Signs Your Robot Needs Repair

Production lines rely on industrial robots to keep manufacturing on track and running smoothly. A breakdown or malfunction can put a wrench in production, and cause downtime and a loss of profits. 

Knowing the signs that your robot needs repair can keep things running smoothly and downtime at a minimum.  

Read on to learn what signs to look for that might indicate your robot needs repair.  

WASTING TIME AND ENERGY 

Industrial robots are designed to make a production line more efficient, so if you notice that it might not be performing up to standard, this is a clear indicator that repair or maintenance may be needed. Watch for the robot’s movements and if there seems to be a delay, or if there are unnecessary gestures or motions, diagnosing issues and repairs should be on the docket. 

NRTC Automation runs robots through at least 50 cycles so that we can observe movements, motions, and its ability to repeat each function. Observing this way allows for surface-level errors to be easily spotted, and we can create a checklist to problem shoot based on what errors arise.  

INSPECT THE TEACH PENDANT  

Teach pendants can offer one of the most straightforward indicators of an issue. A teach pendant, or teach box, is the control box for a robot’s programming. They are used to teach a robot the step-by-step processes that it will be required to perform and is usually handheld. Think of it as an educational gaming system.  

If you think there might be an issue with your robot, consult the teach pendant and programming as one of the first steps in troubleshooting. There is valuable information in the system, and if there are any programming errors, they should show up on the pendant’s screen.  

CHECK THE CHARGE 

An easy checklist item when troubleshooting robot issues should be checking the batteries. Something as simple as a low or depleted battery can cause a variety of issues.  

Keeping a robot’s batteries updated should be a part of routine maintenance, and logging install and replacement dates a part of normal documentation.  

OVERHEATING 

Robots and machinery, when running, produce heat, and there are standard temperatures to look for in motors and elements, such as the servo motor. If these are overheating, that can be a sure sign that your robot needs repairs.  

ADDITIONAL TROUBLESHOOTING 

Additional signs of repair to look for include the inability to upgrade properly, a lower than usual number of completed cycles, or connection errors. And when it comes down to it, no one knows your robots better than the people that work on them every day. If you or your employees think there might be a problem, it’s worth looking into it.  

Prevention is Key  

Routine maintenance, planning, and installing timely updates are all key to keeping a robot working at peak performance. NRTC Automation offers not only training but industrial robot refurbishing.  

Reconditioning and refurbishing ensure your robot stays running smoothly and efficiently. Additionally, investing in maintenance and refurbishment is cheaper than replacing it with brand new equipment.  

NRTC Automation robotic training programs work with your team to personalize hands-on training based on your needs and requirements. The end result is an empowered team with the confidence and skills to diagnose and repair robots in-house.  

3 Ways to Improve Efficiency in your Production Line

Production lines are installed in industrial manufacturing to increase production and efficiency. But what happens when those lines begin to slow, waste money, energy and ultimately affect a company’s bottom line?  

It’s important to be aware of signs a production line is being inefficient, and how to improve performance.

Read on to learn more about ways to improve efficiency in your own production line.  

RECONDITION YOUR EQUIPMENT  

Production lines rely on manufacturing equipment and industrial robots to be in prime condition in order to keep processes as efficient as possible. Over time, even new machines purchased will begin to show wear and tear, and it’s important to know the signs to spot when it’s time to give your equipment new life.  

Routine maintenance is key to staying on top of repairs or cleaning that might need to happen in order to keep your industrial robot or machine running like new. Finding a balance between regular updates and downtime is important when evaluating the maintenance schedule. If more repairs and upkeep are required over time, it may be an opportunity for reconditioning your equipment. Reconditioning extends the life of machinery and can involve something as simple as a deep clean, removing dust, grease, and other items, or replacing old parts.  

NRTC Automation offers two levels of reconditioning services, which are tailored to your individual requirements, as well as offering industrial robot painting services and repairs.  

EMPLOYEE TRAINING  

Although manufacturing automation depends largely on robotics and machinery, the employees of a business, especially a production facility, are just as, if not more, important than the production line itself.  

Employees need to stay engaged and informed, with regular meetings and cross-training. A regular meeting schedule with staff can not only keep employees abreast of any future changes or updates, but also keeps a line of communication open for employees to express problems on the floor or with current machinery or industrial robots. 

Additional training, such as cross-training, allows for a wider net of safety and information to be cast over a production facility. If an employee can understand the entire production process, they are then able to assist others in different roles if needed or to fill production gaps. 

NRTC provides robotic training services for industrial manufacturers and production facilities, allowing for employees to keep up-to-date on new information, technology, and processes. 

UPGRADING SYSTEMS  

If an industrial robot is passed the point of being able to be reconditioned, it is worth it to look into replacing the machinery. Often times, replacing a system can be more cost-effective in the long run than continually repairing and reconditioning it.  

Purchasing a newer, but still used, high-quality machine or robot is a price-saving practice that can still upgrade production without breaking a budget. Our sister company iGAM has multiple options for high-end used industrial machines and robots.  

