Designing Your Weld Cell - 3 Things You Need to Know

Robotic weld cells can help production lines increase productivity and efficiency, as well as keeping costs lower. While individual industrial robots can be great, weld cells are pre-engineered to run production according to a job specific need.  

In a constantly evolving competitive economy, adding elements like robotic weld cells keep companies on the cutting edge and able to focus on efficiency. And with many production cells cutting down on waste, there is not only higher profit, but an increasingly better relationship with the environment.  

There are important steps and processes to consider as you are designing a weld cell for a production line.

Continue reading to learn three things you need to know before designing your weld cell.  

MAKE A PLAN 

It seems like a simple and straightforward idea, but knowing exactly what your work cell needs to do is an important first step when designing. Asking questions like, “What will my work cell be producing?” is key to knowing exactly what parts to include in the cell, and how to program it.  

Each work cell that is in existence has not only specialized parts, but unique programming to both the task and machine. Being as specific as possible in this early stage helps streamline building and programming, and ensures less down time as you start to design.  

Part of making a plan should be developing an outline, including mapping out tasks before production and building begins. A solid outline will act as a framework for production, and make sure all steps of the automation process will be included.  

PICK YOUR PLAYERS  

Once a thorough plan is created with an outline, it’s time to select the industrial robots and parts for your weld cell. As you are searching for robots, there are a few important points that should be considered:  

• Robots' Reachability – This can determine the number of robots and spacing.  

• Payload Limitations – Consider what you are producing, and the weight and size limitations of the equipment you are selecting.  

• Precision Capabilities – Determining what you will be producing and the finer nuisances that might be needed can separate one robot choice from another.  

• End of Arm Tooling (EOAT) - Knowing what equipment you will need on the end of your robotic arm can help to narrow down purchasing options.  

• Cycle of Time – The speed of the robot is a good indicator for a production line’s efficiency and speed.  

In considering what robots to select, a positioner also needs to be chosen. The positioner is what will hold or contain your product that is being manufactured. It can be mobile or fixed, with factors such as adjustable height and weight capacity being taken into consideration when selecting an option.  

LAY IT ALL OUT  

Once you’ve developed an outline, and selected your production equipment, it’s time to create a layout. This is the most important aspect of design, as you are figuring out the placement of both robots and positioners to achieve maximum efficiency.  

Consider how your work cell will be laid out. Will it be in a linear fashion, or will it have turns, or changes in direction?  

As you lay it out, make sure to think about not only how it will fit into a manufacturing facility, but how staff and employees will be positioned in the workflow. Safety is always the most important factor, and protecting and making sure employees are comfortable should be a top priority.  

NRTC Automation Solutions  

NRTC specializes in custom turnkey weld cells for manufacturers of all sizes. From startups to top automotive OEMs, all of our work cells are refurbished, ensuring turnkey automation that is ready-to-work and affordable.  

For more information on our automation solutions, turnkey weld cells, and parts manufacturing, contact us or visit our website for more information.  

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.  

3 Steps to Developing a Successful Production Line

Manufacturers can create more efficient and effective production lines with a little planning. 

Since the late 1800s, manufacturing has seen massive improvements in production. With little tweaks and modern technologies, manufacturers have been able to grow without bounds. 

Today, staying relevant in the industry means manufacturers must plan for the success of their production lines. Competition is fierce in a global market, and staying on top of trends is necessary to rise above the rest. 

Thankfully, you don’t have to go about it alone. With NRTC Automation’s resources, you can build a production line that serves you and your customers with quality and speed. 

Learn our three steps to developing a successful production line below. 

A successful production line is key to a successful business 

Your production line is the heart of your business. Why is that? 

It contains everything your business promotes to your customers: quality assurance, delivery speed, and plentiful supply. 

To keep those promises, you must ensure that your production line is highly refined and well-attended. 

That way, you will consistently provide your customers with: 

• Uniform, high quality, and durable products 

• Minimal lead time from customer order to date of shipment 

• A continuous supply to meet their demands 

However, just as CEOs have to plan and work to create a successful business, manufacturers must be strategic when developing their production lines. 

