Industrial and manufacturing operations in the UAE are changing quickly. Many of the manufacturers in the UAE are no longer able to compete due to rising costs of operations, labour shortages, energy efficiency requirements, and a desire to have products that maintain a consistent level of quality. Manufacturers find that manual processes and separate pieces of equipment cannot compete with automated systems anymore. Therefore, industrial automation companies in the UAE are very important in this situation. By introducing Intelligent Automation Systems to the Manufacturing sector, these Companies help manufacturers to improve their productivity, reduce Errors, make their operations safer, and provide manufacturers with real-time control of their manufacturing operations.
This guide will provide you with information about industrial automation and why so many manufactures are adopting it. The guide will also provide you with information regarding how automation systems operate and how to find a good partner for automation in your facility.
What Is Industrial Automation?
Industrial automation is a method of controlling, monitoring, optimizing, and operating an industrial process using control systems, software, and smart devices with very little human interaction. The three main components of an industrial automation system are:
- Control systems, such as PLCs and control panels
- Monitoring systems, such as SCADA and HMIs
- Communication networks (industrial networks and communication systems)
- Centralized monitoring and analytics systems.
When these components are combined, they form a cohesive industrial environment where data can be analyzed in real-time to help make informed decisions.
Why Manufacturers in the UAE Are Adopting Industrial Automation
1. Increased Efficiency of Operations
Automation improves speed of production, downtime reductions and output product consistency between shifts or production lines.
2. Decreased Errors from Personnel
Automated systems operate using pre-defined logic and specified parameters; therefore, personnel error based on manual processes and fatigue will decrease through automation.
3. Optimized Energy Resource Management
Automation allows manufacturers to track energy consumed, production efficiency and materials consumed, which help with managing costs as well as achieving corporate sustainability goals.
4. Improved Safety of Workplace
Manufacturers that automate the performance of tasks that are hazardous or repetitive reduce the exposure of personnel to the dangers of accidents/injuries in the workplace; therefore, workers will be safer when dealing with tasks related to their employment.
5. Monitoring and Control in Real Time
Modern automation provides real-time production performance, status of equipment, and alarms; therefore, the response time to any/all production problems will be enhanced by timely information from automated systems.
Traditional Manufacturing vs Automated Manufacturing
| Aspect | Traditional Manufacturing | Industrial Automation |
| Process Control | Manual | Automated & logic-driven |
| Production Speed | Limited | High and consistent |
| Error Rate | Higher | Significantly reduced |
| Energy Monitoring | Minimal | Real-time tracking |
| Scalability | Difficult | Easily scalable |
| Data Availability | Limited | Centralized & actionable |
How Industrial Automation Systems Work
Industrial automation systems are composed of a structured data/control flow.
Step 1: Collection of Data
Data is collected in real time about machines, production lines, motors, and utilities using sensors.
Step 2: Control Logic
Using the data collected from above, PLC’s/control devices process the data received through the use of predetermined logic and operational parameters.
Step 3: Monitor / Visualize
System status, performance metrics, and alarms are shown on dashboards through the SCADA/HMI platform.
Step 4: Alerts / Reporting
When an anomaly is detected, the system provides alerts and logs the data for analysis and compliance reporting.
Step 5: Optimization
Advanced systems analyze historical data to improve efficiency levels, reduce downtime, and provide optimization for operations.
Where Industrial Automation Is Used in the UAE
Industrial automation is used in many different types of organizations, such as
- Manufacturing
- Oil and Gas
- Food and beverage
- Pharmaceutical/healthcare
- Logistics and warehousing
- The utility (energy) sector and the infrastructure sector.
How to Choose the Right Industrial Automation Company in UAE
The selection of the right Automation Partner will have a direct impact on long-term performance and ROI. The following are important to consider when evaluating an Automation Supplier:
1. The Supplier’s Industry Experience
It is vital that your Automation Supplier has proven success and experience within the Industrial Sector in which your company operates.
2. System Integration Capability
Your Automation Supplier should be able to readily integrate their equipment with your existing OEM/Manufacturer’s Machinery, Building and Management Systems (BMS), Enterprise Management Systems (EMS) and Monitoring Systems.
3. Scalability
The Proposed Solutions will need to provide for future growth through; additional Production Lines and Advanced Analytics.
4. Local Compliance and Support
It is important that your Automation Supplier understands the Regulations and Safety Standards specific to the UAE, and has local Technical Support available.
5. Long-Term Service and Maintenance
Sustained Operations require ongoing support from your Automation Supplier, and the ability to easily upgrade and optimize your present Systems.
Best Practices for Implementing Industrial Automation
✔ Start with a process assessment: Detailed
✔Automate the repetitive and highest impact tasks first
✔Train staff on operation and safety of systems
✔ Review & monitor performance metrics – regularly
✔ Use data insights for continual improvement
The true value of automation comes when the systems are proactively monitored and optimized – not just installed.
Industrial Automation Solutions by AIA
One of the most reputable industrial automation companies in UAE, AIA provides a complete solution (end-to-end) to manufacturers. AIA’s industrial automation solutions include:
- Industrial control systems – & PLC’s.
- SCADA & HMI implementations.
- Energy & Process Optimization.
- Integration with BMS/EMS & Monitoring Platforms.
- Ongoing support, maintenance & upgrades.
The above solutions provide manufacturers with increased efficiencies, enhanced safety & long-term operational excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What do industrial automation companies in the UAE provide?
Industrial automation companies offer design, installation, and support services for automation systems that automate, optimize, and integrate industrial and manufacturing processes.
2. Is industrial automation suitable for small manufacturing units?
Yes, automation systems can be scaled to meet the needs of any size manufacturing facility.
3. Can industrial automation reduce production costs?
Yes, the use of automated systems can create efficiencies, eliminate errors and provide better utilization of resources – ultimately reducing operational costs.
4. How long does it take to implement an automation system?
Implementation times will vary based on the size and complexity of the project. Implementation may take anywhere from several weeks to many months.
5. Does industrial automation help with energy management?
Yes, some automation systems provide real-time monitoring of energy usage and can connect with energy management solutions.
6. Are industrial automation systems safe to operate?
Modern systems have been developed to include many safety measures and comply with industry related safety regulations.
7. Can automation integrate with existing machinery?
Most Industrial automation solutions are designed to be integrated with older equipment and newer equipment.
8. Who should manage automated systems after installation?
Typically, a qualified internal team within your facility or the factory automation provider’s support team is responsible for managing and maintaining the system.
9. Do industrial automation companies in the UAE provide ongoing support?
Yes, most industrial automation providers offer continued maintenance, upgrades and long term technical support.
10. How do I choose the best industrial automation company in the UAE?
When selecting an industrial automation firm, any one of the following would be a positive indicator of their qualification: the experience level of the company; the ability of the company to integrate multiple systems; the amount of local customer support offered; the company’s knowledge of compliance; and the provider’s long term service commitment.
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