Additionally, implementing lean manufacturing processes that create less waste can improve production efficiency, save costs, and of course, positively impact the environment. NRTC Automation specialized in designing, engineering and building custom, turnkey robotic work cells that can increase productivity and efficiency in your production line.  

NRTC CAN HELP

NRTC Automation helps manufacturers of all sizes with automation, training, and robotic solutions to fit every need and keep production efficient. We offer custom turnkey weld cells, engineering contract services, and more. To learn additional information, or to contact our team, visit us here.  

History of NRTC Automation

After a decade of growth and opportunity, NRTC Automation has established itself as the choice partner for comprehensive industrial automation and manufacturing solutions. 

Learning about the history of a company is a great way to understand their mission and expertise. 

At NRTC Automation, we have a multi-faceted history of growth and development that led us to become the full-service automation solutions company that we are today. 

Learn more about NRTC’s history and how we can help you meet your production goals below. 

History of NRTC Automation 

THE VERY BEGINNING 

NRTC Automation (and our sister company, iGAM) falls under the parent company NRTC Alabama. 

Over a decade ago in Tilbury, Ontario, NRTC Alabama was founded under the name New Rubber Technologies by Mike Vagi. 

Mike, our current President of Sales and co-founder of iGAM, is a highly driven and successful entrepreneur. He has over 20 years of experience starting and growing companies from the conceptual stage to fully operational organizations with over 100 employees. 

New Rubber Technologies was a rubber reclamation business. The company would collect rubber from tire yards and other demolition sites and, using a rubber grinding machine, vulcanize the rubber into a usable product. 

Not too long after New Rubber Technologies started up, Mike discovered that to get to the next level in his business, he needed an industrial robot. He decided to join an auction and found six robots available at a good price.  

Even though he only needed one robot to complete the job, Mike purchased all six robots, unsure of what he was going to do with them at first. Mike decided to call one of his contacts and struck a deal with him to sell five robots for a great price. 

MAKING GROUND IN THE WORLD OF AUTOMATION 

This deal marked a major shift in our business, from only doing rubber recycling to also participating in robot auctions.  

In 2011, Mike bid on over 100 decommissioned Kawasaki robots against another company. He won the bid and sold some of the robots to the company where Dan Hill used to work. Mike and Dan met for the first time and helped the company build its presence through automation. 

The excitement of helping another company grow through automation gave Mike the idea to build our own inventory of automation equipment to provide our customers with a better deal. Around 2014, New Robot Technologies shifted into NRT Equipment Sales to provide manufacturers with affordable automation equipment. 

A major turning point for our company was when we sold our first single, double, and triple spot weld cells in 2015, and started receiving more orders from other businesses such as prototyping companies.  

Finally in 2018, we broke through as a reputable industrial automation company. We were hired to design, build, and engineer nine automated cells in only 10 weeks. While this was a challenging opportunity, Mike and the team took it on with eager determination, providing quality automation cells to a company looking to move to the next level of growth. 

NEW GROWTH 

After the work cell project, NRT Equipment Sales received another opportunity to help a large customer decommission their current facility and build a new facility with an entire paint line from scratch. While doing the e-coat work and implementing the line into the facility, Mike and Dan started discussing service parts manufacturing in Alabama.  

Dan joined the company and moved to Alabama in April of 2019 to start working on the new facility for NRT’s next adventure in the United States. We started out with a 50,000 square foot facility and shipped a hood, the first service part we produced as a company, on August 5th, 2019. 

Around the same time, iGAM, the online marketplace for industrial robots and manufacturing equipment, was founded alongside our newly established name, NRTC Automation. 

WHERE WE ARE TODAY 

NRTC Automation and iGAM have come a long way since the summer of 2019.  

We’ve established locations in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Canada, and Michigan, and our team has grown to nearly one hundred employees since Dan started. 

Now, on top of Decommissioning and Tear Outs, Automation Services, and Service Parts Manufacturing, NRTC Automation also offers services so manufacturers receive help every step of the way through the automation journey: 

• Industrial Robot Refurbishing 

• Prototyping 

• Robotic Engineering 

• Robotic Training 

• Industrial Tool and Fixture Storage 

The best part about NRTC Automation’s growth is that we provide a solution for every industrial automation and manufacturing need. We work with our customers to help them meet their production goals from start to finish, which helps us grow in the process. 

Plus, our employees benefit from working with us, too. They get a complete picture of the automation process and gain meaningful experience in how to help manufacturers grow their companies with automation, training, troubleshooting, and more. 

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION 

All around, NRTC Automation is the best place to go for manufacturers of any size and phase looking to optimize production, minimize downtime, and build their revenue. We have a consistent track record of high-quality performance, as shown by our partnerships with top automotive manufacturers like Toyota, BMW, and Mercedes, as well as small- to mid-sized manufacturers. 

With a wide range of automation services and capabilities, NRTC Automation can help. Our team of experienced and qualified professionals will support you in your journey to growth. 