3 steps to developing a successful production line 

To meet the needs of your customers and continue to grow as a company, consider these three tips to enhance your production line. 

1. AUTOMATE, AUTOMATE, AUTOMATE 

Automation is the holy grail of manufacturing. Since the Industrial Revolution, manufacturers have been steadily automating processes to deliver their products faster. 

An example of this is when Henry Ford installed the first assembly line in 1913, effectively reducing production time for one car from 12 hours to one hour and 33 minutes! 

Since then, the manufacturing sector has seen vast improvements in production. Industrial robots were introduced in the mid-twentieth century and have advanced significantly since. Payloads are higher, applications are more flexible, arms and wrists are more refined, repeatability is more precise, and more. 

Automation is nothing new, and it is even more crucial now in 2021 as competition gets more intense and the global market introduces millions of potential customers. 

Add a KUKA industrial robot, FANUC robot, or ABB robot to your production line to keep up. If you are new to automation and need help getting started, NRTC Automation can design, build, and engineer a custom work cell for your company.  

Visit our Automation Services page to learn more about how we can help you improve throughput and capacity by over 200 percent. 

2. STAY ON TOP OF MAINTENANCE 

If you have already automated your production line, then staying on top of maintenance is absolutely necessary for the longevity of your equipment. 

Preventative maintenance will protect your equipment from breakdowns and part failures. Each piece of equipment will have a different maintenance schedule depending on the make and model, so be sure to keep equipment manuals in a central location to reference them when needed. 

What does machine maintenance usually consist of? 

• Routine checks 

• Replacing old or worn parts 

• Cleaning out old grease and replacing it with fresh grease 

• Replacing filters 

• Paint jobs 

• Replacing batteries 

Whether it is every three months or once a year, keeping up with your equipment maintenance schedules allows your equipment to work as efficiently as possible. Plus, regular maintenance will save you time and money on buying new equipment. 

Want to further extend the life of your industrial robots? Get Industrial Robot Refurbishing Services at NRTC Automation!

Plus, if you are in need of replacement parts, visit our sister company, iGAM. Their online marketplace is constantly growing with refurbished equipment and parts to complete your production line.

3. GET LEAN 

Last but not least, use lean manufacturing methodology to get your production line in the best shape possible. 

Lean methodology aims to reduce waste as much as possible to improve production efficiency. Think about it: the less waste that is produced during manufacturing, the less energy that is taken away from important production processes. 

There are plenty of methods to choose from—just choose the right method for your company’s manufacturing needs. Some examples include: 

• 5S 

• Cellular Manufacturing 

• 3P 

• Kaizen 

• Kanban 

• Six Sigma 

You can read the definitions of each of these methods on NRTC Automation’s glossary. 

Start using lean manufacturing methodology to further improve your production line and get ahead of the competition. 

Improve your bottom line today 

In manufacturing, efficiency is fundamental to success in today’s market. 

You’ve worked hard to get to where you are. Try out the tips we’ve listed above to get to where you want to be. 

WORK WITH NRTC AUTOMATION 

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. 

Schedule a free consultation with NRTC today to get the best automation plan for your company's specific needs. 

How to Start 2021 with a More Efficient Production Line

With a few changes, manufacturers can remain competitive in 2021 by improving production efficiency. 

2020 has been a trial for manufacturers around the globe. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we interact and perform in business, and the industry has experienced ups and downs in production. 

The New Year can be a promising arrival of growth, but only if manufacturers approach it correctly. 

Efficiency is one way to stay competitive in 2021. Learn how to cut waste, improve customer relations, and increase revenue with your production line below. 

How to create a more efficient production line 

What is slowing down your production? 

There could be several reasons why you aren’t reaching peak production efficiency. Some common causes of slow production include: 

• Not analyzing data and making necessary changes 

• Turning off production when it can continue to run 

• Not automating tasks that are monotonous and require high precision 

• Inadequate labor 

• Equipment that needs to be repaired, reconditioned, or replaced 

• Keeping manufacturing processes in-house that can be outsourced 

Manufacturing requires constant management and optimization in order to maintain lean, efficient processes. 

