Figure 1: Capturing and analyzing the condition data of machines holds potential for more sustainable processes. (Image source: Banner Engineering)
Optimize for sustainability Automation technology offers a range of approaches that system integrators in mechanical and plant engineering, as well as manufacturing companies, can utilize to leverage the optimization of their infrastructure, plants, and processes in terms of sustainability. The comprehensive use of sensors and their integration into the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) opens up a wide range of possibilities here by means of continuously monitoring energy consumption, environmental parameters, or inventories. With the help of connected sensors, manufacturing companies can, for example, track the transport of goods in real time, monitor filling levels or record condition data of machines and tools in production lines (Figure 1).
Agency, the manufacturing industry accounts for more than a quarter of the energy consumption; its share of electricity demand is also comparable. Production and processing of chemicals and metals are the leading sectors. These and many other manufacturing industries, including electrical and mechanical engineering as well as food production, are driven by the progress made in factory and process automation. In addition to optimizing productivity and costs, the focus is shifting more and more to parameters that result in improved sustainability of products and processes: In the context of digitalization and through the concept of Industry 4.0, they are increasingly targeting energy efficiency, the economic use of resources, waste avoidance, and the smallest possible carbon footprint.
The demand for energy, the use of raw materials, and – particularly in metropolitan areas – the size of the land required are the most critical factors of industrial production. On the one hand, they determine the economic efficiency of factories and plants; on the other, they are crucial for sustainable operation. In many regions of the world, enormous efforts are being made towards limiting the use of conventional fossil fuels and replacing them with renewable alternatives. The successes to date are considerable thanks to the commitment of politics, industry, and the private sector. In Germany, for example, which aims to evolve renewables into the prevailing energy source within the framework of its energy revolution, their share of total energy consumption reached a value just above 48 percent last year. According to the Federal Network
Empowered by cutting-edge automation technology: the sustainable journey
Connected sensors, robotics, adaptive drives – advanced automation concepts are key to energy-saving and resource-efficient production. To system integrators and plant operators, they provide a powerful lever for optimizing their infrastructure and processes in terms of sustainability.
By Dr. Matthias Laasch, laasch:tec technology editorial consulting
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