Schedule a free consultation with NRTC today to see what it’s like working on your production needs with us. 

NRTC AUTOMATION IS YOUR PREFERRED PARTNER 

NRTC Automation is dedicated to providing high value industrial automation and manufacturing equipment solutions to all its customers.  

From decommissioning and tear out to industrial robotic training services to custom flexible work cells, NRTC is the key to integrating into your workplace. With personalized training and custom-built designs, NRTC Automation is the destination for all your industrial automation and manufacturing equipment services. 

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you meet your production goals. 

Level Up: How do NRTC's Tiers of Robot Refurbishment Differ?

Refurbished robots undergo meticulous repair processes, rebuilding, and cleaning, readying them to continue automating operations.

NRTC's industrial robots form an important part of the manufacturing sector and a wide range of other industries. Adding them to the production line can prove worthwhile as they introduce many benefits.

One of the crucial benefits of purchasing an industrial robot is enhanced efficiency. Since they are designed for a specific process, they can finish tasks faster and better than humans. As they improve on efficiency, the robots also handle tasks that appear dangerous for humans. That helps improve employees' working conditions and safety.

While considering the many benefits that robots offer, the cost factor tends to limit most people from incorporating the robots into their operations. Refurbishing your robots allows you to save money as you get the same productivity level as a new one. Keep reading to learn more.

NRTC Robot refurbishment tiers explained

When it comes to robot refurbishment, it can be done using two different tiers – Silver or Gold. NRTC uses these two tiers, each of which has a differing implication.

1.  Silver Tier

Silver Tier is the standard refurbishment approach where the robot is fully inspected and taken through basic testing. We conduct different types of tests depending on the robot type and model. Generally, we can have performance testing.

NRTC’s Refurbishment Service in action

The goal behind performance testing is to determine how the robot performs in terms of stability and responsiveness under a given workload. Such a test helps us get important information about the robot's speed, reliability, robustness, and application size.

After completing all the basic tests defined under this tier, we will breathe new life into the robot by cleaning it, replacing broken parts, and conducting additional tests to ensure it performs as per the manufacturer's metrics.

Cleaning and disinfection is an important task performed under this tier of industrial robot refurbishing. Any broken parts inhibiting reliability are also promptly replaced to make it functional.

2.     Gold Tier

Gold Tier is the high-end option of our two robot refurbishing tiers. It offers a complete refurbishment to like-new conditions and adds to whatever is done under the Silver Tier.

The option works best for those who would like their robot to be stripped down to its core elements and restored to its default factory conditions.

The robot would be taken apart, bit by bit, and each component keenly examined in terms of how it syncs up with the rest of the system. After the enhancements are done and your robot is put together, tested, and proven to be working under its factory conditions, it is further given a paint job. Painting your robot gives it a newer look compared to cleaning.

Should you choose Silver Tier or Gold Tier?

Choosing either Silver Tier or Gold Tier should be considered based on your needs, such as the current condition of your robot, how long you are willing to wait, and the cost factor.

Your robot can undergo standard refurbishment if it maintains optimal performance, has not presented potential safety risks, and has one or two parts that need replacement. Choose this option to put it back into production within the shortest time possible and have a minimal budget for the refurbishment job.

A robot with deteriorating performance is a good candidate for the Gold Tier. At this point, your cost comparison is between the price of a new robot and the cost of refurbishing the one you currently have. Typically, refurbishment is a more cost-effective option than buying a new robot.

Why choose NRTC for robot refurbishment?

NRTC is your trusted and reliable refurbishing partner for the robot. Here is why:

1.     We maintain the highest quality standards

At NRTC, we understand the importance of an industrial robot in your business operations. Thus, we ensure that any refurbishment done on it maintains the highest standards possible. Industrial maintenance is done at a high-performance level and in a clean environment. Any robot that we maintain includes a functionality demonstration inspection report, and you will have access to customer support.

2.     We guide you through a thorough robot system testing

Don’t just take our word for it after the refurbishment. Apart from the test that we do on our end, we can guide you through any tests that need to be done from a user's perspective. Our technicians can help test-run the refurbished robot to ascertain existing issues have been addressed.

3.     Our pricing is transparent

We know that you opted to refurbish the robot and not buy a new one because it helps you to save money as it enhances performance. We won’t make you dig deeper into your pockets with other hidden charges. Honesty and transparency are part of what dozens of top automotive partners love about our services, and we promise to offer the same to you.

NRTC IS YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER FOR ROBOT REFURBISHMENT

At NRTC, we believe in offering top-quality robot refurbishment service. We provide the Silver Tier and Gold Tier to cater to different needs. Whether you want standard refurbishment or a complete strip-down of your robot, we will do it for you. When done, the robot undergoes an inspection and thorough testing before shipping.

How to Manage Obsolescence in Manufacturing in 2021

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” — Benjamin Franklin 

Manufacturers must be prepared for worst-case scenarios to continue production seamlessly. 

Obsolescence is one of those scenarios that could cause extensive downtime, leading to serious profit loss. Especially in today’s world, affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, lacking foresight can have disastrous consequences. 