Benefits of improving production efficiency 

There are clearly many benefits to improving production efficiency. When you have an efficient production line, you can: 

• Improved product quality: Using automation will improve product quality. With high precision and repeatability, industrial robots and equipment can produce better products at a faster rate than human labor. Your employees can move into roles such as operations and customer service, where their creativity and personalities can be utilized. 

• Reduce operational costs: Cutting inefficiency will reduce operational costs. For example, reducing the amount of waste that is produced during operations will save on material costs. Also, you can cut energy usage by eliminating unnecessary processes during production and reduce your energy bill. 

• Improve lead time: A faster and more efficient production line will reduce lead time, getting your product to your customers sooner. This means you can fulfill more orders with an efficient production line. 

• Improve customer satisfaction: Customers that receive high-quality products in a short amount of time will be happier than customers who must wait for products that are susceptible to human error. They will be more likely to come back to your company in the future. 

• Increase revenue: More orders due to improved lead time, lower operational costs, and happy return customers will inevitably increase your revenue year after year. 

Are you interested in learning how to increase production efficiency? Read the four ways you can optimize your manufacturing processes and how NRTC Automation can help below. 

4 ways to increase efficiency in your production line 

1. AUTOMATE 

Implementing industrial automation into your business is the most effective way to improve production efficiency. 

One way of doing this is with an all-in-one flexible robotic work cell. If you are new to automation, this is an easy way to automate your production line without having to source, purchase, and engineer the equipment by yourself. 

NRTC Automation can build custom work cells that meet the needs of your company. Our customers have increased capacity and throughput by over 200% simply by adding work cells to their manufacturing process.  

Learn more about NRTC’s Automation Services on our website. 

2. TRAIN YOUR EMPLOYEES 

Trained employees are not only more knowledgeable about their work tasks, but they are more productive because they have increased job confidence and satisfaction. 

 If you want to train your employees in robotics, consider working with NRTC Automation’s Robotic Training Services. We’ll personalize the training program for your business. With our training, your employees will be able to perform basic programming to advanced diagnostics. 

3. OUTSOURCE YOUR PARTS MANUFACTURING 

If you manufacture parts under your roof, but it isn’t your main focus, you may benefit from outsourcing your parts manufacturing. 

These benefits include: 

• Lower labor costs 

• Reduced overhead 

• Increased focus on the main objective 

• Increased ability to meet demand 

NRTC Automation can take on your parts manufacturing. We service multiple industries in manufacturing and will build a custom work cell in our facility solely for your project. Schedule a free consultation with us to learn more about how we can manufacture your parts. 

4. HIRE ON-SITE TECHNICIANS 

Last but not least, having an on-site technician can save your production line in an emergency. When equipment breaks down and needs to be repaired, you are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars in unplanned downtime. 

Rather than trying to find a technician to service your equipment, you can have one on-site to handle breakdowns as they happen. 

Are you looking for an experienced robotics technician but can’t seem to find the right fit? Then try out NRTC’s Engineering Services. We’ll find, interview, and hire qualified professionals for your business. Contact us to learn more and find the right team to get the job done. 

Stay competitive in 2021 with optimized production 

Using lean manufacturing methodology is the key to staying competitive in 2021. Reducing costs and improving customer relationships will increase your revenue and allow your business to continue to grow. 

Try out NRTC Automation’s services listed above to optimize your production line today. 

WORK WITH NRTC AUTOMATION TO IMPROVE YOUR MANUFACTURING PROCESSES 

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. 

Schedule a free consultation with us to create an automation plan that suits the needs of your company. 

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. 

10 Compelling Reasons Why You Need Industrial Automation

With industrial automation, manufacturers can experience the benefits of highly productive and repeatable labor. 

The operative costs in manufacturing can make growing revenue a challenge. Especially in a COVID-19 world, learning how to cut costs without compromising product quality or employee satisfaction is necessary for success. 

If you work in manufacturing, then consider implementing industrial automation into your production process. NRTC Automation lists 10 reasons why industrial automation will improve your business. 

10 Reasons to Invest in Industrial Automation

If you want to grow your revenue, improve product quality, and more, automate your production line. These 10 reasons will convince you that industrial automation is the best method for growth in the post-pandemic world. 

