August 2021

32 n ROBOTICS AND AUTOMATED MANUFACTURING July/August 2021 www.drivesncontrols.com Automation: an opportunity for UK manufacturing U K productivity has not really improved since the financial crisis of 2008 and if we are going to be competitive on the global stage, this must be addressed. Increased capital investment in the latest manufacturing technologies, including robot automation, is essential. While this presents a challenge, there are reasons to be optimistic as we now have the best conditions to enable the successful adoption of robotic automation. Robots are not the answer to all problems, but there are many applications where they can be deployed to improve productivity, provide consistent quality, and undertake arduous, mundane, or dangerous tasks. It is not about replacing jobs, but providing the UK workforce with the tools it needs to be productive. Competitive businesses grow and employ more people, often with better jobs. As things stand today, the UK has dropped to 24th in the world in terms of the number of robots installed per 10,000 workers, according to the International Federation of Robotics. This is eroding our ability to compete in world markets. The main issues that have impeded the uptake of robots in the UK relate to economic justification, perceptions of risk and a lack of skills. However, there are definite signs that UK manufacturing is really starting to embrace robot automation and the outlook for the future is very positive. Robot suppliers are reporting high levels of enquiries and orders. The statistics that Bara – the British Robot & Automation Association – collects on behalf of the major vendors reveal that robot sales grew by 7.5% in 2020, compared to 2019. There are several factors driving this growth, both in terms of the challenges to be addressed, but also the availability of easier-to- use technology and financial support. One factor behind the increased interest in robots is the rise in minimum wages, coupled with labour shortages as a result of Brexit. The Covid-19 pandemic has also had a major impact, introducing the challenge of social distancing as well as problems with extended supply chains. Manufacturing needs to improve its resilience, and automation has a role to play in achieving this. Affordable finance The cost of finance is currently very low, which improves the economics for capital investment. The Government’s recent announcements of an extension of the Annual Investment Allowance and the Super-Deduction Allowance for investments in plant and machinery make the financial challenges easier. There are also leasing options available which, when set up correctly, can result in a financial return from the day the robot automation starts work. While the UK certainly needs to do more to improve its position in the global statistics on robot adoption, we do not need to develop new solutions; rather, apply what is already in use elsewhere. The increased availability of collaborative robots also provides many opportunities because they are generally easier to apply and operate than traditional industrial robots. They can also be redeployed quickly and easily to other applications. This not only reduces the risks of any investment, but also makes it easier for businesses new to automation to acquire the skills they require. It is important to recognise there is a learning curve associated with the adoption of robotic automation. This is not just the operation of the system once it is installed and commissioned, but also the informed procurement of the equipment in the first place. It is important to select the most The UK may languish in 24th position in the global league of robot adopters, but Mike Wilson, chief automation officer at the Manufacturing Technology Centre, believes that things are looking up for the wider and better use of robots in the UK. Despite Covid, robot sales rose by 7.5% during 2020. Robots can provide the UK workforce with the tools it needs to be more productive