The UK recently overtook France in the ‘largest manufacturing nations’ league table and moved up to number 8 in the world. According to Make UK, the sector’s output now totals £224 billion and provides 2.6 million UK jobs[i].
To stay competitive however, there is an ever-growing need for manufacturers to increase their use of robotic technologies and automation. And a recent study by the UK government’s Made Smarter Review has shown that investment in these areas alone could contribute a further £183.6 billion to GDP over the next decade[ii]!
So, should manufacturers invest in automation …or people? Here at OGM we believe the answer isn’t one or the other but both. Why?
Here are some of the advantages of investing in automated plastic injection moulding:
- Increased efficiency – the streamlining of repetitive tasks optimises processes and ultimately increases productivity and efficiency.
- Improved accuracy and quality – thanks to the consistency of automated systems, the reduction in error margins enhances quality.
- Cost savings – error reduction and improved use of resources can also be combined with a reduction in labour expenses to deliver savings.
- Scalability – increased capacity is possible without an increase in costs, thanks to automated systems’ ability to handle larger workloads.
- Quick decision making – collection and analysis of large amounts of data make the decision-making process quicker and better informed.
Here are some of the advantages of investing in people:
- Innovation and creativity – automation can lack some of the capacity people have for creative problem-solving and developing new ideas. Investment in people can foster such innovation and enable a company to adapt to changing market demands.
- Flexibility– rapidly changing situations and complex scenarios require talented people to efficiently troubleshoot situations and handle the tasks automated processes are not designed for.
- Customer service – human interaction can be key in customer service scenarios, particularly ones where support or complex communication is needed.
OGM – Our hybrid approach
At OGM, we have been using 6-axis robots and other automation machinery to deliver high quality results for over 15 years. The OGM injection moulding process uses multiple robots, from taking components to the cutting station, to assembly operations and machine packing.
Working alongside automation in a hybrid system, we have maximised productivity and efficiency. We have also improved our plastic injection moulding processes. By investing in both our workforce and automation, adaptability has been built into our business and our employees are experts in designing, managing and maintaining automated system and solutions.
With so many benefits as a result of this balanced approach to people and automation, why not discover how we can pass on our exceptional quality, consistency and increased productivity to you?