1. IMPROVED WORKER CONDITIONS 

Robots and equipment excel at handling banal and monotonous tasks, leaving the creative and fulfilling tasks for humans. 

By taking on creative tasks, your employees will be happier and find more meaning in their work as opposed to carrying out repetitive tasks. 

2. HUMAN ERROR 

Human error is responsible for over 80% of failures and defects in manufacturing. Even with training, human error remains to be a difficulty that companies experience revenue loss over. 

With automation, human error is eradicated. Industrial robots and equipment have high repeatability, so defects are far and few between. 

3. IMPROVED EFFICIENCY 

Industrial automation will increase efficiency by: 

• Quickly producing high-quality work 

• Minimizing downtime between products 

• Consistently working day and night

• Working in harsh environments that is dangerous for humans 

• Easily changing production tasks 

Efficiency is the key to a profitable business. 

4. SAVE MONEY 

It’s no secret that automation will save you money. It may not be apparent at first with the upfront cost to add robots to your production line, but the long-term investment shows otherwise. 

As mentioned previously, efficient automation paves the way to profitability. In downtime alone, businesses can save $300,000 an hour by improving productivity. 

5. SAFETY 

Manufacturing jobs can be dangerous. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were nearly 350 workplace fatalities in the manufacturing sector in 2018. 

With automation, robots can handle dangerous jobs while humans take on low-risk jobs. For example, industrial robots can lift heavy equipment to spare humans’ backs, or they can stir incredibly hot molten metal filled with noxious fumes. 

Manufacturers that prioritize employee safety will automate the risky jobs to protect their workers. 

6. REDUCE LEAD TIME 

An increase in production efficiency naturally creates a reduction in lead time between the customer order and shipment to the customer. 

That means more products can be shipped out to customers, increasing the demand-supply cycle to your company’s benefit. 

7. COLLECT DATA 

Data is far easier to collect with automation than with human labor. Data is the gold of business: with it, you can make changes that will enable your company to climb the ladder of success. Connect HMIs and PLCs to your industrial robots and manufacturing equipment to cull relevant data from production and analyze the numbers regularly. 

8. IMPROVED OPERATIONS 

Jumping off from the previous point, you can take the numbers from your data and use them to adjust your production line. With these minor (and sometimes major) changes, you can improve operations and create a faster, more efficient, and less wasteful process. 

9. LABOR SHORTAGES 

Labor shortages are real: in manufacturing alone, nearly 2.5 million jobs won’t be filled in the next decade due to a lack of skilled workers. 

Instead of letting labor shortages affect your business, fill the gap with automation instead! It has the additional benefit of being pandemic-proof, keeping your employees safer with less crowding in your facility.

10. FLEXIBILITY 

Finally, automation allows for greater flexibility to change production at any moment. Training can take weeks or months to shift to a new production method, but with automation, all you have to do is reprogram the robots and equipment to perform the tasks that you want them to carry out. 

Suddenly, a shift in production goes from months of planning around training to a week’s worth of technical tune-ups. 

Automate with NRTC. 

We’ve provided 10 solid reasons why automation will improve your business.  

If we have you convinced, consider scheduling a free consultation with NRTC Automation. We’ll break down your production needs to create the best automation plan for your business.  

CONTACT NRTC AUTOMATION TODAY. 

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. 

To learn more, visit us at nrtcautomation.com. 

3 Reasons to Provide Your Own Production Support

“Engaging the hearts, minds, and hands of talent is the most sustainable source of competitive advantage.” -George Harris, President and CEO of Quantum Workplace 

It’s no secret that a strong workforce will compound a company’s success. 

While automation is important to enable growth in today’s manufacturing lines, establishing a connected and engaged staff is necessary to support that growth. 

NRTC Automation preaches the value of having both in manufacturing businesses of any industry. Learn more about how to build a strong production team and its benefits below. 

Building a Thriving Team in Manufacturing 

Importance of strong and connected employees 

Having a staff that is connected and can communicate effectively is the cornerstone of a successful business.  

No matter how well-built your automated production line is, if your employees are unable to support each other throughout the entire supply chain, then your company will crumble. 