By managing and preparing for obsolescence under any circumstances, manufacturers can operate their facilities with confidence. 

Learn more about obsolescence and preparation tips below. 

Obsolescence in manufacturing 

What is obsolescence? 

Obsolescence is when something no longer works or is no longer useful. In manufacturing, obsolescence in parts, services, and resources occur when they are no longer provided by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) either because they offer and support new equipment and services or because the OEM went out of business. 

There are several types of obsolescence: 

• Technological obsolescence: when parts or equipment become obsolete due to changes in technology 

• Functional obsolescence: when the manufacturer’s needs have changed and the equipment becomes obsolete 

• Legal obsolescence: when laws or other orders prohibit the use of parts or equipment 

• Style/Aesthetic obsolescence: when the style of parts or equipment is thought to be outdated and becomes obsolete 

• Economic obsolescence: when parts or equipment become obsolete because there is a more cost-effective alternative 

Technology, government regulations, and planned obsolescence are the three greatest contributors to obsolescence in manufacturing. 

How obsolescence can affect your facility 

When manufacturers are still using parts, services, or resources that are obsolete, the costs for maintenance, repairs, and replacements can skyrocket.  

Plus, the downtime that is needed to find a technician or a replacement part can be detrimental. Downtime can cost upwards of $5,600 per minute, a huge loss that cannot be recouped. 

That’s why planning around obsolescence and preparing for potential changes in production is necessary for manufacturers to get ahead of the curve. 

Tips to manage obsolescence in manufacturing 

If you want to save on downtime and other unnecessary costs due to obsolescence, then try these tips in your manufacturing facility. 

1. CREATE A DIVERSE STRATEGY. 

Because different parts and equipment have different needs in terms of maintenance, repair, and predicated end-of-life, you need to create a diverse strategy to manage obsolescence. 

Base your strategy on the above factors, as well as operating environments and production demands, to effectively prepare for parts and equipment obsolescence. 

Ideally, you should have a team that tracks the condition of each piece of equipment and determines the next step so nothing slips under the radar during busy seasons of production. 

2. KEEP PARTS AND EQUIPMENT MANUALS AND INFORMATION IN ONE ORGANIZED SPACE. 

All information related to parts and equipment should be centralized in a safe location where they can be referenced at any time. 

Manuals and spreadsheets tracking the condition of parts and equipment are crucial to knowing when obsolescence is nearby. Staying organized means staying ahead of potential downtime. 

3. CREATE A RELATIONSHIP WITH A RELIABLE DISTRIBUTOR. 

Having a middleman who can help you source dated parts and equipment is necessary, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. 

With access to alternative supply chains, your distributor can prevent extensive downtime due to a malfunctioning or broken part. 

Our sister company, iGAM, offers a wide-ranging marketplace of used industrial robots and manufacturing equipment at affordable prices. If you are in need of parts and equipment, check out their inventory on the iGAM website. 

4. KNOW WHERE YOU WILL GET REPAIRS IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY. 

If equipment breaks down during production and you have to halt all operations, you’ll want a repair technician on-site immediately. 

Whether you have internal technicians who take care of your repairs, or if you outsource repairs to a company that provides year-round services, know where you are getting repair services from. 

NRTC Automation offers industrial equipment repair with a quick turn-around to minimize downtime and get your production line back up and running. Learn more about our Engineering Services here. 

5. CONTINUALLY REVIEW YOUR PLANS TO STAY UP-TO-DATE. 

Managing obsolescence is an endless process. Set up monthly, bi-annual, and annual reviews of your obsolescence strategy. A mindset of preparation will save money on downtime, repairs, and new equipment expenses. 

Stay ahead of obsolescence 

With our tips above, you can manage obsolescence, even in a pandemic. Remain competitive and protect your company’s bottom line from operation shutdowns by maintaining an obsolescence strategy. 

GET INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION SERVICES FROM NRTC AUTOMATION. 

At NRTC Automation, we know robots and we know automation. We provide a customized solution for your manufacturing and industrial assets.  

Our focus is on minimizing disruption and downtime in the work area while emphasizing safety, speed, and efficiency. We'll help ensure full adoption of automation solutions and seamless integration into your workplace.  

NRTC was founded over a decade ago in Tilbury, Ontario with the goal of delivering high-value industrial automation and manufacturing equipment solutions to all its customers. Trust NRTC Automation to help with your next industrial automation project. 

Schedule a free consultation with us to learn more about how automation can boost efficiency, minimize downtime, and initiate growth. 

5 Reasons Your Production Line Is Inefficient

Production inefficiency can break an otherwise successful company by accumulating waste and expenses. 

Manufacturers of all industries, sizes, and phases can benefit from productivity analysis. This is especially true within production lines, where waste in the form of energy, materials, and money can negatively affect a company’s revenue. 

Understanding production inefficiency, and how to reach peak production efficiency, will help manufacturers to remain competitive in their fields. 

Learn more about how to fix production inefficiency in your manufacturing business below. 

