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What is Industrial Automation and Why Is It Important?
Definition of Industrial Automation
Industrial automation is the automation of processes with the help of machines, control systems and software by minimizing human intervention in production processes. These systems enable the production line to run faster, more efficiently and with fewer errors in factories. The main purpose of automation is to optimize the workforce, improve product quality and reduce production costs.
Today, industrial automation is widely used not only in large production facilities; but also in small and medium-sized enterprises. Technologies such as PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), SCADA, sensors, robotic arms and machine learning constitute the basic components of these systems. These systems monitor the production process continuously, make interventions when necessary and optimize the entire process.
History and Evolution of Industrial Automation
Fundamentals of industrial automation 18. it was laid down with the Industrial Revolution in the century. The use of mechanical production systems at that time enabled the production processes to be accelerated by machines. 20. in the middle of the century, the concept of automation reached a completely different dimension with the integration of electronic systems and computers into production.
since the 1980s, digital automation systems have become widespread and PLCs have become centralized in production facilities. In the 2000s, the Industry 4.0 process started with concepts such as sensor technologies, wireless communication and data analytics. Today, advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and IoT (Internet of things) are shaping the future of automation.
Basic Components of Automation Systems
Industrial automation systems are formed by the combination of many components Decoupled. At the beginning of these is the PLC (Programmable Logical Controller). The PLC decides how the system will work by processing the data from the field and automates the processes. Sensors, on the other hand, send information to the PLC by measuring parameters such as temperature, pressure, speed, position.
Another important component is the SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system. The SCADA software offers the possibility to remotely monitor and control the production line. Operators can see what stage the production is at through this system and intervene if necessary. In addition, industrial robots, motor drives, actuators and HMI (Human Machine Interface) displays are also important parts of automation.
Advantages of Industrial Automation
One of the biggest advantages of industrial automation is productivity increase. Automated systems can work 24/7, which significantly increases the production capacity. Since human error is reduced to a minimum, less waste is given, product quality increases. In addition, planning becomes easier thanks to the more consistent and predictable production processes.
Another advantage is the reduction of costs. High investment may be required for automation systems at the beginning, but in the long term, labor costs will decrease, faulty production will be reduced and energy efficiency will be achieved. In addition, since the maintenance processes can be planned digitally, unexpected failures are prevented. This also provides a great saving to businesses.
In Which Sectors Is It Used?
Industrial automation has found its place in almost every sector. Automotive, food, textile, pharmaceutical, packaging, energy, chemical and electronics sectors are the first of them. While robot arms are used in assembly lines in the automotive sector, temperature and hygiene control in the food sector are provided by automatic systems.
In the pharmaceutical sector, dosing and filling processes are carried out with automation systems because they are extremely sensitive. In the energy sector, the management of power plants and the supervision of electricity distribution lines are carried out with automation systems. In addition, it is observed that automation is becoming widespread in warehouse and logistics operations.
Industry 4.0 and the Future of Automation
Industry 4.0, i.e. the fourth industrial revolution, refers to a process in which automation technologies are carried further. In this process, machines communicate with each other, analyze data and become able to make decisions. Thanks to this, production processes become more flexible, faster and smarter.
In the future, real-time analyses will be able to be performed on production lines with artificial intelligence-supported automation systems, and the systems will be able to optimize themselves automatically. This will not only increase production efficiency; it will also make it possible to manage the entire supply chain digitally.
Disadvantages of Automation and the Difficulties Encountered
As with any technology, industrial automation has some disadvantages. The initial investment cost may be high and the installation process of the system may take time. In addition, the system can be difficult to manage for companies with a lack of technological knowledge. For this reason, staff training and technical support are of great importance.
In addition, excessive dependence on automation can bring production to a complete standstill in the event of a system failure. Oct. In order to prevent such situations, backup systems, periodic maintenance and remote monitoring solutions should be put into operation. In addition, strong data protection systems should be established against cyber security threats.
The Development of Industrial Automation in Turkey
Turkey has taken important steps in the field of industrial automation in the process of industrialization. Especially manufacturers operating in organized industrial zones are increasing their quality and increasing their competitiveness in international Sundays by investing in automation systems. Thanks to state-supported R&D projects and technopark studies, domestic automation solutions are also developing Decently.
In addition, the fact that domestic manufacturers keep pace with digital transformation with automation systems accelerates Turkey's integration into the Industry 4.0 process. The fact that educational institutions have opened departments for automation technologies in engineering and vocational high schools also contributes to the strengthening of human resources in this area.
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