A study shows that in companies across America, over 70% of workers feel disconnected from their jobs. This rings true for manufacturing workers as well who feel disengaged from their jobs daily. 

Not only is this dangerous for your company’s success, but it is also dangerous for your employees’ safety and well-being. 

That’s why taking measures to build up your staff and encourage better communication is vital for both your business and each individual working for your company. 

How to build a strong production team 

If you want to build a strong production team, practice these tips: 

• Provide cross-training: Give your employees the power to make decisions and take action across the supply chain by training them outside of their daily tasks. Cross-training will deepen your workers’ understanding of the entire production process and enable them to assist others in different roles if needed. 

• Encourage social connection: Hold after-work events that encourage your employees to connect with each other. Also, hold trainings that show employees how to foster friendships with their co-workers with skills such as active listening. 

• Establish real-time modes of communication: While face-to-face meetings are preferred, sometimes that isn’t available in a busy manufacturing company. If employees need help or have a question, make it easy for them to reach out to their team member, supervisor, or manager with employee communication apps that support mobile messaging. 

• Get feedback on how to improve: Your employees are in the thick of the production process. Use their valuable insight to improve their daily experience. 

• Hold regular meetings to keep employees updated: It’s easy to feel disconnected in a company when you don’t feel involved. To keep employees engaged, hold regular meetings to be as transparent as possible with the company’s growth and latest projects. This will provide inspiration for your staff to work toward a unified goal. 

• Make sure your employees know their value in your company: By showing your employees how important they are to the success of your business, they will feel like an integral part of the company. Recognize employees publicly who have excelled and provide support for those who are struggling. 

Taking the time to understand your staff’s needs and honor their efforts will develop the foundation your company needs to grow. 

NRTC Automation can help you craft a connected and engaged staff. Learn more about our Engineering Services and Robotic Training Services in the “How to Do It” section below. 

3 reasons to provide your own production support 

Now that you know why having a strong staff is important, we’ll show the three reasons why providing your own production support, as opposed to outsourcing, will benefit your company. 

IMPROVED PRODUCTIVITY 

Having a full team to support the production process under your own roof will improve productivity.  

For example, there will be less downtime when a machine fails since your in-house technician will be immediately available to repair it within the workday. 

You don’t have to send the equipment to outside help, which could potentially take days or even weeks to return. 

MORE SATISFIED EMPLOYEES 

When your employees can complete tasks on their own, rather than waiting for someone else to do it for them, they will feel empowered and capable in their role. 

Also, a production support team knows that they are needed to keep the manufacturing process running, so they also don’t feel that their jobs are threatened. They are an integral part of your business and have job security that offers peace of mind. 

Finally, your employees develop stronger connections with each other because their daily tasks are interwoven to support the company. Studies have shown the having strong social connections in the workplace boost employee satisfaction. 

COST-EFFICIENT 

Finally, having your own production support will save you money in the long run. 

While onboarding, training, and employing people is an expense, consider it an upfront investment. The cost savings include: 

• Having your own in-house technical support rather than hiring out for each event 

• Decreased downtime, which can save up to $22,000 per minute 

• Improved employee ability to train each other, reducing costs due to longer training times 

• Reduced employee turnover 

It is well worth the investment to hire your team and upskill as necessary rather than paying to outsource your work to others. 

How to do it 

If you want to start hiring but don’t know where to start, then consider working with NRTC Automation’s Engineering Services. 

We have the resources to find, interview, and hire the right individuals with the background and experience your company needs to thrive. 

Plus, you can train your employees for a more diverse staff by using our Robotic Training Services. NRTC Automation will develop a personalized training program for your company’s specific needs so your staff can perform the work you need in-house. 

NRTC Automation’s comprehensive automation services ensure that your production line will boost your company’s growth beyond the equipment output. Learn more about our services by contacting NRTC Automation for a free consultation. 

FIND THE RIGHT PEOPLE FOR YOUR COMPANY WITH NRTC AUTOMATION. 

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. 

Visit us today at www.nrtcautomation.com. 

4 Key Components of a Successful Automated Production Line

Create an effective plan for your production line according to your manufacturing needs with these four basic components. 