How to fix production inefficiency 

What is production inefficiency? 

To explain production inefficiency, let’s start with production efficiency. 

Peak production efficiency, or productive efficiency, is when a company is producing the maximum amount of one good without wasting resources or lowering the production level of another good.  

Production inefficiency is when resources are wasted, or when production levels are lower than their potential. 

Production efficiency looks different for every company. However, each company can use similar guidelines to improve their production processes. 

Causes of inefficient production lines 

Determining the cause of production inefficiencies can be a complex job depending on the size and intricacy of the company’s manufacturing processes. 

Examine your factory for these common causes of inefficient production lines and see where you can make changes for more productive operations. 

1. MACHINE QUALITY AND PERFORMANCE 

Industrial robots and manufacturing equipment need to be in prime condition to work as efficiently as possible. 

Keeping a strict maintenance schedule is the easiest way to maintain machine quality and performance. If you notice that your equipment is beginning to slow down or use more energy than necessary, then consider sending it in for reconditioning. Reconditioning your equipment will extend its life by replacing old parts and cleaning out grease, dust, and other particles.  

You can also replace equipment if it is more cost-effective than reconditioning and repairing it. Consider buying quality-tested used industrial robots and equipment with reconditioning treatment for the biggest bang for your buck. 

2. EMPLOYEE KNOWLEDGE AND PERFORMANCE 

Your employees can make a huge difference in the productivity levels of your business. 

Educated employees who feel connected to their jobs and feel like a necessary part of the business are more likely to feel motivated to perform at their best and improve their work environment. 

We have a blog post on how to build a strong production team and why it matters for the health of your company. You can read that here. 

If you want to educate your staff in robotics for more capable and independent employees, take a look at NRTC Automation’s Robotic Training Services. We can personalize a plan for your company’s needs and give your employees the confidence to solve technical issues on their own. 

We also offer Robotic Engineering Services for companies who need to hire qualified and experienced technicians. Visit our website for more information. 

3. PRODUCT QUALITY 

Poor product quality can make your production line inefficient. Using low-quality raw materials will not only create more waste, but they can create products that do not meet product standards that must be thrown away.  

Even worse, low-quality end products can lead to customer dissatisfaction, which can destroy your company’s reputation. 

Optimize product design with prototyping and use high-quality materials for the best end product. Doing so will lessen the chance of material waste and potential customer loss. An inexpensive way to prototype is with a 3D printer that can quickly produce parts and prototypes without waste. The upfront investment is well worth the cost-savings in product waste and customer retention. 

4. SCHEDULE GAPS 

Latent schedule gaps in your production process can cause production inefficiency when machines have the potential to work. Planned downtime has its benefits, such as reducing hourly usage and maintenance, but downtime in general can be costly for manufacturers. 

Downtime can cost up to $5,600 per minute. If you have production schedule gaps that can otherwise be utilized, make the necessary changes to save on major downtime costs and improve production efficiency. 

5. LACK OF SUSTAINABLE PROCESSES 

Finally, an unsustainable factory creates waste in every part of the production process. Using sustainable manufacturing methods not only benefits the environment, but it will also improve your production efficiency and result in significant cost savings over time. 

To get involved in sustainability, learn more about lean manufacturing practices such as kaizen or 5S. These methods can help you reduce waste and create a faster, more productive manufacturing line. 

NRTC Automation can help you create a more sustainable production process by designing, building, and engineering a custom robotic work cell with refurbished industrial equipment. A robotic work cell will improve production efficiency and result in long-term cost savings by providing your company with flexible production. 

Get competitive by improving production efficiency 

Staying diligent with productivity analysis will help your company continue to grow by preserving revenue and resources. Check your factory for the causes of production inefficiency listed above to improve your business. 

WORK WITH NRTC AUTOMATION TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS. 

NRTC Automation is a trusted partner providing comprehensive industrial automation and manufacturing services. After delivering our services to top automobile manufacturers across the world for more than a decade, NRTC Automation is the destination for tear out services and robotic solutions. 

We offer financing and free consultations to help manufacturers of all sizes and phases to grow their businesses. Visit us today to learn more at www.nrtcautomation.com. 

3 Ways to Reduce Downtime in Your Production Line

Downtime is the menace of manufacturing, but with preparation, manufacturers can save money and keep loyal customers. 

Everyone loves downtime—relaxing on the beach, reading a good book, or taking a nap are all ways to rest the body and mind after a long day. 

Everyone, that is, except for manufacturers. Downtime means halted production and massive cuts in profit in the world on manufacturing. 

While downtime is a constant, it doesn’t have to consume your production line. NRTC Automation has three tips that will help reduce downtime in your manufacturing facility. 

Read more about the costs of downtime and how to prevent it below! 

Downtime in Manufacturing

Downtime is any time that a robot, computer, or piece of equipment are not available for use. Unplanned downtime occurs when operators do not intend to shut down equipment, such as for repairs, and can be particularly heinous on manufacturers’ wallets. 

