Climate change is the defining issue of our time and we are at a defining moment when action needs to be taken. Customers, partners and governments are increasingly requiring industrial manufacturers to minimize their environ-mental impact. Sustainability is no longer a nice to have, so let us share a few of our insights to help you make a sustainable difference.
According to the The World Economic Forum, the industrial sector, which includes the manufacturing industry, accounts for one fifth of the global greenhouse gas emissions. Adding to that, the sector consumes approximately half of the world’s energy resources. There is therefore an immediate need for manufacturing companies to more efficiently use limited resources in a more sustainable manner. To minimize their carbon footprint.
And they are planning to do just that. In a BCG survey, 80% of industrial manufacturers reported that their company have plans to transition to carbon-neutral operations. Here are three tips to help you get on the bandwagon and drive your manufacturing processes in a more sustainable way.
#1 - Get it right from the start
Production errors caused by operators lead to reworks and recalls that are expensive but also waste material and energy. Operator user-friendly tool location systems ensure that assembly tools only operate if used in the correct area in the plant, for the right assignments and on the right parts and products. Intuitive interfaces such as computer vision systems interact with the operator as they work and provide continuous guidance. This reduces the responsibility on the operator and helps them perform tasks in the correct order.
But many errors are often too difficult for humans to detect. Error-proofing software and management system monitoring solutions help prevent, identify and correct such errors but also reduces the cost for expensive, multiple and continuous quality checks. Aside from reducing the risk for human errors in production, location systems and error-proofing solutions also reduce the training time needed for new operators.
In the above mentioned area of quality checks, the Atlas Copco QA Platform 4.0 is a flexible modular solution for quality assurance. With tool, joint, visual and dimensional checks performed by a single platform it reduces the need for multiple quality devices. Compliant with quality standards the QA Platform 4.0 optimizes operational costs by reducing defects, reworks, and product recalls.
#2 - The improved Operator Station
Taking control of the individual operator station by means of automation improves operational quality, productivity, scalability and flexibility. Advantages that shorten the time to adapt to product mix changes, efficiency and output. All achieved while lowering operational costs and improving ROI.
By better controlling the assembly process down to the individual station, automation reduces the number of reworks and recalls. Materials and energy are used more efficiently and unnecessary waste is minimized. In addition, improved traceability enables more predictive maintenance which further reduces resource waste.
Automating tiresome, hazardous, heavy and in other ways high risk station operations in manufacturing processes also improves ergonomics in the workplace making for a better and safer working environment for operators.
#3 - Go Electric!
When facing the challenges fastening and tightening entails, manufacturers can turn to the power of electricity. By moving from air powered to electrical powered tightening tools with an integrated controller it is easier to control and monitor torque, angle and gradient. On top of that, many electric tools have the capacity to collect, transfer and store data facilitating quality control and traceability throughout the tightening process. Advantages that reduce costs for reworks and recalls.
Handheld and cordless electric tightening tools that are lightweight, small, and designed to be handled in cramped areas help address operator fatigue. Operator-friendly characteristics for improved ergonomics that all make for a better and safer working environment for operators.
Your sustainable partner in industrial manufacturing
In the Atlas Copco Group we are committed to science-based targets to reduce emissions in line with the Paris Agreement. In doing this, we take a holistic view on our carbon impact, from energy efficiency to a more sustainable supply chain. It is about improving resource efficiency and driving more sustainable manufacturing processes. In short, helping ourselves and our customers do more with less.