The process of automating your production line can be both exciting and intimidating. On the one hand, you are making the effort to grow your business (and your revenue) exponentially with industrial equipment. 

On the other hand, if you don’t have the experience or know-how to automate, it can seem like an insurmountable climb. 

That’s when NRTC Automation steps in to help. Along with our sister company, iGAM, we will help you develop your production line with iGAM’s online industrial marketplace and our comprehensive automation services.

To begin automating, learn more about the anatomy of a great manufacturing line below! 

Anatomy of a great manufacturing line 

A manufacturing line can be broken into four basic components: people, robots, industrial equipment, and data. With a deeper understanding of these four pieces, you can seamlessly connect them and create a production line that works for you. 

People

First and foremost, the people who work with and around your production line are the most important part of success. 

Having a team that is dedicated to constant improvement is crucial to the success of automation, since automation is, at its heart, designed to improve. 

Educate your employees on the processes of automation if they aren’t directly involved in it, and hold weekly and monthly meetings with your technicians, operators, and other manufacturing workers to discuss ways to optimize the production process. 

Above all, ensure that your employees feel that they are necessary for the success of your company. Their confidence and motivation will lay the foundation for a productive and expanding business. 

Robots 

The next component of a successful automated production line includes industrial robots. 

We recommend choosing KUKA robots, FANUC robots, ABB robots, or Yaskawa Motoman robots. They are trusted name brands that have hundreds of thousands of installations worldwide. 

Select an affordable used robot arm that has a high level of repeatability, a payload to carry your specific materials and products, and the correct reach to perform the work you need. 

Also, consider the applications you need for your industrial robots. Do they need to perform arc welding jobs, or will they be a part of packing and palletizing your items? The applications you need will determine the end of arm tooling, or EOAT, you need for your robot. Learn more about common EOATs here. 

Once you have selected your robots, you can move on to the industrial equipment that will support the production process. 

Industrial equipment 

Industrial robots naturally require other manufacturing equipment to run an effective production line. 

Choose industrial machinery that improves energy efficiency, such as servo motors, and protects your equipment from overheating and fires, such as contact blocks and circuit breakers. 

Also, consider adding automatic tool changers to your used robotic arm to speed up the production process and minimize expenses due to downtime. 

While it is not directly related to industrial robots, NRTC Automation also suggests using access equipment such as platforms, stairs, and ladders to prevent injuries from falls in your manufacturing facility. Safety is our priority; it improves worker confidence and productivity while protecting workers from dangerous workplace accidents.

Data 

Last but not least, data is incredibly important to the health of any production line. By tracking and analyzing data, you can trim unnecessary events and optimize your manufacturing process. 

There are several tools you can use to track, view, and manage your data: 

• Human-Machine Interfaces 

• Programmable Logic Controllers 

• Productivity Displays 

Click on the links for each tool to learn more about how these industrial computers will allow you to improve your production line with data. 

All-in-one work cell 

If you want the benefits of automation without the work it takes to set it up in your facility, consider adding a robotic work cell to your production line. 

Robotic work cells are all-in-one automation units that can easily start working on your products shortly after installation. 

We can help you automate your production line with a robotic work cell by designing, building, and engineering a custom cell according to your specific needs. 

Visit our website to learn more about how NRTC Automation can create a customized robotic work cell for your company! 

Watch our YouTube video below to learn more about our automation services. Subscribe to us on YouTube here!

NRTC Automation is dedicated to providing industrial automation and manufacturing services to customers across North America. We are the trusted partner of t...

SET UP YOUR MANUFACTURING LINE WITH NRTC AUTOMATION. 

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 your workplace. With personalized training and custom-built designs, NRTC Automation is the destination for all your industrial automation and manufacturing equipment services.

FINANCE WITH US!

NRTC Automation offers financing so you can automate your production line without breaking the budget. Simply fill out the short application and choose the best financing plan from top lenders in the nation. Don't let an upfront investment keep you from growing your company; finance with NRTC Automation today.

Schedule a free consultation with NRTC Automation to learn more about how we can help improve your efficiency, production rate, and revenue growth.