In fact, unplanned downtime cost businesses on average $260,000 an hour in 2016! 

Naturally, manufacturers are on high alert for any downtime in their production line to prevent these mammoth losses. 

True Cost of Downtime 

What’s hidden in that large profit loss? Why does downtime cost manufacturers so much money? 

There are three big reasons why downtime dramatically cuts revenue: 

1. Lower production output 

2. Decreased employee productivity 

3. Loss of customers 

Lower production output means less product is being manufactured, so fewer sales are made. When the factory is running and employees are on the clock, this leads to a net loss in revenue. 

Downtime also causes decreased employee productivity. When production is halted, employees are no longer focused on tasks and spend their time waiting for work to start again. Regaining focus to normal productivity levels takes time, causing a loss in profit. 

When customers are affected by downtime, they may decide to find business elsewhere. This is a huge loss for companies, especially when they lose lifetime customers. If unplanned downtime forces your customers to look for products or services elsewhere, then you can expect to see revenue cuts for years to come. 

Studies show that over 80% of companies have experienced unplanned downtime, and downtime can cost upwards of $260,000 an hour! Luckily, unplanned downtime can be reduced with intention and preparation. Learn how to prevent downtime here: https://t.co/oCMMLP8Yqv

— iGAM Marketplace (@igammarketplace) July 8, 2020

3 Ways to Reduce Downtime in Your Production Line 

Thankfully, there are ways to reduce unplanned downtime in your production line. Save money and keep your loyal customers by implementing these three tips into your manufacturing business. 

1. GET AN INDUSTRIAL COMPUTER WITH COMPUTERIZED MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE, OR CMMS. 

With CMMS, you can track all kinds of data that will protect your company from unplanned downtime. You’ll get alerts when equipment needs repair, keep an eye on production numbers, and see where energy is being wasted. 

Productivity and data-tracking software is your best friend in manufacturing. Use technology to your advantage. 

2. KEEP A MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE FOR YOUR EQUIPMENT. 

Equipment maintenance is easy when it is accounted for. When repairs come up suddenly without warning, taking a piece of equipment out of the production line can lead to lengthy downtime, especially if you don’t have robotic technicians on hand. 

Read your manufacturers’ manuals and keep a strict schedule for maintaining your equipment. Not only will it save you money by extending the life of your equipment, but it will also cut down on unplanned downtime. 

3. TRAIN EMPLOYEES IN HANDLING AND MAINTAINING EQUIPMENT. 

Your employees can be your biggest asset... if you let them. Train your employees to handle equipment carefully and educate them on the basics of equipment repair and maintenance in between trips to the technician. 

When employees are empowered to handle problems on their own, you don’t have to rely on outside help to fix malfunctioning production lines. 

Don’t let downtime get in your way. 

Downtime is a struggle for all manufacturers, but with preparation, you can limit its effects on your company. Reduce downtime by using productivity software, keeping a maintenance schedule, and training employees. 

Be smart about your manufacturing process, and you can prevent unplanned downtime and keep money in your pocket. 

VISIT NRTC AUTOMATION FOR ROBOTIC ENGINEERING SERVICES. 

If you have a technical problem, we can fix it! NRTC Automation’s team of reliable and professional technicians is ready to help troubleshoot and resolve any technical issue you encounter. We’ll work to minimize downtime and get your production line back up and running. 

Visit NRTC Automation today to learn more about our automation services. 

3 Tips to Replace Robot Grease

Replacing grease is a necessity for the health of your robot.  

Think of grease like water in a fish tank. It’s important to exchange the old water for new water to keep the tank fresh and maintain the health of the fish. If you don’t replace the old water, the water will get stale and the fish will suffer and eventually get sick. 

Keeping up with your robot’s maintenance will extend its life, saving you money by avoiding downtime and having to buy a new robot in its place. 

Learn our tips for greasing your robot below! 

What is the point of robot grease? 

Robot grease is the part of the robot that keeps everything running smoothly. The most important parts of the robot are covered in grease to protect them from damage.  

The benefits of grease in robots include: 

• Preventing rust and corrosion 

• Protecting joints from wear and tear from metal-to-metal contact 

• Resists contamination 

Grease benefits the operator, too! Benefits for the production line include: 

• Less unplanned downtime due to faulty errors 

• An extension on the life of the robot 

• An extension on routine maintenance checks 

Now you understand why grease is so important for robots and the benefits it has for your company! Know NRTC Automation’s tips for when you have to replace your robot’s grease. 

3 Tips for optimal robot grease replacement 

1. USE THE GREASE LISTED IN THE MANUFACTURER’S MANUAL. 

This is the number one tip for replacing your robot’s grease.  

Different robot brands use unique grease for their robots, and there are different greases used for specific joints. The grease that works for a KUKA robot will not work for a FANUC robot, so be sure to check the manual before you buy grease for your robot! 

2. KEEP A SCHEDULE. 

You should expect to replace your robot’s grease at least once a year or sooner depending on the robot’s hourly usage. Also, make sure you perform inspections on a monthly basis to check if the grease is running low or getting old. 

