs and social media schedulers can help your company create and maintain a presence. Tablets and smartphones equipped with 3D software can give you the power to present 360-degree product or machinery cross-sections, plant walk-throughs and video presentations from any location.

As American companies move toward advanced manufacturing environments, technology plays a crucial role. The latest manufacturing technology developments help businesses increase production and cut costs, which is critical for the state of the industry as a whole.

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