NRTC AUTOMATION BLOG | INDUSTRIAL ROBOTS AND AUTOMATION
3 Signs That Your Robot Needs Repair
Taking care of your robot is easy when you practice preventative maintenance. However, there comes a point when your robot might need more for optimal performance.
Taking care of your robot is easy when you practice preventative maintenance. However, there comes a point when your robot might need more for optimal performance.
Industrial robots are the heart and soul of automation. They need to be in prime condition at all times to operate efficiently and effectively.
The best way to do this is through preventative maintenance. However, even the most well-prepared manufacturer will have to repair their robot eventually.
Learn more about the signs that your robot needs repair and how NRTC Automation can help below.
3 signs that your robot needs repair
Preventative maintenance
Across the board, preventative maintenance (or PM) in manufacturing is the number one way to protect your equipment, extend equipment useable life, and increase cost savings over time.
Every manufacturer should be proactive about PM. By rigidly adhering to maintenance schedules, business owners can see a 545% ROI on their equipment. You read that right! Although maintenance involves some costs of cleaning and replacing parts, the ROI is well worth the small price.
We can help maintain your equipment. You can choose your level of reconditioning based on the condition and hourly usage of the robot. NRTC Automation’s Industrial Robot Refurbishing Services will clean, grease, and test your equipment all the way up to a brand-new paint job and full robot restore.
Time for repairs
If your robot is older, or if you haven’t been diligent about maintenance, then it might be time for repairs.
While you may be tempted to skip the repair expenses, there are downsides to running your equipment into the ground:
Safety: This is the most important issue when considering maintenance and repair. When a robot isn’t functioning properly, it becomes unpredictable and could potentially hurt or fatally injure your employees.
Electrical damage: Electrical damage can occur in a malfunctioning robot due to worn cables and other equipment. This can create dangerous conditions on the production line.
Unplanned downtime: If your robot dies suddenly, the unplanned downtime can cost thousands of dollars a minute. And if you don’t have a technician in-house, getting someone in to fix it can take a while.
Product quality issues: Robots need to be in tip-top shape to ensure that your product is consistently made well. Without maintenance or repairs, your robot could potentially end up ruining hundreds or even thousands of products before you realize it.
Keeping up with your robots is a necessity for the well-being of your employees, your production line, and your bottom line.
3 signs that your robot needs repair
How do you know when it is time for a repair? Check out these three signs to determine if you need to get your robot to the nearest technician.
1. DOWNTIME
You’re doing everything you can to increase productivity, from implementing lean manufacturing methods to automating additional processes, but for some reason, your numbers just aren’t reaching the markers.
Have you checked how your robot is performing? If an industrial robot needs repair, then it could be contributing to your downtime. Faulty controls, software, and other systems can cause a robot to slow down and move erratically, wasting precious production time.
2. REPEATABILITY
Robots need to have highly repeatable applications to produce high-quality products. For example, if you have a welding robot, you want your welds to be precise and clean.
However, if your robot needs repair, your welds might come out sloppy, erratic, and generally unfit for consumer use.
Keep an eye on your robot’s output to ensure that it meets your standards. If not, it may be time to send it to the technician.
3. ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Finally, industrial robots should be as energy-efficient as possible. When a robot starts using a lot of energy, it is a sign that the parts aren’t working properly. Not only does this affect the overall productivity of the robot, but it is also a strain on your wallet.
Check on energy usage reports to determine where electricity and other energy sources are being used the most.
Get expert repair services at NRTC
NRTC Automation offers both Engineering Services to troubleshoot and diagnose your robot as well as Industrial Robot Refurbishing Services to maintain your equipment for a well-rounded automation experience.
Plus, our sister company, iGAM, provides refurbished robot parts and equipment so you can repair your industrial robot without breaking the budget.
Don’t delay fixing your equipment! Save on downtime and expensive product recalls by contacting NRTC Automation today.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE 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.
Schedule a free consultation with us to meet your production goals this year.
3 Ways to Reduce Downtime in Your Production Line
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.
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:
Lower production output
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.
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.
Meet NRTC Automation's Contract Engineering Services Manager, Jason Augsburger!
Meet Jason Augsburger, the Contract Engineering Services Manager at NRTC Automation. With over a decade of experience in automotive integration, robotic programming, and robotic engineering, Jason is an asset to NRTC Automation’s process.
Meet Jason Augsburger, the Contract Engineering Services Manager at NRTC Automation. With over a decade of experience in automotive integration, robotic programming, and robotic engineering, Jason is an asset to NRTC Automation’s process.
Learn more about Jason’s background and his work with NRTC Automation below!
Jason Augsburger, Contract Engineering Services Manager
Background
Jason entered the workforce with a large automotive integration company in Michigan right out of high school. He obtained a degree in electrical engineering and, after a small recession in 1997, moved into finance, real estate, and insurance. He owned and operated his own company of about 50 employees.
Ten years later, Jason returned to the automotive industry in 2009. He moved to Alabama and became a contract robot programmer for seven years, in which he then became a robot instructor and robot engineer.
Work with NRTC Automation
While working on business development, Jason found NRTC Automation online for contract PLC support. Within a month, he was offered a position. He has managed and evolved NRTC’s engineering services for over a year.
As the Contract Engineering Services Manager, Jason oversees contract support for the automotive industry. His daily tasks include leading and directing schedules and ensuring support for NRTC Automation’s customers, as well as quoting new requests for employment and project work.
NRTC Automation’s Engineering Services
Jason is an expert on NRTC Automation’s engineering services, selecting only the best technicians for our customers. Our technicians are experienced in working with industrial robots and equipment. They provide a range of services, including repair and reconditioning services, robotic programming, and robotic training for companies interested in educating their employees.
Our customers come from a wide range of industries, including top automotive companies such as Mercedes and BMW. No matter the project, NRTC Automation will deliver trusted robotics programmers, controls technicians, multi-craft support (including mechanical, electrical, robotic, and PLC support), and project management support.
Our technicians and engineers provide integration and production support. We target engineers and technicians with at least two to five years of experience in the field, with specific experience relating to the customer’s project.
Because Jason is an industry veteran and understands the needs of our customers, he can screen prospective technicians and engineers with an eye for qualified and reliable individuals. He also implemented a GPS tracking system for timesheets to ensure customers that the job was done on time without ambiguity.
Jason’s Reflections on NRTC Automation
For over a year, Jason has watched and contributed to NRTC Automation’s development. We are constantly innovating and implementing strategies to improve our services and customer support. As the company grows, Jason noted, “I’ve never seen a company grow so fast and still maintain quality services... They’re hiring a lot of good people.”
With a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, NRTC Automation hires the finest experts in the industry, like Jason, to lead our company. Because of our team, we are the preferred partner for industrial and automation services by the world’s top automotive manufacturers, and we continue to meet our goal to provide the best customized solutions for our customers.
LET NRTC AUTOMATION BE YOUR NEXT INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION 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 integrate your workplace. With personalized training and custom-built designs, we are the destination for all your industrial automation and manufacturing equipment services. Contact NRTC Automation today to learn more about what we can do for your workplace.
How to Practice Safety in the Workplace
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!
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
If you are looking to repair your robots or manufacturing equipment, read more to learn about standard practices and NRTC Automation’s repair services.
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.