INTEGRATED SYSTEMS 36 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS April/May 2025 www.hpmag.co.uk precision methods outright. AI is also making compressed air usage more efficient. Pneumatic systems are often wasteful, consuming more energy than necessary. AI can monitor demand and adjust supply accordingly, reducing excess air usage and minimising power consumption. That said, AI alone cannot solve all efficiency issues—proper system-wide management, such as reducing leaks and using variable-speed compressors, is still essential. Given rising energy costs and the drive towards net-zero emissions, integrating AI with broader energy-saving measures represents both a financial and environmental benefit for British manufacturers. Adaptive control Another development is the shift towards more adaptive control rather than full decentralisation. Traditional electropneumatic systems still rely on centralised logic controllers to manage operations, as they provide critical oversight and synchronisation. AI does not replace these systems but instead enhances their capabilities by enabling localised decision-making at specific pneumatic nodes. This improves responsiveness and efficiency while maintaining overall system coordination. Seamless integration with existing automation frameworks is key to realising these benefits without introducing unnecessary complexity. However, despite these clear benefits, widespread adoption of AI-powered electro-pneumatics in Britain faces obstacles. One of the most pressing is the skills gap. Many manufacturers still rely on older systems, with workforces trained in conventional automation rather than AI-driven control. Bridging this gap will require investment in training and education, as well as stronger collaboration between industry and academia. Cost is another challenge. While AI-driven systems promise long-term savings, the initial investment can be significant. This is particularly problematic for smaller manufacturers who may struggle to justify the expense without immediate returns. Government support, tax incentives, and partnerships between larger firms and SMEs could help make these technologies more accessible. Despite these challenges, AI-driven automation is the direction industry is moving in. The UK is already investing in digital manufacturing, and AI-enhanced electro-pneumatics is a natural extension of this progress. The integration of AI isn’t just about keeping up with international competition; it’s about improving efficiency, reducing waste, and ensuring that British manufacturing remains innovative and resilient. For businesses looking to implement AI in their pneumatic systems, the key is to start gradually. Small-scale projects, such as AI-powered monitoring tools or automation upgrades on specific production lines, can provide valuable insights and build confidence. Over time, these early steps can pave the way for broader adoption, allowing manufacturers to fully harness the benefits of intelligent automation. The role of AI in electro-pneumatics isn’t just a passing trend—it represents an ongoing shift in how industrial processes are managed. The businesses that recognise and adapt to these advances will be the ones best positioned to thrive in an increasingly automated and competitive world. Looking for a new career opportunity? Contact Andrew at DFA Media on 01732 370347 The simplest route to your next job
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ0NzM=