Momentum Talks is a show about Smart Factories. In this episode, we explore the transformative power of private 5G networks in manufacturing and examine how they enhance connectivity, security, and flexibility on the factory floor.
Public 5G has been around for years in our phones. But private 5G networks are now starting to become the technology of choice for wireless communication in factories across many industries. How can you leverage the private 5G network in your factory? Read our recap of Momentum Talks or watch the highlights below!
Momentum Talks is hosted by Amanda Teir. The guests in this episode are:
- Ola Arnup, Senior Global Product Manager 5G, Atlas Copco
- Hakim Achouri, Telecom Expert for Digital Aviation, Airbus
- Sebastian Elmgren, Head of Business Development 5G, Ericsson
How crucial is connectivity on a modern factory floor?
According to industry data, up to 30% of production interruptions are due to connectivity issues. Reliable connectivity is, thus, a game changer for modern factories.
A major reason for this shift is the need to collect, analyze, and act on data in real time. Flexible, reliable communication systems help tie these activities together seamlessly. 5G enhances operational flow by allowing tools to be located quickly through triangulation, reducing wasted time and improving productivity. The implications go beyond efficiency — they’re quality and safety critical. In production lines, even a brief connectivity loss can lead to a full stop, impacting output and safety. Consider a task as essential as securing screws on a seatbelt: any lapse could have serious repercussions.
Yet, currently, many factory floors still depend on pen and paper, consuming vast amounts of resources and time. 5G offers a path to more efficient, and data-driven manufacturing.
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What makes private 5G Networks secure, and what obstacles come with their implementation?
With private 5G, communication channels and security is established within seconds, allowing for centralized security management to be enabled. Furthermore, private 5G networks can confine and regulate connectivity to specific areas of the factory floor, adding an additional layer of control.
Implementing private 5G networks, on the other hand, comes with its share of challenges. One significant obstacle is navigating global spectrums. A harmonized approach is essential for effective deployment, but variations between countries remain. For instance, while some regions use 4G, others use a blend of leased spectrum from telecom providers. Thus, one has to adapt to different regulatory requirements and accordingly rely on different business models.
The push for a more democratized spectrum with supervision rather than strict regulation is seen as a possible solution. Thankfully, getting started with private 5G is becoming more straightforward. The ecosystem is maturing, with suppliers and system integrators stepping in to guide initial installations and provide expertise in 5G radio planning.
Despite this, there are still hurdles to overcome. Integrating 5G across systems can be complex, especially since not everything is 5G-native yet. This means manufacturers must also push for 5G compatibility in their procurement processes. Highlighting the need for strategic foresight in adopting private 5G to fully unlock its benefits of flexibility, reliability, and enhanced security.
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Are we at risk of 5G becoming redundant as 6G technology emerges?
Concerns about 6G overtaking 5G and rendering it obsolete are understandable, but in reality, these technologies will coexist, each fulfilling different needs. Today’s networks support 4G alongside 5G, leveraging the strengths of both. For tasks where basic connectivity suffices, 4G is a more cost-effective option. When advanced capabilities are necessary, 5G steps in to deliver higher performance.
Similarly, 6G will complement rather than replace existing infrastructure. This coexistence ensures that the investments in 5G are future-proof, with sufficient functionality to easily serve the industry for the next 20 to 30 years to come.
Innovation will continue, with new technologies introducing fresh capabilities and addressing emerging use cases. While the industry will eventually evolve to adopt 6G for these applications, 5G remains pivotal for unlocking new possibilities and sustaining progress until then.
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Benefits of private 5G in Smart Factories
- Reliable in all environments
- Flexible for all needs
- Security simplified
The future is here — 5G technology is already in use in manufacturing, its seamless integration unlocks new efficiencies and elevates productivity, setting the stage for more connected and smart manufacturing.
Realize the potential of Industry 4.0 with Smart Integrated Assembly
Smart Integrated Assembly is Atlas Copco’s concept for industrial manufacturers looking to transform and implement Smart Factories. The offering includes smart connected assembly tools for factories and field operations, fully integrated assembly line solutions from design to production, as well as a unique set of data-driven services.
This holistic approach helps you develop quality-assured and ergonomic operator-friendly production while minimizing waste, materials and energy consumption. This leads to reduced costs while also cutting down on climate-changing emissions.
