For many small to mid-sized manufacturing, production and fabrication companies in Minneapolis, making the move from manual to automated systems is a very big step. This is a substantial initial investment, but to consider only the startup costs is really just focusing on one part of the picture.
By upgrading to automated systems within a company, there are long-term benefits to consider. The return on investment (ROI) with either full automation or semi-automated systems is substantial over time. Semi-automated systems include manufacturing, production or fabrication processes which are automated within a system. The combination of manual and automated equipment can provide the greatest level of quality control, speed of production and efficiency in the system.
If you are considering this upgrade, here are the top reasons for small to mid-sized businesses to move towards semi or full automation.
* Quality control – unlike humans, machines are 100% accurate in repeating the same process over and over again. This includes anything from CNC equipment to specific processes such as packaging, sorting, welding or any other process. With precision repeatability, quality control becomes a much easier task for any company.
* Less waste – with the same process used for each unit produced, there is a predictable amount of waste. There are no “bad days” for equipment where there are missed cuts or poorly performed tasks, which means a more streamlined process for eliminating extra costs during production.
* Faster processes – with automation, there is never any concern about staffing levels, overtime to complete a job or rushing to ensure an order is finished on time.
By choosing a custom machine shop with the ability to create automated equipment and systems, any company of any size can achieve these benefits. Working with a local Minneapolis machine shop for specific equipment for your company will provide custom products with the features and functions you need.