Get the budget rightImplementing ne

Get the budget rightImplementing new automation on the shop floor doesn’t necessarily mean a complete overhaul of legacy equipment. It is unrealistic to rip out entire production lines and replace them with new machines. Not only would this be extremely expensive, the downtime from implementing a new haul of machines could be detrimental for the business.It is better to start slow, reap the benefit, and repeat. Target a specific pain point, make an investment, and use the gains of such investment to implement further automation.However, in the real world, things don’t always go to plan, especially when it comes to machine maintenance.For instance, what if a legacy machine needs replacing? Is it better to purchase a new, updated model in a bid to continually modernize the factory, or try to find the same or similar equipment to keep processes consistent?Following the steady, targeted approach of implementing new automation, if it wasn’t on the manager’s plan to update a certain piece of equipment that now needs replacing, it is better to source the same machine. This maintains consistency on the factory floor, meaning businesses won’t be faced with too many trial patches of automation on the factory floor at once.Fears about sourcing old, obsolete equipment are common. Many manufacturers assume that because a part is no longer manufactured by the OEM, it is impossible to find.Thankfully, some suppliers still offer legacy motors, PLCs, and CNCs for shops with older machines. This saves time and money in buying and implementing brand-new parts.Choosing suppliers for old and new parts is one of the most important preparatory steps in investing in new technology. While factory managers are embracing automation, and are putting contingency plans in place for this, the growing job market in North American manufacturing presents an ideal opportunity to see both humans and automated machines work together, to boost efficiency and profits to new, never-before-seen levels.