The rule of thumb is to change out grease after 500 to 700 working hours, so divide that by the number of hours your robot works on a daily basis and schedule it on your calendar so you don’t forget. 

3. RUN THE ROBOT THROUGH A FEW CYCLES. 

You can run the robot through a few cycles and operate it to make different movements to determine which joints need to be greased. 

Plus, the motion of the robot will soften the grease and make it easier to remove. 

Robot grease is magic. 

The oily substance that goes into your robot’s joints and mechanisms protects it from all sorts of damage, extending its life and producing more for your manufacturing line. 

Take care of your robot by replacing the grease on a regular schedule and you will have a solid industrial robot on your production line for years to come. 

NEED HELP REPLACING YOUR ROBOT’S GREASE? 

Send your robot over to NRTC Automation’s expert robot technicians! 

NRTC Automation is dedicated to providing high-value industrial automation and manufacturing equipment solutions to all its customers. From decommissioning and tear out to industrial robotic training services to custom flexible work cells, NRTC is the key to integrate your workplace. With personalized training and custom-built designs, NRTC Automation is the destination for all your industrial automation and manufacturing equipment services. 

Contact NRTC Automation today for all your automation needs. 

How to Practice Safety in the Workplace

According to OSHA, 14 people die from work-related accidents every day. These accidents can be prevented by following safety measures in the workplace as set by OSHA. 

At NRTC Automation, we emphasize safety for our staff and for your company over everything else. We follow strict safety standards published by OSHA. 

What are the best practices to ensure safety in the workplace, especially in manufacturing? Read more to find out. 

Safety in the Workplace 

WEAR THE PROPER GEAR. 

Before you even step into the workplace, you should be wearing the proper safety gear according to OSHA’s hazard/risk categories. For some, this may mean a hard hat and steel-toed boots while others may wear a full hazmat suit. Survey your workplace and determine what category of risk it falls into to ensure that you are protected from accidents and/or chemicals. 

SET UP PERIMETERS AND SIGNS WHEN NECESSARY. 

It’s important to set up perimeters and signs around manufacturing equipment, especially while it is running. Signs will alert people that they are entering a dangerous area and must be alert. Perimeters will keep people out of areas that can cause them serious harm. 

KEEP THE WORKSPACE CLEAR OF CLUTTER AND DEBRIS. 

Tripping hazards may seem insignificant compared to large robots or deadly chemicals, but they pose a safety risk: slips, trips, and falls account for over 700 injuries a year. 

Keep the workplace clear of clutter by removing old, unused equipment and objects to storage. Clean up any spills and grime to prevent slippage.  

ADEQUATELY TRAIN EMPLOYEES. 

Employees should be fully trained to complete the job. A lack of education can cause devastating injuries or even fatalities. Protect employees and yourself by receiving thorough training so you know the risks of the job and what precautions to take. 

Training for injury prevention is also an excellent measure to take against accidents. By training employees on hazard awareness and potential accidents, you can empower them to protect themselves and each other from dangerous situations. 

Safety at NRTC Automation 

OUR SERVICES & PRODUCTS 

Whether you want to repair and recondition your robot or decommission your facility, NRTC Automation takes the initiative to put safety first. Our staff practices all safety measures required by OSHA. Because of our dedication to protect our employees, our services are reliable and accurate. Our products are tested to ensure total workability to preserve your equipment and protect your employees from product-related accidents. 

YOU CAN REST ASSURED THAT NRTC AUTOMATION HAS YOUR BEST INTERESTS IN MIND. 

Contact NRTC Automation today to learn more about our automation and manufacturing services to minimize disruption and downtime in the work area while emphasizing safety, speed, and efficiency. 

An Insider's Look at Repairing Robots at NRTC Automation

It’s a necessity to repair your industrial robots. They work continuously for hours every day, wearing down joints and parts with constant motion. Robot manufacturers recommend scheduling maintenance to repair your robots to extend their lives and give you a full return on your investment.  

If you are looking to repair your robots or manufacturing equipment, read more to learn about standard practices and NRTC Automation’s repair services. 

How often do robots need to be repaired? 

Robot companies have different guidelines for scheduling repair maintenance. KUKA Robotics recommends basic maintenance to be scheduled every 5,000 hours. ABB recommends maintenance first every 6,000 hours and then FANUC suggests scheduling maintenance at 3,850 hours of use or one calendar year, whichever comes first. 

Of course, sometimes repairs are required spontaneously if something is broken or faulty. In that case, you can replace a part before the scheduled maintenance. 

What is NRTC Automation’s repair process? 

NRTC Automation uses a three-tier service to repair industrial robots and manufacturing equipment. From basic testing and cleaning to a full repair to factory conditions, NRTC Automation offers repair to fit your budget. 

Our industrial robot refurbishing is split into Bronze Tier, Silver Tier, and Gold Tier. Each tier offers a different level of repair, so depending on the age and needs of your robot, you might need a light Bronze Tier repair, a more in-depth testing and cleaning in our Silver Tier, or a complete repair and reconditioning with our Gold Tier service. 

