April 2021

12 | Plant & Works Engineering www.pwemag.co.uk April 2021 Maintenance Matters Focus on: Condition Monitoring T here is no doubt that over the next decade investments in robotics, AI and IoT will transform manufacturing processes. The rise of the machine is evident and with predictions that machines will be responsible for half of all work tasks by 2025, it is clear that organisations must be able to respond to these changes. With the further incorporation of automation within the food processing industry in particular, companies must maximise the use of real-time information in order to deliver operational efficiencies. With technology such as smart condition monitoring and communication tools, organisations can improve processes and employee safety – capitalising on innovation that can help businesses to adapt and thrive. Automation In the UK the food manufacturing industry is worth £83.7bn, with £95.5bn spent by consumers on food products last year. The pressure is on to produce food in the right way at the right time, to meet demand and limit wastage, and in the competitive landscape this has never been more important. There have also been many external factors that have pushed the food production industry towards an automated future. Brexit, for example, has highlighted the need for low- skilled, more economically viable workers within the industry, as a points-based system has been introduced to encourage more skilled workers into the UK from the EU. Additionally, with rising prices on products due to Brexit, companies must look to technology to promote business continuity. This has only been amplified by Covid-19 with the limitation of workers available due to social distancing guidelines. Outbreaks at factories have also emphasised the need for companies to rationalise their portfolio. With longer production runs, fewer product variants and less changeovers due to the coronavirus restrictions, automation has become a more viable option, allowing companies to speed up production in order to meet demand. But the rise of automation doesn’t come without challenges, how can we ensure that businesses continue to operate efficiently and safely with fewer workers? Wireless condition monitoring With automation being increasingly adopted within the food manufacturing industry, it is important that companies have mechanisms in place to ensure greater operational efficiency and sustainability of their processes. Wireless monitoring using state-of- the-art LoRa (long-range) technology offers a The use of technology is becoming increasingly intertwined with our everyday lives, and even more so within numerous industry operations. Covid-19 has of course exacerbated this fact, highlighting the importance of technology and encouraging companies to think innovatively to overcome the challenges they face. Chris Potts* reports. Rise of the machines: Maximising real-time information