How will the new technology brought by CNC lathe workshop in Industry 4.0 change the process?

Don't let your CNC lathe shop fall behind. Upgrade to Industry 4.0 to gain an edge. This technology collects performance information in real time, giving you the data you need to make quick decisions. It's time to adopt Industry 4.0 to compete in current and future markets.

What is Industry 4.0?

Industry 4.0 refers to the fourth major industrial revolution. The start of the Industrial Revolution used steam and water power to operate machines, reducing manpower. Next, electricity increased productivity, and the third industrial revolution integrated IT technology into automated mechanical processes. Each of these revolutions dramatically changed production and the jobs available. Industry 4.0 promises to do the same.

Industry 4.0 happened in 2007, when German economist Klaus Schwab stated that connectivity would drive the future of industry. By 2011, the term Industry 4.0 was gradually becoming a focus of discussions in academia. This means IoT will be integrated into factories and services. Data will be collected and used for automated processing, making computers and the Internet an essential part of manufacturing.

How new technologies will change processes

With this innovative technology, roles and tools will change. Today, many CNC lathe workshops are equipped with computer-aided manufacturing software. But this change does not make them compatible with Industry 4.0. In most cases, the on-site computers at these stores do not have an internet connection to download new specifications or programs. Connectivity is the hallmark of Industry 4.0.

A CNC lathe shop-connected computer can make your machine more precise than it is today. Instead of sending your finished product to the field for testing, sensors can test products in your store. You can also collect information about machine performance. Downtime is reduced as issues are resolved immediately.

Connectivity also means that information will be passed on to other entities beyond the machine shop. You can have external experts consult your project remotely. In addition, you can stay in touch with institutes to create new technologies for Industry 4.0. This gives you the opportunity to provide input on the techniques required by the machine shop.

Sensors used to track machine shop tools can also determine the energy used. Using this data, you can automate your system to improve energy efficiency. As you increase your productivity, you will reduce your energy bills.

Our CNC lathe workshop is already adopting the new Industry 4.0 processing control system. It increases the efficiency of CNC lathe workshops in three main ways. The new interface is more user-friendly. Employees can quickly operate the control panel, which includes customer-specified web connections. Industry 4.0 also contributes to the company's operations and performance. Computers track wear and tear on machines and schedule maintenance as needed.

Will it be difficult for the operator as the degree of automation increases? Advances in technology also mean that operators can learn more, by planning training to operate new computers, using connected sensors and computers, leading to a more systematic management. Technicians need to maintain equipment on the production line. Technicians must also be readily available to respond to computer-detected repair needs. Also, in areas where equipment is unavailable, humans will continue to operate the machine or at least control the computer that runs the machine.

There may be concerns for employees. While some jobs will change, your CNC lathe shop probably won't lose workers. The computers required for Industry 4.0 will require operators, and with a user-friendly interface, you may not need to hire other people with professional degrees.

And all this is not complicated, and don't worry, because the system is simpler and the operation interface is more friendly, while bringing higher efficiency and accuracy.