A look into our repair service: 

Each tier is built off the previous service. The initial repairs and inspections are made in the Bronze Tier, which is followed by a deep clean and comprehensive testing in the Silver Tier. Finally, the Gold Tier service contains both the previous tiers along with a complete restoration of parts and a new paint job. 

BRONZE TIER: EVALUATION 

Our Bronze Tier service is the first level of repair. We will evaluate your equipment for any faulty parts or programming. We will also clean it to remove any buildup of grease and residue. 

SILVER TIER: STANDARD REFURBISHMENT 

Our Silver Tier includes everything in the Bronze Tier as well as a deep-clean of the internal components. We use an ice blaster to remove grease and residue from the transformer and inside the cabinet of the robot. 

After the cleaning is complete, we perform more in-depth tests at all speeds and velocities. After 50-cycles, we determine if the robot is operating properly and test the temperature range of the servo motor. 

GOLD TIER: COMPLETE REFURBISHING 

The last tier includes both the Bronze Tier and Silver Tier services. Our Gold Tier repair service will bring your industrial robot back to factory conditions. We will strip all the parts and restore them after cleaning and testing. Once the robot is restored, we finish off the repair with a brand-new paint job. 

Consult your product guide for your next routine repair. 

Check your product guide to determine the best maintenance schedule for your KUKA, ABB, or FANUC robot. Scheduling repairs will save you time and money down the road by extending the life of your robot and sustaining your manufacturing line productivity. 

REPAIR YOUR ROBOTS WITH INDUSTRY LEADERS. 

NRTC Automation offers a comprehensive repair service for industrial robots and manufacturing equipment. With our three-tier service, you can get the repairs your robots need for a price you can afford. Contact us today to get a quote to repair your robots and return your production line to full capacity. 

NRTC Automation: Delivering Automation Services Worldwide

At NRTC Automation, we take pride in our specialized solutions for industrial automation and manufacturing equipment. With over a decade of experience, NRTC Automation has become a worldwide partner for companies spanning multiple industries, including the top automobile manufacturers. Our extensive services will provide your company with the solutions you need for your industrial and manufacturing company. To learn more about what we offer, read about our services below. 

Who We Are 

NRTC Automation was founded in Tilbury, Ontario. Our mission is to deliver a comprehensive package of industrial automation and manufacturing solutions for companies across the globe. As shown by our partnerships with manufacturers like BMW and Magna, our company can be trusted with your industrial automation and manufacturing equipment. 

What We Do 

Industrial Tear Out Services 

NRTC Automation offers thorough decommissioning services. If you need to remove outdated equipment or completely clear out your facility, NRTC Automation is the solution. We work with time-sensitive requirements and provide a project manager to give you details on your tear out progress. 

Auto Parts Manufacturing 

With years of experience, we can engineer, build, and ship manufactured parts to you according to your design specifications. We can create work cells that are specific to your company’s production needs, saving you space and manufacturing resources. 

Flexible Robotic Cells 

NRTC Automation’s custom-designed flexible work cells are made uniquely for every one of our customers. Our technicians will work with you to create a work cell that produces according to your specific manufacturing needs. Not only are our robotic work cells affordable, but they also offer maximum compatibility between components and increase production efficiency. 

Industrial Robot Refurbishing 

If you want to extend the life of your robot and return it to like-new conditions, then NRTC Automation’s industrial robot refurbishing service is for you. We offer three levels of reparation for you to choose from according to your needs.  

In the Bronze Tier service, we perform a detailed inspection and a basic testing process, and then you get to decide what level of reparation you want based on our in-depth report. 

Our Silver Tier service offers more comprehensive testing, internal cleaning, and replacing broken parts as necessary in addition to the Bronze Tier service.

Finally, our Gold Tier service includes both Bronze and Silver Tier services, as well as fully stripping and restoring robots to factory conditions, including a brand-new paint job. 

Industrial Tool & Fixture Storage 

If you have underutilized robots and equipment but lack the space to store them, our storage service may be the solution for you. Our warehouses in Alabama and Tilbury, Ontario are available to you to house your equipment in safe and neat conditions. Once you are ready to take your equipment back, we will ship it back to you promptly. 

Robotic Engineering Services 

NRTC Automation offers programming and troubleshooting support in our robotic engineering services. With trained technicians specialized in all major robot manufacturers, our engineering services can reduce downtime on your production floor and restore your robots to normal working conditions. 

Robotic Training Services 

Educate and empower your team with current industrial robotics knowledge. NRTC Automation’s robotic training services will provide a personalized training program based on your company’s needs. We offer basic programming classes to advanced troubleshooting to allow your team to solve technical issues independently, saving you time and money while strengthening your company’s internal systems. 

INTERESTED IN HOW WE CAN TAILOR OUR SERVICES TO YOU? 

NRTC Automation is the solution to your robotic and industrial automation needs. If you would like to learn more about our services, contact us today.